You Know Nothing, Saber
Worried about what to do with yourself when winter ends? In dire need of getting your Westorosi fix? Fear not, fellow fans of the Seven Kingdoms, you have an answer in anime!
With but a single season left in HBO’s epic fantasy series, there’s bound to be a hole left in the hearts of longtime viewers when the battle for the Iron Throne eventually ends. While there’s nothing quite like Game of Thrones, there are a few Japanese animated series that possess many similar traits. Policy woven into an otherworldly setting, unholy amounts of uncensored violence, complex characters doomed to betrayal and misery, these are the shows that are bound to bring back memories of winter!
#3: “Legend of the Galactic Heroes” (1988-97)
Much like how Game of Thrones shattered our perceptions of what a fantasy series could be, this anime seeks to explore the politics, tactics and consequences that can stem from a galactic war. Don’t expect to see lightsabers fly here, instead prepare your mind to be blown with military operations, opposing ideologies, and a cast of characters who you’ll both fundamentally disagree with yet wholeheartedly adore!
#2: “Fate/Zero” (2011-12)
On paper, some might scoff at the idea of dragons taking on an army of ice zombies, yet it turned out to make for some of the most thrilling television in recent memory. By that standard, the idea of history’s greatest warriors and icons being brought to together to fight for the chance to earn the wish-granting power of the Holy Grail makes perfect sense. Saber’s tragedy, Rider’s bombastic nature and Kirei’s cruelty are guaranteed to keep you coming back for more. Don’t expect any happily ever afters here.
#1: “Berserk” (1997; 2016-17)
While the sequel series’ animation certainly leaves a lot to be desired, the original adaptation of Kentaro Miura masterful manga is guaranteed to tick all the boxes for those that love their fantasy dark. With the tortured soul/absolute beast that is Guts at the helm, this nightmarish tale of bloodshed and acceptance will grab you by the throat and refuse to let you go. Remember; Griffith did everything wrong!
Be sure to check out our video below to see our picks for the Top 10 Satisfying Moments in Game of Thrones.