Shangri-La Frontier is a vibrant, energetic VRMMORPG anime that celebrates the pure joy of gaming and the thrill of overcoming seemingly impossible challenges. The story follows Rakuro Hizutome, a young man known as “Sunraku” who specializes in playing notoriously bad “trash games.” When he finally decides to try a mainstream, high-quality game called “Shangri-La Frontier,” he brings his unique skills and unconventional approach to a world filled with wonder, danger, and countless secrets to uncover.
The series is defined by its core themes: a power system rooted in player skill, adaptability, and creative problem-solving, where the ability to think outside the box is more valuable than raw stats. Sunraku is a quintessential underdog—not because he is weak, but because he approaches the game from an entirely different perspective than other players, using his experience with broken mechanics to exploit the game’s systems in unexpected ways. Shangri-La Frontier masterfully subverts expectations by rejecting the high-stakes drama of many VRMMORPG anime, instead delivering a lighthearted, adventure-focused narrative that celebrates the pure, unadulterated fun of exploration, discovery, and the bonds formed through shared challenges.
For fans of Shangri-La Frontier, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part gaming adventure, part fantasy exploration, part celebration of skill and creativity. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on the joy of gaming, an underdog protagonist who succeeds through unconventional means, and a warm, optimistic tone that prioritizes adventure over conflict. These shows deserve far more attention for their charm, their imagination, and their ability to make gaming feel magical.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Shangri-La Frontier.
1. Infinite Dendrogram (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.7
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: NAZ
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Sakon Kaidou.
Plot Summary: Reiji Mukudori, a college student, begins playing the revolutionary VRMMORPG “Infinite Dendrogram.” The game features an advanced AI system that creates unique “Embryos”—evolving companions with their own personalities and abilities—for each player.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are lighthearted VRMMORPG anime that celebrate the wonder and excitement of exploring a fully realized digital world. The focus is on the fun of discovery, the creativity of character building, and the bonds formed between players. The series is a vibrant, optimistic adventure with a similar emphasis on the joy of gaming.
2. BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: Silver Link
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Yuumikan.
Plot Summary: Kaede Honjou, a novice gamer, joins the VRMMORPG “NewWorld Online” as Maple. She dumps all her stat points into defense, creating an unorthodox character who is nearly invincible but incredibly slow.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who uses an unconventional approach to achieve success in a VRMMORPG. The focus is on the fun and creativity of gaming, and the warmth of friendship. The series is a wholesome, feel-good adventure with a similar optimistic tone.
3. No Game No Life (2014)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 8.1
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Yuu Kamiya.
Plot Summary: Sora and Shiro, two brilliant siblings who are unbeatable in games, are transported to a world where all conflicts are resolved through games. They must use their intellect and gaming skills to conquer this new world.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about protagonists who are incredibly skilled at games and use their unique abilities to overcome challenges. The focus is on the fun and creativity of gaming, and the excitement of outsmarting opponents. The series is a vibrant, colorful celebration of the power of games.
4. Log Horizon (2013)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1)
- Studio: Satelight
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Mamare Touno.
Plot Summary: Thousands of players are trapped in the MMORPG “Elder Tale.” Shiroe, a brilliant strategist, must use his intellect and knowledge of the game’s mechanics to build a functioning society within the game world.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about players who are deeply immersed in a virtual world and must learn to navigate its complexities. The focus is on the strategic and social aspects of gaming. The series is a thoughtful, intelligent exploration of community building and leadership.
5. Sword Art Online Alternative: Gun Gale Online (2018)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.1
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Studio 3Hz
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Keiichi Sigsawa.
Plot Summary: Karen Kohiruimaki, a tall girl who is self-conscious about her height, finds freedom in the VRMMORPG “Gun Gale Online” as a small, cute avatar named LLENN. She becomes a skilled player and participates in competitive tournaments.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a player who finds joy and fulfillment in a virtual world, using their unique skills to succeed. The focus is on the fun of gaming and the excitement of competition. The series is a fast-paced, action-packed adventure with a similar emphasis on player skill.
6. Accel World (2012)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 24
- Studio: Sunrise
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Reki Kawahara.
Plot Summary: Haruyuki Arita, a bullied middle school student, is introduced to “Brain Burst,” a secret program that allows users to accelerate their consciousness. He must navigate the competitive world of Brain Burst and fight to protect his friends.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who is introduced to a secret virtual world and must learn to navigate its rules. The focus is on the bonds formed with other players and the excitement of discovery. The series is a thoughtful, action-packed exploration of the intersection of technology and human emotion.
7. .hack//Sign (2002)
- Streaming Availability: Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.1
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Bee Train
- Notable Staff: Directed by Koichi Mashimo, with music by Yuki Kajiura.
Plot Summary: Tsukasa, a mysterious player in the MMORPG “The World,” finds himself unable to log out. As he navigates this digital prison, he encounters other players and uncovers a larger conspiracy.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about players who are deeply immersed in a virtual world and must navigate its complexities. While .hack//Sign is darker and more psychological, it shares Shangri-La Frontier‘s focus on the social dynamics of online gaming and the bonds formed between players.
8. Recovery of an MMO Junkie (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.5
- Episodes: 10
- Studio: Signal.MD
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Rin Kokuyou.
