Magic, epic battles, noble knights, and terrifying monsters.
Anime is one of the few havens of high fantasy about other worlds, which we rarely get to see in movies or on TV.
But the main thing is that, unlike Western animators, anime creators do not consider fantasy to be children's fairy tales and are not afraid to show intricate plots, brutal battles and political intrigue.
1. Fate/Zero, 2011-2012
Gen Urobuchi, who wrote the original light novel, can be compared to George R.R. Martin. Both authors share a dark and nihilistic view of reality.
This fantasy anime is set in the modern city of Fuyuki. The plot of Fate/Zero revolves around the battle between seven magicians for the Holy Grail – a magical artifact that can grant any wish to its owner.
This is the fourth battle for the coveted trophy, and seven masters of magic will meet in a deadly battle for the magical artifact.
2. Berserk, 1997-1998
Kentaro Miura's dark fantasy manga has been adapted three times, but the first series from 1997 is considered a classic.
It's the story of a medieval world ravaged by war, of Guts, who fights with a giant sword, and of the refined knight Griffith, who has taken Guts into his army.
Ahead of these and other characters lie not only heroic deeds, but also hardships. An endless war rages around them, characters go mad and betray friends, and terrible monsters and terrible people stand in their way.
3. Guin Saga, 2009
This is the story of a cursed warrior in the form of a leopard who remembers nothing of his past. One day he rescues the royal offspring Rinda and Remus, and now they are destined to go through many trials together.
Guin Saga is based on a series of fantasy novels by Kaoru Kurimoto. The first novel was published in 1979 and immediately became popular among fantasy fans. Guin Saga is a truly epic fantasy anime, and it is not surprising that Kaoru Kurimoto's novels are often compared to The Lord of the Rings.
4. Maoyu: Archenemy & Hero, 2013
The medieval lands are torn by war – for years, humans and demons have been fighting for zones of influence. The leader of the human forces, the Hero, manages to reach the castle of the Demon Queen.
Instead of fierce resistance, he stumbles upon a strange offer. The Demon Queen wants to form an alliance with him. If one of the leaders dies and the war ends now, even darker times will come.
It's just that neither side, suffering from years of conflict, is ready for peace – both are waiting for terrible civil wars. Here, a different plan is needed. The Hero, agreeing with the words of the Demon Queen, accepts the offer.
5. Claymore, 2007
This fantasy anime is set in a fictional medieval era. Claymores are young women who are trained at an early age to fight monsters. Only a few receive this title and are forced to serve the organization.
All Claymores have blonde hair and silver eyes. The warriors must protect the people from the youma – demons that feed on humans and can take human form. As bloody as Berserk, Claymore is all about monster battles, tragic deaths, and overcoming obstacles.