Shuriken School is a charming and lighthearted anime that blends ninja action with school life, focusing on underdog characters who grow through friendship, training, and overcoming challenges. Its core themes include unique power systems, the journey of unlikely heroes, and playful subversions of ninja and school tropes. Despite its appeal, Shuriken School remains relatively underappreciated, inspiring a search for similar anime that combine humor, character development, and inventive storytelling deserving more recognition.
Here are 15 underrated anime series sharing thematic or stylistic similarities with Shuriken School, featuring underdog stories, engaging character arcs, and creative narratives.
1. Nabari no Ou (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A reluctant ninja-in-training, Miharu, gets pulled into a secret world of ninja clans fighting for a powerful scroll.
Similarity: Like Shuriken School, it explores ninja themes with a focus on hidden powers and young protagonists navigating secretive worlds.
Details: 26 episodes, Studio J.C.Staff, MAL rating ~7.5. Combines action with coming-of-age drama.
2. SKET Dance (2011)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: A high school club dedicated to helping students with their problems blends comedy with heartfelt moments.
Similarity: Shares Shuriken School’s school setting and comedic tone, with strong character bonds and episodic adventures.
Details: 77 episodes, Studio Tatsunoko Production, MAL rating ~7.8. Known for its humor and emotional depth.
3. Yuki Yuna is a Hero (2014)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Plot: Middle school girls become magical heroes fighting mysterious enemies while dealing with personal struggles.
Similarity: Underdog girls with hidden powers, blending slice-of-life with action and emotional growth.
Details: 12 episodes, Studio Gokumi, praised for its soundtrack and emotional storytelling.
4. Himawari! (2006)
Streaming: Limited availability
Plot: A young girl trains to become a ninja while balancing school life and friendships.
Similarity: Combines ninja training with school life and lighthearted fun, much like Shuriken School.
Details: 26 episodes, Studio Pierrot, notable for its cheerful tone and ninja action.
5. Gankutsuou: The Count of Monte Cristo (2004)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A futuristic retelling of The Count of Monte Cristo with unique, striking animation.
Similarity: Shares Shuriken School’s narrative creativity and distinctive visual style, focusing on character-driven storytelling.
Details: 24 episodes, Studio Gonzo, MAL rating ~8.3. Celebrated for its avant-garde art style.
6. Flying Witch (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A young witch moves to the countryside to live a peaceful life and learn magic.
Similarity: Emphasizes slice-of-life and character growth with a gentle, whimsical tone akin to Shuriken School’s lighter moments.
Details: 12 episodes, Studio I.G, MAL rating ~7.7. Praised for calming atmosphere and detailed animation.
7. Noblesse (2020)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A powerful vampire awakens in modern times and protects humanity alongside friends.
Similarity: Features camaraderie, supernatural powers, and underdog themes with a strong, nonchalant protagonist.
Details: 13 episodes, Production I.G, MAL rating ~7.0. Appreciated for its action and character dynamics.
8. Kotaro Lives Alone (2022)
Streaming: Netflix
Plot: A young boy lives independently in Tokyo, navigating life with resilience and humor.
Similarity: Focuses on an underdog child protagonist overcoming challenges with heartwarming storytelling.
Details: 10 episodes, Liden Films, praised for emotional depth and unique slice-of-life approach.
9. Strike the Blood (2013)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A high school student with vampire powers protects his city from supernatural threats.
Similarity: Combines school life with supernatural battles and underdog growth, similar to Shuriken School’s mix of action and youth.
Details: 24 episodes, Silver Link, MAL rating ~7.2. Known for dynamic combat and character chemistry.
10. Saki (2009)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A high school girl joins a mahjong club and competes in tournaments with unique abilities.
Similarity: Underdog sports anime with power-ups and character development, blending competition with friendship.
Details: 25 episodes, Studio Gonzo, MAL rating ~7.4. Praised for its fresh take on sports anime.
11. Ghost Hunt (2006)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: A team investigates paranormal phenomena with a mix of mystery and supernatural elements.
Similarity: Shares Shuriken School’s episodic structure and character-driven narrative, with a more mature tone.
Details: 25 episodes, J.C.Staff, MAL rating ~7.3. Cult favorite for its suspense and character interplay.
12. Barakamon (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A calligrapher moves to a remote village to find inspiration and matures through interactions with locals.
Similarity: Underdog personal growth and slice-of-life themes with humor and heart.
Details: 12 episodes, Kinema Citrus, MAL rating ~8.1. Acclaimed for warmth and character development.
13. Plunderer (2020)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: In a dystopian world, a strong but carefree hero embarks on a quest with a mix of action and comedy.
Similarity: Features a strong, flawed protagonist and subversion of typical power system tropes.
Details: 24 episodes, Geek Toys, MAL rating ~6.7. Noted for its offbeat humor and action.
14. Last Exile (2003)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Two young pilots navigate a steampunk world filled with aerial battles and political intrigue.
Similarity: Underdogs in a richly built world, combining adventure with unique animation.
Details: 26 episodes, Gonzo, MAL rating ~7.9. Recognized for its detailed world-building and storytelling.
15. Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon (2020)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: The daughters of famous demon slayers embark on their own adventures blending action and family drama.
Similarity: Combines ninja/demon themes with underdog protagonists growing through trials.
Details: 24 episodes (Season 1), Sunrise, MAL rating ~7.0. A beloved spin-off with strong character focus.
Why These Anime Work for Shuriken School Fans
These underrated series resonate with Shuriken School fans through their shared emphasis on underdog journeys, inventive power systems, and the blend of humor with heartfelt character growth. Many incorporate school or youth settings, balancing action with slice-of-life elements. Their unique animation styles and storytelling approaches offer fresh perspectives while honoring the spirit of camaraderie and self-discovery that defines Shuriken School. Exploring these gems provides a rewarding experience beyond mainstream hits, enriching fans’ appreciation for diverse anime narratives.
