Marvel’s Avengers: Secret Wars (Shorts) (2017) redefined team dynamics by scattering heroes across space and time, forcing them to rely on new alliances and subvert expectations. Themes of power systems (underdog heroes), complex narratives (multiverse chaos), and character-driven growth resonate deeply.
This article highlights 15 anime that mirror these elements, blending underdog tales, unconventional teams, and genre-defying storytelling. These series deserve attention for their bold creativity and emotional depth, often overshadowed by mainstream hits.
1. Astra: Lost in Space (2019)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A group of students stranded in space uncovers a conspiracy while navigating survival. Themes of trust and teamwork mirror the Avengers’ cross-dimensional struggles.
Similarities: Ensemble cast, mystery-driven plot, and high-stakes teamwork under pressure.
MAL Rating: 7.8 | Episodes: 12 | Studio: Lerche
2. Akudama Drive (2020)
Streaming: Hulu/Crunchyroll
Plot: A ragtag group of criminals in a dystopian future navigates moral ambiguity and betrayal. Themes of unlikely alliances and subverted expectations align with the Avengers’ chaotic team-ups.
Similarities: Cyberpunk visuals, morally gray characters, and chaotic teamwork.
MAL Rating: 7.8 | Episodes: 12 | Studio: Pierrot
3. One Outs (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A gambler’s strategic mind transforms a struggling baseball team. Focuses on underdog resilience and psychological depth.
Similarities: Underdog story, tactical battles, and mentor-student dynamics.
MAL Rating: 8.3 | Episodes: 25 | Studio: Madhouse
4. Symphogear (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Girls wield magical armor to fight alien threats, blending music and combat.
Similarities: Unique power systems, team battles, and dramatic character arcs.
MAL Rating: 7.4 | Episodes: 39 (4 seasons) | Studio: Satelight/Encore Films
5. .Hack//Sign (2002)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A player trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG uncovers its dark secrets. Themes of alternate realities and team trust.
Similarities: Immersive world-building, psychological tension, and layered narratives.
MAL Rating: 7.9 | Episodes: 26 | Studio: Bee Train
6. Ghost Hunt (2006)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A paranormal team investigates supernatural cases, blending horror and comedy.
Similarities: Diverse skill sets, mystery-solving, and ensemble chemistry.
MAL Rating: 7.6 | Episodes: 26 | Studio: J.C.Staff
7. Gunslinger Girl (2003)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Cybernetic girls undergo missions, exploring themes of humanity and sacrifice.
Similarities: Enhanced abilities, moral ambiguity, and underdog resilience.
MAL Rating: 7.4 | Episodes: 13 | Studio: Madhouse
8. Flying Witch (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A witch-in-training navigates everyday life with magical mishaps.
Similarities: Character-driven growth, slice-of-life charm, and whimsical world-building.
MAL Rating: 6.9 | Episodes: 12 | Studio: J.C.Staff
9. Fantastic Children (2004)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A girl uncovers a time-travel mystery involving ancient beings.
Similarities: Complex timelines, hidden powers, and emotional stakes.
MAL Rating: 7.7 | Episodes: 26 | Studio: Radix Ace
10. Zettai Shounen (2005)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A boy gains supernatural abilities and joins a team to protect the world.
Similarities: Team dynamics, hidden powers, and moral dilemmas.
MAL Rating: 6.9 | Episodes: 26 | Studio: AIC ASTA
11. Run with the Wind (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A former sprinter rebuilds a college track team. Focuses on overcoming personal and team struggles.
Similarities: Underdog spirit, mentorship, and collaborative triumph.
MAL Rating: 8.5 | Episodes: 23 | Studio: Production I.G.
12. Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo (2004)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A space opera reimagining of Dumas’ classic, featuring political intrigue.
Similarities: Visual innovation, moral complexity, and revenge-driven narratives.
MAL Rating: 7.9 | Episodes: 24 | Studio: Gonzo
13. Kuragehime (2010)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A reclusive girl befriends a transvestite and learns to embrace change.
Similarities: Character redemption, slice-of-life depth, and quirky humor.
MAL Rating: 7.6 | Episodes: 11 | Studio: Brain’s Base
14. The Executioner and Her Way of Life (2022)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A girl and a death row convict navigate a dark fantasy world. Themes of sacrifice and unexpected bonds.
Similarities: Morally gray alliances, high-stakes missions, and emotional subversion.
MAL Rating: 6.8 | Episodes: 14 | Studio: J.C.Staff
15. Sonny Boy (2021)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Students gain superpowers after being stranded in a parallel universe.
Similarities: Reality-bending chaos, team conflict, and existential themes.
MAL Rating: 7.5 | Episodes: 12 | Studio: Madhouse
Why These Anime Work for Avengers: Secret Wars Fans
These series thrive on team dynamics, underdog resilience, and narrative twists—core elements of Avengers: Secret Wars. Whether it’s the tactical battles of Akudama Drive or the emotional depth of Run with the Wind, each anime challenges expectations through unconventional alliances and morally complex characters. For fans craving stories where heroes rise from unexpected places, these hidden gems offer fresh perspectives on power, unity, and the cost of victory.
