If you loved the emotional depth and stunning visuals of 'Tsurune' (2018), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar anime and live-action shows that capture the same blend of sports drama, personal growth, and breathtaking animation. Whether you're drawn to the archery theme or the heartfelt storytelling, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Hikaru no Go (2001)
Description: Explores the journey of a young protagonist discovering a traditional board game, blending supernatural elements with intense personal and competitive growth.
Fact: The series led to a surge in popularity for the game of Go worldwide, and it was co-created by the author of Death Note.


Slam Dunk (1993)
Description: A classic sports anime that mixes humor, intense basketball action, and character development, focusing on a team's journey to become better players and people.
Fact: The manga is one of the best-selling of all time in Japan, and the series is credited with popularizing basketball in the country.


Re-Main (2021)
Description: Follows a high school water polo team, combining sports action with themes of recovery, friendship, and rediscovering one's passion after a setback.
Fact: The series was produced to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the animation studio MAPPA, and it features a unique blend of sports and drama.


Chihayafuru (2011)
Description: Centers around a traditional Japanese sport, blending competitive intensity with deep personal and emotional journeys, showcasing the dedication and passion of its characters.
Fact: The series is based on a manga that won the Kodansha Manga Award, and it popularized the obscure card game karuta outside Japan.


Free! (2013)
Description: Focuses on a high school sports club, emphasizing teamwork, personal growth, and the beauty of the sport, with a strong emotional narrative and dynamic character interactions.
Fact: The series was inspired by a novel written by the animation studio's staff, and it gained a massive female fanbase due to its attractive male characters and swimming action.


Yuri!!! on Ice (2016)
Description: Combines sports competition with personal and emotional development, featuring stunning animation of the sport and a heartfelt story about overcoming challenges.
Fact: The show's realistic portrayal of figure skating earned praise from professional skaters, and its soundtrack was composed by the same musician who worked on Attack on Titan.


Ahiru no Sora (2019)
Description: A basketball anime that emphasizes underdog stories, teamwork, and the sheer love of the game, with a focus on character development and realistic sports action.
Fact: The manga has been running since 2003, making it one of the longest-running sports manga series in Japan.


Stars Align (2019)
Description: A sports anime with a focus on the personal struggles and growth of its young characters, blending emotional depth with the dynamics of team sports.
Fact: The series was originally planned to be 24 episodes but was cut to 12, leading to an open-ended conclusion that left fans wanting more.


Run with the Wind (2018)
Description: Follows a group of university students as they train for a marathon, highlighting perseverance, camaraderie, and the transformative power of sports.
Fact: The series is based on a novel by the same author who wrote The Great Passage, and it features detailed animation of running techniques and landscapes.
