15 Best Manga Like ‘Goblin Slayer’ Every Fan Needs To Read

Are you a fan of ‘Goblin Slayer‘ and looking for more manga that capture the same thrilling essence? ‘Goblin Slayer’ has captivated readers with its unique blend of dark fantasy and gripping storytelling. If you’re on the hunt for manga with a similar vibe, you’re in luck. We’ve scoured the manga world to bring you a list of titles that will surely resonate with your taste. These manga are not just about battles and fantasy worlds; they also delve into complex characters and gripping narratives that keep you hooked. So, let’s dive into the world of manga where adventure and danger lurk around every corner and discover new stories that will fill the ‘Goblin Slayer ‘-shaped void in your reading list.

1. ‘Berserk’

‘Berserk,’ created by Kentaro Miura, is a masterpiece that delves into the dark and supernatural elements of medieval fantasy. The story follows Guts, a lone mercenary with a tragic past, who embarks on a relentless quest for revenge against the man he once considered a friend. Guts’ journey is filled with demons, dark magic, and a struggle against his own cursed fate. The manga is renowned for its intricate plot, deep character development, and breathtakingly detailed artwork. It explores themes of isolation, the nature of good and evil, and the quest for personal redemption.

What makes Berserk similar to ‘Goblin Slayer’ is its dark fantasy setting and the relentless, almost obsessive drive of the main character. Like the Goblin Slayer, Guts is deeply scarred by his past and is driven by a personal vendetta. Both characters face their demons (both literal and metaphorical) in brutal, unforgiving worlds. The graphic content and mature themes in both series are not for the faint-hearted, but they add depth to the storytelling, exploring the darker aspects of humanity and morality.

2. ‘Claymore’

‘Claymore,’ created by Norihiro Yagi, is set in a world plagued by monstrous creatures known as Yoma. The story revolves around Clare, a member of the Claymore organization – women infused with Yoma blood to become powerful warriors dedicated to exterminating these monsters. The manga blends elements of dark fantasy with emotional depth, exploring themes of identity, dehumanization, and the struggle against one’s inner demons. The Claymores, much like their foes, are feared by society, creating a complex dynamic between the hunters and the hunted.

Similar to ‘Goblin Slayer,’ Claymore features a protagonist fighting against monstrous beings. Both series explore themes of revenge, the consequences of violence, and the blurred lines between monster and hero. The dark and mature themes, along with the intense action sequences, draw a parallel between the two. Additionally, both series challenge the traditional roles of heroes and monsters, delving into the psyche of characters who are often misunderstood or feared by the world they protect.

3. ‘Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash’

‘Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash,’ created by Ao Jyumonji and Eiri Shirai, presents a unique take on the isekai genre. It follows a group of people who find themselves in a mysterious, RPG-like world without any memory of their past lives. They must learn to survive in this new, hostile environment, facing not only the threat of monsters but also the challenges of their own inexperience and vulnerabilities. The story is notable for its realistic approach to fantasy, focusing on the characters’ emotional journeys and the harsh realities of life in a world governed by the law of the sword.

What aligns Grimgar of Fantasy and Ash with ‘Goblin Slayer’ is the emphasis on the gritty realities of living in a fantasy world. Both series reject the often glamorized portrayal of adventure and instead highlight the struggles and moral dilemmas faced by their characters. The protagonists in both stories are not invincible heroes but ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances, which adds a layer of relatability and depth to their journeys.

4. ‘Attack on Titan’

‘Attack on Titan,’ created by Hajime Isayama, is a story that defies the norms of traditional fantasy. Set in a world where humanity resides within enormous walled cities to protect themselves from the Titans, gigantic humanoid creatures, the story follows Eren Yeager and his friends who join the military to fight these seemingly invincible foes. The series is renowned for its intense action, complex characters, and plot filled with shocking twists. It explores themes of freedom, the fragility of humanity, and the cyclical nature of history and violence.

The similarity between Attack on Titan and ‘Goblin Slayer’ lies in their portrayal of a relentless battle against a seemingly unstoppable enemy. Both series feature protagonists who are deeply affected by the trauma of their past and are driven by a desire for revenge. The stories are set in brutal worlds where the threat of death is ever-present, and the characters must constantly confront the horrors they face. The dark and often bleak outlook, along with a willingness to confront the realities of war and loss, ties these two series together.

5. ‘Vinland Saga’

‘Vinland Saga,’ created by Makoto Yukimura, is a historical manga set in the Viking era. It follows the story of Thorfinn, a young warrior who seeks revenge against Askeladd, the man who killed his father. The narrative weaves together elements of history, warfare, and personal vendettas, offering a rich and detailed depiction of the Viking age. The series stands out for its deep character development, intricate plot, and accurate portrayal of medieval warfare. Themes of revenge, honor, and the quest for a meaningful life are central to the story.

