Fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender are drawn to its rich world-building, elemental magic, coming-of-age themes, and heartfelt character journeys. Here are the top 5 best anime like Avatar: The Last Airbender, each offering unique strengths for Avatar fans to enjoy:
Best Anime Like Avatar: The Last Airbender | Key Similarities to Avatar |
---|---|
Naruto | Elemental powers, coming-of-age, redemption arcs, martial arts, large cast |
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood | Magic system, moral dilemmas, character-driven, humor & darkness |
Demon Slayer | Elemental-inspired abilities, martial arts, compassionate hero |
The Dragon Prince | Elemental magic, quest-driven, humor, same writer as Avatar |
Attack on Titan | Young heroes vs. overwhelming odds, rich world, character growth |
1. Naruto
Naruto follows the journey of Naruto Uzumaki, a young ninja striving to gain acceptance and become the leader of his village. Much like Avatar, Naruto features a vast, immersive world with its own elemental powers and martial arts-inspired combat. Both series explore themes of friendship, perseverance, and redemption, with a large, lovable cast and deep character development. The show’s redemption arcs, emotional storytelling, and focus on personal growth make it a natural fit for Avatar fans. In short, this is among of the best animes to watch if you like Avatar: the Last Airbender.
2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood tells the story of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, as they search for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical ritual. The series is acclaimed for its intricate magic system (alchemy), character-driven plot, and exploration of moral dilemmas. Known as one of the best anime like Avatar: the Last Airbender, it blends humor, action, and emotional depth, with a story that gradually expands to include a wide cast and high-stakes conflicts. Both shows balance whimsical moments with darker, more mature themes, making FMA: Brotherhood a top recommendation.
3. Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba)
Demon Slayer follows Tanjiro Kamado as he battles demons and seeks a cure for his sister. The series shares Avatar’s focus on elemental-inspired abilities-here, through “Breathing Styles” that channel water, fire, and other elements. Both protagonists are compassionate, determined, and driven by love for their families and friends. The martial arts influence, emotional storytelling, and coming-of-age journey resonate strongly with Avatar fans, even though Demon Slayer takes a darker tone.
4. The Dragon Prince
Created by Aaron Ehasz, one of Avatar’s head writers, The Dragon Prince is one of the best shows to watch after ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’. The show features elemental magic (primal sources), a richly developed fantasy world, and a young, diverse cast on a quest to prevent war. It’s packed with humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, with direct nods to Avatar in both storytelling and character dynamics. Jack De Sena, the voice of Sokka, stars as Prince Callum, further cementing the connection. The series’ acclaimed visuals, performances, and world-building make it essential viewing for Avatar fans.
5. Attack on Titan
While darker and more intense, Attack on Titan shares Avatar’s focus on a group of young heroes facing overwhelming odds in a richly constructed world. The series is known for its high-stakes action, complex characters, and exploration of themes like freedom, oppression, and sacrifice. The emotional journeys, epic battles, and evolving relationships among the main cast will appeal to those who enjoyed the dramatic stakes and character growth in Avatar.