10 Anime Like Bleach That Every Fan Should Watch
If you are a fan of Bleach, you are probably looking for anime that capture the same essence of intense battles, supernatural elements, and compelling character development. Bleach is a legendary series that follows Ichigo Kurosaki, a high school student who gains the abilities of a Soul Reaper and takes on the duty of protecting the living world from malevolent spirits.
If you’re searching for anime that deliver a similar experience, here are 10 must-watch series that share thematic and stylistic elements with Bleach.
Quick Links
10. Yu Yu Hakusho: Ghost Files
| Original title | Yuu☆Yuu☆Hakusho |
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 1992 |
Yu Yu Hakusho follows Yusuke Urameshi, a delinquent who unexpectedly dies while saving a child and is given a second chance at life as a Spirit Detective. This anime shares numerous similarities with Bleach, such as supernatural battles, invisible creatures only certain individuals can see, and a mix of action, comedy, and heartfelt moments. Just like Ichigo, Yusuke embarks on a journey of self-discovery while facing off against formidable enemies from the spirit realm.
9. Noragami
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2014 |
If you love Bleach but want a more compact story with fewer fillers, Noragami is a great alternative. The story follows Yato, a minor god seeking recognition, and Hiyori, a girl who gains a supernatural ability after a near-death experience. Much like Bleach, the protagonist (Ichigo/Hiyori) acquires special abilities through their encounter with a powerful entity (Rukia/Yato). The anime explores battles against spirits and otherworldly beings, and the vibrant, action-packed storytelling makes it an exciting watch.
8. Black Clover
| Genres | Action, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2017 |
Black Clover may seem different from Bleach at first glance, but both series share fundamental similarities. In Black Clover, Asta and other Magic Knights serve their kingdom, akin to the Soul Reapers in Bleach protecting the balance between worlds. The creator of Black Clover has even cited Bleach as one of his main inspirations. Both series feature intense battles, powerful rivalries, and a strong sense of camaraderie among squad members.
7. Claymore
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2007 |
In Claymore, humanity is plagued by monstrous creatures called Yoma, and a group of half-human, half-Yoma warriors called Claymores are tasked with eliminating them. This premise mirrors the mission of Soul Reapers, who are responsible for purging Hollows. Both series feature a protagonist thrust into a dangerous world, with a unique power that sets them apart. The dark atmosphere and emotional depth of Claymore make it an excellent recommendation for fans of Bleach.
6. Soul Eater
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2008 |
If you enjoyed the concept of Soul Reapers in Bleach, then Soul Eater is another anime worth watching. The story revolves around students at the Death Weapon Meister Academy, who train to defeat creatures that consume human souls. Soul Eater shares similarities with Bleach in its supernatural battles, comedic undertones, and character development. While the animation style in Soul Eater is more stylized and exaggerated, the core elements of action and storytelling will appeal to Bleach fans.
5. D.Gray-man
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2006 |
D.Gray-man follows Allen Walker, an exorcist battling demonic entities known as Akuma. This series, much like Bleach, features a rich cast of unique characters, each with their own abilities, personalities, and backstories. The anime combines adventure, intense battles, and a strong emotional core, making it a compelling choice for those who love Bleach. Though D.Gray-man contains filler episodes, its engaging narrative and high-stakes conflicts make it worthwhile.
4. Demon Slayer
| Original title | Kimetsu no Yaiba |
| Genres | Action, Award Winning, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2019 |
One of the most popular modern anime, Demon Slayer shares many key aspects with Bleach. Both series involve warriors dedicated to eradicating supernatural threats, with a ranking system that organizes both the heroes and their enemies. Demon Slayer features breathtaking sword fights and unique battle styles, similar to how each Soul Reaper in Bleach has a distinct Zanpakuto ability. If you loved Bleach, you will appreciate the intense action and emotional storytelling of Demon Slayer.
3. Buso Renkin
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2006 |
In Buso Renkin, Kazuki Muto gains the ability to fight using an alchemically enhanced weapon after meeting a mysterious warrior named Tokiko. The story structure is strikingly similar to Bleach, where Ichigo gains his Soul Reaper powers after meeting Rukia. Both series follow a protagonist who gets drawn into a hidden supernatural world and fights against monstrous enemies. However, Buso Renkin has a lighter tone, providing a refreshing yet familiar experience for Bleach fans.
2. Naruto
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2002 |
Although Naruto leans more into ninjas and chakra rather than spirits and Soul Reapers, the core elements of both series are quite alike. Both anime boast an expansive roster of characters, each with their own unique abilities and backstories. They feature intense battles, character growth, and themes of friendship and rivalry. If you enjoy the large-scale world-building and epic showdowns in Bleach, then Naruto is a must-watch.
1. Jujutsu Kaisen
| Genres | Action, Supernatural |
| Release Date | 2020 |
Among the most comparable anime to Bleach is Jujutsu Kaisen. The similarities are so strong that even the creator of Jujutsu Kaisen has cited Bleach as a major inspiration. The anime follows Yuji Itadori, a teenager who gains supernatural abilities after consuming a cursed object, much like how Ichigo gains his powers unexpectedly. The battles, dark atmosphere, and character designs in Jujutsu Kaisen closely resemble those of Bleach, making it the ultimate recommendation for fans of the latter.
Conclusion
If you loved Bleach, these ten anime offer similar themes of supernatural battles, compelling characters, and immersive world-building. Whether you prefer the high-energy fights of Demon Slayer, the dark atmosphere of Claymore, or the comedic yet action-packed storytelling of Soul Eater, there is something here for every Bleach fan. So, grab some popcorn and start watching—you won’t be disappointed!
By exploring these anime, you’ll find new worlds filled with adventure, emotion, and intense battles that will keep you hooked just like Bleach did. Happy watching!
