20 Best Isekai Anime To Lead You Into A New World

Alright, it’s time to ditch the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. I’m talking about the Isekai anime, folks! If you haven’t experienced it yet, let me paint you a picture: Imagine waking up in a world where you can wield magic, slay beasts, and live your best hero life. Sounds exciting, right?

Let’s get official for a hot minute here. “Isekai” literally means “another world” and is a sub-genre of anime, manga and light novels that follows a protagonist on their journey to a fantasy realm or a parallel universe. Whether they were summoned by a magical being, fell through a portal, or were reincarnated, they’re usually given a special power to help them navigate this new world. And then, my anime-loving friends, the real adventure begins. Think magic, monsters, and maybe even a little romance.

But here’s the thing: the Isekai genre often gets a bad rap. Why can’t we indulge in a little escapism from our mundane lives? Why can’t we root for the underdog and find inspiration in fantastical tales? I say, let’s give Isekai the love it deserves! That’s why I’ve compiled the ultimate list of the 20 best Isekai anime to transport you to another world. Say goodbye to your worries and responsibilities and hello to adventure!

Best Isekai Anime

1. Re:Zero – Starting Life In Another World

2 seasons | 50 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, VRV

What’s it about?

Subaru Natsuki is isekai’d to a fantasy world and granted the power to rewind time. But there’s a catch: he has to die first. So, Subaru sets out on a mission to break the death loop and save his half-elf crush, Emilia, and his other newfound friends. But dying repeatedly in some macabre Groundhog Day scenario and keeping mum about it? That’s going to leave a mark.

What makes it good?

Step aside, OP Isekai protagonists – Subaru is here, armed only with the power of respawning, and he’s not exactly a natural. He’s smack dab in the middle of a world full of political intrigue and major social class beef. Drama! And death is always lurking, ready to snare the characters in the most gruesome ways. It’s not just for shock value, though; Re:Zero gets deep and heavy with the psychological struggles that come with, you know, dying repeatedly. With its unique, dark fantasy story approach, Re:Zero stands out in a sea of Isekai anime clones.

2. No Game No Life

1 season | 12 episodes
Watch on: Netflix, Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, Hulu, Prime Video

What’s it about?

After accepting an online challenge, Sora and Shiro are transported to Disboard. It’s a world where every decision hangs on a game, courtesy of the mighty God of Games, Tet, and his ten commandments. The humans here are struggling to survive, but fret not, for the game masters have arrived. Better watch out, Tet!

What makes it good?

No Game No Life is a fun adventure through the candy-colored world of Disboard, where games like chess, reversi and shirotori reign supreme. Sora and Shiro are the ultimate gamer-slash-NEET duo, and they’re ready to take on all comers. Fanservice is here, but it doesn’t take away from the nonstop hilarity, pop culture/gaming references, and epic showdowns. It’s unfortunate that we might not get a second season to see the NGNL world expand further, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the first. Aschente!

3. That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime 

2 seasons| 45 episodes
Watch on: Netflix, Crunchyroll, Funimation, Prime Video

What’s it about?

Satoru Mikami, an office drone in his late 30s, dies and wakes up in a new world as a slime with some cool new powers. Now known as Rimuru Tempest, he buddies up with goblins and other monsters to create a better world for all creatures. But with political drama and faction wars, things get slimy.

What makes it good?

TenSura’s world is a fantasy melting pot of diverse creatures and cultures, from crafty dwarves to noble ogres. But beneath the whimsy, the series delves into power, politics, and diplomacy. Rimuru has his hands full trying to build a nation and protect his friends, all while looking cute AF. But don’t let his slimy exterior fool you; he’s still a badass who will not compromise what he’s fighting for. His wicked sense of humor doesn’t hurt either.

4. KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World! 

2 seasons | 20 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, VRV

What’s it about?

