When The Whimsical And The Macabre Meet
Goblin Slayer is looking to become one of the Fall season’s most anticipated series, following in the footsteps of shows like Overlord and Drifters by highlighting the grit that can be found in the world of fantasy anime. While we’re hoping that it can live up the hype of its manga counterpart, at least we’ll have these five masterpieces to fall back on should it not live up tot he legacy of the genre.
#5: “Berserk†(1997-2016)
Whether you’re thinking of giving the original series a watch or fancy checking out one of the more recent remakes, be warned that this is one of anime’s bloodiest and darkest franchises. Chronicling the endless battle that is the life of Guts, we see him go through every kind of hell imaginable, which forges him into a sword-wielding killing machine. While the battles are gloriously bloody, what really hits home is the relationship he builds with the mercenary group; the Band of the Hawk and its charismatic leader Griffith. You won’t find more of a beast than Guts, or a series that doesn’t shy away from any kind of taboo.
#4: “The Seven Deadly Sins†(2014-16)
Wrath, Greed, Pride, Lust, Sloth, Gluttony and Envy are no strangers to the world of anime, but it’s a rare occurrence when you find yourself rooting for them. Taking the form of seven powerful knights, each with their own hilarious quirks as well as lethal fighting abilities, the Sins take on the full might of the kingdom they once protected when its princess pleas for them to help rid it of corruption. Led by the slightly pervy, short statured, and strong as hell Melodias, the banter between the seven and their escalating battles are beyond entertaining.
#3: “Re;Zero†(2016)
Suburu Natsuki has more than earned his place on being one of the most unlucky characters in anime, if only for the fact that for him a painful death is not final, but a means to an end. Transported to a mysterious new world filled with the likes of elves and other mythical creatures, he soon discovers that’s not the strangest aspect of his new surroundings. After suffering multiple brutal murders, Suburu finds himself caught up in an eternal loop until he can right the wrongs of each encounter. Equal parts mystery and thriller, rest assured this is not the kind fantasy anyone would wish to live in.
#2: “Fate†series (2006-15)
Behold the franchise that championed anime battles between figures of history, all the while layering it with mind-blowing visuals and engrossing narratives that traverse timelines. As the Holy Grail Wars begins, various Masters and Servants clash in order to claim victory – some of which with less than honourable intentions. Whether it’s Fate/Zero or Unlimited Blade Works, there’s no denying that its rich cast of characters, especially in the case of Saber, and breath-taking battles sequences will have you on the edge of your seat.
#1: “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood†(2009-10)
In a world where the art of alchemy reigns supreme, Edward Elric has made it his mission in life to seek out the Philosopher’s Stone in order to restore the body of his younger brother, all the while finding himself engaged in battle with the likes of chimeras, murderers and the deadly creatures known as the Homunculus. With its tragically human characters and unique approaches to the themes of revenge, war and religion, no other series bound by fantasy has this much gravitas under its automail.
Be sure to check out the video below to see our picks for the Top 10 Magic Anime.Â
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