Best Anime Like Solo Leveling: OP Protagonists & Unique Leveling Systems (2025)
If you loved Solo Leveling for its OP protagonist, satisfying power progression, and epic battles, you're in the right place. Below, we've curated the best anime that deliver the same thrills—whether it's leveling up, dominating enemies, or exploring dark fantasy worlds.
From isekai adventures with game-like systems to dark fantasy thrillers with brutal combat, these anime capture what makes Solo Leveling so addictive. Whether you're craving strategic dungeon raids, overpowered main characters, or unique progression mechanics, this comprehensive guide has you covered.
Anime with OP Protagonists & Leveling Systems
These series perfectly blend the zero-to-hero journey with game-like progression, just like Solo Leveling:
Why it's similar: Naofumi starts as a shunned hero but levels up his shield skills to become unstoppable. The anime features betrayal, redemption, and a unique class system—just like Jin-Woo's journey.
Unique twist: Naofumi's rapport system lets him bond with monsters, adding a fresh layer to power progression.
"The moment Naofumi unlocks his Wrath Shield is as satisfying as Jin-Woo's first shadow army summon!"
Why it's similar: Rudeus starts as a weak child but grinds his magic and swordsmanship to godlike levels. The magic system is deep, and his growth is earned through hard work—just like Jin-Woo's training.
Unique twist: Reincarnation and lifelong skill mastery make his power feel realistic.
"Rudeus' Water God Style swordplay is as iconic as Jin-Woo's Shadow Extraction!"
Why it's similar: Hajime Nagumo is betrayed and left for dead, but he unlocks OP transmutation magic and builds a harem of powerful allies. His ruthless, strategic fights mirror Jin-Woo's tactical battles.
Unique twist: Hajime's custom weapons and alchemy set him apart from typical isekai heroes.
"Hajime's Orichalcum armor and Euhrydale are as cool as Jin-Woo's Demon King's Castle!"
Why it's similar: Anos Voldigoad is a reincarnated demon king who's OP from the start but still faces challenges. His magic and demonic powers are as overwhelming as Jin-Woo's shadow army.
Unique twist: Anos rebuilds his demon kingdom while dealing with political intrigue.
"Anos' Gigant Impact spell is the kind of over-the-top power fans love!"
Why it's similar: Fate starts weak but gains the Gluttony skill, letting him devour enemies to level up—just like Jin-Woo's system. The dark, brutal world and power progression are major draws.
Unique twist: The skill system is tied to sin and sacrifice, adding moral complexity.
"Fate's Gluttony evolution is as addictive as Jin-Woo's System messages!"
Why it's similar: Sunraku traps himself in a VR game and grinds to become the strongest player. The game mechanics and strategic battles feel like Solo Leveling's dungeon raids.
Unique twist: Sunraku breaks the game's meta, making every fight creative.
"Sunraku's 'I'll solo this boss' energy is pure Jin-Woo vibes!"
Dark Fantasy Anime with Action & Leveling (2025 Picks)
For fans who love Solo Leveling's dark tone, high stakes, and brutal battles, these 2025 dark fantasy anime are must-watches:
Why it's similar: Set in a dystopian floating city, Rudo fights monsters and uncovers conspiracies—just like Jin-Woo's hunter world. The action is visceral, and the power system is unique.
Unique twist: Graffiti-inspired visuals and urban rebellion themes make it stand out.
"Gachiakuta's monster designs are as terrifying as Solo Leveling's Ant Monarch!"
Why it's similar: Shiki discovers his Oni powers and battles rival clans in a blood-soaked world. The power progression and dark atmosphere are reminiscent of Solo Leveling's later arcs.
Unique twist: Oni transformation mechanics and clan politics add depth.
"Shiki's Oni form is as intimidating as Jin-Woo's Demon King mode!"
Why it's similar: Denji starts as a nobody but gains devil powers and fights for survival. The brutal action and power-ups are Solo Leveling levels of intense.
Unique twist: Denji's Chainsaw Devil form is as iconic as Jin-Woo's Shadow Monarch.
"Denji's 'I just want a normal life' struggle hits as hard as Jin-Woo's early hunter days!"
Why it's similar: Yuji Itadori swallows a cursed object and gains OP powers, but must train and level up to survive. The power system is well-defined, and the battles are visceral.
Unique twist: Cursed energy mechanics and team dynamics set it apart.
"Yuji's Divergent Fist is as hype as Jin-Woo's Ashborn powers!"
Unique Power Progression Systems
These anime feature innovative power systems that make progression addictive and rewarding:
Why it's similar: Players are trapped in a game world and must level up classes and skills to survive. The strategy and world-building are top-tier.
Unique twist: Guild politics and economy play a huge role.
Why it's similar: Bell Cranel starts as a weak adventurer but levels up through dungeon crawling. The RPG mechanics and goddess blessings are a fun twist.
Unique twist: Familia (guild) system and romantic subplots.
Why it's similar: Rentt Faina becomes an undead but retains his adventurer skills, forcing him to adapt and level up in a cruel world.
Unique twist: Undead mechanics and survival horror elements.
- OP Protagonists: Each series features a main character who starts weak but becomes a powerhouse—just like Jin-Woo.
- Leveling Systems: Whether it's magic, skills, or game mechanics, progression is satisfying and well-defined.
- Dark Fantasy & Action: For fans of Solo Leveling's mature themes and brutal fights, these picks deliver.
- Unique Twists: No two power systems are the same, keeping the experience fresh.
Where to Watch These Anime?
Crunchyroll
Most titles including The Rising of the Shield Hero, Mushoku Tensei, Arifureta, Chainsaw Man, Jujutsu Kaisen, Gachiakuta, and Tougen Anki
Netflix
Mushoku Tensei, Chainsaw Man
Hulu
Log Horizon
Funimation
Arifureta, Overlord
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Season 2 premiered in 2025, continuing Jin-Woo's journey with even darker themes and bigger battles.
Mushoku Tensei and The Rising of the Shield Hero are fan favorites for their deep progression systems.
Absolutely! Gachiakuta and Tougen Anki are 2025's standout dark fantasy anime, blending action, leveling, and mature themes.
Solo Leveling set the bar high, but these anime deliver the same thrills—whether you're here for OP protagonists, leveling systems, or dark fantasy action. From the strategic battles of Shangri-La Frontier to the brutal world of Chainsaw Man, each recommendation offers a unique take on power progression and epic storytelling. Start your next anime adventure today!
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