Kazuma Sato, a teenage NEET, kicks the bucket only to be reincarnated in a fantasy world with a near-useless goddess, Aqua, as his companion. Along the way, they pick up Darkness, a masochistic knight, and Megumin, an explosion-obsessed mage. Together, they make a hysterically incompetent bunch that gets into trouble at every turn.

What makes it good?

KonoSuba is a mean little parody of overpowered heroes and their RPG ways. A brave quest? Kazuma’s party couldn’t find the final boss if he was flashing a neon sign. Between bungling spells and racking up ridiculous debts, this incompetent squad couldn’t be less heroic if they tried. Admittedly, KonoSuba’s animation isn’t exactly A-grade, but watching it roast the entire Isekai anime genre to a crisp is worth a million laughs.

5. The Rising Of The Shield Hero 

2 seasons | 38 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

What’s it about?

Naofumi Iwatani is one of four gamers summoned to save the kingdom of Melromarc from doom. But instead of a badass weapon like everyone else, he’s given a crummy shield. To make matters worse, he’s wrongly accused of a crime and becomes public enemy No. 1. Now he’s on a quest to find allies, clear his name, and prove that being a Shield Hero is way cooler than it sounds.

What makes it good?

Naofumi is the ultimate underdog in a world of medieval douchebags (but at least he has his waifu squad). Discrimination, betrayal, and injustice run rampant, with our boy getting the short end of the stick. Not exactly a “chosen one,” is he? But let me tell you, that puny shield of his is no joke *wink wink*. I was glued to the screen, waiting for Naofumi to prove everyone wrong. Shield Hero might not be the Isekai genre’s answer to Evangelion, but it’s a classic hero’s journey with a side of rage-fueled catharsis. Don’t miss out, people.

6. The Saga Of Tanya The Evil 

1 season | 13 Episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation

What’s it about?

A powerful Japanese businessman with a severe god complex gets a taste of karma when he ticks off the wrong supernatural being. The next thing he knows, he’s a teenage girl named Tanya, trying to navigate an alternate reality of warfare and wizardry. But Tanya’s no damsel in distress; she understands that joining the military and climbing the ranks is the only way to survive.

What makes it good?

Tanya is the queen of ruthless maneuvering in a WWI-inspired hellscape of war and magic. With a wicked cackle and business savvy from a previous life, she bulldozes over anyone who dares to cross her path. Even the Big Guy upstairs is fed up with her. So if you’re looking for a feel-good anime, you might give this one a hard pass. But if you’re ready for some epic villainy, a bleak war atmosphere, and incredible action (the aerial combat is especially impressive), Tanya is right up your alley.

7. Overlord

4 seasons | 52 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Tubi

What’s it about?

Momonga, a gamer extraordinaire, gets stuck in Yggdrasil, a virtual reality MMORPG, when the game servers shut down. His NPC guild is now alive and kicking, and he has transformed into his in-game persona, Ainz Ooal Gown, a mighty skeleton mage. So, what’s a guy to do in a new world? Try and conquer it with his crew, duh.

What makes it good?

Isekai’s whole “fish out of water” act? Not here, my friends. The Overlord’s protagonist is a straight-up boss in his own world. He has loyal minions, insane power, and guts to use both to win. Plus, the series cranks up the “trapped in a video game” trope to 11. Ainz and the crew throw down with spells, skills, and buffs in epic battles that’ll have you feeling like you’re in the middle of a high-level MMO raid. It’s the ultimate action-packed power fantasy, and it’s glorious.

8. Log Horizon

3 seasons | 62 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Prime Video

What’s it about?

Shiroe is a gamer who, along with thousands of others, becomes trapped in the virtual world of the Elder Tale video game. But he’s no ordinary avatar; he’s a sharp cookie who establishes a badass guild with Akatsuki, Nyanta, and Naotsugu. Together, they must navigate a world filled with magic, monsters, and political turmoil, all while trying to get back to reality.

What makes it good?

