10 magic fantasy anime that will remind you of Harry Potter

The world of magic and fantasy in anime is full of captivating stories that can capture the hearts of countless viewers. Similar to the beloved Harry Potter series, these anime also feature brave protagonists, exciting quests, and mysterious spells, all within enchanting worlds that evoke the same feelings of awe and excitement.

The list below features ten enchanting fantasy anime series that will transport fans of Harry Potter to captivating new worlds. Each of these series offers its own distinct blend of magic, excitement, and friendship, evoking the mesmerizing ambiance that fans have grown to adore in Harry Potter.

10 Must-Watch Magic Fantasy Anime for Fans of Harry Potter

1) The Mighty Mashle: Magic and Muscles

Main protagonist - Mash Burnedead (Image via A-1 Pictures)
Main protagonist – Mash Burnedead (Image via A-1 Pictures)

Mashle: Magic and Muscles depicts the story of Mash Burnedead in a world where magic holds great importance. Although Mash lacks this crucial skill, he makes up for it with his exceptional physical prowess. The show follows his journey at a magical school, clearly inspired by the renowned Hogwarts.

Nevertheless, anticipate an amusingly buffed version of the traditional magical school theme. Mash’s tale follows a one-of-a-kind hero on a captivating adventure filled with playful humor and captivating academic obstacles, making it a must-watch for those in search of the essence of Hogwarts without the use of magic wands.

2) A Devilish Adventure: Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun

Magic Fantasy anime - It was aired in October 2019 (Image via Bandai Pictures)
Magic Fantasy anime – It was aired in October 2019 (Image via Bandai Pictures)

Join us at Demon School, where Iruma-kun introduces us to a young boy named Iruma. Due to unfortunate circumstances, he is sold to a demon and forced to attend an educational institution for demons. Despite its eerie atmosphere, the anime surprises viewers with its lighthearted and comedic approach.

The paragraph depicts the themes of establishing unlikely friendships and defying predetermined destinies, similar to the central messages in Harry Potter. The bonds he creates and the light-hearted attitude he maintains amidst his eccentric classmates and peculiar lessons will undoubtedly captivate fans of Harry Potter who seek a blend of comedy and supernatural thrills.

3) The Magical World of Magic Users Club

It was first released as a six-part OVA in 1996 (Image via Madhouse Triangle staff)
It was first released as a six-part OVA in 1996 (Image via Madhouse Triangle staff)

In the anime Magic Users Club, a diverse group of high school students come across actual magic and form a club to learn and develop their skills in the mystical arts. This fantastical series presents a blend of magical mishaps and typical teenage drama, infused with elegance and wit.

Despite being set in modern times, the show successfully captures a dreamy atmosphere that harkens back to the earlier books and movies of Harry Potter. As the characters balance their ordinary school lives with the newfound wonder of real magic, audiences are transported back to the exhilaration of discovering a magical and uncharted universe.

4) Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Brilliant magic fantasy anime directed by Takuya Igarashi (Image via Studio Bones)
Brilliant magic fantasy anime directed by Takuya Igarashi (Image via Studio Bones)

Soul Eater immerses audiences in the ominous corridors of the Death Weapon Meister Academy, where students are educated in utilizing their supernatural powers and gathering souls to safeguard the world from malevolent entities. The gothic atmosphere and chilling plotlines offer a more mature and intricate fantasy world, much like the later installments of the Harry Potter series.

This anime’s rich lore and imaginative world-building serve as a vibrant backdrop for tales of friendship, responsibility, and the crucial balance between light and darkness. Those who enjoy the darker aspects of Harry Potter will feel right at home with the show’s incorporation of horror elements and deep philosophical questions.

5) The Mysteries of The Bastard Magic Instructor’s Akashic Records

Magic Fantasy anime directed by KADOKAWA (Image via Liden Films)
Magic Fantasy anime directed by KADOKAWA (Image via Liden Films)

The plot of Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor centers on Sistine, a devoted pupil at a prestigious school of magic, and her interactions with her recently appointed instructor, a seemingly indolent and unskilled sorcerer.

The plot of this enchanting fantasy anime incorporates elements of magic, intrigue, and chaos, but with a clever twist that unravels a captivating tale of uncovering secrets and overcoming sinister dangers. The relationship between the teacher and his students adds complexity to the story, blending together thrilling battles, humorous moments, and intense magical showdowns.

