10 best anime like The Elusive Samurai you need to watch

Fans often search for anime like The Elusive Samurai because the series has captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline that follows young lord Tokiyuki's perilous journey to reclaim his position after his family is massacred.

Set during the tumultuous Kenmu Restoration period, this anime promises intense sword fights, political intrigues, and a vibrant recreation of feudal Japan. For fans who have enjoyed this unique blend of historical fiction, political drama, and coming-of-age storytelling, here are 10 anime like The Elusive Samurai to add to the watchlist, listed in no particular order.

From sweeping samurai epics to nuanced ronin tales, anime like The Elusive Samurai showcase complex plots and characters, while bringing Japanese history to life through their distinct animation styles.

Vinland Saga, Dororo, and 8 best anime like The Elusive Samurai

1) Vinland Saga

Vinland Saga (Image via Wit Studio and MAPPA)

This grand anime epic dramatizes the Norwegian and Danish invasion of 11th-century England through the adventures of the Icelandic warrior, Thorfinn. Haunted by visions of his father's murder, a volatile Thorfinn navigates betrayal and skirmishes while grasping for a deeper purpose beyond the endless bloodshed around him.

Earning comparisons to Western TV fixtures like Vikings and Game of Thrones for its grounded storytelling, Vinland Saga’s backdrop of European regions devastated by violence echoes Tokiyuki’s struggle to survive grim political upheaval with wits and skill.

As Thorfinn comes to question toxic notions of vengeance and courage on the battlefront, audiences are treated to contemplative themes along with spectacular warfare animation by Studio Wit and MAPPA. Vinland Saga is a must-watch for those seeking anime like The Elusive Samurai with deep, meaningful narratives.

2) Dororo

Dororo (Image via MAPPA and Tezuka Productions)

This dark fantasy action anime is set during Japan’s Sengoku period, recounting the tale of the young heir, Hyakkimaru.

With haunting visuals and grisly monsters, Dororo chronicles Hyakkimaru’s search for the 48 demon body parts that were stolen from him by his father in exchange for prosperity. Alongside street-smart orphan Dororo, Hyakkimaru confronts foes with his evolving prosthetic body while uncovering disturbing truths.

This 2019 anime is a great addition to any list of anime like The Elusive Samurai, featuring a dispossessed youth fighting formidable enemies against all odds.

3) Sword of the Stranger

This 2007 film, directed by Masahiro Ando, centers on nameless ronin Nanashi as he protects young Kotaro, who is pursued by Ming swordsmen for mysterious reasons.

Sword of the Stranger delivers stylized action while exploring the friendship between an aimless drifter and an optimistic child. Fans of The Elusive Samurai’s Tokiyuki and his eccentric mentor, Yorishige, will relate to Nanashi and Kotaro's heartwarming bond.

As pursuit intensifies, Nanashi is forced to draw his sword once more to protect Kotaro, leading to an adrenaline-pumping final confrontation as mysteries unravel. Sword of the Stranger stands out among anime like The Elusive Samurai for its muted palette and fluid combat animation.

4) Blade of the Immortal

Blade of the Immortal (Image via LIDENFILMS)

Based on the eponymous manga series, this 2019 anime like The Elusive Samurai recounts the bloodstained journey of Manji— an immortal swordsman burdened with sin. He promises to help naive young girl Rin avenge the murder of her parents by a band of ruthless assassins.

Echoing central themes in The Elusive Samurai, Blade of the Immortal highlights the cyclic nature of vengeance, even as Rin and Manji carve through swathes of foes during intense combat scenes vibrantly animated by studio LIDENFILMS.

Beyond pulpy violence, the anime delves into thought-provoking questions around morality and redemption, making it a good choice for those seeking anime like The Elusive Samurai.

5) Ninja Scroll

This 1993 cult classic movie subverts expectations of the ninja genre, weaving a gritty tale of a vagabond ninja entangled in a web of intrigue. Jubei Kibagami encounters the Devils of Kimon— a group of superpowered mutant warriors with nefarious intentions, while trying to rescue a mysterious female ninja.