Like ‘Goblin Slayer,’ Vinland Saga presents a protagonist consumed by revenge. Both series take place in harsh, unforgiving worlds where violence and death are common. The journey of Thorfinn mirrors that of the Goblin Slayer in many ways, as both characters grapple with their personal demons and the consequences of their obsession with vengeance. The gritty realism and moral complexities explored in both series offer a similar appeal to readers who appreciate a more nuanced approach to the fantasy and historical genres.

6. ‘Re:Monster’

‘Re:Monster,’ created by Kanekiru Kogitsune and Haruyoshi Kobayakawa, offers a unique twist on the isekai genre. The story follows Tomokui Kanata, who is reborn in a fantasy world as a goblin and possesses the ability to gain the powers of anything he eats. This leads to a fascinating journey as he evolves from a weak goblin to a powerful leader, using his newfound abilities to navigate the complexities of this new world. The manga is filled with strategic battles, character development, and a detailed fantasy setting, engaging readers in a story of growth and survival.

Similar to ‘Goblin Slayer’, Re:Monster delves into the life of a goblin, but from a completely different perspective. While ‘Goblin Slayer’ focuses on exterminating goblins, Re:Monster presents a story where a goblin is the protagonist, offering a fresh viewpoint on the often-maligned fantasy creature. Both series explore themes of strength, survival, and evolution in a fantasy world, albeit from opposing angles. The element of growth and overcoming challenges is central to both stories, providing a compelling parallel for fans of ‘Goblin Slayer’ looking for a different take on a familiar theme.

7. ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’

‘The Rising of the Shield Hero,’ created by Aneko Yusagi and Aiya Kyu, is another isekai manga that stands out for its unique premise and deep character exploration. The story revolves around Naofumi Iwatani, who is suddenly transported to another world and becomes the Shield Hero. Falsely accused and betrayed early on, Naofumi must navigate a world that is hostile towards him, all while protecting it from imminent danger. The series is known for its character development, particularly of Naofumi, who evolves from a cynical, distrustful individual to a true hero.

What connects ‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’ with ‘Goblin Slayer’ is the theme of the misunderstood hero. Both protagonists face significant adversity and are often judged or ostracized by those around them. They share a sense of determination and resourcefulness in overcoming their challenges. Additionally, both series feature darker elements of fantasy and a realistic approach to the consequences of living in a world filled with danger and betrayal. The journey of the underdog hero in both stories resonates with readers who appreciate a more complex and layered narrative.

8. ‘Dark Air’

‘Dark Air,’ created by Park Min-seo, is a lesser-known gem in the world of fantasy manga. The story is set in a world where magic suddenly disappears, throwing society into chaos. The main character, Melrose Silversmith, is a young magician who embarks on a journey to uncover the mystery behind this phenomenon. The series stands out for its unique premise, engaging plot, and dynamic character interactions. It blends traditional fantasy elements with mystery and adventure, creating a captivating reading experience.

The parallel to ‘Goblin Slayer’ in ‘Dark Air’ lies in the exploration of a world where the established order is suddenly upended. In ‘Goblin Slayer’, the protagonist battles against creatures that are usually considered minor threats, while in Dark Air, the disappearance of magic, a fundamental element of the world, creates a similar sense of upheaval and challenge. Both series involve characters adapting to a significant change in their world, using their wits and skills to navigate unexpected dangers. This theme of resilience and adaptation in a changing world makes Dark Air a fitting recommendation for fans of ‘Goblin Slayer’.

9. ‘Vagabond’

‘Vagabond,’ created by Takehiko Inoue, is a manga based on the life of the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi. The story is a deep and introspective journey that explores Musashi’s path from a wild, unruly youth to a wise and skilled swordsman. The manga is acclaimed for its stunning artwork, philosophical depth, and realistic portrayal of feudal Japan. It delves into themes of life and death, the pursuit of mastery, and the search for meaning beyond violence.

What aligns ‘Vagabond’ with ‘Goblin Slayer’ is the central theme of a lone warrior’s journey towards self-discovery and mastery. Both series feature protagonists who are initially driven by a singular purpose – in Musashi’s case, the pursuit of being the greatest swordsman, and in Goblin Slayer’s case, the eradication of goblins. Over time, both characters evolve, grappling with the deeper implications of their quests and what it means to be a warrior. The focus on personal growth, coupled with intense battle sequences and a deep exploration of the warrior’s psyche, makes Vagabond a compelling read for fans of ‘Goblin Slayer’.

10. ‘Drifters’

‘Drifters,’ created by Kouta Hirano, is an intriguing blend of historical figures and fantasy elements. The story follows Shimazu Toyohisa, a samurai who finds himself transported to a mysterious world alongside other historical warriors. These warriors, known as “Drifters,” are pitted against the “Ends,” who seek to destroy the world. The manga is notable for its dynamic and detailed artwork, as well as its unique combination of history and fantasy. It explores themes of war, power, and the impact of historical figures in an alternate reality.

