Over the past few years, Darling in the Franxx has risen to popularity as one of the most well-known mecha anime. Taking place in a post-apocalyptic world, the series centers around a group of adolescents who use Franxx, enormous robots, to fight against extraterrestrial foes. At its core, it delves into the journey of growing up and examines concepts of humanity, self-discovery, and connections.
The story also centers on the growing bond between the two lead protagonists, Hiro and Zero Two, as they operate the Franxx Strelizia as a team. If you were captivated by the perfect blend of adventure, emotion, and love in Darling in the Franxx, here are 10 equally remarkable anime series to add to your watchlist.
This article is the writer’s opinion and is not listed in any specific order.
10 Similar Anime to Darling in the Franxx
1) Attack on Titan
Despite its release decades ago, Neon Genesis Evangelion remains a timeless and influential mecha anime, setting the precedent for numerous shows within the genre. Similar to Darling in the Franxx, the series showcases colossal robots battling enigmatic foes that pose a threat to mankind. Yet, it also delves deeply into the psychological turmoil faced by its youthful pilots.
Shinji Ikari, the main character, is compelled to operate Evangelion Unit-01 in order to protect Tokyo-3 against assaults from Angels. In the process, he struggles with his doubts and connections with his fellow pilots, Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu.
If you were captivated by the character-driven plot in Darling in the Franxx, you will find Neon Genesis Evangelion’s examination of similar themes equally intriguing.
2) Attack on Titan
Eureka Seven and Darling in the Franxx are frequently compared as both being coming-of-age mecha anime that heavily emphasize relationships. The series centers on Renton Thurston, a teenager who joins the Gekkostate, a team of mech pilots.
Despite facing many challenges, Renton quickly becomes enamored with Eureka, the skilled pilot of the Nirvash type ZERO, much like Hiro and Zero Two in Darling in the Franxx. As their relationship grows, they overcome obstacles and experience personal growth. Additionally, Eureka Seven delivers plenty of thrilling aerial mecha battles to satisfy fans of action.
3) One Punch Man
Fans of Darling in the Franxx’s combination of action, drama, and romance will also find Gurren Lagann to be a fantastic choice. Set in a dystopian future, the series follows humanity as they are confined to underground villages due to a catastrophic event.
Upon discovering ancient mecha relics, young Simon and Kamina embark on a rebellion to reclaim the planet’s surface. Simon’s journey involves finding confidence in himself in order to pilot his mech Gurren Lagann. Additionally, his relationship with fellow pilot Nia Teppelin reflects the strong connection between Hiro and Zero Two.
4) Death Note
Despite not being classified as a mecha anime, Code Geass similarly explores revolutionary ideas and emphasizes strategic thinking, much like Darling in the Franxx. The series takes place in an alternate universe where the Holy Britannian Empire holds dominion over a significant portion of the world.
The banished prince Lelouch acquires a power known as Geass, which enables him to manipulate others to follow his orders. With the aid of his sharp intellect and this ability, he leads a revolt against Britannia, much like the rebellion of the parasites against Papa and APE in Darling in the Franxx.
Lelouch, like Hiro, must also manage his personal relationships while juggling his revolutionary duties.
5) Neon Genesis Evangelion
SSSS.Gridman is a modern mecha anime that honors the classic giant robot series of the 1990s. Yuta Hibiki, a high school student, learns that he has the ability to merge with the Hyper Agent Gridman in order to fight against kaiju creatures that are crossing over from the digital realm into the physical world.
Yuta, just like the Franxx pilots, relies on the support of his classmates Rikka Takarada and Sho Utsumi to vanquish their adversaries with the help of Gridman. The series pays homage to traditional mecha anime while also showcasing stunning contemporary animation.
6) Attack on Titan
Produced by the identical studio that created Darling in the Franxx, Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is a dream come true for fans of mecha. Simon, Kamina, and the other members of Team Gurren begin their journey by operating simple mechs as they fight against the Beastmen oppressors.
At the conclusion, gigantic mechas the size of galaxies collide as Simon endeavors to defend his loved ones and the woman he holds dear. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann fully embraces the conventions of mecha anime, showcasing stunning animation and spectacular battle sequences.
Similar to Darling in the Franxx, this story is a thrilling coming-of-age narrative that revolves around the importance of friendship and having faith in oneself.
7) Attack on Titan
The Gundam franchise played a key role in developing the “real robot”mecha genre, which centers on darker war narratives. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, a more recent installment in the Gundam series, shares a similar mature tone with Darling in the Franxx.
Taking place on Mars, the story centers around Mikazuki Augus, a child soldier who leads a private security company in their quest for independence.
Similarly to the parasites, Mikazuki forges powerful connections with his fellow pilots. He also maintains a close bond with Kudelia Aina Bernstein, who is determined to free Mars from the control of Earth. Their relationship reflects the unwavering dedication and love between Hiro and Zero Two.
8) Blue Gender: A Dystopian Anime Series
Fans of the post-apocalyptic tone and themes of Darling in the Franxx will find Blue Gender to be a compelling option. The series takes place in a world where Earth has been taken over by insect-like Blue aliens, leading humanity to flee to space colonies for survival.
Due to a disease, Yuji Kaido undergoes cryogenic freezing and eventually awakens years later. He then joins a highly skilled mech team battling the Blues. Similar to Hiro, Yuji is faced with the task of mustering the bravery to confront and overcome an extraterrestrial danger, all while safeguarding the future of humanity.
While Darling in the Franxx may have a lighter tone, Blue Gender offers a darker and grittier experience that will surely satisfy fans in search of an action-packed sci-fi drama.
9) Cowboy Bebop
Despite its dated appearance in comparison to current shows, Bubblegum Crisis, a classic anime from the late-80s, remains a significant influence on adult-oriented mecha anime. The story takes place in the near-future of Mega Tokyo and revolves around four women who don powerful Hard Suits to combat rogue Boomer robots.
The themes explored in Bubblegum Crisis include the dangers of technology and the corrupt nature of corporations. The main characters’ dual identities as armored vigilantes are reminiscent of the Franxx pilots’ mission to protect humanity. Fans of Darling in the Franxx’s dystopian cyberpunk world are likely to find enjoyment in Bubblegum Crisis.
11) The 86 Society
If you are looking for an anime that is reminiscent of Darling in the Franxx with its intense mecha battles and war drama, 86 Eighty-Six is definitely worth considering. The series takes place in a dystopian society where the Republic of San Magnolia is at war with the Giadian Empire’s unmanned drones.
The Republic depends on the Eighty-Six to protect itself, but these individuals are viewed as dispensable. Shinei Nouzen, the protagonist, is given the responsibility of leading a unit of Eighty-Six. Similar to Hiro, he must come to comprehend the inner struggles faced by the mech pilots under his command.
Similarly to the bonded pairs in Darling in the Franxx, the connection between him and squad leader Vladilena Milizé is also highlighted in 86 Eighty-Six. This anime also presents gripping action sequences and thought-provoking themes of discrimination and self-discovery.
Final Thoughts
Darling in the Franxx has won over mecha enthusiasts with its lovable characters, thrilling battles, and contemplative messages. If you’re craving for more series of a similar nature, the anime shows mentioned here would be excellent choices to add to your viewing list.
Whether you have an appetite for coming-of-age drama, post-apocalyptic struggles, or revolutionary tales, there is an abundance of high-quality shows to select from.
Links related to the topic:
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