Special A (S.A: Special A) is a charming, lighthearted shoujo romance that explores the dynamics of rivalry, friendship, and first love in an elite academic setting. The story follows Hikari Hanazono, a determined and energetic girl who has been rivals with Kei Takishima since childhood, always coming in second place to him in everything. Both are members of the “Special A,” a class for the top seven students at their prestigious academy. The series follows their competitive relationship as it slowly evolves into something deeper, all while navigating the bonds they share with their fellow classmates.
The series is defined by its core themes: the power of rivalry to push individuals to grow, the importance of friendship and found family, and the slow-burn development of first love. Hikari is a quintessential underdog—despite her intelligence and determination, she is perpetually overshadowed by Kei, and must learn to define her own worth beyond their competition. Special A masterfully subverts expectations by presenting what appears to be a simple romantic comedy and gradually revealing a deeper, more emotionally resonant narrative about self-acceptance, the value of hard work, and the courage to express one’s feelings. It is a series that understands the thrill of competition and the warmth of connection.
For fans of Special A, finding similar anime can be a challenge. The series occupies a unique space—part shoujo romance, part school comedy, part character-driven drama. Yet, many underrated series share its core DNA: a focus on a determined, energetic heroine who is rivals with a talented male lead, an exploration of the bonds within an elite group, and a willingness to blend comedy, romance, and emotional depth. These shows deserve far more attention for their charm, their character development, and their refusal to provide easy answers.
Here are 15 underrated anime that capture the spirit of Special A.
1. Kodocha (1996)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 102
- Studio: Gallop
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Miho Obana.
Plot Summary: Sana Kurata, a cheerful and energetic child actress, has her life turned upside down by Akito Hayama, a troubled boy who terrorizes their classroom. As Sana tries to understand him, she uncovers the deep trauma behind his behavior.
Similarities to Special A: Both are shoujo series that balance comedy with intense drama, following a bright, optimistic heroine who refuses to give up on the people she cares about. The central theme of an underdog using empathy and determination to break through someone’s emotional walls is a direct parallel. The shift from silly humor to serious emotional stakes is a hallmark of both.
2. The Wallflower (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: Nippon Animation
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Tomoko Hayakawa.
Plot Summary: Four beautiful boys are given a challenge: transform Sunako Nakahara, a reclusive gothic girl, into a proper lady. Sunako, however, is perfectly content with her lifestyle and resists their efforts.
Similarities to Special A: Both are shoujo comedies with a strong focus on character dynamics within a group of eccentric individuals. The “underdog” here is Sunako, who is judged for being different but ultimately learns to accept herself and be accepted by others. The series balances absurd humor with genuine emotional growth.
3. Gakuen Alice (2004)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.6
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Group TAC
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Tachibana Higuchi.
Plot Summary: Mikan Sakura, a spirited and determined young girl, follows her best friend Hotaru to the prestigious Alice Academy, a school for children with special abilities called “Alices.”
Similarities to Special A: Both are shoujo series that balance comedy and intense drama, following a bright, optimistic heroine who refuses to give up on the people she cares about. The central theme of an underdog using empathy and determination to break through someone’s emotional walls is a direct parallel.
4. Fruits Basket (2001)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.7
- Episodes: 26 (2001 version)
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Natsuki Takaya.
Plot Summary: Tohru Honda, a kind-hearted and optimistic girl, finds herself living with the mysterious Sohma family. She discovers their secret: they are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac.
Similarities to Special A: Both feature a bright, empathetic heroine who enters a world of extraordinary individuals and uses her kindness to break down their emotional barriers. The balance of comedy, romance, and deep psychological drama is a direct parallel.
5. Ouran High School Host Club (2006)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 8.0
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Bones
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Bisco Hatori.
Plot Summary: Haruhi Fujioka, a scholarship student at the elite Ouran Academy, accidentally breaks an expensive vase and is forced to join the Host Club to pay off her debt. She must disguise herself as a boy.
Similarities to Special A: Both are shoujo comedies that parody and celebrate the tropes of the genre. The protagonist is an underdog who is thrust into a world of eccentric individuals. The focus is on the humor and the development of genuine relationships.
6. Maid Sama! (2010)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Hulu
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Hiro Fujiwara.
Plot Summary: Misaki Ayuzawa is the first female student council president at a formerly all-boys school, known for her strict discipline and hatred of boys. Her secret is that she works part-time at a maid café.
Similarities to Special A: Both feature a strong-willed, determined heroine who must balance her public image with her secret life. The focus is on the dynamic between the heroine and a male lead who discovers her secret. The series blends comedy, romance, and drama.
7. Itazura na Kiss (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Kaoru Tada.
Plot Summary: Kotoko Aihara, a clumsy but determined girl, confesses her love to Naoki Irie, a brilliant but cold boy, and is rejected. When her house is destroyed, she and her father move in with the Irie family.
Similarities to Special A: Both are about a bright, persistent heroine who refuses to give up on the person she loves, even when faced with rejection. The focus is on the slow development of the relationship and the emotional growth of the characters. The series is a classic shoujo romance.
8. Skip Beat! (2008)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: Hal Film Maker
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Yoshiki Nakamura.
Plot Summary: Kyoko Mogami, a kind-hearted girl who dedicated her life to supporting her childhood friend’s music career, is betrayed when she discovers he was using her. She vows to get revenge by becoming a bigger star than him.
