In the vast landscape of anime, there are certain gems that stand out for their unique blend of action, romance, and futuristic concepts.
Accel World is one such series that has captured the hearts of viewers with its captivating storyline set in a virtual reality universe.
If you’re an avid fan of Accel World and are yearning for more anime that tickle your sense of adventure, you’re in for a treat!
From “Sword Art Online”, and “Log Horizon”, to “Air Gear”, Here are the 16 best anime like Accel World.
So, let’s get started.
1. Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online thrusts players into a virtual reality MMORPG where they must clear the game to escape. As they navigate through the various levels and quests, friendships form, and the boundary between the virtual and real-world blurs.
Both anime delve into the concept of virtual reality and explore the dynamics of interpersonal relationships within a gaming environment. While Accel World focuses on accelerated abilities, Sword Art Online delves into the challenges of survival and the power of human connection.
2. Overlord
Overlord follows Momonga, a powerful player in an immersive MMORPG, who finds himself trapped in the game world after its servers shut down. With his guild’s headquarters transformed into a stronghold, Momonga embarks on a journey of exploration and conquest.
The exploration of a virtual world and the idea of being trapped within it are themes shared by both anime. Overlord offers a unique perspective as Momonga navigates his new reality, much like the characters in Accel World.
3. C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control
C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control introduces Kimimaro, who is offered the chance to earn money by entering a parallel dimension. However, this opportunity comes with risks and moral dilemmas as he engages in fierce battles using his future as collateral.
The concept of entering an alternate realm and engaging in battles for personal gain is a central theme in both anime. As characters grapple with the consequences of their choices, parallels can be drawn between the intense battles of C: The Money of Soul and Possibility Control and those of Accel World.
4. No Game No Life
Sibling duo Sora and Shiro are transported to a world where everything is determined by games. In this vibrant and unpredictable realm, they aim to conquer challenges and outwit opponents to become the rulers of their new domain.
Both anime explore the concept of gaming and competition within a virtual universe. While Accel World focuses on battles for personal growth, No Game No Life highlights the importance of strategy and intellect in a fantastical setting.
5. Log Horizon
After being trapped in a popular MMORPG, Shiroe and other players must adapt to their new reality. As they form alliances, establish order, and navigate the challenges of their virtual lives, they uncover the mysteries of their predicament.
The exploration of a world that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy is a central theme in both anime. Log Horizon showcases the characters’ journey of adaptation and survival, much like the evolution of Haruyuki in Accel World.
6. Guilty Crown
In a post-apocalyptic world, Shu Ouma gains the power to extract weapons from people’s hearts. As he becomes embroiled in a battle for freedom, Shu must navigate the complexities of power, responsibility, and his own humanity.
Both anime feature protagonists who acquire unique powers that shape their destinies. Shu’s journey in Guilty Crown mirrors Haruyuki’s growth in Accel World, as they come to terms with their abilities and the impact they have on their worlds.
7. Btooom!
Ryouta Sakamoto finds himself trapped in a real-life version of the online game he excelled at, where players use bombs as weapons. To survive, Ryouta must navigate treacherous terrain and outwit opponents in explosive battles.
The intense battles and life-or-death stakes in Btooom! resonate with the challenges faced by characters in Accel World. Both anime explore the consequences of virtual worlds spilling into reality and the impact on their protagonists.
8. Air Gear
Air Gear follows the story of Ikki Minami, who discovers a hidden world of Air Treks—motor-powered inline skates. As he joins a team and sets his sights on becoming the Sky King, Ikki embarks on a thrilling journey of competition and self-discovery.
The theme of personal growth through competition and determination is shared between the two anime. While Accel World showcases battles in a digital realm, Air Gear captivates with its high-speed, exhilarating races.
9. Gate
When a mysterious gate opens, connecting modern Tokyo with a fantasy world, the Japanese Self-Defense Force is dispatched to establish diplomatic relations. As the two worlds collide, battles and political intrigue unfold.
Both anime involve the interaction between different worlds and the clash of cultures. While Accel World immerses us in virtual reality battles, Gate offers a unique blend of fantasy, military action, and diplomacy.
10. Re: Zero – Starting Life in Another World
Subaru Natsuki finds himself transported to a fantasy world and gains the power to return from death. As he navigates a world of magic and mystery, Subaru is faced with challenges that test his resolve and resilience.
The concept of a protagonist facing challenges in a parallel world is shared by both anime. Subaru’s determination to overcome adversity and unravel the mysteries of his new reality mirrors Haruyuki’s journey in Accel World.
11. Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts
At Fumizuki Academy, students engage in battles using avatars summoned through their test scores. The anime humorously explores the antics of students as they aim to improve their academic standings and summon more powerful avatars.
Both anime combine fantastical battles with the academic setting, resulting in a unique blend of action and humor. While Accel World focuses on virtual reality combat, Baka & Test infuses creativity and strategy into its schoolyard battles.
12. Selector Infected WIXOSS
Ruko Kominato stumbles upon the card game WIXOSS, where players become Selectors and engage in battles to have their wishes granted. As Ruko delves deeper into the game, she uncovers its dark secrets and confronts the price of victory.
Both anime explore the consequences of engaging in high-stakes battles for personal gain. Ruko’s journey in Selector Infected WIXOSS mirrors Haruyuki’s struggles in Accel World, as they grapple with the emotional toll of their choices.
13. .hack//Sign
Tsukasa awakens in the online game The World with no recollection of the real world. As he searches for answers and forms connections with other players, Tsukasa’s actions begin to have a profound impact on the game’s reality.
Both anime delve into the mysteries of virtual reality and the implications of the digital realm on the characters’ lives. Tsukasa’s quest for understanding in .hack//Sign echoes Haruyuki’s journey of self-discovery in Accel World.
14. Black Rock Shooter TV
The anime blurs the line between two worlds—the real world and a dark, desolate battlefield—where girls known as Otherworld Warriors battle mysterious adversaries. As their destinies intertwine, connections between the two realms emerge.
The exploration of interconnected worlds and the struggles of characters within them are themes shared by both anime. Black Rock Shooter TV offers a unique visual representation of the characters’ inner battles, akin to the challenges faced in Accel World.
15. Grimgar: Ashes And Illusions
A group of strangers awakens in a fantasy realm with no memories of their past lives. They join forces to survive and adapt to their new reality, forming bonds as they face monsters and challenges.
The theme of adapting to an unfamiliar reality and the importance of camaraderie are shared by both anime. As characters in Grimgar: Ashes And Illusions navigate their new world, parallels can be drawn to the character growth in Accel World.
16. Is It Wrong To Try To Pick Up Girls In A Dungeon?
In a world where adventurers explore dungeons and fight monsters, Bell Cranel aspires to become a legendary hero. As he embarks on his quest, he forms bonds with goddesses, fellow adventurers, and even monsters.
Both anime feature characters who embark on quests and form bonds within a fantastical realm. Bell’s determination to grow stronger and build relationships mirrors Haruyuki’s journey of self-improvement and connections in Accel World.