The connection between ‘Drifters’ and ‘Goblin Slayer’ lies in their shared focus on intense battle scenes and dark fantasy elements. Like the Goblin Slayer, the characters in ‘Drifters’ are warriors with a strong sense of purpose, thrown into a world where they must fight for survival and justice. Both series delve into the complexities of war and the psychological impact it has on the characters. Additionally, the presence of an overarching evil force in both narratives creates a similar sense of urgency and a fight against overwhelming odds.

11. ‘Overlord’

‘Overlord,’ created by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by so-bin, flips the isekai genre on its head. The story centers around Momonga, a powerful wizard and master of the dark guild Ainz Ooal Gown in the virtual reality game Yggdrasil. As the game is about to shut down, Momonga finds himself transported into the game world, with his character and NPCs coming to life. The series is known for its complex world-building, intriguing characters, and exploration of power dynamics. It combines elements of fantasy, adventure, and a bit of dark humor.

‘Overlord’ and ‘Goblin Slayer’ share the theme of characters confronting non-human entities in a fantasy world. While ‘Goblin Slayer’ focuses on a human battling goblins, Overlord presents a powerful undead protagonist dealing with both human and non-human characters. Both series explore the moral ambiguities of their respective worlds and challenge the traditional hero-villain dynamics. The strategic and tactical aspects of combat in both mangas also offer a similar appeal to readers who enjoy intelligent and thought-out battle scenes.

12. ‘Dungeon Seeker’

‘Dungeon Seeker,’ created by Sakamoto 666 and illustrated by Mizunomoto, is a dark and intense take on the isekai genre. The story follows Junpei Takeda, a high school student who is betrayed by his classmates and transported to a brutal fantasy world. In this world, he must navigate deadly dungeons and fight monstrous creatures to survive. The series is known for its grim tone, relentless action, and the protagonist’s journey of revenge and self-discovery.

The parallel to ‘Goblin Slayer’ in ‘Dungeon Seeker’ lies in the themes of betrayal, revenge, and the harsh realities of a fantasy world. Both protagonists are driven by a desire for vengeance, which shapes their journey and interactions with the world around them. The gritty and unforgiving nature of their respective worlds, coupled with the focus on survival and combat, creates a similar dark and intense atmosphere in both series.

13. ‘Made in Abyss’

‘Made in Abyss,’ created by Akihito Tsukushi, is a captivating adventure set in a world where a massive, mysterious pit called the Abyss attracts explorers with its promise of unknown treasures and creatures. The story follows Riko, a young girl who dreams of becoming a great explorer like her mother and her robot companion Reg, as they descend into the Abyss. The manga is renowned for its beautiful artwork, intriguing world-building, and the sense of wonder and danger it evokes.

Similar to ‘Goblin Slayer’, ‘Made in Abyss’ presents a protagonist venturing into a dangerous and unknown world. Both series explore the themes of adventure and the unknown, with a focus on the characters’ journeys into environments filled with perilous creatures and traps. The contrast between the innocence of the characters and the brutality of the world they explore is a common thread, offering a compelling narrative that delves into the realities of adventure and discovery.

14. ‘Akame ga Kill!’

‘Akame ga Kill!,’ created by Takahiro and Tetsuya Tashiro, is a dark fantasy manga that focuses on a group of assassins known as Night Raid, who aim to overthrow a corrupt empire. The story follows Tatsumi, a young villager who joins Night Raid after witnessing the corruption and brutality of the empire firsthand. The series is known for its high-stakes action, complex characters, and willingness to confront the darker aspects of rebellion and morality.

The connection to ‘Goblin Slayer’ in ‘Akame ga Kill!’ lies in the themes of fighting against overwhelming evil and the moral complexities involved. Both series feature protagonists who are part of a larger struggle against powerful and malevolent forces. The element of a small group or individual taking on a much larger enemy, along with the exploration of the psychological impact of violence and war, creates a resonance between the two series.

15. ‘Ubel Blatt’

‘Ubel Blatt,’ created by Etorouji Shiono, is a dark fantasy manga that revolves around Köinzell, a young warrior on a quest for vengeance against the seven heroes who betrayed his kingdom. The story is set in a medieval fantasy world filled with magic, epic battles, and political intrigue. The manga stands out for its complex plot, detailed world-building, and morally ambiguous characters. It delves into themes of revenge, identity, and the corrupting influence of power.

‘Ubel Blatt’ shares similarities with ‘Goblin Slayer’ in its focus on a protagonist driven by revenge and set in a dark fantasy world. Both Köinzell and the Goblin Slayer are characters shaped by their past traumas and are on a quest to confront those responsible for their suffering. The themes of betrayal, the quest for justice, and the blurred lines between good and evil are central to both stories, offering a similar appeal for fans of dark, complex narratives in fantasy settings.

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