10 Anime Like Code Geass You Should Watch
If you’re looking for anime like Code Geass, you’re in for a treat. Code Geass is a masterpiece that blends strategic battles, rebellion, and deep philosophical themes, all wrapped in a mecha-driven storyline. Fans love its intense plot twists, morally complex characters, and high-stakes battles.
But what if you want more? Whether you’re drawn to the genius-level mind games, the political intrigue, or the action-packed mecha combat, this list of 10 anime like Code Geass will keep you hooked.
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10. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2009 |
At its core, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood shares a striking resemblance to Code Geass in the way it builds an emotionally compelling story around loss, sacrifice, and power. The story follows Edward and Alphonse Elric, two brothers who commit the ultimate alchemical sin in an attempt to bring their mother back to life. As a consequence, Edward loses an arm and a leg, while Alphonse loses his entire body. Their journey to regain what they lost is filled with intense battles, moral dilemmas, and deep conspiracies.
Like Code Geass, the series explores themes of political corruption, war, and sacrifice. Both Lelouch and Edward are characters who gain extraordinary abilities but must pay a heavy price for their power. Additionally, both protagonists are burdened by the weight of their past and are willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals, even if it means getting their hands dirty.
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10 Best Anime Like Fullmetal Alchemist You Must Watch
9. Gurren Lagann
| Original title | Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2007 |
While Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann leans more toward an over-the-top, energetic style of storytelling, it shares many key similarities with Code Geass. The anime follows Simon and Kamina, two individuals who rebel against an oppressive force ruling humanity. Through sheer determination and an evolving sense of purpose, Simon rises to lead an epic battle against a seemingly invincible enemy.
Both series feature mecha battles, high-stakes conflicts, and a protagonist who transforms from an underdog into a charismatic leader. However, while Code Geass is a chess match of intellect and deception, Gurren Lagann thrives on raw energy, emotional moments, and an inspiring message about breaking limits.
8. Valvrave the Liberator
| Original title | Kakumeiki Valvrave |
| Genres | Action, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2013 |
If you’re looking for another mecha anime with a school-life setting and a protagonist who gains mysterious powers, Valvrave the Liberator should be on your watchlist. The story follows Haruto Tokishima, a student who discovers a powerful mecha known as the Valvrave. After becoming its pilot, he finds himself entangled in a large-scale war, much like Lelouch.
Both Code Geass and Valvrave the Liberator revolve around a war-torn world where an ordinary student takes a stand against powerful forces. The protagonists receive supernatural abilities that change their lives forever, and both anime explore themes of rebellion, political tension, and the cost of wielding immense power.
7. 86 Eighty-Six
| Genres | Action, Drama, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2021 |
For those drawn to Code Geass because of its themes of war, discrimination, and rebellion, 86 Eighty-Six delivers an emotionally gripping experience. The anime takes place in a world where the Republic of San Magnolia fights an ongoing war against autonomous drones. However, the truth behind the war is far darker—those who fight are not citizens but the persecuted 86, a group treated as expendable soldiers.
Both Code Geass and 86 Eighty-Six tackle the horrors of war, the corruption of governments, and the burden placed on those who fight. The protagonist, Shin, is a tactical genius who, like Lelouch, carries the heavy weight of leadership while dealing with deep emotional scars.
6. Legend of the Galactic Heroes
| Original title | Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu |
| Genres | Drama, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 1988 |
This classic space opera is a must-watch for fans of strategic warfare and political power struggles. Legend of the Galactic Heroes follows Reinhard von Lohengramm, a brilliant strategist who rises through the ranks of the Galactic Empire with the dream of reshaping the universe.
Like Lelouch, Reinhard is a noble-born who opposes the existing power structure. Both characters are visionaries seeking to unify their worlds, making bold sacrifices along the way. With its focus on tactical battles, charismatic leaders, and ideological warfare, this anime is a great choice for fans of Code Geass.
5. No Game No Life
| Genres | Comedy, Fantasy, Ecchi |
| Release Date | 2014 |
While No Game No Life doesn’t involve mechas or war, it shares one of the strongest aspects of Code Geass: a genius protagonist who outsmarts opponents through strategy rather than brute force. Sora and Shiro, two prodigious siblings, are transported to a world where everything is decided through high-stakes games.
Like Lelouch, Sora and Shiro manipulate their enemies with brilliant tactics, turning hopeless situations into victories. If you loved the mind games and psychological battles in Code Geass, No Game No Life will be an entertaining ride.
4. Mobile Suit Gundam 00
| Original title | Kidou Senshi Gundam 00 |
| Genres | Action, Drama, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2007 |
A mecha anime with plenty of political intrigue, Mobile Suit Gundam 00 follows a group called Celestial Being, which aims to end war through armed intervention. The story revolves around skilled pilots who use advanced mobile suits to force the world toward unity.
Both Code Geass and Gundam 00 feature protagonists who seek to reshape the world through calculated military actions. The philosophical debates about war, peace, and the price of revolution make this an excellent recommendation for fans of Lelouch’s journey.
3. Aldnoah.Zero
| Genres | Action, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2014 |
Aldnoah.Zero presents a brutal war between Earth and the technologically advanced Martians. The anime emphasizes strategic combat, much like Code Geass, where intelligence often outweighs brute force. The protagonist, Inaho Kaizuka, uses his tactical mind to turn impossible odds in his favor.
Like Lelouch, Inaho is a calculating strategist who refuses to lose, even when faced with overwhelming enemies. The series also delves into political intrigue, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas of war, making it a great match for Code Geass fans.
2. Guilty Crown
| Genres | Action, Drama, Sci-Fi |
| Release Date | 2011 |
The similarities between Guilty Crown and Code Geass are undeniable. Shu Ouma, the protagonist, gains a mysterious power known as the “Power of the King,” allowing him to extract weapons from people’s hearts. He soon finds himself caught in a rebellion against a totalitarian government.
The parallels between Shu and Lelouch are clear: both receive extraordinary powers, become involved in an anti-government uprising, and struggle with their moral choices. While Guilty Crown doesn’t reach Code Geass‘s narrative depth, its stunning animation, action-packed sequences, and emotional twists make it a thrilling watch.
1. Death Note
| Genres | Supernatural, Suspense |
| Release Date | 2006 |
Perhaps the most commonly compared anime to Code Geass, Death Note follows Light Yagami, a high school student who gains the ability to kill anyone by writing their name in a mysterious notebook. Like Lelouch, Light is an anti-hero who relies on intelligence, manipulation, and strategic planning to achieve his vision of a “better world.”
Both series focus heavily on psychological warfare, featuring genius protagonists who must navigate dangerous battles of wits. If you loved the tactical mind games and moral complexity of Code Geass, Death Note is a must-watch.
Conclusion
Code Geass is an unforgettable anime that masterfully blends mecha action, intellectual duels, and emotional storytelling. If you’re searching for similar anime with strategic brilliance, rebellion, and high-stakes drama, the titles on this list are sure to keep you engaged.
Whether it’s through mecha warfare, political intrigue, or genius-level mind games, these anime will give you the same adrenaline rush that Code Geass delivered.
