X-Men: The Animated Series (1992–1997) redefined superhero animation by diving into complex social themes, moral ambiguity, and character-driven stories.
With its focus on power systems (mutant abilities), underdog protagonists, and the subversion of traditional “good vs. evil” narratives, it appealed to both young audiences and mature viewers.
If you’re searching for anime that echo the emotional intensity, team dynamics, and sociopolitical themes of X-Men, these 15 underrated series deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Zetman (2012)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: Two young men—one engineered to be a hero, the other a vigilante—clash over justice and power.
Similarities: Like X-Men, Zetman explores themes of identity, responsibility, and the blurred line between hero and monster.
Episodes: 13
MAL Rating: 6.98
Studio: TMS Entertainment
Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Masakazu Katsura (Video Girl Ai)
2. Gungrave (2003)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: A loyal friend-turned-enforcer seeks redemption after being betrayed and resurrected by a corrupt syndicate.
Similarities: Features themes of betrayal, mutation-like enhancements, and moral ambiguity—mirroring X-Men‘s mature arcs.
Episodes: 26
MAL Rating: 7.86
Studio: Madhouse
Notable Staff: Yasuhiro Nightow (creator of Trigun)
3. Ga-Rei: Zero (2008)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: Two spirit-wielding girls begin as allies before becoming bitter enemies due to tragic circumstances.
Similarities: Themes of power, loyalty, and fractured relationships echo character dynamics seen between Xavier and Magneto.
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 7.64
Studio: AIC Spirits & Asread
Awards: Cult hit for its prequel storytelling and emotional intensity
4. Casshern Sins (2008)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: A lone warrior wanders a dying world, searching for answers and redemption.
Similarities: Introspective and dystopian, with heavy philosophical and moral themes reminiscent of X-Men‘s darker moments.
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.27
Studio: Madhouse
Notable Staff: Director Shigeyasu Yamauchi (Digimon Tamers)
5. Toward the Terra (2007)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Telepathic mutants known as “Mu” fight for survival in a future ruled by emotionless AI.
Similarities: Shares the same civil rights allegory, generational conflict, and psychic power systems as X-Men.
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.89
Studio: Madhouse
Awards: Japan Media Arts Festival Jury Recommendation
6. Karas (2005)
Streaming: RetroCrush, Amazon Prime
Plot: A mystical protector battles demons invading modern Tokyo while confronting his own fractured identity.
Similarities: Combines supernatural abilities, inner conflict, and urban battles—similar to the darker tones of X-Men.
Episodes: 6 (OVA)
MAL Rating: 7.00
Studio: Tatsunoko Production
Notable Staff: Keiichi Sato (Tiger & Bunny), Kenji Kamiyama (Ghost in the Shell: SAC)
7. Night Head Genesis (2006)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: Two psychic brothers escape a facility and struggle to survive while hunted for their powers.
Similarities: Explores persecution of the gifted, societal fear of the unknown, and complex sibling dynamics.
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 7.13
Studio: BE STACK
Notable Staff: Based on a cult classic Japanese TV drama
8. Shin Sekai Yori (From the New World) (2012)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: In a utopian future where psychic powers rule, dark truths about control and oppression surface.
Similarities: Explores societal control of the “different,” moral complexity, and coming-of-age under pressure.
Episodes: 25
MAL Rating: 8.29
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Awards: Ranked among top dystopian anime
9. Karakuri Circus (2018)
Streaming: Amazon Prime
Plot: A boy inherits a mysterious legacy that entangles him with warriors, puppets, and ancient conspiracies.
Similarities: Powers through legacy, emotional scars, and destiny-driven conflict are core elements—much like mutant legacies in X-Men.
Episodes: 36
MAL Rating: 7.47
Studio: Studio VOLN
Notable Staff: Based on manga by Kazuhiro Fujita (Ushio & Tora)
10. Witch Hunter Robin (2002)
Streaming: Funimation
Plot: A young witch joins an organization that hunts rogue witches—while questioning their methods.
Similarities: Mirrors X-Men’s internal team conflicts, identity suppression, and fear-driven authority.
Episodes: 26
MAL Rating: 7.25
Studio: Sunrise
Awards: Praised for its noir style and psychological depth
11. Kekkai Sensen (Blood Blockade Battlefront) (2015)
Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
Plot: In a city where aliens and humans coexist, a secret team maintains balance against bizarre threats.
Similarities: Ensemble cast, unique powers, and offbeat urban crises reflect X-Men’s mutant-driven adventures.
Episodes: 12
MAL Rating: 7.63
Studio: Bones
Notable Staff: Creator Yasuhiro Nightow (Trigun)
12. Project Blue Earth SOS (2006)
Streaming: RetroCrush
Plot: Two prodigies battle an alien invasion using retro-futuristic tech in a 1960s-style world.
Similarities: Classic superhero vibes, youthful intellect, and resistance against oppression mirror X-Men‘s tone and style.
Episodes: 6 (OVA)
MAL Rating: 6.67
Studio: A.C.G.T.
Notable Staff: Retro homage to 1950s and 60s sci-fi
13. Ergo Proxy (2006)
Streaming: Hulu, Funimation
Plot: A detective investigates mysterious murders tied to androids and unknowable forces in a dystopian society.
Similarities: Philosophical conflict, existentialism, and genetic manipulation resonate with X-Men‘s darker social undertones.
Episodes: 23
MAL Rating: 7.90
Studio: Manglobe
Notable Staff: Director Shūkō Murase (Witch Hunter Robin)
14. Blassreiter (2008)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: In a near-future world, cybernetic beings emerge from corpses to battle and evolve.
Similarities: Bioengineering, persecution, and anti-hero narratives make it thematically akin to X-Men.
Episodes: 24
MAL Rating: 6.93
Studio: Gonzo
Notable Staff: Produced by GONZO and Nitro+
15. Heroic Age (2007)
Streaming: Crunchyroll
Plot: A young man joins a war among god-like races, carrying the burden of hope for humanity.
Similarities: Underdog with uncontrollable power joins a diverse crew to fight a war against prejudice and destruction.
Episodes: 26
MAL Rating: 7.43
Studio: Xebec
Awards: Recognized for its cosmic-scale storytelling and animation
Why These Anime Work for X-Men: The Animated Series Fans
These anime may fly under the radar, but they echo the emotional and philosophical resonance of X-Men: The Animated Series.
Whether it’s the persecution of the gifted, the emotional toll of power, or the constant fight for acceptance, these series carry the same depth, character conflict, and ideological weight.
They’re not just action-packed—they’re thought-provoking, morally complex, and built around teams or individuals struggling with the responsibility their power brings.
