Rental Magica is a charming, episodic supernatural anime that blends urban fantasy, mystery, and character-driven drama through the lens of a small, struggling business. The story follows Itsuki Iba, the young president of “Astral,” a company that rents out magical services to clients in need. Despite his own lack of magical power, Itsuki leads a team of eccentric mages—each with their own unique magical specialty and personal struggles—as they compete against larger, more powerful magical organizations while helping those who come to them for aid.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in diverse magical traditions and the strategic application of each member’s unique abilities, where teamwork and creativity are more valuable than raw power. Itsuki is a quintessential underdog—an ordinary young man who must lead a team of far more talented individuals, relying on his courage, his compassion, and his ability to inspire loyalty. Rental Magica masterfully subverts expectations by presenting what appears to be a simple action series and gradually revealing a deeper, more character-driven narrative about family, belonging, and the bonds that form between misfits. It is a series that understands the power of found family.
For fans of Rental Magica, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part urban fantasy, part workplace comedy, part supernatural mystery. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on a group of eccentric individuals who work together to solve supernatural problems, an exploration of the bonds formed between misfits, and a willingness to blend action, comedy, and emotional drama. These shows deserve far more attention for their creativity, their character development, and their refusal to provide easy answers.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Rental Magica.
1. Ghost Hunt (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Fuyumi Ono.
Plot Summary: Mai Taniyama, a high school student, becomes involved with the Shibuya Psychic Research Center, a team of investigators who solve paranormal cases. Led by the cold but brilliant Kazuya Shibuya, the team uses both scientific methods and spiritual powers.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are episodic supernatural series about a team of specialists who investigate and resolve paranormal incidents. The focus is on the diverse abilities of the team members and the bonds they form. The series blends mystery, horror, and character-driven drama.
2. The Morose Mononokean (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Pierrot Plus
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kiri Wazawa.
Plot Summary: Hanae Ashiya, a high school student who is plagued by a yokai, seeks help from the Mononokean, a mysterious tea room run by the grumpy Abeno Haruitsuki. They work together to help yokai return to the underworld.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a small business that deals with supernatural problems and helps those in need. The focus is on the partnership between the protagonist and the more experienced specialist, and the bonds formed through their work. The series is a warm, gentle exploration of the relationship between humans and spirits.
3. Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.3
- Episodes: 13 (Season 1)
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yuki Midorikawa.
Plot Summary: Takashi Natsume, a boy who can see spirits, inherits a book from his grandmother that contains the names of spirits. He decides to return the names, forming connections with the spirits.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a protagonist who bridges the human and supernatural worlds, helping to resolve conflicts and find understanding. The focus is on empathy, compassion, and the healing power of connection. The tone is warm, melancholic, and deeply emotional.
4. The Ancient Magus’ Bride (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 24 (Season 1)
- Studio: Wit Studio
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kore Yamazaki.
Plot Summary: Chise Hatori, a young woman who has been abandoned, is purchased by Elias Ainsworth, a mysterious magus. She becomes his apprentice and learns magic while discovering her own worth.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a protagonist who is drawn into the world of magic and must learn to navigate its complexities. The focus is on the relationships between the characters and the supernatural beings they encounter. The series is a rich, atmospheric fantasy.
5. The Eccentric Family (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: P.A. Works
- Notable Staff: Based on the novel by Tomihiko Morimi.
Plot Summary: Yasaburou Shimogamo, a young tanuki, navigates the complex social dynamics of Kyoto while dealing with the aftermath of his father’s death. The series explores the bonds of family and the search for identity.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about the bonds of family—both blood and found—and the search for belonging in a world that is often strange and confusing. The focus is on the quiet, everyday moments that define a life. The series is a blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy.
6. Beyond the Boundary (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Kyoto Animation
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Nagomu Torii.
Plot Summary: Akihito Kanbara, a half-human, half-youmu boy, meets Mirai Kuriyama, a girl who can manipulate blood. They become involved in the world of supernatural beings and the warriors who hunt them.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a group of individuals with supernatural abilities who work together to deal with supernatural threats. The focus is on the bonds formed between the characters and the emotional weight of their battles. The series is known for its beautiful animation.
7. Noragami (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: Bones
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Adachitoka.
Plot Summary: Yato, a minor god who dreams of having his own shrine, performs odd jobs for five yen. He is aided by his “Regalia,” a spirit weapon named Yukine, and a human girl named Hiyori.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a protagonist who performs supernatural services for clients in need. The focus is on the bonds between the protagonist and their companions, and the challenges of their work. The series is a fun, action-packed adventure with a strong emotional core.
8. The Devil is a Part-Timer! (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: White Fox
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Satoshi Wagahara.
