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Arcane, a Netflix series created by Christian Linke and Alex Yee, is a spectacular combination of animation, action, and adventure. While Season 1 was released in November 2021, Season 2 premiered on November 9, 2024.
According to the League of Legends universe, Arcane investigates the world's unstable nature on the one side, the utopian metropolis of Piltover on the other, and the filthy and oppressive underbelly of Zaun. Arcane provided the audience with a feeling of emotion, action, and beautiful design. A large number of fans are now seeking programs that are as emotionally intense and thrilling as Arcane.
The list features 7 TV shows with rich worlds, emotional stories & strong characters like Arcane. Whether set in magical lands or futuristic cities, each series explores pain, love & change. You do not need to play the games to enjoy them. These shows stay with you long after they end. Check out SoapCentral's brief overview of Arcane on point 6.
*Disclaimer: This article is based on the author's opinions. Reader discretion is advised.*
This article explores 7 shows like Arcane that’ll pull you into worlds just as dark and dazzling:
7. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)
Avatar: The Last Airbender is a beloved show of many people. In a world where some people can manipulate water, fire, earth, or air by special moves, Aang is a young boy with a large responsibility. He needs to learn all four powers and end a dreadful war. He travels with a tight-knit group of colleagues and a flying bison who assists everyone in getting about. The story is rich in heart and action. The music is so great that it's been performed live during concerts. As the series progresses, the characters change and mature in authentic ways.
In Arcane, Vi and Jinx split apart following an explosion. In Avatar, Zuko struggles between honor and love. Every narrative combines heart and strength.
If you like Arcane, you'll like how the world and emotions are constructed across a period of time. It is designed for children, yet it addresses serious subjects. If you prefer a piece with older characters and a darker aesthetic, try the live-action adaptation.
6. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners (2022)
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, like Arcane, takes viewers to a surreal future. The series is set amidst the neon lights of tall buildings and technology that's consumed in everyday life. People invest all their hopes in mighty machines, but nothing is wholly in their hands. The main plot revolves around a little boy named David, who is striving to survive as everything around him falls apart. He meets a gang of people known as Edgerunners, who are willing to risk everything for money and liberty. Audiences are treated to action battles in robot suits, fast-paced scenarios, and vibrant colors. The series got 8.3 out of 10 on IMDb. One IMDb user reviewed and said,
"I went into this show expecting a cool sci-fi experience! Instead, I got a rollercoaster ride that I won't soon forget!"
Like Arcane, the series alternates between sensitive character sequences and insane, hazardous exploits. As technology transforms our world, it challenges our understanding of humanity. Even when it's bleak, there are moments of hope and camaraderie. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners is thrilling and sentimental with a world as rich and resplendent as Arcane's city. Many viewers are drawn to its quickness and flair.
5. Blue Eye Samurai (2023)
Blue Eye Samurai has a unique combination of darkness and beauty. The plot is set in Japan during the Edo era, but the world is much larger with its magnificent landscapes and dark shades. The protagonist is an excellent swordswoman with blue eyes who suffers as a result of her difference. She embarks on the mission in search of vengeance and justice, fending against formidable foes. Here is a glimpse of the series's cast on Netflix's Instagram.
The animation is vibrant and vivid, and the sceneries resemble works of art. Similar to Arcane, the series centers around tough guys and defenseless women. Despite all the action and heart-stopping battles, Blue Eye Samurai is a picture that doesn't let its underlying plot go. Emotion and action are combined in the show to engage the viewers in each twist and turn. It is world-building and strong characters that make it deserve to be watched, according to many fans, as bold as Arcane.
Facts: Blue Eye Samurai is all set for a 2026 release for Season 2!
4. The Dragon Prince (2018)
The Dragon Prince takes viewers into a vibrant world like Arcane. This animated series is set in worlds of vibrant colors, mysterious creatures, and mighty spells. It begins by placing two princes and an elf assassin together, who are stuck cooperating to prevent a great war. Along the way, they find great secrets about friendship and trust. The animation is smooth and vibrant, bringing each world and character to life. Viewers rated this show 8.2/10 on IMDb. Fans on IMDb commented,
"This show is like the sphinx, or like the leaning tower of Pisa. 99% perfect. The flaws add to the perfection."
