Frieren: Beyond Journey's End has cemented itself as one of the best anime series of the last few years. Its first season consisted of 28 episodes, and it did more than well to captivate the fans. Now, the franchise has returned with an exciting second season, and with just one episode, Frieren has shown again how popular it is. While fan ratings might imply that it is the greatest anime of all time, there are quite a few anime series out there that can actually be said to be even better in one aspect or another.
Frieren: 13 Strongest Mages, Ranked
The world of magic in Frieren is dominated by these individuals who in different ways outmatch their opponents.
Jujutsu Kaisen
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Main Character: Yuji Itadori
Jujutsu Kaisen season 3 is currently airing almost side by side with Frieren Season 2, and while both are highly loved by fans, one could say that Jujutsu Kaisen currently has a more exciting story.
While Frieren is a slower-paced story, at some moments almost feeling like a Slice of Life, Jujutsu Kaisen instead focuses on intense battles. The Culling Game, its current arc, is delivering some of the most exciting clashes and fans absolutely cannot get enough. Frieren and Jujutsu Kaisen are different but they do share some similarities. While Frieren is fighting against ruthless demons, Jujutsu Kaisen focuses on the struggles of the Sorcerers against Curses.
One Piece
- Number of Episodes: 1155
- Main Character: Monkey D. Luffy
One of the most appealing parts of the Frieren series is its adventurous side. Frieren and her group are constantly traveling and exploring new areas, as well as meeting new people, and even recruiting members along the way. One Piece is similar in that aspect, but takesthings to a whole other level.
The One Piece world is massive, and Luffy has been traveling all over it, arriving on new islands, meeting new people, and fighting enemies for over three decades now. There are not many series that do worldbuilding and adventure as well as One Piece, and not even Frieren can compare. The One Piece anime is only getting better at the moment, with the Elbaf arc right around the corner, set to be released in April 2026.
Delicious in Dungeon
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Main Character: Laios Touden
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End is definitely one of the most popular anime series at the moment, which is set in a medieval fantasy world. But, it's not the only one that follows this premise. Delicious in Dungeon is another series set in a similar setting that carries a somewhat similar vibe.
This anime kickstarted around the same time as Frieren, and it is also a sensation. Just like Frieren, it features some amazing adventures and a lovable cast of characters, but some would say it does some things better than Frieren. Fans who are into elf characters will be able to enjoy this story, as Marcille and Frieren are definitely the two best elf girls out there at the moment. Delicious in Dungeon is returning with a second season, hopefully sometime in 2026, although a confirmed return date is pending.
The Apothecary Diaries
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Main Character: Maomao
Frieren and The Apothecary Diaries started around the same time and they've both been compared for being some of the most exciting female-led anime in recent years.
While Frieren is beloved all around the world, many would agree that Maomao is a superior main character. While Maomao’s story features only a few battles, she has managed to captivate fans with her shrewd personality and intriguing story. The Apothecary Diaries is one of the best stories in recent years, and fans can't wait to see Maomao uncover more mysteries in the third season and the new movie, both of which are coming in 2026, towards the end of the year.
Demon Slayer
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Main Character: Tanjiro Kamado
Demon Slayer is one of the hottest series of the last few years. At the moment, Demon Slayer has four anime seasons and two major theatrical releases. When it comes to overall success, it's no surprise to know that Demon Slayer is superior to almost any other anime out at the moment.
Demon Slayer: All Sun Breathing Techniques, Explained
Of all the breathing techniques in Demon Slayer, Sun Breathing is one of the most impressive. Here are all the moves it allows its users to pull off.
Demon Slayer, just like Frieren, puts major focus on slaying demons. However, while both Frieren and Demon Slayer tackle the evil nature of demons, Demon Slayer has a more nuanced take on it. In Demon Slayer, not all demons are inherently evil. Some demons have incredibly sad backstories. At the same time, others, like Nezuko, manage to bypass the instinct to eat humans. Frieren’s handling of demons is sometimes questionable, as all of them are evil and only enemies to be killed.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
- Number of Episodes: 64
- Main Character: Edward Elric
When talking about the greatest anime of all time, not many series are brought up as often as Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Recently, this series was surpassed by Frieren in fan ratings on MyAnimeList, but not many would argue that Frieren is truly superior to it.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is an anime that has remained iconic even over a decade after its end, and it is still talked about to this day. It has cemented itself as a fan favorite, and that will never change. Fullmetal Alchemist features a stunning story with no plot holes, making it an incredible watch from beginning to end. Edward’s quest to restore his brother’s body is definitely one that has tugged on many fans’ heartstrings.
Chainsaw Man
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Main Character: Denji
Chainsaw Man, just like Frieren, is a relatively newer anime series. While Frieren always treads on the safer side when telling its story, Chainsaw Man is one series that takes more risks with the things it explores. Chainsaw Man and Frieren are most certainly very different. One is set in a modern setting, while the other is in a fantasy world. But, one thing that unites the two series is demons.
Chainsaw Man takes a very unique twist on its devils. Devils are based on human fears, and throughout the series, fans will see some ruthless battles against these Devils, such as the one in the recent Chainsaw Man movie: Reze Arc. Chainsaw Man should return with a second season soon enough, either this year, or in 2027.
Black Clover
- Number of Episodes: 170
- Main Character: Asta
One of the major focuses of the Frieren series is its magic. Frieren and other characters use magic to battle against the fearsome demons they encounter. While its take on magic is certainly impressive, there are anime out there with better magic systems, and one such series is Black Clover.
Black Clover was once considered to be one of the most popular shonen series out there. Now, it is set to make a return in 2026 to continue its anime series. Black Clover is an interesting story that follows the adventure of Asta as he embarks on his journey to become the Wizard King and reach new heights of power, even though he was not blessed with magic when he was born.