Bladedance of Elementalers (Seirei Tsukai no Blade Dance) is a fun, action-packed harem fantasy anime set in a world where elementalists—individuals who can form contracts with powerful spirits—are exclusively female. The story follows Kamito Kazehaya, the only male elementalist in the world, who is forced to attend Areishia Spirit Academy, a school for female elementalists. He must hide his true identity while participating in the Blade Dance, a tournament that determines the strongest elementalist, all while navigating the affections of the girls around him.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in contracts with spirits and the bond between elementalist and spirit, where the strength of the connection determines the power of the partnership. Kamito is a quintessential underdog—a male in a female-dominated world who must hide his abilities while proving his worth. Bladedance of Elementalers masterfully subverts expectations by presenting what appears to be a simple harem comedy and gradually revealing a deeper narrative about identity, destiny, and the true nature of power. It is a series that understands the value of being unique.
For fans of Bladedance of Elementalers, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part fantasy adventure, part harem romance, part tournament arc. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on a male protagonist who is unique in a female-dominated world, an exploration of a power system based on bonds or contracts, and a willingness to blend action, comedy, and romance. These shows deserve far more attention for their entertainment value, their character development, and their refusal to provide easy answers.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Bladedance of Elementalers.
1. Chivalry of a Failed Knight (2015)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Silver Link, Nexus
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Riku Misora.
Plot Summary: Ikki Kurogane, a student branded a “Failed Knight” due to his low magical power, refuses to give up on his dream. He relies on his honed swordsmanship and strategic brilliance to overcome opponents.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are about a male protagonist who is underestimated by a flawed system despite possessing immense skill. The focus is on the strategic application of abilities and the bond with a talented female partner. The series is a heartfelt, action-packed underdog story.
2. The Asterisk War (2015)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.9
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Yuu Miyazaki.
Plot Summary: Ayato Amagiri transfers to Seidoukan Academy, a school where students with special abilities compete in tournaments. He must find a partner and navigate the political landscape.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are set in elite academies where students with unique powers compete in structured tournaments. The focus is on the partnership between the male protagonist and a talented female fighter. The series is a blend of action, comedy, and romance.
3. Absolute Duo (2015)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.4
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: 8-Bit
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Takumi Hiiragiboshi.
Plot Summary: Tooru Kokonoe, an unusual student who manifests a shield instead of a weapon, enrolls at Kouryou Academy. He must partner with Julie Sigtuna, a mysterious girl.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are set in a school where students manifest weapons and must form partnerships to compete. The focus is on the bond between the male protagonist and a central female character, with a blend of action and romance.
4. 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.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are set in a school for individuals with supernatural abilities, where the male protagonist is initially underestimated. The focus is on the strategic application of abilities and the bonds with classmates. The series is a blend of action, drama, and political intrigue.
5. Infinite Stratos (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.7
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: 8-Bit
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Izuru Yumizuru.
Plot Summary: Ichika Orimura is the only male in the world who can pilot an “Infinite Stratos,” a powerful exoskeleton. He enrolls in a school filled with female pilots.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are harem action series set in a school for students with special weapons, where the male protagonist is unique or exceptional. The focus is on the relationships with multiple female characters and the tournament-style combat.
6. Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.5
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Lerche
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Senri Akatsuki.
Plot Summary: Lux Arcadia, a former prince known as the “Weakest Undefeated,” is forced to become a servant for the girls at an academy while piloting powerful mechs.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are harem action series set in an academy where the male protagonist pilots powerful weapons and is surrounded by female characters. The focus is on the relationships and the blend of action, comedy, and romance.
7. Hundred (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.1
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Production IMS
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Jun Misaki.
Plot Summary: Hayato Kisaragi, a boy with the highest compatibility with the “Hundred” weapons, enrolls at Little Garden academy.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are harem action series set in a school for students with special weapons, where the male protagonist is exceptional. The focus is on the relationships with multiple female characters and the tournament-style combat.
8. Dragonar Academy (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.3
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: C-Station
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Shiki Mizuchi.
Plot Summary: Ash Blake, a student at Ansarivan Dragonar Academy, is known as the “problem child” because his dragon has never hatched. His life changes when his dragon emerges in the form of a girl.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are set in an academy where students bond with special partners and fight against threats. The focus is on the bond between the male protagonist and his partner.
