Legend of the Dragon is a unique blend of martial arts, fantasy, and coming-of-age themes, centered on power systems, underdog heroes, and unexpected plot twists. Its narrative style combines intense action with character growth, often subverting typical shonen tropes.
While it has its fans, many anime with similar thematic depth and storytelling deserve more attention for their fresh takes on power struggles and character journeys. Below are 15 underrated anime series that share these qualities, mixing older gems and recent works with distinct animation styles and compelling narratives.
1. Karakuri Circus (2018)
Streaming: Available on Crunchyroll
Plot: After inheriting a vast fortune, Masaru Saiga is targeted by assassins, but he is protected by a mysterious puppeteer and a circus performer, battling dark forces with unique martial arts and puppetry.
Similarity: Like Legend of the Dragon, it features a young underdog thrust into a dangerous world, with a strong focus on combat and supernatural power systems.
Details: 36 episodes, Studio VOLN, MAL rating ~7.8, praised for its blend of action and emotional depth.
2. X/1999 (1996)
Streaming: Select platforms, DVD
Plot: Kamui Shirou must choose between saving or destroying the world, caught in a battle between two supernatural factions.
Similarity: Shares themes of destiny, power struggles, and complex character motivations, with a dark, apocalyptic tone that subverts expectations.
Details: 24 episodes, Madhouse, MAL rating ~7.6, known for its atmospheric storytelling.
3. Full Metal Panic! (2002)
Streaming: Funimation, Crunchyroll
Plot: A young soldier protects a girl with special abilities while balancing high school life and mecha battles.
Similarity: Combines action and character growth with a unique power system, highlighting underdog themes and unexpected humor.
Details: 24 episodes (first season), Gonzo studio, MAL rating ~7.7, acclaimed for character dynamics.
4. Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan (2010)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Rikuo Nura, part human and part yokai, struggles to accept his supernatural heritage and lead his clan.
Similarity: Focuses on an underdog protagonist balancing human and supernatural worlds, with clan-based power struggles and character development.
Details: 24 episodes, Studio Deen, MAL rating ~7.3, praised for folklore integration.
5. Chaos Dragon (2015)
Streaming: Hulu, Funimation
Plot: In a war-torn world, a reluctant hero must save his country from a destructive red dragon.
Similarity: Features a complex power system and emotional character arcs, with a narrative that subverts typical fantasy tropes.
Details: 12 episodes, Studio Nexus, MAL rating ~6.8, noted for its emotional depth.
6. Last Exile (2003)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: In a steampunk world, two pilots get caught in a war involving airships and mysterious powers.
Similarity: Combines underdog protagonists with a unique world and power system, emphasizing character growth and high-stakes conflict.
Details: 26 episodes, Gonzo, MAL rating ~8.0, celebrated for its animation and storytelling.
7. One Outs (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A baseball pitcher uses psychological tactics and gambling to dominate the sport.
Similarity: Underdog story with strategic battles and subversion of sports anime clichés, focusing on mental power rather than physical.
Details: 25 episodes, Madhouse, MAL rating ~7.7, praised for unique storytelling.
8. Ghost Hunt (2006)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A team investigates paranormal phenomena with scientific and spiritual methods.
Similarity: Blends supernatural elements with mystery and character interactions, focusing on teamwork and overcoming fears.
Details: 25 episodes, J.C.Staff, MAL rating ~7.5, known for suspenseful narrative.
9. Symphogear (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: Girls use ancient relics to fight alien threats in a high-energy musical battle.
Similarity: Features power systems tied to emotional growth and teamwork, with underdog characters rising to the challenge.
Details: Multiple seasons, Satelight, MAL rating ~7.5, notable for its unique blend of music and action.
10. The Ancient Magus’ Bride (2017)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: A girl with a troubled past is taken in by a mysterious sorcerer, learning about magic and herself.
Similarity: Explores themes of power, mentorship, and personal growth with a dark fantasy aesthetic.
Details: 24 episodes, Wit Studio, MAL rating ~8.0, acclaimed for atmosphere and character depth.
11. Dororo (2019)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: A young ronin hunts demons to reclaim his stolen body parts in a dark feudal Japan.
Similarity: Underdog protagonist with supernatural powers, blending action and emotional storytelling.
Details: 24 episodes, MAPPA & Tezuka Productions, MAL rating ~8.2, praised for animation and narrative.
12. So Ra No Wo To (2010)
Streaming: Select platforms
Plot: Soldiers stationed in a remote town use music to cope with war’s harsh realities.
Similarity: Unique storytelling approach with a focus on character development and subtle power dynamics.
Details: 12 episodes, A-1 Pictures, MAL rating ~7.5, noted for its gentle tone and visuals.
13. Golden Kamuy (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: A war veteran and an Ainu girl search for hidden gold in Hokkaido, facing dangerous enemies.
Similarity: Combines underdog survival story with unique cultural elements and intense action.
Details: 36 episodes (across seasons), Geno Studio, MAL rating ~8.4, award-winning for storytelling.
14. Eyeshield 21 (2005)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A shy boy becomes a football star through hard work and strategy.
Similarity: Classic underdog sports anime with strong character growth and power system in gameplay.
Details: 145 episodes, Gallop, MAL rating ~8.0, beloved for pacing and character arcs.
15. World Trigger (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: A group of fighters defend Earth from interdimensional invaders using advanced technology and teamwork.
Similarity: Features complex power systems, team dynamics, and underdog themes with a well-developed cast.
Details: 73 episodes (first season), Toei Animation, MAL rating ~7.5, praised for tactical battles.
Why These Anime Work for Legend of the Dragon Fans
These series resonate with Legend of the Dragon enthusiasts because they share core elements: intricate power systems, underdog protagonists overcoming adversity, and narratives that often defy genre expectations. Many balance intense action with meaningful character development, while some introduce unique animation styles or storytelling methods that enrich the viewing experience. Whether through supernatural battles, strategic conflicts, or emotional journeys, these underrated anime offer fresh perspectives that deepen the themes beloved in Legend of the Dragon, making them worthy discoveries for fans seeking more than mainstream hits.
