Fullmetal Alchemist is not just an anime; it’s an experience. The entire journey of Ed and Al trying to recover what was lost. The brilliance of alchemy, the technicalities, the value of life, love, and friendship, and finally, a sacrifice for the ages.

Fullmetal Alchemist is a masterpiece that stands at the top of the anime world. Its story, no matter how compelling, has to end at some point. And it leaves you with a huge FMA-shaped hole in your heart.

So what do you do when you are missing Fullmetal Alchemist? Well, no worries, we have a curated list of 10 popular anime that are similar in themes, setting, or feel for you to watch while you are missing the Elric brothers.

10. Saga of Tanya the Evil

Let’s start off with this one. Seems like a strange choice, doesn’t it? Well, Saga of Tanya the Evil is one of the anime that really captures the attention of the viewer and gives an experience into the steampunk world, much like Fullmetal Alchemist.

Tanya in Saga of Tanya the Evil | Credits: Studio NUT

The anime shares a common thread with Fullmetal Alchemist in its exploration of morality, war, and a difficult life within the corrupt system. There are differences in ideologies and main characters who wish to defy the established conventions.

Added to its complex themes of military strategy, Tanya will surely appeal to fans who appreciated Fullmetal Alchemist’s deeper themes and political intrigue.

9. Fire Force

Fire Force comes off as a vibrant and fiery anime, and it is! But within the flames lies a sense of danger and mystery that is almost irresistible.

Special Fire Force Company 8 in Fire Force | Credits: David Productions

Just like Fullmetal Alchemist, Fire Force is a brilliant blend of action and fantasy. There are organizations, relationships, and deeper undercurrents throughout, and the series has a protagonist who strives for the greater good.

Related: Studio Bones Is Continuing ‘Fire Force’ and ‘Soul Eater’s Legacy With ‘Gachiakuta’

Shinra Kusakabe’s quest to save his brother will resonate with fans who loved the Elric brothers’ quest for the Philosopher’s Stone. What makes it even better is that both series have a dark, emotional tone that leads the fans to introspect and explore the deeper philosophical and existential questions.

8. My Hero Academia

On the surface, My Hero Academia might seem like a more lighthearted Shonen, but it might surprise you that it shares many of the core elements that make Fullmetal Alchemist timeless.

Deku, Bakugo, and Shoto in My Hero Academia | Credits: Studio Bones

Both series feature a kind and determined protagonist who is fighting for justice in a world that’s full of corruption and greed. They each had to go through a lot of effort to earn their power, albeit in different ways.

Related: One Character Stopped ‘My Hero Academia’s Power System From Turning as Corrupt as ‘To Be Hero X’

The humor, action, and even the heartwarming moments will keep you engaged until the very end.

7. Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer is a must-watch for the Fullmetal fans, not because of the combat but purely because it is another example of the most powerful sibling bonds in all of anime.

Tanjiro and Akaza in Demon Slayer | Credits: Ufotable

The entire core of Demon Slayer lies with Tanjiro and Nezuko protecting and caring for each other, in their own way. Just like Alphonse, Nezuko is turned into something not human by forces out of their control, yet despite the impossible nature of the task, Tanjiro persists, eventually reaching Muzan to find a way to cure his sister.

6. Steins;Gate

Steins;Gate is a time travel masterpiece that you will love. The series delves into the technicalities of time and reality with a precision that even exceeds that of Fullmetal’s alchemy.

Okabe and team in Steins;Gate | Credits: White Fox

The two series share the idea that knowledge is power and delve into the intricacies and the morality of science. In its own way, Steins;Gate explores the dangerous consequences of playing God and manipulating the natural order of the world.

While both Okabe and Ed intend to satisfy their scientific thirst and have good intentions, their quests to save those important to them result in a spiral of devastating events, forcing them to feel despair as they forge ahead to do the impossible.

5. Hunter X Hunter

Hunter x Hunter is often regarded as a classic Shonen, and it is. Just like Fullmetal Alchemist, it evolves from a simple, even light-hearted setting into a much darker, grittier, more mature story.