You don’t need to be a gamer to enjoy this MMO anime, because Log Horizon  guides you through every step of the game mechanic. Sure, the pros might be rolling their eyes at the hand-holding, but don’t bail just yet. Log Horizon features a large cast and focuses on themes like community, leadership, and strategy. The gang has to build a new society from the ground up, managing resources, navigating political alliances, and making high-stakes decisions. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the action-heavy Isekai fare. Think less brawn, more brain, and some major payoffs.

9. Ascendance of a Bookworm 

3 season | 36 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll

What’s it about?

The book-loving Urano Motoso met a tragic end and reincarnated as a little girl named Myne. Sadly, books are rare in her new reality, and her family is in a financial pickle. But Myne is no quitter. With a sharp mind and a can-do attitude, she’s determined to make her own books and save this strange new world one page at a time.

What makes it good?

Bookworm isn’t your typical “trapped in another world” gig, so forget about epic missions and Isekai beefcakes. Myne is a different kind of hero, a dainty book lover braving a world where books are scarce, social hierarchy is a pain, and the religious order is throwing shade. No heart-pounding action here, but you’ll be dazzled by the vibrant animation, sweet melodies, and gorgeous bookbinding art. It’s a slice-of-life anime that celebrates a young girl’s resilience and curiosity, and it’s not one to miss!

10. GATE: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri

2 Seasons | 24 Episodes
Watch on: Netflix, Crunchyroll, HIDIVE, Hulu, Prime Video

What’s it about?

Tokyo was minding its own business when BAM! A magical portal appears, and out comes an army of fantasy baddies such as orcs and dragons. Panic ensues, and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces charge in to defend their turf and suss out the other side of the gate. The team, led by Youji Itami, a soldier-slash-otaku, tries to make friends with the otherworldly denizens while also sniffing out some evil forces trying to take over both worlds.

What makes it good?

GATE is a modern military action/fantasy hybrid that’s basically a big smooch to the Japanese army. The story doesn’t sugarcoat warfare, but it’s more interested in cross-cultural exchange (with some laughs thrown in) and diplomatic challenges. When it comes to sword vs. gun action, GATE keeps it grounded—no high-stakes battles, but plenty of military prowess. The only drawbacks are unnecessary fanservice and a lack of fantasy world-building (I want more magic, dang it!). Despite its flaws, GATE is a fun and breezy Isekai that I binge-watched in no time.

11. Inuyasha

7 seasons | 167 episodes
Watch on: Hulu, Prime Video, Pluto TV

What’s it about?

Kagome Higurashi’s high school life takes an unexpected turn when she time-travels to Sengoku Japan during a demon-human showdown. Along comes Inuyasha, a grouch-of-a-half-demon on a quest for the Jewel of Four Souls, which has been shattered. These two team up to collect the shards and keep them out of the wrong hands.

What makes it good?

Isekai enchantment meets Shounen greatness in Inuyasha. What starts out as a portal quest turns into an immersive fantasy journey through feudal Japan. Think magic, Yokai, and grand battles. And that’s not even the best part. Inuyasha is an epic anime love story dressed in a high fantasy adventure suit. That’s right, all you hopeless romantics out there, get ready to fall head over heels for Kagome and Inuyasha, one of anime’s greatest OTPs.

12. Sword Art Online

3 seasons | 96 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

What’s it about?

In a VRMMORPG-crazed world, Kirito gets to test the hottest game in town: Sword Art Online. But the party is cut short when the game’s creator pulls a total lockdown. It’s essentially “do or die,” as players must clear 100 floors of the game or risk death in real life. Kirito and his gang must fight for their lives and figure out the twisted scheme that trapped them in a virtual world with no escape button.

What makes it good?

I get that Sword Art Online is the anime community’s punching bag, but labeling it “the worst anime ever” is, well, ridiculous. Sure, the MC is OP, and there’s some harem-ing and a lackluster sequel—but if you think these are SAO-exclusive rather than medium-wide faults, I’ve got a bridge to sell you. I rewatched SAO for this article via my Isekai lens (a very stylish monocle, by the way), and I’m still on board. Aincrad’s world is stunningly designed, and the fight scenes are epic. Plus, with game over = life over, the stakes are high and the feels are real. SAO is an easy, fun fix for anyone who enjoys a good Isekai setup.

