Some anime put their contemporaries to shame with their stellar execution of multiple genres. Yona of The Dawn is one such work, mixing elements of Shonen, Shoujo and fantasy together for a feudal revenge story on par with works that dedicate their all to a single category. Unfortunately, there’s only a single, 24-episode season and a trio of OVAs to be seen of this show, with no news of a follow-up anywhere to be seen. For those who find they need more variety, romance, or action once they’ve exhausted all this series has to offer, these five anime will do the trick.
Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit
Anime Like Yona of the Dawn if You’re Looking for Something Similar
In an ancient kingdom, the spear-wielding warrior Balsa finds herself drawn into a conflict of monumental proportions when she saves a young prince, Chagum, from an assassination attempt. Through this act, she is hired to protect him until his life is no longer in danger, teaching him what she can so that he can protect himself and work toward a solution to his dilemma. However, this soon becomes more complicated when his problems prove more deeply rooted in the supernatural than anyone could have realized.
Matching all of its rapid, steel-clashing-with-steel action with thoughtful and contemplative reflections on personal growth, Prince Chagum’s growth from a helpless boy into a young man capable of altering his fate is on par with Yona’s own growth into a warrior. Likewise, Balsa remains an iconic example of a strong character and mentor, helping the main character to adapt and change to their environment while also finding ways to improve and progress in her own life. Even over a decade later, this series has plenty to offer to those willing to give it a try.
The Heroic Legend of Arsland
Anime Like Yona of the Dawn if You’re Looking for Something Similar
After his father is slain in a coup de tat, Prince Arslan of the Kingdom of Pars is forced into hiding alongside his servant and protector, Daryun. Hunted by those responsible for the assassination as well as soldiers from the neighboring nation of Lusitania, Arslan is forced to grow up in a hurry from a pampered prince whose defining trait is his innocence into a hardened warrior capable of reclaiming his kingdom and exacting revenge against those that killed his father.
Forgoing a feudal Japanese drama for a more Western styled affair, The Heroic Legend of Arslan still captures the magic of an ancient land in the throes of conflict while also building up a likable cast of characters. Plus, like Yona’s rise from pampered flower into battle-ready badass, Arslan’s metamorphosis from a weakling into a legend is one with thrilling highs and shocking lows, each building to a payoff you can’t wait to see for yourself.
Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood
Anime Like Yona of the Dawn if You’re Looking for Something Similar
Samurai Champloo
Anime Like Yona of the Dawn if You’re Looking for Something Similar
Stylistic, experimental and all together original, Champloo’s odd mix of elements is sure to please anyone who wants to see a new twist given to the samurai action genre. Just be ready for an experience far gorier than Yona of the Dawn.