Not into OP protagonists? Here are some alternatives worth checking out.
So, you gave Solo Leveling a shot, and it just didn’t do it for you. Totally fair. Not every anime is for everyone, even when it’s getting a ton of hype. Whether it was the game-like structure, the nonstop power scaling, or the lack of character depth that didn’t sit right, there are other shows out there that might match your taste better.
Here’s a full list of anime you might enjoy more if Solo Leveling just wasn’t your style.
1. Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World
If Jin-Woo’s overpowered journey felt too easy or predictable, give Re:Zero a shot. The main character, Subaru, is your average guy who gets thrown into a fantasy world, but instead of getting OP powers, he just… dies. A lot.
His only ability is “Return by Death,” which resets time every time he dies. He remembers everything, but no one else does. So, the show ends up being more about emotional struggle, decision-making, and trauma than it is about getting stronger. It’s dark, stressful, and honestly, super engaging.
2. Grimgar: Ashes and Illusions
This one is way more grounded. A bunch of strangers wake up in a fantasy world with no memories and are forced to survive. And they suck at it.
They struggle to kill even basic enemies. The fights are clumsy, the teamwork is messy, and nothing comes easy. There’s no cheat system here, just hard-earned survival. If you want something that makes you feel every win and every loss, Grimgar hits the mark.
3. World Trigger
If you prefer brains over brute force, World Trigger is a great pick. Earth is under threat by creatures from another world, and the organization Border defends it using futuristic weapons called Triggers.
The main character, Osamu, is not strong at all. But he’s smart. He’s a strategist who leads his team with tactics, not power. The show is more about teamwork and careful planning than solo hero moments.
4. Attack on Titan
Felt like Solo Leveling was a little too repetitive? Try Attack on Titan. What starts off as humans fighting giant monsters turns into something way deeper, with political twists, moral questions, and insane reveals.
The plot shifts constantly, keeping you on edge. It’s full of surprises that make you rethink everything as you go.
5. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
This one is often called a must-watch for good reason. It’s got strong action, but more importantly, it’s built around complex themes like sacrifice, loss, and the dangers of chasing power.
It follows two brothers trying to fix the mess they made using alchemy. The story also gives a lot of attention to the side characters, which helps the world feel more lived-in. If you wanted more balance between main and supporting characters, this one delivers.
Related: Fullmetal Alchemist Creator Explains Why She Doesn’t Use Social Media
6. Shinsekai Yori (From the New World)
Shinsekai Yori is slow-paced, but in a good way. It’s set in a future society where people have psychic powers, and the main cast slowly discovers the dark secrets hiding beneath their peaceful world.
This one is all about suspense and atmosphere. If Solo Leveling felt too fast or shallow, Shinsekai Yori gives you a dense, eerie world to sink into.
7. Durarara!!
If one of your complaints was that Solo Leveling only focused on Jin-Woo, then Durarara!! is the exact opposite. This anime is all about its side characters, actually, there’s no real “main character” at all.
The story jumps between different people in a chaotic version of Ikebukuro, where gang wars, supernatural events, and street legends all blend together. Every character matters, and even minor ones come back in unexpected ways.
8. Hunter x Hunter
One of the best ensemble cast shows out there. Gon starts the series trying to find his dad, but over time, the story focuses on a wide range of characters with their own goals and arcs.
You’ll see everyone from his best friend Killua to antagonists like Hisoka get full development and screen time. Also, the Nen system is super detailed and isn’t just about power, it’s about creativity, thinking, and emotional weight.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen
Some people said Solo Leveling felt too much like a video game. If you’re one of them, then Jujutsu Kaisen is probably a better fit.
The show still has fights and power systems, but it’s based on cursed energy rather than stats or numbers. The battles are intense, smart, and visually insane, but it all feels natural in the world, nothing “gamified” about it.
Also Read: 20 Highest Rated Anime In Japan (2025 Edition)
10. Demon Slayer
Tanjiro doesn’t have a system helping him grind to power. He just trains hard, learns new breathing techniques, and gets stronger the old-fashioned way. The animation is top-tier, and the emotional core, his mission to save his sister, is super compelling.
There are no level-ups, just honest effort and personal growth. A lot of people who didn’t like Solo Leveling found Demon Slayer more grounded and heartfelt.
11. Mob Psycho 100
Mob is another insanely powerful protagonist, but he wants none of the attention. He’s trying to live a normal life and control his emotions, not be a hero.
This show balances amazing fight scenes with wholesome humor and real introspection. It’s a story about figuring out who you are, even when you’re built different. Definitely worth a shot if you want a more thoughtful take on power.
At the end of the day, Solo Leveling isn’t bad. But if it wasn’t for you, there’s a whole world of anime that handles similar themes in totally different ways, ones that dig deeper into psychology, world-building, character development, or just take a less gamey approach to fantasy storytelling. Not every anime needs a shadow army to be compelling. Sometimes, all it takes is struggle, strategy, or heart.