Plot Summary: Moriko Morioka, a 30-year-old woman who quit her job, becomes a NEET and immerses herself in the online game “Fruits de Mer.” She forms a connection with another player, unaware of their true identity.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about the joy of gaming and the connections formed between players in a virtual world. The focus is on the emotional lives of the characters and the warmth of their relationships. The series is a heartwarming, slice-of-life exploration of gaming culture.
9. The King’s Avatar (2017)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.8
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: G.CMay Animation & Film
- Notable Staff: Based on the web novel by Butterfly Blue.
Plot Summary: Ye Xiu, a legendary professional gamer, is forced to retire from his team. He starts over in a new game, using his incredible skill and knowledge to climb the ranks and build a new career.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a highly skilled gamer who uses their expertise to succeed in a competitive gaming environment. The focus is on the strategic and tactical aspects of gameplay, and the bonds formed with teammates. The series is a thrilling, action-packed celebration of gaming skill.
10. Quanzhi Fashi (Full-Time Magister) (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: Foch Films
- Notable Staff: Based on the web novel by Luan.
Plot Summary: Mo Fan, a high school student, is transported to a world where magic is real. He uses his intelligence and modern knowledge to excel in magic and navigate the challenges of his new life.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who uses their unique knowledge and skills to succeed in a new world. The focus is on the fun of discovery and the excitement of mastering new abilities. The series is a lighthearted, action-packed adventure.
11. The Daily Life of the Immortal King (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 15 (Season 1)
- Studio: Haoliners Animation League
- Notable Staff: Based on the web novel by Kuxuan.
Plot Summary: Wang Ling, a young man with immense spiritual power, just wants to live a quiet, ordinary life. However, his incredible abilities constantly draw him into extraordinary situations.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who is incredibly powerful but approaches challenges with a laid-back, unconventional attitude. The focus is on the humor and the excitement of seeing an overpowered character navigate the world. The series is a fun, lighthearted comedy.
12. Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear (2020)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 12 (Season 1)
- Studio: EMT Squared
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Kumanano.
Plot Summary: Yuna, a 15-year-old girl, is transported into a fantasy world and given a powerful bear costume that grants her incredible abilities. She uses her powers to help others and build a new life.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who gains power through a unique and seemingly silly method, and uses it to help others and explore a new world. The focus is on the warmth of the protagonist’s personality and the joy of adventure. The series is a wholesome, feel-good isekai.
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 6.3
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Okuruto Noboru
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Meguru Seto.
Plot Summary: Noir Starga, a young nobleman, discovers a hidden dungeon that grants him powerful skills. He must use these skills to protect his friends and navigate the challenges of his world.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who discovers a unique power system and must use it creatively to overcome challenges. The focus is on the fun of exploring new abilities and the importance of friendship. The series is a lighthearted, comedic adventure.
14. Death March to the Parallel World Rhapsody (2018)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 6.7
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Silver Link, Connect
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Hiro Ainana.
Plot Summary: Ichirou Suzuki, a game programmer, is transported into a fantasy world that resembles the game he was working on. He discovers he is incredibly powerful and must navigate this new world while hiding his true strength.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about a protagonist who is transported into a game-like world and must navigate its challenges. The focus is on the exploration of the world and the development of relationships. The series is a lighthearted, comedic isekai with a similar sense of adventure.
15. Grimgar: Ashes and Illusions (2016)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Notable Staff: Based on the light novel series by Ao Jyumonji.
Plot Summary: A group of strangers awakens in a fantasy world with no memories. They must become volunteer soldiers to survive, learning to work together and cope with loss.
Similarities to Shangri-La Frontier: Both are about characters who are thrown into a fantasy world and must learn to survive. While Grimgar is darker and more realistic, it shares Shangri-La Frontier‘s focus on the bonds formed between characters and the gradual growth of the protagonists.
Why These Anime Work for Shangri-La Frontier Fans
Fans of Shangri-La Frontier are drawn to stories that are energetic, imaginative, and full of the pure joy of gaming. They appreciate a narrative that celebrates the thrill of exploration, the creativity of character building, and the bonds of friendship formed through shared challenges. They are not looking for grim, high-stakes dramas, but for stories that make them feel the excitement of discovery and the warmth of camaraderie.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Joy of Gaming: Whether it is the Embryo system of Infinite Dendrogram, the defense build of BOFURI, or the strategic gameplay of Log Horizon, these series understand that gaming is not just about winning, but about the joy of exploration, discovery, and self-expression. The focus is on the fun and creativity of the gaming experience.
- The Underdog Protagonist: The protagonists are often newcomers, beginners, or outsiders who must learn the ropes and find their place in a new world. Their journey is one of growth, learning, and the slow accumulation of skill and confidence.
- Subversion of the Gaming Genre: These series reject the competitive, high-stakes drama of many gaming anime. Instead, they focus on the warmth of friendship, the excitement of adventure, and the simple pleasure of playing a game. They understand that the best adventures are not about winning, but about the journey itself.
These 15 anime, like Shangri-La Frontier, are not afraid to be imaginative. They are underrated gems that offer a warm, exciting, and deeply enjoyable experience for viewers who are looking for a little bit of magic in their anime.