Like Arcane, The Dragon Prince also has a mix of somber scenes and heartwarming moments, which keep viewers invested. The show is watched for its rich characters who are placed in genuine perils and hard choices. Every season also reveals new secrets and exciting adventures. The story addresses important issues such as right and wrong, as well as the burden of leadership. The Dragon Prince will appeal to viewers who enjoy series with a rich setting and fascinating characters.
3. Castlevania (2017)
Castlevania made Netflix a great home for video game-inspired animated series. It lasted for four seasons and narrated the life of Trevor Belmont. He is the last remaining member of a monster-killing family. Trevor attempted to rescue the people of Wallachia from Dracula. Dracula lived a peaceful life along with his wife, but after being murdered for being a witch, he transformed. He summoned demons to ravage the land. The series is action-packed and bloody. It is great to see its voice cast and how real its characters are. One IMDb user said,
"Really solid production from Netflix that knows its target audience and doesn't pull any punches."
Castlevania and Arcane both depict intense sorrow and damaged families. Arcane portrays Vi witnessing Powder's loss of control and transformation into Jinx after a gruesome explosion. That situation is reminiscent of Trevor watching Dracula turn dark after losing his wife. Both shows combine love and sorrow with fierce battles and fantastic animation. They are a great choice if you liked the lead series and want more of it.
If you liked Castlevania, there is a spin-off titled Castlevania Nocturne (2023). It adds new tales and new battles to the pre-existing narrative. Season 2 of Nocturne was released on January 16, 2025. They are great for anyone who likes dark fantasy and powerful protagonists.
2. Dota: Dragon's Blood (2021)
DOTA: Dragon's Blood is a series that brings action and magic to life. It does not require playing the game to watch it. The story follows Davion, a man who takes pride in his ability to hunt dragons. His life is transformed when he receives the strength of a dragon within himself. He now has to defend those same dragons that he used to try to kill. This gives his life a rollercoaster of conflict and development. The series features high-scale fights and powerful magic. It also includes romance and humour to juxtapose its darkness. Throughout his journey, Davion encounters a variety of characters and learns to trust them.
The series is similar to shows like Castlevania & The Dragon Prince, which are listed at 4 and 3 on the list. Have a look at the 'oneesports' Instagram:
If viewers enjoy Arcane, they will appreciate how it blends emotion and authority. DOTA: Dragon's Blood consists of three seasons, each of which builds the narrative step by step. It is a good choice for anyone interested in fantasy with heart and great characters.
1. The Witcher (2019)
The Witcher is about a man called Geralt who is a monster hunter in a treacherous world of magic. He is a quiet, physically strong man who is a kind-hearted individual. One day, he becomes a guardian of a young princess called Ciri. She is a girl who has powers that have a way of changing everything. Their relationship builds slowly, and it feels genuine. Geralt is also deeply involved with a woman called Yennefer. She is a powerful lady who wants to feel more in control of her life.
It's not a show about brawls and spells all of the time. It's about family, trust, and how people change. Some are born into families, while others discover them along the way. The battles are impressive, and the music is stuck in your head. Lauren Schmidt, the creator & showrunner of the show, told Netflix regarding Season 4,
“We’re thrilled to be able to bring Andrzej Sapkowski’s books to an epic and satisfying conclusion.”
It will be enjoyable for fans of Arcane as it's a mix of action and emotions. Season 4 will have a new actor as Geralt of Rivia (Liam Hemsworth), but the basic storyline will remain unchanged.
Facts: The Witcher Season 4 premieres on October 30, 2025. Keep your eye on Netflix!
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These 7 shows will provide the fans of Arcane with rich worlds, deep emotions, and strong stories. They illustrated the metamorphosis of people in battle and, like Arcane, blended action and emotion. Every series listed illustrates how great stories can be personal and unforgettable.
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