In recent years, isekai anime have become a significant phenomenon within the anime industry. Titles such as Sword Art Online, Overlord, Re:ZERO – Starting Life in Another World, and KonoSuba have firmly established this subgenre as a beloved staple among fans. The captivating premise of transporting a character to an enchanting new world allows creators to explore a plethora of unique settings, engaging characters, and diverse tones.
While traditional isekai often features ordinary humans transitioning into MMO-style settings, the concept of reverse isekai is notably less prevalent. Reverse isekai entails characters from fantastical universes making their way to Earth, and although these shows exist, they represent a small fraction of the broader isekai genre. This begs the question: which are the top reverse isekai anime worth watching?
Before we dive into the rankings, here are a few important notes to consider:
- GATE is excluded from our list as it leans more toward traditional isekai themes, though it’s an excellent option for military enthusiasts.
- Due to the limited number of reverse isekai series, this list also includes shows where characters travel from vastly different historical periods, not strictly other worlds.
Latest Update (November 30, 2024)
With the Fall 2024 season nearly concluding, Demon Lord 2099 has released enough episodes to earn recognition among the best reverse isekai anime to date.
Table of Contents
- Demon Lord 2099
- Mirmo Zibang!
- Sasaki And Peeps
- Dropkick On My Devil!
- Magical Witch Punie-Chan
- Otaku Elf
- Zatch Bell!
- Isekai Izakaya: Japanese Food From Another World
- Salvation
- Sugar Sugar Rune
- Isekai Quartet
- A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics
- Dead Mount Death Play
- Demon Lord 2099
- Saint Young Men
- Restaurant To Another World
- Gabriel Dropout
- The Devil Is A Part-Timer!
- Uncle From Another World
- Ya Boy Kongming!
- Re:Creators
22. Mirmo Zibang!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.31
Despite not being widely recognized today—aside from a few standout series—Mirmo Zibang! is a nostalgic gem from the early 2000s. This anime spanned over 150 episodes and unfolded through four seasons. The story follows Kaede, a relatable girl who struggles to win the affection of a boy oblivious to her feelings.
Kaede’s journey takes an unexpected turn when she summons a fairy named Mirumo from another realm. While Mirumo is intended to guide Kaede in her quest for love, he’s more inclined towards playful mischief, avoiding his own engagements. Although the show may not be groundbreaking, it offers an enjoyable, lighthearted experience perfect for casual viewing.
21. Sasaki And Peeps
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.83
The quirky narrative of Sasaki and Peeps embraces a chaotic blend of elements, entertaining viewers through its unconventional storytelling. Sasaki, an ordinary office worker, adopts a Java Sparrow named Pii-chan, only to discover that Pii-chan is a reincarnated sage from another world.
This newfound relationship grants Sasaki the ability to traverse to Pii-chan’s homeland, where he experiences both triumph and turmoil. The anime creatively balances Sasaki’s earthly life with his fantastical adventures, blending supernatural intrigue with office humor, keeping the plot continually engaging.
20. Dropkick On My Devil!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.05 (Season 1)
This slapstick comedy revolves around Yurine, a human who hilariously finds herself deep-frying her demon counterpart, Jashin-chan. The show embraces over-the-top antics while incorporating an array of mythological characters, resulting in an unpredictable but enjoyable viewing experience.
19. Magical Witch Punie-Chan
MyAnimeList Rating: 6.96 (Season 1)
This OVA series creatively parodies the magical girl genre as Punie, an aspiring ruler from Magical Land, embarks on a one-year expedition in Japan. Although Punie initially appears innocent, her fierce temper leads her to comical situations, making the series a light yet entertaining watch.
18. Otaku Elf
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.26
At its core, Otaku Elf explores the heartwarming relationship between a shrine maiden and a centuries-old elf named Elda. Elda, who once ruled as a goddess, has become lazy and deeply obsessed with otaku culture while living in a shrine. The gentle humor and slice-of-life storytelling create a relaxing and charming atmosphere for viewers.
17. Zatch Bell!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.54
Zatch Bell! garnered a considerable fanbase during its original airing, even if it doesn’t dominate the current anime scene. The series delves into the Mamodo world, where combatants must partner with humans to compete in a tournament. Humor and engaging battles characterize its storytelling.
