Baymax! is a heartwarming spin-off from Big Hero 6, offering intimate, character-driven stories centered around healing—physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Unlike typical action-packed series, it thrives on empathy, quiet resilience, and the beauty of small acts of kindness.
It subtly subverts the “hero” narrative with a robot who doesn’t fight but heals.
If you’re drawn to shows with emotional storytelling, meaningful character development, and themes of personal growth, these 15 underrated anime series are hidden gems that carry similar DNA—just waiting to be discovered.
1. Kiznaiver (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
Studio: Trigger
MAL Rating: 7.4
In a city where emotional pain can be shared through a mysterious system, seven teenagers are connected by their traumas.
Why it’s similar: Like Baymax!, it explores emotional vulnerability and healing through empathy, with a sci-fi twist and dazzling animation.
2. Planet With (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
Studio: J.C. Staff
MAL Rating: 7.4
A mysterious amnesiac teen finds himself in the middle of a conflict between alien forces and giant mechas.
Why it’s similar: Subverts traditional hero-villain dynamics, focusing on understanding and compassion over violence.
3. Michiko & Hatchin (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Tubi
Episodes: 22
Studio: Manglobe
MAL Rating: 7.8
An escaped convict and a young girl embark on a wild journey across a fictional South American landscape.
Why it’s similar: Centers on healing broken relationships and inner trauma through episodic emotional arcs.
4. Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008–2017)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Episodes: 74 (6 seasons + OVAs)
Studio: Brain’s Base / Shuka
MAL Rating: 8.3
A boy who can see spirits works to return their names from a magical book inherited from his grandmother.
Why it’s similar: Episodic structure, emphasis on healing and understanding over conflict, with quiet, reflective tone.
5. A Letter to Momo (2011)
Streaming: Prime Video
Episodes: Film
Studio: Production I.G
MAL Rating: 7.5
A grieving girl moves to a remote island after her father’s death and meets three mischievous spirits.
Why it’s similar: Focuses on grief, healing, and subtle supernatural elements without over-dramatization.
6. To Your Eternity (2021)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 40 (2 seasons)
Studio: Brain’s Base / Drive
MAL Rating: 8.4
An immortal being takes different forms as it learns about humanity, love, and loss.
Why it’s similar: Deep emotional arcs, non-human protagonist learning empathy, and episodic encounters that leave a lasting impact.
7. A Place Further than the Universe (2018)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 13
Studio: Madhouse
MAL Rating: 8.5
Four girls chase their personal struggles and dreams by journeying to Antarctica.
Why it’s similar: Combines humor and vulnerability, with themes of grief, friendship, and emotional self-discovery.
8. Somali and the Forest Spirit (2020)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
Studio: Satelight
MAL Rating: 7.8
A golem guardian and a human child journey across a fantastical world where humans are nearly extinct.
Why it’s similar: Like Baymax and his patients, this pair navigates a bond built on quiet care and mutual protection.
9. Barakamon (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, HIDIVE
Episodes: 12
Studio: Kinema Citrus
MAL Rating: 8.4
A calligrapher finds purpose and peace in a rural village after a professional meltdown.
Why it’s similar: Healing in small, humorous moments; centers on emotional recalibration and childlike wonder.
10. The Great Passage (2016)
Streaming: Prime Video
Episodes: 11
Studio: Zexcs
MAL Rating: 7.6
A quiet man finds unexpected purpose in building a new dictionary.
Why it’s similar: Emphasizes introspection, personal connection, and the quiet beauty of meaningful work.
11. Flip Flappers (2016)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 13
Studio: Studio 3Hz
MAL Rating: 7.7
Two girls journey through surreal dreamscapes that reflect their subconscious.
Why it’s similar: Emotional metaphor wrapped in dazzling visuals, with emphasis on personal growth and transformation.
12. Sweetness and Lightning (2016)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
Studio: TMS Entertainment
MAL Rating: 7.5
A single father learns to cook for his daughter after his wife’s passing.
Why it’s similar: Healing through everyday acts, emotional intimacy, and sincere character relationships.
13. Dennou Coil (2007)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 26
Studio: Madhouse
MAL Rating: 8.0
Children explore an augmented-reality world filled with secrets, code fragments, and emotional mysteries.
Why it’s similar: Understated sci-fi grounded in human emotion, grief, and identity.
14. Kakushigoto (2020)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 12
Studio: Ajia-do
MAL Rating: 7.8
A manga artist hides his embarrassing profession from his daughter while raising her alone.
Why it’s similar: Deep emotional bond under comedic surface; explores loss and legacy with tenderness.
15. Rinshi!! Ekoda-chan (2019)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 11 (shorts, each by different studios)
Studio: Multiple (Madhouse, SHAFT, Studio 4°C)
MAL Rating: 6.3
A cynical Tokyo woman navigates city life and heartbreak in a stylized anthology.
Why it’s similar: Reflects personal growth in bite-sized stories; unique visual storytelling and varied directorial takes.
Why These Anime Work for Baymax! Fans
Each anime listed above shares Baymax!‘s quiet power—prioritizing emotional healing, daily challenges, and gentle storytelling over explosive action or melodrama.
Whether it’s a golem learning to love, or teenagers facing emotional scars, these series explore the strength found in kindness, care, and connection.
For fans of heartfelt narratives wrapped in unique animation and sincere character arcs, these shows are essential additions to your watchlist.
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