BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense is a delightful, wholesome isekai comedy that subverts the typical gaming anime by focusing on the joy of exploration and the unexpected power of unconventional builds. The story follows Kaede Honjou, a novice gamer who joins the VRMMORPG “NewWorld Online” as Maple. Fearing pain and damage, she dumps all her stat points into defense, creating an unorthodox character who is nearly invincible but incredibly slow. Her unique build leads to hilarious and unexpected results as she accidentally discovers powerful abilities and becomes one of the game’s most famous players.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in creative character building and the subversion of traditional gaming logic, where the most effective strategy is not always the most obvious one. Maple is a quintessential underdog—a complete beginner who stumbles into greatness through her own unique approach, proving that there is more than one way to succeed. BOFURI masterfully subverts expectations by rejecting the competitive, high-stakes drama of many gaming anime, instead delivering a lighthearted, comedic celebration of friendship, exploration, and the simple joy of playing a game.
For fans of BOFURI, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part gaming comedy, part slice-of-life, part feel-good adventure. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on the fun and creativity of gaming, an underdog protagonist who succeeds through unconventional means, and a warm, optimistic tone that prioritizes friendship over competition. These shows deserve far more attention for their charm, their humor, and their ability to make gaming feel magical.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of BOFURI.
1. Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! (2019)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.9
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Project No.9
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by FUNA.
Plot Summary: Misato Kurihara, a brilliant girl who was always exceptional, is reincarnated in a fantasy world and asks God to make her abilities “average.” However, she soon discovers that “average” is calculated differently in this world, making her incredibly powerful.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are lighthearted isekai comedies about a female protagonist who becomes unexpectedly powerful through an unconventional approach. The focus is on the humor and charm of the characters, and the joy of exploring a new world. The series is warm, funny, and full of heart.
2. Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: EMT Squared
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Kumanano.
Plot Summary: Yuna, a 15-year-old girl, is transported into a fantasy world and given a powerful bear costume that grants her incredible abilities. She uses her powers to help others and build a new life in this strange world.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are wholesome, feel-good isekai stories about a girl who gains power through a unique and seemingly silly method. The focus is on the protagonist’s kindness and her desire to help others. The series is a warm, comforting watch with a similar emphasis on friendship and adventure.
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.3
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Okuruto Noboru
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Meguru Seto.
Plot Summary: Noir Starga, a young nobleman, discovers a hidden dungeon that grants him powerful skills. He must use these skills to protect his friends and navigate the challenges of his world.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a protagonist who discovers a unique way to gain power and must use it to protect the people they care about. The focus is on the fun and creativity of the power system. The series is a lighthearted, comedic adventure with a similar emphasis on friendship.
4. I’ve Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level (2021)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Revoroot
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Kisetsu Morita.
Plot Summary: Azusa Aizawa, a former office worker, is reincarnated as an immortal witch in a fantasy world. After 300 years of casually killing slimes, she has become incredibly powerful, and now she must deal with the attention her power attracts.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a female protagonist who becomes incredibly powerful through a simple, repetitive activity. The focus is on the slice-of-life comedy and the relationships she builds. The series is a warm, relaxing watch with a similar emphasis on the joy of simple living.
5. By the Grace of the Gods (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Maho Film
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Roy.
Plot Summary: Ryoma Takebayashi, a middle-aged man, is reincarnated as a young boy in a fantasy world. He uses his knowledge and his ability to tame slimes to build a peaceful life for himself.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a protagonist who uses an unconventional approach—in this case, taming slimes—to achieve success and build a fulfilling life. The focus is on the warm, wholesome tone and the joy of simple accomplishments. The series is a relaxing, feel-good watch.
6. Ascendance of a Bookworm (2019)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.1
- Episodes: 14 (Season 1)
- Studio: Ajia-do Animation Works
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Miya Kazuki.
Plot Summary: Motosu Urano, a book-loving college student, is reincarnated as a sickly young girl named Myne in a world where books are rare and expensive. She uses her knowledge to improve her life and pursue her dream of making books.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a female protagonist who uses her unique knowledge and skills to achieve her goals in a new world. The focus is on the creative problem-solving and the warmth of the protagonist’s personality. The series is a smart, heartwarming exploration of the power of determination.
7. Suppose a Kid from the Last Dungeon Boonies Moved to a Starter Town (2021)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Liden Films
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Toshio Satou.
Plot Summary: Lloyd Belladonna, a boy from a remote village where everyone is incredibly powerful, moves to the capital to become a soldier. He is unaware that his “average” abilities are considered superhuman in the outside world.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a protagonist who is completely unaware of how powerful they are, leading to comedic misunderstandings. The focus is on the humor and charm of the protagonist’s innocence. The series is a fun, lighthearted comedy with a similar emphasis on the joy of discovery.
8. In the Land of Leadale (2022)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.8
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Maho Film
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Ceez.
Plot Summary: Keina Kagami, a girl who was hospitalized and lived her life in a VRMMORPG, dies and is reincarnated in the game world as her character, Cayna. She must navigate her new life and reconnect with the world she once knew.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a female protagonist who is reincarnated in a game world and must use her knowledge and abilities to navigate her new life. The focus is on the warm, wholesome tone and the joy of exploration. The series is a relaxing, feel-good adventure.
