Magi: Adventure of Sinbad (2016) explores the origins of its charismatic protagonist through a blend of political intrigue, magical dungeons, and themes of leadership. The series’ underdog narrative, intricate power systems (like Djinn equipment), and focus on empire-building resonate with fans of strategic world-building and character-driven growth.
Below are 15 underrated anime that mirror these elements, prioritizing lesser-known titles with unique storytelling approaches.
1. Edens Zero (2021)
- Streaming: Netflix, Crunchyroll
- Plot: A spacefaring adventurer gathers allies to explore cosmic mysteries while confronting his destiny as a leader.
- Similarities: Shares Sinbad’s crew-building dynamics and sci-fi twist on magical quests. Both protagonists balance idealism with tactical prowess.
- Details: 25 episodes | MAL 7.5 | Studio: J.C.Staff
2. Heaven Official’s Blessing (2020)
- Streaming: Netflix
- Plot: A fallen god navigates heavenly politics and unravels conspiracies while redeeming his legacy.
- Similarities: Mythological world-building and protagonist-driven political maneuvering, akin to Sinbad’s rise to power.
- Details: 11 episodes | MAL 8.6 | Studio: Haoliners
3. Dorohedoro (2020)
- Streaming: Netflix
- Plot: In a dystopian city, a amnesiac seeks revenge against sorcerers using a grotesque, magic-driven ecosystem.
- Similarities: Unconventional power systems and morally gray factions mirror Sinbad’s exploration of governance and chaos.
- Details: 12 episodes | MAL 8.0 | Studio: MAPPA
4. Blood of Zeus (2020)
- Streaming: Netflix
- Plot: A demigod challenges Olympus to protect humanity, blending Greek myth with visceral action.
- Similarities: Underdog hero vs. divine hierarchy, paralleling Sinbad’s clashes with destiny.
- Details: 8 episodes | MAL 7.3 | Nominated: 2 Annie Awards
5. Radiant (2018)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A sorcerer battles prejudice and monsters while seeking the mythical Radiant.
- Similarities: Focus on systemic oppression and a protagonist challenging societal norms, much like Sinbad’s reforms.
- Details: 21 episodes | MAL 7.2 | Studio: Lerche
6. Shaman King (2001/2021)
- Streaming: Netflix (2021 remake)
- Plot: A shaman aims to become the “Shaman King” by mastering spirits in a global tournament.
- Similarities: Spiritual power systems and a charismatic leader uniting rivals, echoing Sinbad’s alliance-building.
- Details: 64 episodes (original) | MAL 7.5
7. KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World! (2016)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A dysfunctional party navigates a comedic isekai with broken magic mechanics.
- Similarities: Subverts fantasy tropes, contrasting Sinbad’s earnestness with satire while retaining party dynamics.
- Details: 20 episodes | MAL 8.1 | Studio: Deen
8. Reborn! (2006)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A timid teen trains to lead a mafia family using flame-based superpowers.
- Similarities: Underdog-to-leader arc and found-family themes, akin to Sinbad’s crew loyalty.
- Details: 203 episodes | MAL 8.12 | Studio: Artland
9. Rave Master (2001)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: A hero wields a magical sword to collect Rave Stones and save his world.
- Similarities: By Fairy Tail’s creator, blending humor and epic quests like Sinbad’s early adventures.
- Details: 51 episodes | MAL 7.4
10. The Dungeon of Black Company (2021)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A greedy entrepreneur exploits a fantasy world’s economy, facing corporate dragons.
- Similarities: Satirizes power structures, contrasting Sinbad’s idealism with capitalist critique.
- Details: 12 episodes | MAL 7.0 | Studio: Silver Link
11. Garo: The Animation (2014)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: Knightly warriors battle demonic corruption in a Renaissance-inspired realm.
- Similarities: Dark fantasy politics and a mentor-student dynamic reminiscent of Sinbad’s growth.
- Details: 24 episodes | MAL 7.5 | Studio: MAPPA
12. Arslan Senki (2015)
- Streaming: Funimation
- Plot: A deposed prince reclaims his kingdom with strategic alliances and moral conviction.
- Similarities: Tactical leadership and historical-inspired world-building mirror Sinbad’s empire expansion.
- Details: 25 episodes | MAL 7.8 | Studio: Liden Films
13. Grimgar: Ashes and Illusions (2016)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: Amnesiacs survive a harsh fantasy world through teamwork and incremental growth.
- Similarities: Grounded take on survival and leadership, contrasting Sinbad’s grand scale with intimate stakes.
- Details: 12 episodes | MAL 7.5 | Studio: A-1 Pictures
14. The Twelve Kingdoms (2002)
- Streaming: HiDive
- Plot: A girl evolves from insecure teen to ruler of a mystical kingdom.
- Similarities: Epic political world-building and protagonist’s transformative journey.
- Details: 45 episodes | MAL 8.3 | Studio: Studio Pierrot
15. Scrapped Princess (2003)
- Streaming: Crunchyroll
- Plot: A prophesied “poison” to the world fights destiny with sibling allies.
- Similarities: Subverts Chosen One tropes, much like Sinbad’s rejection of fatalism.
- Details: 24 episodes | MAL 7.7 | Studio: Bones
Why These Anime Work for Magi: Adventure of Sinbad Fans
These series prioritize character agency and systemic world-building, whether through magical economies (Dungeon of Black Company), tactical alliances (Arslan Senki), or subversive power dynamics (Blood of Zeus). Their protagonists often defy predetermined roles, mirroring Sinbad’s journey from wanderer to king. With a mix of dark fantasy, political intrigue, and inventive power systems, these titles offer fresh narratives while retaining the adventurous spirit of Sinbad.
