Invincible redefines superhero narratives with its brutal action, moral complexity, and focus on legacy.
These underrated anime mirror its exploration of power’s weight, ethical dilemmas, and flawed protagonists, offering fresh perspectives on heroism beyond capes and clichés.
1. Tiger & Bunny (2011)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 25 + films
MAL Rating: 7.83
Studio: Sunrise
Plot: Veteran hero Wild Tiger mentors rookie Barnaby in a corporatized superhero world where crime-fighting doubles as reality TV.
Similarities: Examines heroism’s commercialization and aging heroes’ relevance, akin to Nolan’s conflicted legacy.
2. Samurai Flamenco (2013)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 22
MAL Rating: 7.20
Studio: Manglobe
Plot: A model-turned-vigilante faces escalating threats, from street thugs to cosmic chaos.
Similarities: Subverts superhero tropes, transitioning from grounded drama to absurdist spectacle like Invincible’s tonal shifts.
3. World Trigger (2014–2022)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Netflix
Episodes: 99
MAL Rating: 7.84
Studio: Toei Animation
Plot: Agents defend Earth from interdimensional invaders using tactical teamwork and non-lethal tactics.
Similarities: Strategic combat and moral restraint mirror Mark’s growth from brute force to calculated heroism.
4. Garo: The Animation (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.60
Studio: MAPPA
Plot: A knight battles demonic forces while resisting corruption in a dark medieval world.
Similarities: Moral gray areas and legacy themes parallel Nolan and Mark’s fraught relationship.
5. The Big O (1999)
Streaming: RetroCrush
Episodes: 26
MAL Rating: 7.53
Studio: Sunrise
Plot: A negotiator pilots a giant robot in an amnesiac city blending noir mystery with mecha action.
Similarities: Noir tone and dual identity struggles echo Mark’s balancing of civilian life and heroics.
6. Shy (2023)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 7.05
Studio: 8bit
Plot: A socially anxious hero battles villains while confronting her insecurities.
Similarities: Focus on vulnerability and courage, mirroring Mark’s early self-doubt.
7. Darker Than Black (2007)
Streaming: HIDIVE
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 7.89
Studio: Bones
Plot: A contractor with electric powers navigates espionage in a supernatural Cold War.
Similarities: Explores the cost of power and identity, akin to Viltrumite conflicts.
8. Hamatora (2014)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.00
Studio: NAZ
Plot: Detectives with minor powers solve cases involving dangerous ability users.
Similarities: Underpowered heroes relying on wit, reflecting Mark’s resourcefulness.
9. Concrete Revolutio (2015)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 6.98
Studio: Bones
Plot: Superhumans in 1960s Japan grapple with societal prejudice and government exploitation.
Similarities: Critiques systemic injustice, similar to Invincible’s cynical take on authority.
10. Speed Grapher (2005)
Streaming: RetroCrush
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.15
Studio: Sunrise
Plot: A photographer gains destructive powers and allies with a girl to dismantle a corrupt elite.
Similarities: Dark underdog narrative with themes of redemption and moral ambiguity.
11. Kekkai Sensen (Blood Blockade Battlefront) (2015)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.98
Studio: Bones
Plot: A photographer navigates a monster-filled NYC, aiding a peacekeeping league.
Similarities: Balances chaotic action with humor and heartfelt character bonds.
12. Zetman (2012)
Streaming: RetroCrush
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 6.85
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Plot: A bio-engineered hero battles grotesque mutants while questioning his humanity.
Similarities: Dark exploration of power’s psychological toll, akin to Mark’s internal struggles.
13. Birdy the Mighty: Decode (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 7.60
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Plot: A federal agent shares a body with a teen while hunting interstellar criminals.
Similarities: Dual-life tension and partnership dynamics mirror Mark’s juggling of identities.
14. Psycho-Pass (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 41
MAL Rating: 8.29
Studio: Production I.G
Plot: Inspectors in a dystopian future confront a system predetermining criminality.
Similarities: Questions moral authority and justice, reflecting Invincible’s ethical dilemmas.
15. Heroman (2010)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Episodes: 26
MAL Rating: 6.70
Studio: Bones
Plot: A boy and his robot defend Earth from aliens, blending sci-fi with coming-of-age themes.
Similarities: Underdog heroism and teen responsibility, channeling Mark’s early days.
Why These Anime Work for Invincible Fans
These series capture Invincible’s essence through moral complexity, underdog resilience, and subverted superhero tropes.
Whether via tactical battles or introspective journeys, they emphasize the weight of power and the grit needed to wield it responsibly—perfect for viewers who crave heroism grounded in humanity’s flaws.
