Arcane's return is sending shivers down our spines, as we know that this Netflix original animated series' sophomore season is going to leave our jaws on the floor. But before we prepare for the release of the Netflix show (as well as the eventual feelings we'll have after the show concludes), we want to make sure you always have something to keep you company.
Whether you love Arcane for its animation or the story or because of a third thing, there is something really compelling in the animated show that we think you should also witness in other anime shows.
Anime shows like Arcane
There are three things that we think make Arcane incredible; its world-building/character development, its story of the underdog biting back, and its haunting portrayal of anarchy. These three aspects are crucial to the heart of Arcane and without them, we don't think the story would be as powerful. Fortunately, these are not aspects that you'll only find in Arcane!
Without further ado, here are three anime shows that we think really resemble Arcane!
Code Geass
Where to stream: Crunchyroll
The first aspect we are obsessed with about Arcane is the extravagant world-building and character development individuals in the story go through. Vi and Jynx suffer at the hands of events that began taking place long before they were old enough to do anything about it. When we begin to question how things came to be, Arcane slowly but surely introduces different concepts and characters that truly depict how the world came to be and what the world may look like going forward.
At face level, Code Geass looks like it will tell the tale of a spoiled rich boy who finds himself in a strange predicament. Upon further inspection, however, we delve into the intricate world that Lelouch desires to change, even if it's for the better. Power-hungry and filled with dissatisfaction about what is, Lelouch's character goes through many highs and lows, putting into question just which side of him is actually the real him. Nevertheless, on this trying path, Lelouch fights the only way he knows how.
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners
Where to stream: Netflix
The second aspect we love about Arcane is how it brings awareness to how much those at the bottom of the totem pole of society have to fight constantly for their spot at the top. Be it stealing or occasionally defying authority, Vi and Jynx had to do whatever they had to do to ensure that their lives weren't over the second they had no one to provide for them or protect them from the cruelty of the world.
In Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, we follow David's journey to revolt against the world that took his mother from him all because his family wasn't born into greatness. He meets many like him who have the same drive to continue to take from the world until there's nothing left. And thus, he learns that being born into poverty can be something that sets him up for success instead of setting him back.
Terror in Resonance
Where to stream: Crunchyroll
The third and final aspect we admire about Arcane is how far the characters are willing to go to flip the world on its head, no matter what side they're on. Although on different sides with different methods, Vi and Jynx are simply doing what they can to tear or alter the flawed system down from the top up. This desperation for a new world is a heavy burden that these characters will stoop to any length to see come true.
Terror in Resonance tells the story of two boys who seek to destroy everything from the inside out. Amid their disdain for their current world, they meet a young girl who offers a new experience and perspective on everything they thought they once knew. Her being a breath of fresh air changes the dynamic between the young boys. But she soon realizes that her presence is too little and far too late, as these young boys want nothing more than to see the world burn.
Hopefully, you come to love these anime shows as much as we did. Only way to find out is by heading to the streaming sites mentioned above and streaming every single second!