15 Anime Similar to Solo Leveling – Dark, Game-Inspired, or Overpowered Protagonist!

If there’s one anime that has recently taken over the scene, it’s Solo Leveling. Based on the webtoon by Chu-Gong, Sung Jin-Woo’s story has surpassed 2.4 billion views on the KakaoPage platform alone and has sold millions of copies worldwide. Moreover, the anime adaptation generated an insane amount of hype, with trailers breaking view records and fans eagerly awaiting each new episode.

But when does it end? What to watch next? Don’t worry, we at MaratonaPop have the solution!

If you’re feeling lost after finishing Solo Leveling, here are some animes that will satisfy your thirst for overpowering evolution, epic battles, and that RPG-like excitement.

The Rise of the Shield Hero

Naofumi Iwatani is transported to a fantasy world as one of the four legendary heroes. But instead of glory, he is betrayed and ridiculed right from the start. With no other choice, he must grow stronger, find allies, and rise above his misfortunes.

Similarities: Just like Jin-Woo, Naofumi starts his journey at rock bottom, doubted by everyone, but grows exponentially over time. The progression system and thrilling battles make it a must-watch for fans of action and resilience.

Kaiju No. 8

Kafka Hibino always dreamed of joining the Defense Force against Kaijus, but life didn’t go as planned. One day, a bizarre event transforms him into a powerful Kaiju, giving him a second chance to fight against monsters.

Similarities: Like Jin-Woo, Kafka starts as an insignificant character but gains overwhelming power and faces colossal challenges to protect those he loves. The Kaiju threat brings a level of destruction reminiscent of Solo Leveling dungeons.

Jujutsu Kaisen

Yuji Itadori accidentally swallows a cursed finger and becomes the host of Sukuna, the King of Curses. Now, he must fight against curses and learn to control his newfound power.

Similarities: The insane action, charismatic protagonists, and an incredible power system make Jujutsu Kaisen a perfect match for Solo Leveling fans. Additionally, Yuji’s growth and intense battles strongly resemble Jin-Woo’s journey.

Demon Slayer

Tanjiro Kamado witnesses his family massacred by demons, and his sister Nezuko turned into one. He joins the Demon Slayers to seek revenge and find a cure for his sister.

Similarities: A determined protagonist, insane evolution, and visually stunning battles—everything that made you love Solo Leveling is here. The fights against demons and Tanjiro’s rise in the Demon Slayer ranks resemble Jin-Woo’s progression against increasingly powerful monsters.

Goblin Slayer

In a fantasy world, a mysterious warrior dedicates his life to exterminating goblins in the most brutal way possible.

Similarities: The dark tone and the protagonist’s methodical battle approach are reminiscent of Jin-Woo’s dangerous missions. The brutal setting and fights against deadly creatures make this anime perfect for fans of intense action.

Gate

A mysterious portal opens in Japan, connecting the real world to a fantasy realm where modern warriors face mythical beings.

Similarities: A mix of war, fantasy, and military strategy—along with a protagonist who knows exactly how to dominate weaker enemies. The feeling of an army advancing against magical creatures is very similar to Solo Leveling’s portal invasions.

Tower of God

Bam enters a mysterious tower to reunite with his friend Rachel and must face deadly challenges on each floor.

Similarities: Progressive power growth, incredible fights, and an engaging mystery. Just like Jin-Woo, Bam starts as a weak character, but his determination leads him to face increasingly dangerous challenges.

That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime

Satoru Mikami reincarnates as a slime but soon discovers that he can evolve into an incredibly powerful being.

Similarities: Starting from nothing and becoming a god? Yes, exactly that! If you loved Jin-Woo’s relentless rise, you’ll enjoy watching Rimuru build his own empire and become an unbeatable entity.

Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World

Subaru Natsuki is transported to a fantasy world and discovers he can go back in time every time he dies.

Similarities: The protagonist’s growth through suffering and brutal challenges. Like Jin-Woo, Subaru must endure constant pain and losses to become stronger and survive.

One Punch Man

Saitama is so powerful that he defeats any enemy with a single punch—and that makes him completely bored.

Similarities: Total overpower, epic fights, and a protagonist who breaks all clichés. If you enjoyed watching Jin-Woo crush enemies effortlessly, you’ll love following Saitama’s adventures (and boredom).

Parasyte: The Maxim

One day, alien parasites invade Earth, taking control of human bodies. But Shinichi Izumi gets lucky—or unlucky—when the parasite trying to control him ends up only in his hand. Now, the two must coexist and fight increasingly dangerous enemies.

Similarities: The protagonist’s transformation is brutal, and the dark atmosphere filled with insane battles strongly resembles Solo Leveling’s vibe. Plus, the character’s evolution is simply incredible.

Sword Art Online

Players of Sword Art Online become trapped inside a virtual reality game where death in the game means death in real life. Kirito, one of the most skilled players, must level up, face deadly bosses, and find a way to escape.

Similarities: If you loved Solo Leveling’s game-like mechanics and power progression, you’ll feel right at home with Sword Art Online. Kirito and Jin-Woo share the same "one-man army" spirit and engage in epic battles.

Shangri-La Frontier

Rakuro Hizutome is addicted to difficult games and decides to take on Shangri-La Frontier, one of the most popular VRMMOs. What starts as a hobby soon becomes a quest to become the game’s top player.

Similarities: If you enjoyed Solo Leveling’s RPG elements, this anime has plenty to keep you hooked! Character progression? Check. Exciting battles? Check. Overpowered skills and gear? Double check!

If Solo Leveling won you over, you now have an amazing variety of animes to keep your excitement high.

Which one will you watch first? Let us know in the comments!