9. Wise Man’s Grandchild (2019)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.8
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Silver Link
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Tsuyoshi Yoshioka.
Plot Summary: Shin Wolford, a young man who was reincarnated in a fantasy world and trained by a legendary wizard, enrolls in a magic academy. He is incredibly powerful but lacks common sense, leading to comedic situations.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a protagonist who is incredibly powerful but lacks awareness of social norms, leading to humorous misunderstandings. The focus is on the comedy and the bonds formed with classmates. The series is a fun, lighthearted isekai with a similar emphasis on friendship.
10. The 8th Son? Are You Kidding Me? (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.4
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Shin-Ei Animation, SynergySP
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Y.A.
Plot Summary: Shingo Ichinomiya, a salaryman, is reincarnated as the eighth son of a poor noble family in a fantasy world. He discovers he has a talent for magic and must use it to improve his family’s fortunes.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a protagonist who discovers a unique talent and uses it to succeed in a fantasy world. The focus is on the fun of exploring new abilities and the warmth of family bonds. The series is a lighthearted, enjoyable isekai with a similar optimistic tone.
11. Sleepy Princess in the Demon Castle (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Doga Kobo
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kagiji Kumanomata.
Plot Summary: Princess Syalis is kidnapped by the Demon King and held hostage in his castle. However, she is more concerned with getting a good night’s sleep than escaping, and she uses her ingenuity to create comfortable sleeping arrangements.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a female protagonist who subverts expectations by prioritizing comfort and personal goals over the typical hero’s journey. The focus is on the humor and creativity of the protagonist. The series is a hilarious, heartwarming comedy with a unique premise.
12. Endro! (2019)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.9
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Studio Gokumi
- Notable Staff: Original story by Kagami Yoshimizu.
Plot Summary: Yulia Chardiet, a young hero, and her party defeat the Demon Lord. However, due to a time paradox, they are sent back in time to before their adventure began, and they must relive their journey.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are lighthearted fantasy comedies about a group of friends who go on adventures together. The focus is on the humor and the bonds of friendship. The series is a cute, wholesome take on the fantasy genre with a similar emphasis on fun over drama.
13. Kamigami no Asobi (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.8
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Based on the visual novel by Broccoli.
Plot Summary: Yui Kusanagi is transported to a school for gods, where she must teach them about human emotions. She becomes involved with several gods, each with their own unique personalities and struggles.
Similarities to BOFURI: While not a gaming anime, Kamigami no Asobi shares BOFURI‘s focus on a female protagonist who is thrust into a new world and must navigate relationships with unique individuals. The tone is warm, lighthearted, and focused on the power of friendship and understanding.
14. The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent (2021)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Diomedéa
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Yuka Tachibana.
Plot Summary: Sei Takanashi, an office worker, is summoned to a fantasy world as a “Saint.” However, she is quickly dismissed and left to her own devices. She uses her knowledge of herbs and potions to build a new life for herself.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a female protagonist who is underestimated but uses her unique skills to succeed and build a fulfilling life. The focus is on the warmth and kindness of the protagonist. The series is a relaxing, feel-good isekai with a similar emphasis on the joy of simple accomplishments.
15. She Professed Herself Pupil of the Wise Man (2022)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Studio A-Cat
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Hirotsugu Ryusen.
Plot Summary: Sakimori Kagami, a player in a VRMMORPG, is transported into the game world as his character, a powerful wizard. However, his character is now a young girl, and he must navigate this new reality.
Similarities to BOFURI: Both are about a player who is transported into a game world and must navigate their new reality. The focus is on the humor and the exploration of the game world. The series is a lighthearted, comedic isekai with a similar emphasis on the fun of gaming.
Why These Anime Work for BOFURI Fans
Fans of BOFURI are drawn to stories that are warm, wholesome, and full of heart. They appreciate a narrative that celebrates the joy of exploration, the power of friendship, and the fun of creative problem-solving. They are not looking for dark, gritty dramas or high-stakes competitions, but for stories that make them smile and feel good about the world.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Joy of Unconventional Success: Whether it is Maple’s defense build, Yuna’s bear costume, or Azusa’s slime-killing, these series celebrate the idea that there is more than one way to succeed. The protagonists achieve greatness through their own unique approaches, proving that creativity and individuality are strengths.
- The Underdog Protagonist: The protagonists are often beginners, outsiders, or individuals who are underestimated by others. Their journey is one of discovery, growth, and the slow accumulation of confidence and skill. They are relatable and endearing.
- Subversion of the Gaming and Fantasy Genres: These series reject the competitive, high-stakes drama of many gaming and fantasy anime. Instead, they focus on the fun, the friendships, and the simple pleasures of exploring a new world. They understand that the best adventures are not about winning, but about the journey itself.
These 15 anime, like BOFURI, are not afraid to be kind. They are underrated gems that offer a warm, comforting, and deeply enjoyable experience for viewers who are looking for a little bit of joy in their anime.