As Jubei confronts more foes— a ninja who can manipulate shadows, a snake-controlling sorceress, and a wasp-wielding giant— he matches wits and agility with enemies that seem unstoppable while working alongside Kagero.

This film shares thematic elements, making it a compelling addition to any list of anime like The Elusive Samurai.

6) Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit

Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit (Image via Production I.G)

This acclaimed fantasy series features spear-wielding female bodyguard Balsa, who vows to protect the Second Prince Chagum from his father's assassins.

After Chagum becomes host to a dangerous water spirit, the pair go on the run while grappling with courtly intrigue and conspiracy. Elegant battle scenes, mesmerizing music, and nuanced characters come together to showcase themes of sacrifice and liberation.

Fans who enjoy political tension and are seeking anime like The Elusive Samurai will be engrossed by court machinations, as Balsa draws on her combat experience to keep Chagum alive. Their soldier-civilian dynamic evokes Tokiyuki and Yorishige's unlikely partnership.

7) Inuyasha

This beloved series like The Elusive Samurai follows a time-traveling schoolgirl, Kagome, who discovers a dog-eared half-demon pinned to a sacred tree in feudal Japan. After accidentally shattering the Shikon Jewel and enabling demon resurrection, Kagome reluctantly teams up with the brash Inuyasha to recover the shards across medieval Japan rife with monsters.

Like The Elusive Samurai's Kenmu Restoration setting, the Inuyasha warring states timeline blends historical fantasy with mythic elements. Alongside blossoming romance, the odd couple dynamic of stubborn Inuyasha and compassionate Kagome mirrors the way Tokiyuki and Yorishige learn from each other.

8) Rurouni Kenshin

Set during the early Meiji period, Rurouni Kenshin centers on Himura Kenshin— once a legendary assassin, now vowing pacifism while safeguarding those in need with his reverse-bladed sword to atone for past sins. As old and new foes threaten peace, Kenshin questions if former killers can find redemption.

Like the post-war uncertainty that Tokiyuki navigates in The Elusive Samurai, Kenshin defends innocents amidst Japan’s transition towards modernization and democracy while haunted by violence in his past.

Well-developed characters, meaningful relationships based on trust, and visually impressive fight choreography from studio Deen make this poignant anime essential viewing for fans looking for anime like The Elusive Samurai.

9) Samurai Champloo

Blending an eclectic hip-hop soundtrack with Edo-period Japan as the backdrop, this acclaimed 2004 series carved a new niche. It chronicles Mugen and Jin accompanying unconventional girl Fuu to find the elusive samurai who smells of sunflowers, with violent encounters and comedic tangents aplenty.

Echoing key themes like the purpose of fighting, this globetrotting adventure animates an unlikely trio bound by necessity, reminiscent of how Tokiyuki’s distinct group of allies evolves into a loyal brotherhood over time.

Beyond dazzling swordplay, episodes spotlight cultural elements like architecture, cuisine, and attire indigenous to Japan, making it a standout among anime like The Elusive Samurai.

10) Demon Slayer

Tracing young Tanjiro Kamado’s quest to restore his sister Nezuko, who is turned into a ferocious demon, this anime like The Elusive Samurai enraptured global fandom with its relatable themes conveyed through the stunning animation by Ufotable.

As Tanjiro joins the Demon Slayer Corps to turn Nezuko human again before she loses her memories and sense of self, the siblings confront adversity with courage and compassion.

Much like the unwavering loyalty and sacrifice underpinning relationships in The Elusive Samurai, Tanjiro and Nezuko retain faith in each other despite tragedy and peril befalling them, promising tearjerker moments for viewers. With stunning backdrops and music by composer Yuki Kajiura, this anime delivers sublime craft.

Conclusion

Several anime like The Elusive Samurai provide magnificently envisioned historical settings while spotlighting the incredible resilience of outmatched heroes, driven by purpose in the face of ruthless enemies.

Focusing as much on the atmosphere as adrenaline-fueled action, these series promise viewers complex moral themes, along with flamboyant sword styles and political subterfuge set against rich cultural tapestries ranging from Edo Japan to Celtic Britain— leaving fans spoilt for choice.