Class of the Titans is a unique blend of mythology, action, and character-driven storytelling that explores themes of power, legacy, and the underdog’s fight against overwhelming odds. It features a team of modern teenagers descended from Greek heroes, combining mythological lore with contemporary challenges.
Core themes include intricate power systems, underdog narratives, and subverting expectations about heroes and villains. Many anime share these elements but remain underappreciated. This article highlights 15 underrated anime series that resonate with fans of Class of the Titans through similar themes, character development, or narrative style.
1. Kaze no Stigma (2007)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Plot: Kazuma Kannagi returns to his family after being exiled, wielding powerful wind magic to protect those he cares about.
- Similarity: Focuses on elemental powers and family legacy, with a protagonist overcoming rejection and proving his worth, echoing Class of the Titans’ underdog theme.
- MAL Rating: 7.4/10
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Bones
2. Seirei Tsukai no Blade Dance (2014)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: Kamito Kazehaya enrolls in an academy for spirit users, hiding his secret as the only male spirit contractor.
- Similarity: Combines power systems with a team dynamic and subverts gender expectations, similar to the diverse heroes of Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 6.9/10
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: TNK
3. Zetman (2012)
- Streaming: Hulu, Crunchyroll
- Plot: Two boys with contrasting origins struggle with their powers and moral compasses in a dark, gritty world.
- Similarity: Explores themes of heroism, power, and identity with a darker tone, akin to the complex character arcs in Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 7.1/10
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
4. Shinzo (2000)
- Streaming: Rare on DVD, some episodes online
- Plot: Yakumo and his friends journey through a post-apocalyptic world to find Shinzo, a mythical place of peace.
- Similarity: Blends mythology with adventure and features a group of underdogs fighting against oppressive forces, much like the Titans’ struggle.
- MAL Rating: N/A (cult classic)
- Episodes: 32
- Studio: Studio Deen
5. Karakuri Circus (2018)
- Streaming: Netflix, Crunchyroll
- Plot: Masaru Saiga inherits a fortune and is targeted by assassins, protected by a mysterious puppeteer.
- Similarity: Combines action, legacy, and a team fighting against dark conspiracies, with strong character growth and unique animation styles.
- MAL Rating: 7.5/10
- Episodes: 36
- Studio: Studio VOLN
6. The Twelve Kingdoms (2002)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: Yoko Nakajima is transported to a fantasy world where she must claim her destiny as a ruler.
- Similarity: Focuses on personal growth, political intrigue, and the hero’s journey, paralleling Class of the Titans’ themes of legacy and power.
- MAL Rating: 8.0/10
- Episodes: 45
- Studio: Studio Pierrot
7. Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (2007)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Plot: Balsa, a spear-wielding warrior, protects a prince with mysterious powers in a war-torn land.
- Similarity: Strong character-driven narrative with themes of protection, destiny, and overcoming odds, much like the Titans’ mission.
- MAL Rating: 8.3/10
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Production I.G
8. Canaan (2009)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: Canaan, a mercenary with synesthesia, becomes entangled in a deadly conspiracy.
- Similarity: Features complex characters with unique abilities and a narrative full of twists, echoing the subversion of expectations in Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 7.1/10
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: P.A. Works
9. Kino’s Journey (2003)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: Kino travels through strange lands, learning about different cultures and philosophies.
- Similarity: While episodic and contemplative, it shares Class of the Titans’ exploration of morality and human nature.
- MAL Rating: 7.8/10
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: A.C.G.T
10. Ergo Proxy (2006)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: In a dystopian future, Re-l Mayer investigates mysterious beings called Proxies.
- Similarity: Dark, philosophical, and layered storytelling with a focus on identity and power, akin to the narrative depth of Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 7.9/10
- Episodes: 23
- Studio: Manglobe
11. Mushishi (2005)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Plot: Ginko, a “Mushi Master,” travels to understand ethereal creatures and their impact on humans.
- Similarity: Emphasizes subtle storytelling and character development, exploring nature and mysticism like the mythological roots in Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 8.6/10
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Artland
12. Texhnolyze (2003)
- Streaming: Rare, some episodes on streaming platforms
- Plot: In a dystopian underground city, factions vie for control as a young man gains cybernetic limbs.
- Similarity: Dark, complex narrative with themes of power and survival, reflecting the mature undertones of Class of the Titans.
- MAL Rating: 7.4/10
- Episodes: 22
- Studio: Madhouse
13. Basilisk (2005)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: Two ninja clans battle to the death to decide the next shogun’s successor.
- Similarity: Combines action, legacy, and tragic underdog stories with rich character development.
- MAL Rating: 7.7/10
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Gonzo
14. Scrapped Princess (2003)
- Streaming: Rare, DVD collections
- Plot: Pacifica Casull is prophesied to destroy the world and is hunted by powerful forces.
- Similarity: Features a young protagonist with a mysterious power, a team dynamic, and themes of destiny and betrayal.
- MAL Rating: 7.6/10
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Bones
15. Kino no Tabi: The Beautiful World – The Animated Series (2017)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A reboot of the original, following Kino’s philosophical journeys through various lands.
- Similarity: Deep exploration of human nature and society, with a calm narrative style that contrasts but complements Class of the Titans’ action.
- MAL Rating: 7.0/10
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Lerche
Why These Anime Work for Class of the Titans Fans
These series share Class of the Titans‘ core appeal: complex power systems, underdog heroes rising against adversity, and narratives that challenge expectations. They often blend mythology, fantasy, or dystopian settings with strong character arcs and moral dilemmas. Many also feature unique animation styles or storytelling approaches that set them apart from mainstream titles. For fans craving more stories where legacy, friendship, and the fight for justice intertwine, these underrated gems offer rich worlds and compelling characters waiting to be discovered.
