Wolf’s Rain, a beloved anime series consisting of 26 episodes, first aired in 2003. It follows the journey of four wolves in a post-apocalyptic world as they seek out paradise. The show boasts breathtaking visuals, well-developed characters, and explores the idea of finding hope and purpose in the face of challenges.
If you happen to be a supporter of this particular anime series, you might also appreciate other anime that delve into thought-provoking concepts through the lens of fantasy or science fiction, featuring characters such as wolves or dogs. Here are 10 anime suggestions to consider if you enjoy immersing yourself in the perilous journey of the wolves in search of paradise.
Note: This article is solely based on the writer’s personal opinion and is not listed in any specific order.
Recommended Anime for Wolf’s Rain Fans
Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist chronicles the journey of siblings Edward and Alphonse Elric as they embark on a quest to find the legendary Philosopher’s Stone. Their ultimate goal is to harness its abilities and recover what they sacrificed in a botched alchemical ritual to resurrect their deceased mother.
Both Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009) are adaptations of the series, and, similar to Wolf’s Rain, they revolve around a perilous journey to obtain an elusive power in a one-of-a-kind fantasy realm.
The main themes of loss, morality, and the strength of the human spirit are explored in both anime through the close bond between brothers. Additionally, for fans of wolf characters, the chimera companions of the Elric brothers are sure to be appreciated.
2) Ergo Proxy
In a future where the world has been destroyed and people live in domed cities, officer Re-l Mayer and her advanced cybernetic partner Iggy are tasked with investigating a mysterious entity known as a “Proxy.”As the story unfolds, Re-l discovers unsettling truths about the society she lives in, causing her to question her own role.
Both Ergo Proxy and Wolf’s Rain share similar elements such as sci-fi elements, an atmospheric setting, a complex plot, and thought-provoking themes. Both anime delve into deep concepts about a future world as their characters navigate through chaos in search for their purpose.
Scrapped Princess
The focus of Scrapped Princess revolves around Pacifica Casull, a young girl who is being pursued due to her title as the “Scrapped Princess.”According to a prophecy, she is destined to bring about the destruction of the world on her 18th birthday. In an effort to prevent this outcome, her adoptive siblings fiercely guard and shield her.
Similar to the wolves in Wolf’s Rain who are searching for Paradise, Pacifica and her companions embark on a perilous journey while being chased by unknown adversaries. Both shows incorporate elements of fantasy, science fiction, and contemplative examinations of destiny versus free will.
Selector Infected WIXOSS
The widely known card game WIXOSS is said to have the power to grant wishes to the selected “Selectors”if they win a sufficient number of battles. As a teenage Selector, Rū competes against her opponents in hopes of achieving her desired wish, only to uncover a sinister truth behind these battles.
The hidden malevolent aspect present in a game that offers the possibility of fulfilling one’s dreams shares strong parallels with the wolves’ pursuit of paradise in Wolf’s Rain. If you are fond of witnessing resolute female leads unravel secrets and confront formidable enemies, both shows offer fulfilling experiences.
5) A Japanese Anime Series: Guilty Crown
Shū Ouma, the main character of Guilty Crown, is unexpectedly bestowed with a formidable ability called the “Power of Kings”in the midst of a crisis. This extraordinary power grants him the ability to extract weapons and tools from other people.
In a Japan controlled by the oppressive GHQ agency in a dystopian future, this newfound ability propels him from being a passive high school student to playing a crucial role in the resistance movement.
In both Wolf’s Rain and the story of an unlikely hero mastering great power to stand against sinister forces, the themes of wolves seeking paradise are echoed. Both shows were appreciated by viewers for their skillful integration of elements such as action, drama, mystery, and self-discovery in the face of adversity.
Blue Exorcist
Rin Okumura, the protagonist of The Blue Exorcist, embarks on a journey to uncover his true identity as the offspring of Satan. As a result, he enrolls in True Cross Academy and undergoes rigorous training to hone his skills as an exorcist in order to combat the dangerous forces from the Gehenna realm alongside his fellow classmates.
If you were drawn to the wolf characters and supernatural elements, you may find Blue Exorcist’s blend of demons, magic, and young adults juggling everyday school life with their covert combat training equally captivating. The recurring themes of discovering one’s identity and purpose in the face of a challenging legacy also mirror those seen in Wolf’s Rain.
Claymore
Claymore is set in a medieval world where shape-shifting yoma monsters prey on humans. The story revolves around a clandestine group of female warriors who possess both human and yoma abilities. They utilize their powers to track and eliminate these dangerous creatures.
Claymore shares many similarities with Wolf’s Rain, including dark fantasy elements, terraforming entity antagonists, and themes of desire and purpose. The warrior heroines in Claymore possess a fierce loyalty and determination akin to that of the wolves in Wolf’s Rain.
Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit
Balsa, a talented female bodyguard, is the central character in this series of fantasy novels. Her mission is to safeguard Prince Chagum, who has been joined with a formidable water spirit. As they are pursued by enemies who seek to harm or manipulate the prince, Balsa must navigate through palace schemes and dangers from both the physical and spiritual realms to ensure his safety.
Fans of the character relationships, stunning imagery, and imaginative worldbuilding often praise Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit for embodying the same alluring elements, such as thought-provoking examinations of spirituality and self-discovery, that resonate with the core themes of Wolf’s Rain.
Princess Mononoke
During Japan’s Muromachi period, this epic film focuses on San, a woman who was raised by wolves and fights to defend the forest spirits from a town that mines iron.
In Princess Mononoke, Director Hayao Miyazaki skillfully combines fantasy, action, and environmentalist concepts, similar to how Wolf’s Rain blends supernatural, sci-fi, and post-apocalyptic elements.
Fans are captivated by its emotionally intricate characters, thought-provoking examinations of morality, and breathtaking visual storytelling. San’s unwavering bravery and unwavering loyalty remind audiences of the wolf heroes in Wolf’s Rain as she bravely defends the forest and its ancient gods.
10) Book Review: Spice and Wolf
The plot of this anime revolves around merchant Kraft Lawrence, who one day discovers that his wagon has been taken over by Holo the Wisewolf, an ancient deity known for her connection to harvest. In order to receive help with his business ventures, the clever Holo makes an arrangement with Lawrence to accompany him on his journey back to her northern homeland.
Although it may not have the same level of action as Wolf’s Rain, Spice and Wolf delves into meaningful philosophical themes such as identity, purpose, trust, and relationships through the experiences of its wolf main character in a visually striking historical fantasy world.
The central drama between the traveling merchant and the otherworldly wolf is enhanced by clever wordplay and intriguing economic elements.
Conclusion
If you are craving more emotionally poignant anime following your viewing of Wolf’s Rain, the recommended titles in this list are perfect for your next watch. These series feature imaginative settings, captivating storylines, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, similar to what made Wolf’s Rain a beloved favorite among fans.
It is worth the effort to find these anime in order to fully immerse oneself in the captivating tales that combine fantasy, action, and themes of self-discovery.
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