Best Anime Like Blue Lock
If you’re a fan of Blue Lock and its intense, high-stakes approach to soccer, you might be on the hunt for similar anime that capture the same energy, rivalry, and character-driven sports drama.
From basketball to baseball and even psychological thrillers, here are eight anime that share themes of competition, ambition, and unique talent development.
Table of Contents
8. Kuroko’s Basketball
Kuroko’s Basketball follows the journey of Seirin High’s basketball team as they aim to become the best in Japan. The story revolves around Tetsuya Kuroko, a seemingly invisible player with a unique passing ability, and Kagami Taiga, a powerhouse player with dreams of reaching the top. Together, they face off against the Generation of Miracles—an elite group of prodigious players from Kuroko’s past.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Much like Blue Lock, Kuroko’s Basketball is centered around a team of talented individuals with extraordinary abilities. Both anime focus on characters with distinct skills that make them stand out in their respective sports. Additionally, while Kuroko himself lacks physical dominance, his unparalleled passing ability mirrors how Blue Lock’s protagonist, Isagi, uses his strategic mind to outplay stronger opponents.
7. Ace of Diamond
This baseball anime follows Eijun Sawamura, a talented pitcher who joins the prestigious Seidou High School baseball team. Despite starting as an underdog, Eijun gradually earns his place through hard work and determination, pushing himself to become a key player in the team’s quest for glory.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Both Ace of Diamond and Blue Lock thrive on energy, teamwork, and fierce competition. The main characters begin at the bottom and work their way up, inspiring and challenging their teammates along the way. Eijun, like Isagi, isn’t the most skilled at the start, but his perseverance and ability to adapt make him a driving force that his teammates admire and strive to surpass.
6. Days
Days follows Tsukushi Tsukamoto, a boy with no prior experience in soccer but a deep passion for the sport. He joins Seiseki High School’s soccer team, where he works tirelessly to improve, even though he lacks natural talent. His determination and team spirit make him a valuable player over time.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Both anime focus on soccer and feature protagonists who start with little recognition but grow into influential players. While Blue Lock emphasizes egoism, Days highlights teamwork and perseverance. However, both anime showcase the power of dedication and self-improvement in competitive sports.
5. Inazuma Eleven
Inazuma Eleven is a classic soccer anime that follows Endou Mamoru, a passionate goalkeeper determined to transform his underdog team into champions. With the help of new teammates, each possessing special moves called Hissatsu techniques, the team rises to face formidable opponents.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Both series focus on soccer and highlight individual skill development. While Inazuma Eleven features over-the-top superpowers, its emphasis on special abilities mirrors Blue Lock’s concept of “weapons.” The relentless drive to improve and win at any cost is also a common theme in both anime.
4. Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor
Unlike the sports anime on this list, Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor is a psychological thriller that follows Kaiji Itou, a down-and-out gambler who gets involved in high-stakes, life-or-death games. He must use cunning strategies, deceit, and sheer willpower to survive and climb the ranks of the underground gambling world.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Though not a sports anime, Kaiji shares Blue Lock’s focus on selfish ambition, survival, and psychological warfare. Just like the contestants in Blue Lock, Kaiji is forced into a harsh environment where only the strongest and smartest survive, making it an excellent watch for fans who enjoy high-pressure competition.
3. Captain Tsubasa
A classic in the world of soccer anime, Captain Tsubasa follows Tsubasa Ozora, a gifted young player who dreams of becoming the best soccer player in the world. His journey takes him from local tournaments to international competitions, showcasing his unparalleled skill and passion for the game.
Similarities to Blue Lock
If you loved the soccer action in Blue Lock, then the 2018 remake of Captain Tsubasa is a must-watch. While Blue Lock focuses on ego and individualism, Captain Tsubasa is more traditional in its approach to teamwork and sportsmanship, but both anime showcase incredible soccer techniques and thrilling matches.
2. Haikyuu!!
This volleyball anime follows Shoyo Hinata, a short but highly ambitious player who dreams of becoming one of the best spikers in the sport. Despite his height disadvantage, Hinata works tirelessly alongside his teammates to overcome challenges and prove himself in high-stakes matches.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Both Haikyuu!! and Blue Lock highlight the protagonist’s relentless desire to improve and defeat their opponents. Although volleyball and soccer are different sports, the themes of competition, growth, and overcoming personal limitations remain strong in both series.
1. Ao Ashi
Aoi Ashito, a naturally talented soccer player, dreams of making it big but lacks refined skills. After catching the attention of a prestigious youth club coach, he embarks on a rigorous journey to develop his tactical abilities and reach the professional level.
Similarities to Blue Lock
Both Ao Ashi and Blue Lock are recent soccer anime that gained immense popularity in 2022. While Blue Lock takes a more individualistic approach, Ao Ashi delves deeper into realistic soccer tactics and training. Both anime feature intense matches, character growth, and the pursuit of excellence.
Final Thoughts
If Blue Lock ignited your passion for sports anime, these eight series will keep you entertained with their dynamic action, intense rivalries, and inspiring character development. Whether you enjoy the raw ambition of Kuroko’s Basketball, the strategic depth of Ao Ashi, or the psychological battles in Kaiji, there’s something here for every fan of competitive storytelling.
Which of these anime will you watch next? Let us know in the comments!
