First introduced in 2003, Hideaki Sorachi’s Gintama had a remarkable run, concluding in 2019 with a total of 77 volumes. Its anime adaptation began airing in 2006 and has since evolved through numerous seasons, amassing more than 350 episodes. Gintama has firmly established itself as a quintessential series, catering to both comedy and action enthusiasts alike.
The release of Gintama: The Very Final movie heralded the supposed conclusion of this beloved franchise. Over the years, the Odd Jobs crew embarked on numerous escapades—ranging from intergalactic battles to humorous misunderstandings, including being trapped in precarious situations. While Ginpachi’s main narrative may have concluded, fans need not despair. If you’re left yearning for more laughter after experiencing the entirety of Gintama’s offerings, here’s a curated list of anime similar to Gintama to explore.
Classic battle shounen series such as One Piece, Naruto, Dragon Ball, and Bleach will be omitted from this list, despite being worthy alternatives for those savoring Gintama’s action-heavy segments.
13Ranma ½ (Original Anime Or 2024 Version)
A Shonen Comedy Classic That Has Mostly Produced Anime Magic
In the realm of anime comedies, few can rival the legacy of Gintama, yet Rumiko Takahashi’s Ranma ½ may just come close. This seminal manga was revolutionary for its time, challenging gender roles and character stereotypes prevalent in the ’80s. It serves as a clever parody of battle shounen and harem genres, despite often pre-dating their boom in popularity.
The focal point of Ranma ½ lies in its humor, which remains timeless. Both the original 1989 anime and the 2024 reboot by MAPPA seamlessly merge slapstick, misdirection, and innovative comedy, all while delivering impressive martial arts choreography.
12Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu
Slapstick Silliness In An Otherwise Serious Mecha Anime Franchise
Full Metal Panic began as a harmonious blend of action and comedy, similar to Gintama. However, the main series quickly steered towards a more serious tone. For those who prefer the comedic elements, Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu shines as a delightful spin-off. It follows Sousuke Sagara’s comedic misadventures as he protects Kaname Chidori, balancing high school life with disastrously funny military antics.
11The Disastrous Life Of Saiki K.
The Most OP Comedy Straight Man Surrounded By Chaos
In The Disastrous Life of Saiki K., Kusuo Saiki, an exceptionally powerful psychic, strives to lead a mundane existence, yet fate conspires to attract the most outrageous characters into his life. The series excels in short, character-driven skits that showcase a cast almost as diverse and quirky as that of Gintama.
10Daily Lives Of High School Boys
Slice Of Life Shenanigans With A Pretty Big Cast Of Characters
This slice-of-life comedy delivers classic humor through amusing sketches centered around three boys attending Sanada North Boys High School. While they serve as the entry point into a vibrant world of eccentric characters, the humor resonates with fans of Gintama. Additionally, Nichijou – My Ordinary Life also provides a suitable viewing experience.
9Cromartie High School
Matches Gintama’s Ridiculousness
Cromartie High School offers an absurdly comedic experience within the context of a school for delinquents. With robots, gorillas, and even a portrayal of Freddie Mercury, this series takes viewers on a hilarious adventure where logic is secondary to laughter. The plot, grounded loosely around Takashi Kamiyama, encourages viewers to embrace its wild, unstructured nature, making it the ideal counterpart to Gintama’s absurdity.
8KenIchi: The Mightiest Disciple
Battle Shonen Action Blended With Over-The-Top Comedy
Kenichi, a timid youth, seeks to transform into a martial arts champion after crossing paths with Miu, a powerful girl. While its premise follows the classic shonen formula, the series is propelled by humor, showcasing its lead’s naivety against an ensemble of colorful characters. Though the anime adapts only a portion of the manga, it successfully captures its comedic essence.
7Grand Blue Dreaming
If Gintama Was A College Anime Comedy…
Grand Blue Dreaming presents an unusual portrayal of college life intertwined with comedic elements. Iori’s transition to a coastal town leads him into the bizarre world of scuba diving, filled with humor that mirrors Gintama’s over-the-top style. Although lacking supernatural plots, the series thrives on exaggerated character interactions, providing nostalgic hilarity for Gintama aficionados.
6. Mr. Osomatsu
An Irreverent Update On An Anime Classic
This modern iteration of iconic sextuplets from the 1960s, Mr. Osomatsu, presents the brothers as lazy, no-good NEETs. The series takes risks with fourth-wall breaks and absurdist humor, creating a comedic vibe reminiscent of Gintama. While varying in quality across seasons, the peaks of Mr. Osomatsu are undeniably impressive.
5Space Dandy
Like Gintama, Space Dandy Pushes Comedy Beyond Its Traditional Limits
Space Dandy shifts between a serious narrative and absurd comedy, akin to the formats found in Gintama. The sci-fi episodes function flexibly, allowing creative storytelling unrestricted by traditional conventions. Viewers are treated to wonderfully bizarre tales that elevate humor to new heights.
4Golden Kamuy
Bloody, Vicious Action AND Unapologetically Silly Humor…The Blend Works
On the surface, Golden Kamuy may seem an odd selection, but it shares striking thematic parallels with Gintama. Following a quest for hidden treasures from the Ainu people, the series is both gruesome and unexpectedly humorous. While its style differs from the episodic charm of Gintama, viewers drawn to its action sequences may find themselves equally captivated.
3 Beelzebub
A Delinquent Becomes The Caregiver Of A Demon, And Charming Comedy Ensues
Based on Ryuhei Tamura’s manga, the Beelzebub anime follows a troublesome teen tasked with caring for a demon baby. This comedic take mirrors Gintama’s humor in its light-hearted narratives. Although the anime concludes before the story shifts towards more intense action, it excels in delivering humor throughout.
2. Kenshin
Arguably The Biggest Inspiration For Gintama
Prior to diving into Gintama, it’s advisable to explore Rurouni Kenshin, as the latter features numerous references and parodies of the former. Regarded as one of the definitive samurai anime, Rurouni Kenshin boasts a rich narrative filled with compelling characters and action. The 2023 remake is also well worth the watch.
1Sket Dance
The Odd Jobs Crew In High School…Also, Gintama Crossover
Sket Dance encapsulates the spirit of Gintama in a high school setting, featuring a crossover with Gintama’s Odd Jobs crew. This series follows the WeET Brigade, tackling any and all student requests, often with amusing results. With its engaging cast and well-crafted humor, this show stands out as an exceptional alternative for Gintama fans, boasting over 70 episodes filled with laughter and heart.
Leave a Reply