Anime Like The Rise Of The Shield Hero
So, you've fallen down the rabbit hole of The Rising of the Shield Hero, huh? Good choice! It's got that perfect blend of underdog spirit, fantasy action, and unexpected found family feels. Now you're craving more anime that hit that same sweet spot? Fear not, friend! The anime world is overflowing with similar adventures.
Getting Betrayed and Leveling Up: It's a Whole Genre!
The heart of Shield Hero is Naofumi's journey from zero to hero after being completely screwed over. If you enjoyed that element of rebuilding and defiance, check out Arifureta: From Commonplace to World's Strongest. It's got a similar "wronged hero" vibe with a protagonist who goes from weak to ridiculously overpowered after a nasty betrayal.
Then there's So I'm a Spider, So What?. Okay, hear me out! It's about a girl reincarnated as a weak spider monster in a dangerous dungeon. She has to survive, level up, and become a total badass, all while dealing with some hilarious internal monologues and existential spider-angst.
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Don't forget That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. Instead of being a hero, Rimuru is a slime. He starts out weak but gains more and more power and companions as the series goes.
Found Families and Unusual Companions
One of the best parts of Shield Hero is Naofumi's relationship with Raphtalia and Filo. They're not just companions; they become his family. For more of that heartwarming found family dynamic, look no further than Made in Abyss.
Be warned, Made in Abyss is not a lighthearted adventure, despite its cute character designs. It’s about a young girl and a robot boy delving into a mysterious, dangerous abyss, and their bond is incredibly strong and surprisingly emotional. There will be tears, guaranteed.
If you want something a little less emotionally taxing, try Spice and Wolf. It's about a traveling merchant who partners up with a wolf deity. The banter and their slow-burn relationship are truly special.
The "Trapped in Another World" Trope Done Right
Shield Hero is an isekai anime – that's anime-speak for "trapped in another world." There are tons of shows in this genre. No Game No Life is a good place to start.
No Game No Life is about two genius gamer siblings who get transported to a world where everything is decided by games. It's visually stunning, incredibly clever, and full of ridiculously over-the-top strategies.
Lastly, try Log Horizon. Unlike some others, where the characters are overpowered, this series focuses on strategy and teamwork. They're trying to create a society from scratch within the game.
Beyond the Battles: Stories with Heart
Sometimes, you just want an anime that makes you feel good. While Shield Hero has its dark moments, it's ultimately about overcoming adversity and finding hope. If that's what you're after, check out Kakushigoto.
Kakushigoto is about a single father who's a manga artist, but he doesn't want his daughter to find out because his manga is…a little bit ecchi. It’s a heartwarming, hilarious, and surprisingly poignant story about the lengths a parent will go to for their child.
These are just a few starting points in the vast ocean of anime. So grab some snacks, settle in, and get ready for your next binge-worthy adventure! You might just find your new favorite show.
