The 2020s have been a golden age for anime, with Frieren: Beyond Journey's End standing tall as one of the decade's most beloved fantasy series. Its meditative storytelling and emotional depth have won over fans worldwide. But the fantasy genre is vast, and several anime have pushed the boundaries even further—whether through intricate worldbuilding, jaw-dropping action, or unforgettable characters. Here are ten fantasy anime that arguably surpass Frieren in key areas.
1. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation (2021–present)
Studio Bind's isekai epic follows Rudeus, a man reborn into a magical world after a wasted life. While its protagonist can be polarizing, the show's worldbuilding is second to none—each region feels lived-in, with unique cultures and dangers. The action sequences are visceral and creative, and Rudeus's gradual character growth makes him more compelling than many fantasy leads. For fans who crave deep lore and high-stakes battles, Mushoku Tensei delivers on both fronts.
2. Witch Hat Atelier (2026–present)
This 2026 breakout follows Coco, a girl who accidentally petrifies her mother while dabbling in forbidden magic. The series already ranks among the best anime of 2026 thanks to its inventive magic system—drawing spells with ink—and a mystery that unfolds with every episode. The animation is lush, the characters are endearing, and the worldbuilding feels fresh. It's early, but Witch Hat Atelier has the potential to outclass Frieren in sheer creativity.
3. Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic (2012–2014)
Inspired by Arabian Nights, Magi follows Alibaba and his magi companion as they conquer dungeons and navigate political intrigue. Unlike Frieren's episodic journey, Magi offers a tightly plotted narrative with shifting alliances and power struggles. The action is explosive, the dialogue sharp, and the worldbuilding—rooted in Middle Eastern mythology—feels refreshingly unique. It's a high-fantasy epic that rewards patient viewers.
4. Ranking of Kings (2021–present)
Don't let the childlike art style fool you—Ranking of Kings is a dark, emotionally resonant fantasy. Prince Bojji, deaf and physically weak, embarks on a journey to prove his worth alongside his shadowy friend Kage. The show subverts expectations at every turn, delivering gut-punch twists and some of the most inventive fight scenes in recent memory. Its underdog story is more heartfelt than Frieren's melancholic tone, making it a must-watch for fantasy fans.
5. Re:Zero -Starting Life in Another World- (2016–present)
Subaru's brutal death loops in a fantasy world make for one of anime's most psychologically intense experiences. Each season expands the lore and deepens the characters, with the latest arc cementing its place among the greats. Re:Zero is darker and more complex than Frieren, exploring trauma and resilience in ways that few fantasy series dare. Even isekai skeptics should give this a chance.
6. Berserk (1997–1998)
Kentaro Miura's dark fantasy masterpiece follows Guts, a mercenary born from a hanged corpse, on a quest for revenge after a devastating betrayal. The 1997 anime captures the grim atmosphere and brutal action of the manga, with a story that explores the depths of human cruelty and the flicker of hope. Berserk is more visceral and thematically ambitious than Frieren, making it a cornerstone of the genre.
These six series—along with other gems like Made in Abyss and The Ancient Magus' Bride—prove that Frieren, while excellent, is just one star in a constellation of fantasy brilliance. Whether you crave political intrigue, inventive magic, or raw emotional power, these shows offer something even better.