13. Grimgar: Ashes and Illusions 

1 season | 12 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

What’s it about?

Six hapless teenagers, including Manato, are stranded in a medieval-esque realm with no memories, powers, or a clue what’s going on. To make ends meet, they’re forced to join a guild, but they can’t even handle the simplest of tasks without risking their lives. As they fight to scrape by, they bond and start uncovering the truth about their past.

What makes it good?

Grimgar is like an MMO anime, but with a reality check. There are no god-like power levels or wish-fulfillment; the heroes here must team up and strategize just to survive low-level quests. And if they fail, there’s no respawn button to save their sorry behinds. Grief is a major topic in Grimgar, and the narrative is raw and emotional—a slow-burn that’s worth the wait. So, if you’re ready to trade in your power fantasies for something a little more thoughtful and grounded, this classic otherworldly anime is the way to go.

14. Isekai Quartet

2 seasons | 24 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation

What’s it about?

When a mysterious button appears out of nowhere, the casts of Re:Zero, Overlord, Konosuba, and The Saga of Tanya the Evil find themselves transported to a parallel world—a high school! That’s right, our battle-hardened heroes now have to navigate the treacherous terrain of teendom, complete with awkward crushes and cafeteria food fights.

What makes it good?

Isekai Quartet is the ultimate crossover bash that spoofs every “other world” anime cliché. It’s packed with chibi renditions of our Isekai faves, and it’s an absolute hoot to watch them interact. Where else would you see Re:Zero’s Subaru and KonoSuba’s Kazuma arguing over whose world sucks more? Or the useless Aqua from KonoSuba trying to hold her own against the no-nonsense Tanya from Youjo Senki? So forget the usual summoned-to-another-world anime routine, kick back, and get ready to laugh your isekai-loving heart out.

15. Mysterious Play (Fushigi Yuugi)

2 seasons | 52 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Prime Video

What’s it about?

Miaka and Yui, two besties, are sucked into a book portal to ancient China. Yui’s back in a flash, while Miaka is stuck as the Priestess of Suzaku. Now she’s on a mission to save the Universe of the Four Gods by gathering the Seven Celestial Warriors and summoning the god Suzaku. As if that weren’t enough, Miaka sneaks in a little romance with her dashing protector, Tamahome. You go, girl!

What makes it good?

Our gal Miaka gets the hero gig in the mythical Universe of the Four Gods, but it’s no cakewalk. Political scheming, heart-wrenching drama, and Cupid’s arrows left and right—this sneaky Shoujo may seem like a fairytale but packs a dark punch to your heartstrings. Yes, the 30-year-old animation is rusty, and there’s some cringey damseling-in-distress, but Fushigi Yuugi is an OG Isekai anime with some serious street cred. So, if you’re a genre fan and want to see where it all began, add this 90s anime treat to your watchlist.

16. Princess Connect! Re: Dive

2 seasons | 25 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll

What’s it about?

Yuuki crash-lands in Astraea, a mysterious land, with no memory of his past. Luckily, he has company: Kokkoro the elf archer, Pecorine the swordslinger, and Karyl the cat girl mage. Together, they form a guild and set out to explore this fantastical world. They meet all sorts of zany characters and start uncovering Yuuki’s past.

What makes it good?

Gacha game mechanics? RPG battles? Why not both? Princess Connect! Re: Dive is a magical world full of heroes plucked from different dimensions by the power of chance, all ready to brawl and loot. While gamers will undoubtedly get a kick out of Priconne, it’s a good time for anyone who enjoys funny misadventures and wholesome characters. Whether they’re battling it out or living their best slice-of-life moments, you’ll be cheering for this crew every step of the way.

17. The Vision Of Escaflowne 

1 season | 26 episodes
Watch on: Funimation

What’s it about?