Similarities to Special A: Both are about a young woman in the entertainment industry who must navigate the challenges of fame and the complexities of her own heart. The protagonist is an underdog who grows through her experiences. The series blends comedy, drama, and romance.
9. Kamichama Karin (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.0
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Satelight
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Koge-Donbo.
Plot Summary: Karin Hanazono is an ordinary girl who discovers she is the heir to a divine power after her cat dies and she inherits a mysterious ring. She attends a school where she meets other “gods.”
Similarities to Special A: Both are about an ordinary girl who discovers she has a hidden, powerful ability and is thrust into a world of the supernatural. The protagonist is an underdog who is initially overwhelmed but grows through her friendships. The focus on emotional bonds is a direct parallel.
10. Prétear (2001)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 7.2
- Episodes: 13
- Studio: Hal Film Maker
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Junichi Sato and Kaori Naruse.
Plot Summary: Himeno Awayuki is an ordinary girl who becomes the “Prétear,” a magical girl who must partner with the Leafe Knights, seven boys who control the elements.
Similarities to Special A: Both are reverse-harem-style stories where a single girl is surrounded by a group of talented boys. The protagonist is an underdog who is initially unsure of her abilities but grows through her bonds with her companions. The series balances action, romance, and emotional drama.
11. Shugo Chara! (2007)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.4
- Episodes: 51 (Season 1)
- Studio: Satelight
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Peach-Pit.
Plot Summary: Amu Hinamori, a girl who is perceived as “cool and spicy” but is actually shy and insecure, discovers she has guardian characters—tiny beings that represent her true self.
Similarities to Special A: Both are about a young girl who presents a confident exterior but struggles with her inner insecurities. The focus is on the journey of self-discovery and the importance of being true to oneself. The magical girl elements and the focus on emotional growth are direct parallels.
12. Ultra Maniac (2002)
- Streaming Availability: Not currently available on major platforms.
- Rating: MAL: 7.1
- Episodes: 26
- Studio: Production Reed
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Wataru Yoshizumi.
Plot Summary: Nina Sakura is a young witch from the magical kingdom who comes to the human world to study. She enrolls in a regular school and becomes friends with Ayu Tateishi, a popular girl.
Similarities to Special A: Both are shoujo series about a girl with a special secret who attends a regular school and navigates the complexities of friendship and romance. The focus is on the friendship between the magical girl and her ordinary friend. The tone is lighthearted and fun.
13. Peach Girl (2005)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.3
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: Studio Comet
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Miwa Ueda.
Plot Summary: Momo Adachi is a high school girl who is often misunderstood because of her tan skin and outgoing personality. She navigates a complicated web of relationships.
Similarities to Special A: Both are dramatic romances that explore the darker side of relationships, including jealousy, betrayal, and the pain of unrequited love. The focus is on the emotional turmoil of the characters. The series is a classic shoujo drama with high emotional stakes.
14. Nana (2006)
- Streaming Availability: HiDive, Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: MAL: 8.4
- Episodes: 47
- Studio: Madhouse
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Ai Yazawa.
Plot Summary: Two young women, both named Nana, meet on a train to Tokyo and become roommates. The series follows their intertwined lives and their struggles to pursue their dreams.
Similarities to Special A: Both are mature, realistic dramas that explore the complexities of relationships, including love, friendship, and the consequences of difficult choices. The focus is on the emotional lives of the characters.
15. Full Moon wo Sagashite (2002)
- Streaming Availability: Crunchyroll
- Rating: MAL: 7.9
- Episodes: 52
- Studio: Studio Deen
- Notable Staff: Based on the manga by Arina Tanemura.
Plot Summary: Mitsuki Kouyama, a 12-year-old girl with throat cancer, dreams of becoming a singer. She is visited by two shinigami who tell her she has only one year to live.
Similarities to Special A: Both are about a young girl in the entertainment industry who must confront her own mortality and the challenges of pursuing her dreams. The protagonist is an underdog who faces overwhelming odds with courage and determination.
Why These Anime Work for Special A Fans
Fans of Special A are drawn to stories that blend comedy, romance, and drama, and they are invested in determined, energetic heroines who never give up, even when faced with overwhelming competition. They appreciate a narrative that celebrates the power of hard work, the importance of friendship, and the slow-burn development of first love. They are not looking for simple action or escapism, but for stories that make them laugh and feel.
The anime listed above all share this fundamental DNA:
- The Determined Heroine: Whether it is Hikari’s rivalry with Kei, Sana’s determination to understand Akito, or Tohru’s kindness, these series understand that the most compelling protagonists are those who refuse to give up. Their strength lies not in their power, but in their determination and empathy.
- The Rivalry and Romance: These series are built around the dynamic between a determined heroine and a talented male lead. The focus is on the slow-burn development of their relationship and the emotional growth of both characters.
- Subversion of the Shoujo Genre: These series use the framework of the shoujo genre to explore deeper emotional and psychological themes. They understand that the most compelling stories are those that challenge our assumptions about love, rivalry, and self-worth.
These 15 anime, like Special A, are not afraid to be heartfelt. They are underrated gems that offer a warm, funny, and deeply moving experience for viewers who are looking for stories about the power of determination, the beauty of friendship, and the thrill of first love.