16. Isekai Izakaya: Japanese Food From Another World
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.46
Focusing on a quaint restaurant that serves otherworldly patrons, Isekai Izakaya highlights the joys of culinary adventures as characters indulge in exquisite dishes from a variety of realms. This series offers a relaxing viewing experience, emphasizing the importance of food and friendship.
15. Redemption
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.13
Set against a dystopian backdrop, Kuromukuro features a unique blend of mecha battles and alien threats. The narrative revolves around advanced robot technology and a samurai’s journey through time, balancing action with thought-provoking moments.
14. Sugar Sugar Rune
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.44
This classic magical girl anime pits two witches against each other as they vie for the Witch World’s throne. Their challenge involves coming to Earth and capturing human hearts. At its heart, Sugar Sugar Rune emphasizes friendship and humor, showcasing an engaging narrative for all ages.
13. Isekai Quartet
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.38
Isekai Quartet blends popular characters from various isekai series into an alternate universe where they face everyday school life challenges, providing a playful take on each character’s distinct quirks. While not strictly reverse isekai, the humorous crossover concept offers a charming experience for fans familiar with the source material.
12. A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.31
This anime follows Sara Da Odin, a powerful princess who crashes into Earth and forms a unique bond with a human detective named Sousuke. Highlighting the comedic clash between worlds, the series thrives on its characters’ eccentricities and amusing interactions, offering plenty of quirky humor.
11. Dead Mount Death Play
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.30 (Season 1)
Dead Mount Death Play combines elements of dark fantasy and mystery as a necromancer reincarnates in modern Tokyo, leading him into Japan’s underworld. The unique premise and supernatural elements create an intriguing narrative filled with plot twists and compelling character dynamics.
10. Demon Lord 2099
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.32
In a fascinating twist on the genre, Demon Lord 2099 focuses on Veltol, a former demon lord resurrected after centuries in a world now fused with Earth. The series’ mix of cyberpunk aesthetics and fantasy elements presents a refreshing narrative highlighting character development and comedic situations in an unfamiliar setting.
9. Saint Young Men
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.79 (Movie)
Saint Young Men takes viewers on a light-hearted journey as Jesus and Buddha navigate modern Tokyo life. Adjusting to earthly existence, their comical and relatable experiences resonate well with audiences, resulting in a unique narrative that challenges traditional religious portrayals.
8. Restaurant To Another World
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.40 (Season 1)
Similar to Isekai Izakaya, this anime explores a restaurant that caters specifically to customers hailing from various fantastical realms. The interplay between the restaurant staff and its extraordinary patrons creates warm, character-driven storytelling with an overarching theme of personal growth.
7. Gabriel Dropout
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.43
Gabriel Dropout provides an amusing take on heavenly beings sent to Earth, where they embrace humanity’s pleasures rather than fulfilling their celestial duties. The engaging character dynamics, particularly between Gabriel and her demon acquaintances, produce a comedy that cleverly sidesteps standard “fish out of water”tropes.
6. The Devil Is A Part-Timer!
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.74 (Season 1)
Often regarded as a quintessential reverse isekai series, The Devil Is A Part-Timer! humorously showcases a demon lord navigating life in Tokyo after losing his powers. With brilliantly crafted characters and clever scenarios, this series remains a fan favorite despite its mixed sequels diluting its original charm.
5. Uncle From Another World
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.82
Uncle From Another World presents a unique perspective on the isekai genre, exploring the comedic contrasts between a character’s fantasy adventures and their attempts to readjust to life following a long coma. This anime satirically critiques genre conventions while maintaining an engaging storyline.
4. Ya Boy Kongming!
MyAnimeList Rating: 8.12
While not fitting the traditional isekai mold, Ya Boy Kongming! is nevertheless a captivating tale that thrusts a legendary Chinese strategist into modern Tokyo’s music industry. The unique premise, bolstered by exceptional character development and a memorable soundtrack, makes this a delightful watch.
3. Re:Creators
MyAnimeList Rating: 7.55
Re:Creators explores a reality where fictional characters transcend their worlds to inhabit Earth, presenting a fresh take on genre conventions. This series navigates themes of creativity and responsibility, complicated by character conflicts and societal implications, resulting in a thought-provoking narrative.
This list highlights just a few of the best reverse isekai anime that entertain viewers by cleverly merging fantasy and reality, showcasing the diversity within the genre. As the anime landscape continues to evolve, so too does the potential for even more engaging stories waiting to be discovered.
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