Hamatora stands out as an urban fantasy anime that blends superpowered underdogs, morally gray conflicts, and stylish subversions of the usual hero narrative. Its focus on flawed characters, unconventional power systems, and emotional backstories gives it a tone that’s both playful and surprisingly heavy.
The following 15 anime share similar themes, narrative ambition, or experimental storytelling—and despite their quality, they remain criminally underappreciated.
1. K (2012)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 13 (+ films)
- Rating: MAL ~7.4
- Studio/Staff: GoHands / Dir. Shingo Suzuki
- Recognition: Noted for its visual direction
Plot: A color-coded power struggle unfolds in modern Tokyo as “Kings” with supernatural abilities clash.
Similarities: Stylish urban setting, power hierarchies, and morally conflicted characters mirror Hamatora’s tone.
2. Concrete Revolutio (2015)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 24
- Rating: MAL ~7.2
- Studio/Staff: Bones / Dir. Seiji Mizushima
- Recognition: Critical acclaim for narrative complexity
Plot: A fragmented timeline explores a society overrun with superhumans and political agendas.
Similarities: Deconstructs heroism and power misuse much like Hamatora’s darker arcs.
3. Occult Nine (2016)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~6.9
- Studio/Staff: A-1 Pictures
- Recognition: Cult following
Plot: Internet rumors spiral into real supernatural consequences.
Similarities: Ensemble cast, urban mystery, and sudden tonal shifts.
4. Tokyo ESP (2014)
- Streaming: HiDive
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~6.8
- Studio/Staff: Xebec
- Recognition: Niche popularity
Plot: Ordinary citizens suddenly gain psychic powers, disrupting society.
Similarities: Random power acquisition and underdog protagonists.
5. Kyousougiga (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 10
- Rating: MAL ~7.7
- Studio/Staff: Toei Animation / Rie Matsumoto
- Recognition: Awarded for artistic innovation
Plot: A surreal family drama unfolds in a mirror-world Kyoto.
Similarities: Emotional depth beneath stylized chaos.
6. Zettai Karen Children: The Unlimited – Hyoubu Kyousuke (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~7.5
- Studio/Staff: Manglobe
- Recognition: Spin-off praised for darker tone
Plot: Focuses on an antihero psychic leading a group of outcasts.
Similarities: Sympathetic antagonists and power-based discrimination.
7. Night Head 2041 (2021)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~6.7
- Studio/Staff: Shirogumi
- Recognition: Experimental CGI approach
Plot: Two psychic brothers flee a society that outlaws supernatural abilities.
Similarities: Persecution of the gifted and tragic sibling dynamics.
8. Devil Survivor 2: The Animation (2013)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: MAL ~6.9
- Studio/Staff: Bridge
- Recognition: Adaptation of cult JRPG
Plot: Teenagers gain demon-summoning powers during an apocalypse.
Similarities: Choice-driven power systems and moral consequences.
9. Coppelion (2013)
- Streaming: HiDive
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: MAL ~7.0
- Studio/Staff: GoHands
- Recognition: Atmospheric worldbuilding
Plot: Genetically engineered girls explore a radioactive Tokyo.
Similarities: Young protagonists burdened with unnatural abilities.
10. Sarazanmai (2019)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 11
- Rating: MAL ~7.5
- Studio/Staff: MAPPA / Kunihiko Ikuhara
- Recognition: Highly praised for symbolism
Plot: Three boys are transformed into kappa to fight manifestations of desire.
Similarities: Absurd surface hiding emotional trauma and social critique.
11. RE:Creators (2017)
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
- Episodes: 22
- Rating: MAL ~7.6
- Studio/Staff: Troyca
- Recognition: Original concept acclaim
Plot: Fictional characters enter the real world with their powers intact.
Similarities: Meta approach to power, creators, and responsibility.
12. Dimension W (2016)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~7.2
- Studio/Staff: Studio 3Hz
- Recognition: Sci-fi noir appeal
Plot: Energy thieves uncover conspiracies in a futuristic city.
Similarities: Stylish action paired with cynical protagonists.
13. Pet (2020)
- Streaming: Amazon Prime Video
- Episodes: 13
- Rating: MAL ~6.6
- Studio/Staff: Geno Studio
- Recognition: Psychological thriller niche
Plot: Individuals manipulate memories for criminal organizations.
Similarities: Mental powers, identity erosion, and emotional damage.
14. B: The Beginning (2018)
- Streaming: Netflix
- Episodes: 18
- Rating: MAL ~7.3
- Studio/Staff: Production I.G
- Recognition: International popularity
Plot: A detective hunt intersects with superhuman conspiracies.
Similarities: Crime-driven narrative blended with supernatural twists.
15. Akudama Drive (2020)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- Rating: MAL ~7.6
- Studio/Staff: Studio Pierrot
- Recognition: Awarded for action direction
Plot: Criminal misfits take on impossible jobs in dystopian Kansai.
Similarities: Colorful ensemble cast and subversion of hero tropes.
Why These Anime Work for Hamatora Fans
All of these series embrace unconventional power systems, flawed characters, and narratives that challenge traditional hero-versus-villain dynamics. Like Hamatora, they prioritize emotional consequences over spectacle, making them perfect for viewers who enjoy stylish action with thematic depth and unexpected heart.