9. Sky Wizards Academy (2015)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.3
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Diomedéa
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Yuu Moroboshi.
Plot Summary: Kanata Age, a former ace wizard who has fallen from grace, is assigned to teach a team of three troublesome girls at the Sky Wizards Academy.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are set in an academy for individuals with special abilities, where the male protagonist is an underdog who must prove himself. The focus is on the relationships with multiple female characters.
10. Trinity Seven (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.1
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Seven Arcs
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kenji Saito and Akinari Nao.
Plot Summary: Arata Kasuga, a boy whose cousin disappears in a magical incident, enrolls in a magic academy to find her. He meets seven powerful female mages.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are about a male protagonist who enters an academy and is surrounded by powerful female characters. The focus is on the harem relationships and the development of abilities.
11. Aesthetica of a Rogue Hero (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.7
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Arms
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Tetsuto Uesu.
Plot Summary: Akatsuki Ousawa, a hero who defeated a demon king, returns to Earth with the demon king’s daughter. He enrolls in a school for those who have returned from other worlds.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are about a male protagonist who is incredibly skilled but underestimated, and is surrounded by female characters. The focus is on the harem relationships and the blend of action and comedy.
12. Campione! (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.8
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: Diomedéa
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Jou Taketsuki.
Plot Summary: Godou Kusanagi, an ordinary high school student, kills a god and becomes a “Campione,” a god-slayer with immense power.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are about a male protagonist who gains immense power through an unexpected event and is pursued by powerful female characters. The focus is on the harem relationships and the blend of action, comedy, and romance.
13. The Legend of the Legendary Heroes (2010)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Zexcs
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Takaya Kagami.
Plot Summary: Ryner Lute, a lazy but brilliant mage with cursed eyes, and Ferris Eris, a skilled swordswoman, embark on a quest to find legendary relics.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both feature a powerful protagonist with a special ability who must navigate political intrigue and the bonds with companions. The focus is on the cost of power and the burden of destiny.
14. Date A Live (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: AIC Plus+
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Koushi Tachibana.
Plot Summary: Shido Itsuka must date and seal the powers of “Spirits,” mysterious beings who cause spatial quakes.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both are about a male protagonist who must form bonds with powerful female characters to achieve his goals. The focus is on the blend of action, comedy, and romance.
15. Freezing (2011)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.7
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: A.C.G.T.
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Dall-Young Lim and Kwang-Hyun Kim.
Plot Summary: In a future where Earth is invaded, genetically modified girls called “Pandora” fight alongside male partners called “Limiters.” Kazuya Aoi is paired with Satellizer el Bridget.
Similarities to Bladedance of Elementalers: Both feature a male protagonist who is initially seen as weak but has a unique ability, paired with a powerful female fighter. The focus is on the partnership and the blend of action and romance.
Why These Anime Work for Bladedance of Elementalers Fans
Fans of Bladedance of Elementalers are drawn to stories that blend fantasy adventure, harem romance, and tournament arcs. They appreciate a narrative that focuses on a male protagonist who is unique in a female-dominated world, and they are invested in the relationships he forms with multiple female characters. They are not looking for complex philosophical narratives, but for fun, entertaining stories that make them smile.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Unique Male Protagonist: Whether it is Kamito’s status as the only male elementalist, Ichika’s position as the only male IS pilot, or Tatsuya’s placement in the “Weed” class, these series understand that the most compelling protagonists are those who are different from the norm. Their journey is one of proving their worth and finding their place.
- The Tournament Arc: Many of these series feature tournament arcs that showcase character abilities and develop relationships. The focus is on the thrill of competition and the bonds formed through combat.
- Subversion of the Harem Genre: These series use the framework of the harem genre to explore deeper themes of identity, power, and responsibility. They understand that the most compelling stories are not just about choosing a partner, but about the bonds that form along the way.
These 15 anime, like Bladedance of Elementalers, are not afraid to be entertaining. They are underrated gems that offer a fun, action-packed, and emotionally resonant experience for viewers who are looking for stories about the power of being unique, the bonds of friendship, and the thrill of competition.