The anime presents a storyline filled with symbolic representations of individual development and perseverance, which have earned the admiration of Harry Potter enthusiasts.

6) Attack on Titan

Produced by Naoko Tsutsumi (Image via Studio Triggers)
Produced by Naoko Tsutsumi (Image via Studio Triggers)

The story of Atsuko “Akko”Kagari in Little Witch Academia depicts the adventure of a regular girl without magical abilities who enrolls at Luna Nova Witchcraft Academy with the goal of emulating her idol from childhood. This anime is a delightful narrative of chasing aspirations despite challenges, emphasizing the value of perseverance and the genuine essence of magic.

Despite facing limitations in her magical abilities, Akko’s journey in the series is heartwarming and captures the same sense of wonder and resilience found in Harry Potter’s story. The delightful storytelling of the series guarantees that Akko’s adventures within the magical halls of Luna Nova will deeply resonate with fans of Hogwarts.

7) The Magical Adventures of Fairy Tail

This magic fantasy anime was first aired on Tokyo TV (Image via A-1 Pictures)
This magic fantasy anime was first aired on Tokyo TV (Image via A-1 Pictures)

The world of Natsu Dragneel, Lucy Heartfilia, and the rest of the Fairy Tail mage guild is one that captivates viewers with its vibrant and lively atmosphere. This show seamlessly blends the excitement of magical battles with the heartwarming bond of a constantly expanding family, reminiscent of the dynamic between Harry and his friends.

The enduring bonds between the characters and their personal growth in the face of numerous challenges are the most compelling elements of the show. The humorous and heartfelt camaraderie among the protagonists, set against a backdrop of magical worlds filled with dragons and malevolent sorcerers, evokes a sense of familiarity reminiscent of the relationships in the Harry Potter series.

8) The Ancient Magus’ Bride: A Tale of Love and Magic

Magic Fantasy anime series written and illustrated by Kore Yamazaki (Image via Wit Studio)
Magic Fantasy anime series written and illustrated by Kore Yamazaki (Image via Wit Studio)

Chise Hatori is the protagonist of The Ancient Magus’ Bride, a story that chronicles her journey from a neglected existence to a life filled with magic and danger. Betrothed to an enigmatic and ancient wizard, Chise’s story mirrors a poignant quest of self-discovery.

This enchanting anime series seamlessly combines a captivating plot with elements of mythology and the gradual discovery of Chise’s magical powers. It’s a tale that balances both melancholy and elegance, reminiscent of the intricate themes present in the later installments of the Harry Potter books.

9) The Magical Adventures of Cardcaptor Sakura

Written by Nanase Ohkawa (Image via Madhouse Studio)
Written by Nanase Ohkawa (Image via Madhouse Studio)

The story of Cardcaptor Sakura follows Sakura Kinomoto, a spirited young girl who embarks on a grand quest to retrieve magical cards that she has inadvertently scattered across the globe. Equipped with a special key and a book of spells, her adventure is filled with enchantment and countless new discoveries.

This anime fantasy series centers on the endearing development of Sakura, providing insight into the challenges and joys of navigating magical abilities, much like Harry Potter’s early adventures.

10) The Epic Story of Young Heroes: My Hero Academia

Magic Fantasy Anime - Boku No Hīrō Academy (Image via Studio Bones)
Magic Fantasy Anime – Boku No Hīrō Academy (Image via Studio Bones)

“My Hero Academia offers a fresh take on the fantasy genre by focusing on superheroes and their extraordinary abilities instead of traditional magic. However, it also draws strong parallels to Harry Potter in terms of core themes such as bravery, self-discovery, and the importance of friendship.”

The story follows Izuku Midoriya as he strives to become a hero in a world where superpowers are the norm. It showcases his journey of self-discovery and the obstacles he must overcome. Similar to Hogwarts, UA High School is not just an educational institution, but a place where students are taught essential values such as love, courage, and the importance of inner strength.

Each of these magic fantasy anime series has its own unique charm, reminiscent of the captivating world of Harry Potter. By delving into these anime shows, viewers are treated to a fresh dose of magic, with familiar themes of bravery, determination, and the thrilling adventure of carving one’s own destiny in a fantastical realm.

The review for Mashle: Magic and Muscles season 2 praises it as a refined and enjoyable sequel, though it does mention that the ending may have been somewhat anti-climactic.

A review of Mashle: Magic and Muscles season 2 episode 12 reveals that Mash’s secret is exposed, but his friends fiercely defend him.

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