Top 10 Anime Like Overlord for Isekai and Overpowered Protagonist Fans
If you’re a fan of Overlord, chances are you’re looking for anime that deliver a similar experience—powerful protagonists, immersive fantasy worlds, and epic adventures. Fortunately, there are plenty of anime that share these elements, whether through world-building, game mechanics, or sheer dominance of the main character.
Here’s a list of the top 10 anime like Overlord that you should check out!
10. Skeleton Knight in Another World
| Japanese Title | Gaikotsu Kishi-sama, Tadaima Isekai e Odekakechuu |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2022 |
Much like Overlord, this anime follows a protagonist who finds himself transported into a fantasy world in the form of his in-game avatar—a skeletal knight. Arc, the main character, is not only strong but also incredibly skilled in combat, making him a force to be reckoned with.
Despite his intimidating skeletal appearance, Arc has a surprisingly kind personality, which contrasts with Ainz’s cold and calculating nature. However, both anime share a common theme of exploring a world through the eyes of a character who looks more like a villain than a hero. The RPG-like mechanics and the gradual uncovering of the new world’s secrets add to the immersive experience.
Related: The 10 Best Action Anime to Fuel Your Adrenaline
9. Demon Lord, Retry!
| Japanese Title | Maou-sama, Retry! |
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2019 |
This series introduces Akira Oono, a middle-aged man who suddenly finds himself inside the body of his own game character, the Demon Lord Hakuto Kunai. Like Ainz, he is perceived as an evil ruler despite not actively seeking destruction.
Both anime explore the struggles of a protagonist who wields immense power yet tries to navigate a world that sees him as a villain. The interactions with the inhabitants, the strategic decision-making, and the dominance in battles make this anime a great recommendation for those who love the Overlord formula.
8. How Not to Summon a Demon Lord
| Japanese Title | Isekai Maou to Shoukan Shoujo no Dorei Majutsu |
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Ecchi |
| Release Date | 2018 |
In this isekai anime, the protagonist, Diablo, is transported to another world as his in-game character, much like Ainz. With overwhelming magical abilities and a demonic persona, he quickly establishes himself as one of the most powerful beings in the world.
However, unlike Overlord, which leans towards a darker and more serious tone, How Not to Summon a Demon Lord balances its power fantasy with comedic and ecchi elements. While Ainz primarily stays within his kingdom, Diablo takes a more adventurous route, traveling with companions while still maintaining his reputation as an unstoppable force.
7. Saga of Tanya the Evil
| Japanese Title | Youjo Senki |
| Genres | Action, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2017 |
While Saga of Tanya the Evil doesn’t follow the traditional isekai formula of being transported to a fantasy world, it still shares several striking similarities with Overlord. The protagonist, Tanya Degurechaff, is a reincarnated middle-aged man who retains his memories and intelligence, much like Ainz.
Tanya, like Ainz, is known for her brilliant strategic mind and ability to manipulate those around her. While Ainz commands an entire guild, Tanya leads battalions of soldiers in a brutal war, using her intelligence and overpowered magical abilities to gain victory. Both anime showcase protagonists who are feared and respected, making this a must-watch for fans of Overlord.
6. No Game, No Life
| Genres | Comedy, Fantasy, Ecchi |
| Release Date | 2014 |
While No Game, No Life lacks the intense combat and war-driven narrative of Overlord, it makes up for it with a brilliant protagonist duo who dominate their world through sheer intellect. Sora and Shiro, much like Ainz, are gamers transported into a new world where they must use their wits to conquer.
Both anime emphasize strategic gameplay, where the protagonist manipulates their environment and opponents to achieve absolute victory. While Ainz dominates through raw power and tactical brilliance, Sora and Shiro outsmart their enemies through mind games. If you enjoy the strategic side of Overlord, No Game, No Life will captivate you.
5. The Eminence in Shadow
| Japanese Title | Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! |
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2022 |
This anime features a protagonist who unintentionally becomes a legendary figure, much like Ainz. Cid Kagenou, the main character, fabricates a fictional organization and mission, only to later realize that his made-up story aligns with reality.
What makes this anime similar to Overlord is the protagonist’s interactions with his subordinates. Just like how Ainz is often clueless about how much his followers admire and interpret his every action, Cid’s subordinates treat his words as absolute truth, leading to comedic yet powerful moments. The dynamic between the protagonist and his faction, coupled with the sheer strength of the main character, makes this a must-watch for Overlord fans.
4. One Punch Man
| Genres | Action, Comedy |
| Release Date | 2015 |
At first glance, One Punch Man may not seem like an obvious recommendation, but both anime share a key similarity—an overpowered protagonist who rarely faces a real challenge. Saitama, much like Ainz, possesses a level of strength that makes every battle effortless.
Both anime thrive on the idea of an unstoppable force existing within their world. While Ainz strategically maneuvers his way to dominance, Saitama’s struggle is more about dealing with boredom and the lack of worthy opponents. If you enjoy watching an all-powerful protagonist crush enemies with ease, One Punch Man delivers that experience in a different yet equally enjoyable way.
3. Sword Art Online
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Romance |
| Release Date | 2012 |
Both Overlord and Sword Art Online take place within MMORPG-inspired worlds, where game mechanics influence battles, abilities, and character progression. Kirito, like Ainz, is a highly skilled and overpowered player who dominates within his virtual environment.
While SAO focuses more on survival and personal relationships, it still shares elements of world-building, combat, and strategy with Overlord. If you enjoy the gaming aspects of Overlord, Sword Art Online offers a similar adventure with high-stakes battles and an immersive fantasy setting.
2. Log Horizon
| Genres | Action, Adventure, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2013 |
This anime takes the concept of being trapped in a game world and explores it in great depth. Unlike Overlord, where Ainz is the only known player stuck in the game, Log Horizon follows multiple players who must adapt to their new reality.
Both anime feature overpowered protagonists—Ainz as a ruler and strategist, and Shiroe as a mastermind tactician. While Ainz aims to conquer, Shiroe focuses more on governance and survival, making Log Horizon an excellent choice for those who enjoy intelligent world-building and political strategy in a fantasy setting.
1. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
| Japanese Title | Tensei shitara Slime Datta Ken |
| Genres | Action, Comedy, Fantasy |
| Release Date | 2018 |
Among all the anime on this list, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is perhaps the most similar to Overlord. Both feature an overpowered protagonist who gradually builds and leads a growing kingdom in a fantasy world.
Rimuru Tempest, like Ainz, starts from humble beginnings and quickly rises to become one of the most feared and respected beings in his world. The major difference lies in the tone—Overlord has a darker and more serious atmosphere, while Slime incorporates more humor and lighthearted moments. If you love the world-building and power fantasy elements of Overlord, you’ll likely enjoy That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime as well.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to Overlord for its overpowered protagonist, strategic depth, or immersive fantasy world, these anime provide similar themes in different flavors. From tactical warfare to game-inspired adventures, each of these recommendations offers a unique take on the isekai and power fantasy genres.
Which one will you watch next? Let us know in the comments! 🚀
