If you loved the emotional depth and fantasy adventure of 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End (2023),' you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same essence of introspection, magical journeys, and poignant storytelling. Whether you're drawn to its melancholic beauty or epic world-building, these recommendations will keep you enchanted long after Frieren's journey ends.

Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (2007)
Description: This series parallels 'Frieren' in its mature storytelling and focus on a strong, skilled protagonist (Balsa) who takes on a protective role. Both shows delve into themes of duty, sacrifice, and the bonds formed through shared journeys, set against richly detailed fantasy worlds.
Fact: Based on a novel by Nahoko Uehashi, who is also a cultural anthropologist. The animation was produced by Production I.G, known for high-quality works. Balsa is a rare female lead in action-fantasy anime, similar to Frieren.


Wandering Witch: The Journey of Elaina (2020)
Description: Elaina's travels mirror Frieren's journey, with both witches exploring diverse lands and encountering various people and cultures. The series shares a reflective, episodic narrative style, emphasizing the beauty and melancholy of a life spent wandering.
Fact: Each episode is largely self-contained, focusing on different stories Elaina encounters. The series is based on a light novel series that has won several awards. Elaina's design and personality are inspired by classic witch imagery, much like Frieren's elven traits.


Natsume's Book of Friends (2008)
Description: Similar to 'Frieren: Beyond Journey's End', 'Natsume's Book of Friends' explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the passage of time through a protagonist who interacts with supernatural beings. Both series have a melancholic yet heartwarming tone, focusing on personal growth and the impact of relationships.
Fact: The series is based on a manga by Yuki Midorikawa, which has been serialized since


Log Horizon (2013)
Description: 'Log Horizon' and 'Frieren' both explore the concept of time and its effects on characters trapped in a fantasy world. While 'Log Horizon' is more about strategy and community building, it shares 'Frieren's' thoughtful approach to fantasy and character development.
Fact: The series is part of the 'trapped in a game' subgenre but focuses more on politics and society. The protagonist, Shiroe, is a strategist rather than a fighter. The world-building includes detailed rules about the game's mechanics.


Overlord (2015)
Description: Both 'Overlord' and 'Frieren' feature protagonists who are incredibly powerful yet emotionally complex. While 'Overlord' leans more into dark fantasy and conquest, it shares 'Frieren's' exploration of what it means to live beyond one's time and the loneliness of power.
Fact: The protagonist, Momonga, is the last remaining player in a virtual MMORPG. The series has a large ensemble cast of unique NPCs. It's known for its mix of comedy, horror, and political intrigue.


Made in Abyss (2017)
Description: Like 'Frieren', 'Made in Abyss' combines a beautiful, immersive world with a dark, emotional narrative. Both series explore the themes of exploration, the unknown, and the bittersweet nature of discovery, with protagonists who are driven by a deep personal quest.
Fact: The abyss is a multi-layered chasm with unique ecosystems and relics. The series is known for its stunning background art and haunting soundtrack. It has a movie sequel that continues the story from the first season.


Goblin Slayer (2018)
Description: 'Goblin Slayer' shares with 'Frieren' a dark, realistic take on fantasy adventuring, focusing on the toll it takes on its characters. Both series have a mature tone and explore the psychological aspects of a life spent battling monsters.
Fact: The series is notorious for its graphic first episode. Goblin Slayer's armor is always on, even when sleeping. The story is based on a light novel that has inspired multiple manga adaptations.


That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (2018)
Description: Like 'Frieren', this series features a protagonist who gains a new perspective on life after a transformative experience. Both shows blend adventure with world-building and explore themes of community, leadership, and the passage of time.
Fact: Rimuru Tempest starts as a slime, one of the weakest monsters in fantasy. The series is known for its creative use of RPG-like mechanics. It has spawned multiple spin-offs and a movie.


The Rising of the Shield Hero (2019)
Description: Similar to 'Frieren', this series deals with themes of betrayal, redemption, and the journey of a misunderstood hero. Both protagonists start their journeys under difficult circumstances and grow through their experiences and relationships.
Fact: Naofumi is one of four heroes summoned to another world. The series sparked discussions about its portrayal of false accusations and redemption. It's based on a light novel that has sold millions of copies worldwide.


Spice and Wolf (2008)
Description: 'Spice and Wolf' shares with 'Frieren' a focus on journey and companionship, with a wise, long-lived character (Holo) mentoring a younger companion (Kraft Lawrence). Both series blend fantasy with deep emotional and philosophical undertones, exploring themes of time, legacy, and human connection.
Fact: The series is unique for its focus on medieval economics and trade. Holo is a wolf deity, adding a mythological element similar to Frieren's elven lore. A new anime adaptation was announced in 2022, over a decade after the original series aired.
