The Monogatari anime series is unique and can be challenging to describe. It prioritizes character development over a complex plot.
The story revolves around the main character, Koyomi Araragi, who returns to being human after being a vampire. Throughout the series, girls with strange and mysterious qualities seek Araragi’s help.
Finding similar shows might appeal to fans of this unconventional series that subverts many anime tropes. Here’s a list of ten anime that can offer a similar vibe to Monogatari.
1. Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
If you enjoy Monogatari for its unexpected and wild incidents affecting the main character, you might want to check out “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”
The story starts when Kyon joins the SOS Brigade led by Haruhi, a club focused on exploring the supernatural and the bizarre. Initially skeptical about the club’s activities, Kyon soon discovers that the other members include time travelers, espers, an alien android, and Haruhi, who is revealed to be a god. This anime promises a mix of mystery and the supernatural, much like the twists in Monogatari.
2. xxxHolic
For anime enthusiasts who appreciate an experimental style akin to Monogatari, “xxxHolic” is an ideal series.
Derived from the manga created by the renowned group CLAMP, xxxHolic offers an ambiance of sophistication and intrigue. CLAMP is known for its distinctive art style, particularly in fashion.
The storyline of xxxHolic revolves around Watanuki, a young man gifted with the ability to perceive supernatural entities, and Yuuko, a mysterious woman who professes to fulfill people’s wishes. The series promises a unique blend of the supernatural and elegant mystery.
3. Arakawa Under the Bridge
If you enjoy the humor and atmosphere of Monogatari, then the anime “Arakawa Under the Bridge” might be a good match.
There is no need to worry about animation quality, as the SHAFT studio produces both series. Additionally, the main protagonist is voiced by the same seiyuu, Hiroshi Kamiya.
The storyline follows a pattern akin to Monogatari, where the main character, despite wanting to be left alone, becomes a significant figure in a woman’s life after an unusual encounter with her.
However, Arakawa introduces a different twist as the series explores into extraterrestrial themes rather than focusing solely on the supernatural, offering a refreshing change of pace.
4. Yojouhan Shinwa Taike (The Tatami Galaxy)
What would you do if you had the chance to revisit a moment in your past and make a different choice? “Yojouhan Shinwa Taikei” or “The Tatami Galaxy” explores this concept in an anime format.
While it may not initially seem similar to Monogatari, fans of the series might discover a lot to appreciate in the familiar nuances of “Yojouhan.”
Like Monogatari, “The Tatami Galaxy” is an artistically unique anime with similar humor. It also shares the character-driven development that fans of Monogatari have come to enjoy.
5. Katanagatari
For those seeking a new anime after enjoying Monogatari, “Katanagatari” comes highly recommended. This series promises a fresh and surprising watch created by the same mind behind Monogatari.
Without giving away too much, “Katanagatari” shares essential elements with Monogatari, including action, character development, stunning art, a distinctive setting, and a clever subversion of the harem trope.
If you loved Monogatari’s storytelling style and thematic elements, “Katanagatari” might just be your next anime adventure.
6. Noragami
If you’ve fallen for the characters in Monogatari, you might find it hard to resist the charm of Noragami’s characters.
Noragami follows the story of Yato, a minor god with grand ambitions of having his own temple and many followers. His encounter with a girl grants him the ability to separate his soul from his body. To return to normal, the duo must confront other gods and spirits.
Both series explore into Japanese folklore, sharing similar plot developments. Additionally, the main protagonist in both anime is voiced by the same seiyuu, Hiroshi Kamiya. If you enjoyed Monogatari’s character dynamics and mythology, Noragami might be your next anime pick.
7. Puella Madoka Magica
While Madoka Magica has a completely different plot from Monogatari, the intersection of the two anime lies in their character-driven narratives and shared subversive nature.
If Monogatari can be viewed as a subversion of the typical harem trope in anime, Madoka Magica takes a similar approach to the common magical girl anime trope.
This darker and more serious take on the magical girl genre distinguishes Madoka Magica from the average magical girl show, making it a compelling choice if you appreciate the character dynamics and subversive elements found in Monogatari.
8. Nichijou
If you love the humor in the Monogatari series, you’re in for a treat with the anime Nichijou.
This classic comedy anime follows the everyday lives of three high school girls. Sounds like a typical slice of life, right? Things get hilariously interesting when they befriend a genius, his robot, and his talking cat.
While Nichijou isn’t exactly like Monogatari, it shares a similar comedic style. If you enjoy Monogatari’s humor, you’ll have a good laugh with Nichijou next.
9. Kubikiri Cycle: Savant to Zaregototsukai
Kubikiri Cycle is another creation by Nisio Isin, and for fans of Monogatari, it’s worth checking out. Studio Shaft is behind the animation, ensuring a familiar style.
The story follows nineteen-year-old college student Ii-chan and his computer genius best friend, Kunagisa Tomo. They find themselves invited to a luxurious mansion on a remote island, surrounded by charming women. Despite feeling intellectually ordinary, Ii-chan’s life takes a dark turn with a sudden, gruesome murder on the island.
To his surprise, he discovers a unique ability—to distinguish between real and fake, uncovering identities and the killer’s identity. If you enjoy Monogatari’s style, Kubikiri Cycle might be your next anime adventure.
10. Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
Anime Bunny Girl Senpai is often likened to Monogatari due to its thematic similarities and overall feel.
The storyline revolves around a mysterious phenomenon known as the “puberty syndrome.” In this world, Sakuta Azusagawa, a high school student, encounters a peculiar event—he witnesses a bunny girl named Mai Sakurajima appearing before him. Mai is not only his upperclassman but also a renowned actress on hiatus from the entertainment industry.
As the story unfolds, Sakuta encounters other girls experiencing the effects of the “puberty syndrome.” Like Monogatari, Bunny Girl Senpai explores intriguing phenomena and relationships within a high school setting. If you enjoyed the themes and atmosphere of Monogatari, Bunny Girl Senpai might be a series worth exploring.
