Overlord captivated anime fans with its mix of dark fantasy, a powerful protagonist trapped in a game-like world, and strategic, often morally gray storytelling. Its themes of power escalation, underdog transformation, and subversion of typical hero narratives resonated strongly with viewers.
While Overlord has received well-deserved attention, several underrated anime explore similar themes—some even offering deeper character arcs, unique world-building, or unexpected plot twists. Whether you’re drawn to the idea of overpowered leads, MMORPG-inspired settings, or morally complex decisions, these hidden gems deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. Grimgar: Ashes and Illusions (2016)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.66
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
A group of strangers awakens in a fantasy world with no memory of their past lives. Unlike typical overpowered protagonists, they must struggle to survive and adapt.
Similarities to Overlord:
Grimgar subverts the “power fantasy” trope by focusing on realism and vulnerability in a game-like world. Its slow, emotional character development and immersive world-building mirror the human side often lacking in Overlord’s dark dominance.
2. Log Horizon (2013)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1)
- MAL Rating: 7.94
- Studio: Satelight
When thousands of players become trapped in an MMORPG, tactician Shiroe must navigate the game’s politics, mechanics, and new societal systems.
Similarities to Overlord:
Both anime focus on world mechanics and political strategy. Shiroe and Ainz share analytical minds, making them leaders who reshape their worlds through intellect and influence rather than brute force alone.
3. The Twelve Kingdoms (2002)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 45
- MAL Rating: 8.11
- Studio: Pierrot
A high school girl is transported to a parallel world where she must claim her birthright and survive political chaos and monstrous threats.
Similarities to Overlord:
Epic world-building, political intrigue, and a reluctant protagonist rising to power echo Overlord’s layered storytelling. Though vastly underrated, it’s a masterclass in character evolution.
4. Maoyu ~ Archenemy & Hero (2013)
- Streaming: HiDive, Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.26
- Studio: ARMS
A Hero confronts the Demon Queen—only to form an alliance with her to end war through economics and diplomacy.
Similarities to Overlord:
Overlord fans will appreciate the blend of fantasy and economics, strategic manipulation of kingdoms, and an intelligent protagonist operating in shades of gray.
5. Sunday Without God (2013)
- Streaming: HiDive
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.47
- Studio: Madhouse
In a world abandoned by God where people stop dying, a young gravekeeper sets out to uncover the truth behind existence.
Similarities to Overlord:
Philosophical depth, a somber tone, and a unique take on world-building make this anime a thought-provoking choice for those who enjoy Overlord’s existential undertones.
6. Shining Hearts: Shiawase no Pan (2012)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 6.14
- Studio: Production I.G
Set on a peaceful island, a swordsman with a mysterious past helps a bakery serve magical bread that can heal emotions.
Similarities to Overlord:
While lighter in tone, the show hides a layered backstory and gradually reveals a world influenced by war, magic, and hidden powers—much like Overlord’s subtle narrative reveals.
7. Garo: The Animation (2014)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 24
- MAL Rating: 7.21
- Studio: MAPPA
Knights wielding magical armor battle demonic forces in a medieval kingdom fraught with betrayal and ambition.
Similarities to Overlord:
Dark fantasy aesthetics, intricate armor and monster designs, and morally ambiguous decisions tie this anime thematically to Overlord.
8. Dies Irae (2017)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Episodes: 11 + 6 specials
- MAL Rating: 5.47
- Studio: ACGT
A supernatural battle erupts between reincarnated Nazi officers wielding magical powers and the forces trying to stop them.
Similarities to Overlord:
Over-the-top power systems, dark themes, and philosophical undertones make this a niche but relevant companion to Overlord’s brutal world.
9. The Faraway Paladin (2021)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.45
- Studio: Children’s Playground Entertainment
A boy raised by undead in a ruined city learns magic, swordplay, and devotion before setting off to change the world.
Similarities to Overlord:
Reverse dynamic: instead of being the undead overlord, the protagonist is raised by them. Deep lore and religious/world themes mirror Overlord’s layered storytelling.
10. Scrapped Princess (2003)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 24
- MAL Rating: 7.42
- Studio: Bones
A princess fated to destroy the world journeys with her siblings, uncovering truths about destiny, war, and control.
Similarities to Overlord:
Themes of prophecy, technology masquerading as magic, and a protagonist with world-changing power echo Overlord’s blending of fantasy and sci-fi elements.
11. Hortensia Saga (2021)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 6.09
- Studio: LIDENFILMS
In a kingdom rocked by rebellion and betrayal, a hidden princess takes up arms under a false identity to reclaim her throne.
Similarities to Overlord:
Knighthood, royal conspiracies, and hidden identities mirror Overlord’s themes of political power and deception.
12. Drifters (2016)
- Streaming: Hulu, Funimation
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.90
- Studio: Hoods Drifters Studio
Historical warriors are transported to a fantasy world where they must fight a war between light and dark forces.
Similarities to Overlord:
Like Ainz, the Drifters are morally ambiguous powerhouses. The tactical warfare and brutal action scenes match Overlord’s tone and intensity.
13. World Conquest Zvezda Plot (2014)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.02
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
A strange girl leads a secret society to “conquer the world” with bizarre but heartfelt missions.
Similarities to Overlord:
Underdogs in control, strange world domination themes, and unexpected emotional depth match the surprising tenderness beneath Overlord’s violent exterior.
14. Kingdom (2012–ongoing)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 129+
- MAL Rating: 8.40
- Studio: Pierrot
A war orphan rises through the ranks of China’s Warring States, dreaming of becoming the greatest general.
Similarities to Overlord:
Both focus on building empires through military brilliance. Kingdom is grounded in history, but its themes of loyalty, ambition, and strategic warfare echo Nazarick’s expansion.
15. Seirei Gensouki: Spirit Chronicles (2021)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Episodes: 12
- MAL Rating: 7.15
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
A reincarnated young man with tragic memories awakens to magical powers in a new world.
Similarities to Overlord:
Features reincarnation, rapid power acquisition, class-based magic systems, and an emotionally complex lead—mirroring Ainz’s internal evolution and hidden humanity.
Why These Anime Work for Overlord Fans
Each of these anime shares a piece of what makes Overlord such a compelling watch—be it powerful protagonists, dark world-building, or genre-defying storytelling. These hidden gems might not enjoy mainstream recognition, but they reward viewers with rich narratives, deep philosophical themes, and unforgettable characters. For fans seeking more than flashy battles, these series delve into the gritty details of power, identity, and control—delivering the same cerebral satisfaction that Overlord mastered.
