5 Modern Shonen Anime That Can Rival the Big 3
- The influence that the Big 3 anime have had on the Shonen genre and on the anime industry is well-known.
- Several anime have mimicked their stories, but couldn't replicate their success.
- These 5 modern anime however have proved that they are ready to redefine the genre by rivalling the Big 3.
Bleach, Naruto, and One Piece, collectively known as the “Big 3,” are the strongholds of the Shonen genre and are considered to have put the genre out there. And while the genre is popular even today, with new series debuting regularly, only a few can hope to rival the potential of the Big 3.
We believe that these are 5 such modern Shonen anime that can not only stand out among their contemporaries but can rival the legendary Big 3 as well.
1. Demon Slayer has set a new standard
Set during Taisho-era Japan, Demon Slayer follows the journey of Tanjiro Kamado who is on a mission to avenge his family and cure his sister who has been turned into a demon. Much like Bleach from the Big 3, it combines intense swordplay with supernatural elements.
The stunning animation, well-explored characters, and masterfully composed music elevate its viewing experience. Every character feels important, and Tanjiro, the protagonist feels familiar as his kindness manages to stand tall in a world full of vulgarity and bloodshed.
Considering these factors, it’s hardly surprising that it has made just as much of an impact as one of the Big 3.
2. My Hero Academia’s spirit of Heroism shines bright
The vibrant world of My Hero Academia follows the journey of Deku, a quirkless boy, born into a world where quirks are a part of everyday life. Deku’s journey from being an underdog to becoming a figure of inspiration and strength reflects the true spirit of Shonen.
Despite being a manga about superheroes, My Hero Academia also excels at delivering heartwarming and inspiring narratives through its protagonist, much like Naruto. And its true essence lies in not shying away from admitting that the world is much darker than it is bright.
Showing how its heroes battle against this darkness while dealing with their insecurities has made this series a master at story-telling, with it being compared to the Big 3 in this aspect.
3. Chainsaw Man sets itself apart
Gore and extreme brutality aren’t exactly the words one would use to describe Shonen. Sure the stories can be a bit raw and violent at times, but not as raw as Chainsaw Man, which is a story that follows Denji as he rips devils in two by becoming one himself. What’s so special about this anime you ask? Get ready.
Chainsaw Man truly turns the genre of Shonen over its head by breaking set stereotypes. While the battles are reminiscent of the ones from the Big 3, certain moments make viewers think about how the other anime on this list have rivaled the Big 3 by expanding on familiar narratives, while Chainsaw Man has become iconic by doing the complete opposite.
4. Black Clover feels like a classic
A true Shonen manga down to its roots. Set in a world where magic reigns supreme, Black Clover follows Asta, a boy who has no trace of magic in him whatsoever, and yet, he aspires to become the Wizard King, a title given only to the most powerful magic user.
From being a nobody to becoming a hero, Asta carries and honors the spirit of Naruto, displaying resilience, and strong determination. The anime has already been compared to the Big 3 on several occasions because of its story beats and arcs, with fans expecting its conclusion to put it on the same scale as the other legendary anime.
5. Jujutsu Kaisen both honors and breaks tropes
Jujutsu Kaisen drags the viewers into the abyss-like world of cursed spirits, while not being shy about the influence Bleach has had on it, with its cursed spirits mirroring hollows and sorcerers mirroring the Soul Reapers.
While the prospect of the protagonist being the vessel to a cruel demon made people think of Big 3’s Naruto, they were awestruck when they realized that Sukuna is nothing like Kurama and that the series was much bleaker than anything they had seen. With its intricate cursed techniques and spectacular worldbuilding, Jujutsu Kaisen has carved a place for itself in Shonen anime.
In today’s world, several anime and manga honor the Big 3 and hope to reach the same heights as them, but few can do so. The ones mentioned in this list have truly rivaled the legendary manga through their unique visuals, characters, and storytelling.