Both series have a rich, vast world with kids being thrust into it to fend for themselves in a world full of selfish and dangerous adults.

Related: ‘Hunter x Hunter’ Remake Failed to Capture the Darker Side of Yoshihiro Togashi’s Manga

The relationship between Gon and Killua is arguably as strong as the one between Ed and Al. With politics, incredible fights, and adventurous tales, Hunter X Hunter is a brilliant series to watch.

4. Baccano!

Baccano! is a series with a complex narrative and a massive cast, much like Fullmetal Alchemist. The series might seem disjointed, but it champions the points that made FMA unique, like the homunculi and alchemy. These science fiction elements are at the core of the story, which is set in 1930s America.

Jacuzzi and the others in Baccano! | Credits: Brain’s Base

The series progresses in a domain of gray with moral ambiguity. Despite the many characters and storylines, it all seamlessly falls into place, resulting in a very satisfying narrative.

3. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan is a brilliant anime in itself, and a perfect fit for the fans of Fullmetal Alchemist who appreciate a darker, more gritty tone to the story. There are massive, seemingly apocalyptic threats and an overarching government conspiracy.

Both series showcase how the characters endure time and trials, changing and evolving into a much more mature version of themselves (although Eren takes it a step too far).

Related: “I was tied down”: An Alternate ‘Attack on Titan’ Ending Could Ruin Hajime Isayama’s Perfect Conclusion

The world-building and character depth in both series are incredible, and the constant combat scenes, plot twists, and sense of urgency make it a thrilling watch.

2. Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss is a series that, like Fullmetal Alchemist, starts off as a fantastical story with children in it. You would think, it revolves around children, how dark could it be?

Made in Abyss surprises you with its incredibly wonder-filled world that spells death with each leap. The story slowly descends into a dark, brutal, and emotionally devastating tale.

Related: ‘Made in Abyss’ New Movie Already Has One Major Obstacle to Overcome

While there are no homunculi, the mystery of the Abyss and its horrifying creatures is quite similar to the secrets of alchemy. There is an endless charm in the story that keeps you waiting for more.

1. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion is a pioneer in psychological and surreal. While Fullmetal Alchemist and Neon Genesis may not seem similar plot-wise, when it comes to the underlying intensity and the exploration of mental trauma, both these anime are exceedingly similar.

Add to the fact that they each completely subvert the expectations and conventions placed around their genres.

Related: Hideaki Anno Never Wanted ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ to Have a Grand Conclusion

The essence is to protect the world with the power the protagonists have. Both Ed and Shinji feel the weight of their responsibility as they grapple with reality.

RankAnime TitleIMDb RatingWhere to StreamWhy It’s a Good Fit10Saga of Tanya the Evil7.9/10CrunchyrollShares the themes of war and morality with a unique protagonist.9Fire Force8.1/10CrunchyrollA modern Shonen with elements of danger, and a dark world that seems to be hard to save.8My Hero Academia8.3/10CrunchyrollHas a similar Shonen format with themes of justice, power, and sacrifice in order to do what is right.7Demon Slayer8.7/10CrunchyrollFeatures an incredibly strong sibling bond and a dark, emotional journey for a hero.6Steins;Gate8.8/10CrunchyrollExplores the morality of science and the devastating consequences of playing God.5Hunter x Hunter9.0/10CrunchyrollA mature Shinen with a deep world and intricate bonds between the characters.4Baccano!8.4/10Prime VideoShares a similar non-linear storytelling style, dark humor, and an ensemble cast.3Attack on Titan9.1/10CrunchyrollA dark, gritty series with a similar dark theme of government conspiracy and a corrupt society.2Made in Abyss8.6/10 NetflixFeatures a similar emotional core of a dangerous journey and a blend of wonder and brutality.1Neon Genesis Evangelion8.5/10NetflixA classic that, like FMA, explores psychological realms

So this is the list of anime that are similar to Fullmetal Alchemist. Which of these anime have you watched? Leave a comment below and let us know!
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