Hitomi Kanzaki, a big-time tarot lover, is whisked away to the fantastical world of Gaea. There, she joins forces with the valiant king Van Fanel and his cool mecha, the Escaflowne. As they try to prevent the evil Zaibach empire from taking over the world, they face political drama, epic clashes, and even a little romance.

What makes it good?

Escaflowne is the triple threat of mecha, fantasy, and romance, all wrapped up in a gorgeous alternate world. It has a steampunk flair and an ethereal vibe that’ll make you want to jump right in. Now, the plot can get a little out there with sci-fi wackiness (seriously, a fate machine?), but it also tackles some heavy topics like war, corruption, and death. Prepare to get hit right in the feels because this old-school Isekai gem is surprisingly moving. Watch it, love it, thank me later.

18. Wise Man’s Grandson (Kenja no Mago)

1 season | 12 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu

What’s it about?

A Japanese salaryman dies and is reborn in a magical realm as a baby. Raised in seclusion by a wise old magician, Merlin Wolford, he emerges as Shin—a teen with insane magical abilities but a grand total of zero people skills. So, what’s a magical misfit to do? Enroll in the kingdom’s magic academy, of course!

What makes it good?

Kenja no Mago makes the cut for one reason only – it’s unintentionally hilarious. Our hero, Shin, is a magic whiz with the charm of a houseplant. Watching his social blunders is worth the price of admission alone. And when he’s not clueless, he’s busy being OP in over-the-top fights. There’s also the obligatory world-saving with Shin and his pals foiling some nefarious scheme. Dramatic? Yes. Self aware? Probably. Kenja no Mago never seems to take itself too seriously, which only adds to the entertainment value.

19. The Devil Is A Part-Timer! 

2 seasons | 25 episodes
Watch on: Netflix, Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Tubi

What’s it about?

The valiant Emilia boots Satan from his netherworld, and he ends up in modern-day Tokyo. Now powerless and penniless, he dons a human guise and settles for a gig at MgRonald’s. As if that weren’t enough, the Prince of Darkness has to adjust to human life, dodge Emilia’s pop-ins, and still manage his evil schemes.

What makes it good?

The Devil Is A Part-Timer! is a reverse isekai that flips the script on Satan and his sidekick Alciel. The Big Bads are in for a major culture shock as they struggle to wrap their heads around human social conventions and modern technology. And while the laughs keep coming, this fish-out-of-hell story packs a punch with touching character development and heartwarming moments. It’s one of the best anime comedies ever made, a devilishly good time you won’t want to miss.

20. How Not to Summon a Demon Lord 

2 seasons | 22 episodes
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Funimation

What’s it about?

Introverted gamer Takuma Sakamoto is zapped into his favorite video game, Cross Reverie, and turned into his fierce avatar, the Demon Lord Diablo. Takuma learns that the two pretty heroines have summoned him to save the day, but his social anxiety makes it hard to keep up the demonic act.

What makes it good?

In the game he’s stuck in, Takuma is already a pro at crushing enemies, forming alliances, and commanding summoned creatures. But when it comes to socializing, he’s about as smooth as sandpaper. It’s a classic Isekai case of double identity, and the series milks it for all its comedic worth. With a familiar MMORPG setting, an all-powerful hero, and ecchi hilarity, this anime has all the ingredients for the ultimate fantasy getaway—especially if you’re looking for a little fan service on the side.

I realize that some of the more popular isekai series in recent memory, such as Mushoku Tensei (Jobless Reincarnation), aren’t on this list, but given the controversy surrounding it, I decided to leave it off. That said, if you’re looking for a more realistic take on character interactions in a different world, with some good music and beautiful animation, give it a try too.

*Streaming services’ anime catalogs vary depending on your location.

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Disclaimer: The Rockle has no affiliation with the streaming services mentioned in this article. Our opinions are based on our research and experience, and we do not receive any commission or compensation for promoting these services.

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