Are you a fan of Angelic Layer and eager to dive into similar captivating worlds of anime?
If you’ve been captivated by the doll battle excitement and heartwarming journeys of Angelic Layer, then you’re in for a treat.
We’ve curated a list of anime series that resonate with the spirit of Angelic Layer while offering their unique twists and turns.
From “Cardcaptor Sakura”, and “Fruits Basket”, to “Chobits”, Here are the 8 best anime like Angelic Layer (Kidou Tenshi Angelic Layer).
So, let’s get started.
1. Cardcaptor Sakura
Cardcaptor Sakura, created by Clamp, follows the enchanting journey of Sakura Kinomoto, a young girl who accidentally releases a set of magical cards. With the help of her friends, Sakura must recapture these cards to prevent chaos from engulfing the world.
Much like Angelic Layer, Cardcaptor Sakura revolves around a young protagonist discovering newfound abilities. While Angelic Layer delves into the world of doll battles, Cardcaptor Sakura introduces viewers to a magical realm where Sakura must harness her powers and maintain a delicate balance. Both series share a sense of wonder, camaraderie, and personal growth.
2. Gundam Build Fighters
In Gundam Build Fighters, characters participate in Gunpla battles, where they pilot customized Gundam plastic models. Sei Iori and Reiji, the main characters, embark on a journey to become Gunpla Battle champions.
Gundam Build Fighters resonates with Angelic Layer through its focus on battling with personalized creations. While the battles are mecha-based rather than doll-centered, both series emphasize strategy, creativity, and the bond between characters and their creations.
3. Selector Infected WIXOSS
Selector Infected WIXOSS introduces a trading card game called WIXOSS, where players known as Selectors engage in battles using sentient cards. Ruuko Kominato, the protagonist, becomes involved in the mysterious and often perilous world of WIXOSS battles.
Both Angelic Layer and Selector Infected WIXOSS revolve around competitive battles, highlighting the emotional investment of players in their respective battles. In both series, characters grapple with the consequences of their choices and the blurred lines between reality and the game world.
4. Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket follows Tohru Honda, who, after a series of events, ends up living with the enigmatic Sohma family. She discovers their secret: they transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite gender.
While differing in genre, both Fruits Basket and Angelic Layer delve deep into character relationships and personal growth. Both series balance lighthearted moments with poignant emotional exploration, providing a satisfying blend of drama and heartwarming interactions.
5. Hikaru no Go
Hikaru no Go revolves around Hikaru Shindo, a young boy who stumbles upon a haunted Go board. The spirit of a Go master, Fujiwara no Sai, resides on the board and guides Hikaru into the world of Go.
Hikaru no Go shares similarities with Angelic Layer in its focus on strategic gameplay and character development. While the contexts differ significantly, both series showcase how competitions can transform characters’ lives and lead to personal growth.
6. Saki
Saki introduces Saki Miyanaga, a girl with a unique talent for mahjong. She joins her school’s mahjong club and becomes part of a passionate team competing in intense mahjong battles.
Saki and Angelic Layer connect through their exploration of competitive environments. While one features mahjong battles and the other doll battles, both series delve into the dynamics between teammates, fostering strong bonds and highlighting the exhilaration of victory.
7. Chobits
Chobits is set in a world where humanoid computers known as Persocoms exist. Hideki Motosuwa finds an abandoned Persocom named Chi and embarks on a journey to uncover her mysterious origins.
Despite differing in concept, both Chobits and Angelic Layer delve into the relationships between humans and their technological companions. They explore the implications of forming emotional connections with non-human entities, raising questions about identity, love, and companionship.
8. Circlet Princess
Circlet Princess takes place in a world where a virtual reality fighting game, Circlet Bout, is popular. It centers on Yuka Sasaki and her determination to excel in the game’s competitive arena.
Circlet Princess and Angelic Layer share the theme of competitive battles, albeit in different contexts. Both series celebrate the dedication and determination of characters as they strive to achieve excellence in their chosen fields, whether it’s doll battles or virtual reality combat.