Plot Summary: The Demon King Satan is forced to flee his world and ends up in modern-day Tokyo, where he must work at a fast-food restaurant to survive. He must adapt to his new life while dealing with the hero who pursued him.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about extraordinary beings who are forced to live ordinary lives and find work in the human world. The focus is on the humor and the clash of cultures. The series is a clever, entertaining exploration of adaptation and survival.
9. A Certain Scientific Railgun (2009)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 24 (Season 1)
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kazuma Kamachi.
Plot Summary: Mikoto Misaka, one of the most powerful espers in Academy City, investigates the dark secrets of the city while navigating her friendships and rivalries.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are set in a world where supernatural powers are real and follow a group of characters who investigate the mysteries of their world. The protagonist is a strong, capable young woman surrounded by a diverse cast. The series is a fun, action-packed adventure.
10. The Irregular at Magic High School (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Tsutomu Satou.
Plot Summary: Tatsuya and Miyuki Shiba enroll at First High School. Tatsuya is placed in the “Weed” class for students with low practical magic scores, but he possesses immense technical knowledge and unique abilities.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are set in a world where magic is real and follow a protagonist who is underestimated despite their abilities. The focus is on the strategic application of magical knowledge. The series is a blend of action, drama, and political intrigue.
11. Kaze no Stigma (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Gonzo
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Takahiro Yamato.
Plot Summary: Kazuma Yagami, once exiled from his family for his lack of fire magic, returns as a powerful wind mage. He must reluctantly work with his family to confront demonic threats.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a protagonist who is an outsider in the magical community and must work with others to confront supernatural threats. The focus is on the clash between different magical traditions and the bonds formed through shared struggles. The series is a fun, action-packed urban fantasy.
12. D.Gray-man (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 103 (Season 1)
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Katsura Hoshino.
Plot Summary: Allen Walker, a young exorcist, joins the Black Order to fight against the Millennium Earl and his army of demons. He and his fellow exorcists must battle to protect humanity.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a group of individuals with unique abilities who work together to fight against supernatural threats. The focus is on the bonds formed between the characters and the emotional weight of their battles. The series is a dark, action-packed adventure.
13. Witch Hunter Robin (2002)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.1
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Sunrise
- Notable Staff: Directed by Shukou Murase.
Plot Summary: Robin Sena, a young witch, joins a secret organization called STN-J that hunts rogue witches. She must navigate the complexities of her own powers and the dark secrets of the organization.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a secret organization that deals with supernatural threats, and the protagonist who must navigate its complexities. The focus is on the mystery and the psychological drama. The series is a dark, atmospheric thriller.
14. Ga-Rei: Zero (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: AIC Spirits, asread.
- Notable Staff: Directed by Ei Aoki.
Plot Summary: Kagura Tsuchimiya and Yomi Isayama, two young women who fight supernatural threats as part of a government agency, find their bond tragically torn apart when Yomi is consumed by a demonic force.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a government agency that deals with supernatural threats, and the bonds between its members. The focus is on the emotional weight of their battles and the sacrifices they must make. The series is a dark, emotional drama.
15. Tokyo Ravens (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: 8-Bit
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Kouhei Azano.
Plot Summary: Harutora Tsuchimikado, a boy from a prestigious onmyouji family, lacks the ability to see spirits. His life changes when his childhood friend Natsume re-enters his life, dragging him into the world of magical warfare.
Similarities to Rental Magica: Both are about a protagonist who is drawn into the world of magic and must learn to navigate its complexities. The focus is on the bonds between the characters and the supernatural threats they face. The series is a blend of action, drama, and political intrigue.
Why These Anime Work for Rental Magica Fans
Fans of Rental Magica are drawn to stories that are creative, character-driven, and unafraid to blend action, comedy, and emotional drama. They appreciate a narrative that focuses on the bonds between a group of eccentric individuals who work together to solve problems, and they are invested in underdog protagonists who succeed through courage and compassion rather than raw power. They are not looking for simple action or escapism, but for stories that make them care about the characters.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Found Family: Whether it is the team at Astral, the Shibuya Psychic Research Center, or the Black Order, these series understand that the most compelling stories are about the bonds between people. The focus is on the warmth of camaraderie and the support that colleagues provide each other.
- The Underdog Leader: The protagonists are often ordinary people who are thrust into positions of leadership and must earn the respect of their more talented colleagues. Their strength lies not in their power, but in their courage, their compassion, and their ability to inspire loyalty.
- Subversion of the Action Genre: These series use the framework of the action genre to explore deeper emotional and psychological themes. They understand that the most compelling battles are not fought with weapons, but within the human heart.
These 15 anime, like Rental Magica, are not afraid to be heartfelt. They are underrated gems that offer a warm, emotionally resonant, and deeply entertaining experience for viewers who are looking for stories about the power of found family and the bonds that connect us.
