“Gadget and the Gadgetinis” is a charming spin-off of the classic “Inspector Gadget,” blending inventive gadgets, quirky characters, and lighthearted adventure. The series revolves around inventive technology, underdog heroes, and a playful subversion of spy and action tropes. Fans appreciate its mix of humor, clever problem-solving, and character growth.
This article highlights 15 underrated anime series that share similar themes—whether through inventive power systems, underdog protagonists, or a narrative style that balances action with character-driven stories—deserving more attention from anime enthusiasts.
1. Dennou Coil (2007)
Streaming: Available on select platforms like Funimation
Plot: In a near-future city, children use augmented reality glasses to explore a digital world layered over reality, uncovering mysteries and confronting digital ghosts.
Similarity: Like Gadget’s tech-savvy adventures, Dennou Coil centers on inventive technology and youthful protagonists navigating a blend of real and virtual worlds, with strong character development and mystery elements.
Details: 26 episodes, praised for unique animation and storytelling by director Mitsuo Iso, holds a cult following but remains underappreciated.
2. Canaan (2009)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Plot: A skilled mercenary with synesthesia battles terrorists in a city rife with conspiracies.
Similarity: Combines gadget-based combat and espionage with a strong, capable female lead, echoing Gadget’s blend of action and clever tech use.
Details: 13 episodes, produced by P.A. Works, noted for stylish animation and intense action sequences.
3. Kaiba (2008)
Streaming: Available on niche anime services
Plot: In a surreal world where memories can be transferred between bodies, a young man searches for his identity.
Similarity: Its inventive sci-fi concepts and underdog protagonist’s journey of self-discovery mirror Gadget’s themes of technology and character growth.
Details: 12 episodes, unique art style by Masaaki Yuasa, critically acclaimed but overlooked.
4. Kurau Phantom Memory (2004)
Streaming: Occasionally on specialty platforms
Plot: After a lab accident, a woman gains powerful energy abilities and becomes a target, fighting to protect her family.
Similarity: Gadget’s blend of tech and heart is reflected in Kurau’s focus on a protagonist with extraordinary powers balancing personal stakes.
Details: 24 episodes, produced by Bones, praised for emotional depth and animation.
5. Mardock Scramble (2010)
Streaming: Select platforms, movie format
Plot: A young woman is resurrected with cybernetic enhancements and seeks justice against her attacker.
Similarity: Themes of technology-enhanced abilities and an underdog fighting corruption align with Gadget’s narrative style.
Details: Trilogy of films, notable for cyberpunk aesthetics and complex storytelling.
6. Dennou Coil (2007)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: Children explore a digital overlay of their city, uncovering secrets and confronting digital entities.
Similarity: Shares Gadget’s fascination with technology and youthful curiosity, blending mystery and adventure.
Details: 26 episodes, directed by Mitsuo Iso, praised for innovative storytelling.
7. Last Exile (2003)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: In a steampunk world, two young pilots become embroiled in a war involving aerial battles and political intrigue.
Similarity: Combines inventive technology and underdog heroes navigating complex conflicts, with a strong focus on character dynamics.
Details: 26 episodes, produced by Gonzo, known for detailed animation and world-building.
8. Gunslinger Girl (2003)
Streaming: Available on Funimation
Plot: Young girls are cybernetically enhanced into assassins working for a secret government agency.
Similarity: Gadget’s blend of technology and youthful characters with emotional depth is echoed here, focusing on identity and loyalty.
Details: 13 episodes, produced by Madhouse, acclaimed for mature themes.
9. Symphogear (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Plot: Teenage girls use advanced armor powered by music to fight alien threats.
Similarity: Combines gadget-based power systems and underdog heroines, with a mix of action and emotional storytelling.
Details: Multiple seasons, praised for energetic animation and unique concept.
10. Appleseed (2004)
Streaming: Various platforms, movie format
Plot: In a post-apocalyptic city, a cyborg soldier and her partner navigate political intrigue and advanced technology.
Similarity: Shares Gadget’s tech-heavy world and themes of human-machine interaction.
Details: Produced by Production I.G, noted for pioneering CGI animation.
11. Blassreiter (2008)
Streaming: Occasionally available on niche platforms
Plot: In a future Germany, bio-mechanical beings called Demoniacs threaten humanity, and enhanced humans fight back.
Similarity: Mixes technology, underdog heroes, and action-packed narratives reminiscent of Gadget’s style.
Details: 24 episodes, produced by Gonzo, known for dark tone and mech designs.
12. .hack//SIGN (2002)
Streaming: Funimation, Hulu
Plot: Players trapped in a virtual MMORPG must unravel the mystery to escape.
Similarity: Focus on technology and a protagonist navigating a complex digital world parallels Gadget’s tech-driven adventures.
Details: 26 episodes, acclaimed for atmosphere and character focus.
13. Flying Witch (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A young witch moves to the countryside to continue her training, experiencing everyday magical adventures.
Similarity: While lighter in tone, it shares Gadget’s charm and focus on quirky characters and gentle storytelling.
Details: 12 episodes, praised for relaxing pace and art style.
14. Sonny Boy (2021)
Streaming: Funimation, HIDIVE
Plot: A group of students with supernatural powers are transported to another dimension, struggling to survive and understand their abilities.
Similarity: Combines inventive powers and underdog themes with a unique narrative style, much like Gadget’s blend of tech and character focus.
Details: 12 episodes, noted for experimental animation and storytelling.
15. Golden Kamuy (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Plot: A war veteran and a native girl search for hidden gold in early 20th-century Hokkaido.
Similarity: Like Gadget, it features an underdog duo using wits and unique skills, blending action with humor and character depth.
Details: Multiple seasons, high ratings, acclaimed for historical detail and character dynamics.
Why These Anime Work for Gadget and the Gadgetinis Fans
These series resonate with fans of Gadget and the Gadgetinis because they share core elements: inventive technology or power systems, underdog protagonists overcoming challenges, and narratives that balance action with meaningful character development. Many incorporate unique animation styles or storytelling approaches that elevate them beyond typical genre fare. They also subvert expectations, offering fresh takes on familiar themes like espionage, technology, and friendship. For viewers who enjoy clever gadgetry, quirky heroes, and heartwarming yet thrilling adventures, these underrated anime provide rich, rewarding experiences that deserve wider recognition.
