Already loving Apple TV's Chief of War? Watch these 7 similar shows next, and you won't regret it

Apple TV's recent show, Chief of War, has received praise for its stunning visuals and compelling performances in the period drama genre. It has also garnered attention for its thorough research and authentic depiction of Hawaiian history, earning a 7.8 rating on IMDb. If you've watched Chief of War and can't get enough of its vibe, there are more options you can explore.

They offer the same immersive storytelling, cultural depth, and sweeping visuals. Choices include shows like Shōgun, set in 17th-century Japan, and Vikings, which depict tribal conflicts with gritty plots.

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Here are seven epic shows you must watch if you liked Chief of War

Chief of War centers on Ka'iana, who returns to his hometown from exile after being branded a traitor. Ka'iana is determined to fight for the unification of Hawai'i's islands but ends up battling a greedy king eager for dominance, even if unification occurs. The show features smart, action-packed sequences filled with political intrigue and drama, as Ka'iana proves himself as one of the greatest warriors of all.

If you like the Apple TV show, you must watch these seven shows.

1. Shōgun (2024– 2026 )

Shōgun is an FX/Hulu series adapted from James Clavell’s novel, set in 17th-century Japan during a time of intense political upheaval just before the Tokugawa Shogunate unifies the country. The show opens by depicting the ruler's death, which leads to a power vacuum. Rival warlords compete for control, with Lord Yoshii Toranaga at the center, a brilliant but outnumbered feudal lord.

Therefore, this series features similar political intrigue, shifting allegiances, and cultural identity at its core, with strong parallels to Chief of War in tone and depth.

2. The Last Kingdom (2015–2022)

This show depicts the Viking invasion of England during the 9th and 10th centuries. The series follows Uhtred, a Saxon raised by Vikings, as he balances personal loyalty with political ambition.

Like the Chief of War, this show is built on meticulous research and combines real history with fictional characters. You can identify characters inspired by actual history, similar to the Apple TV show.

3. Vikings (2013–2020),

Vikings is based on the legendary Viking chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants. This period drama starts in 8th-9th century Scandinavia, during the Viking Age. Lothbrok is a farmer and warrior who wants to sail west. He eventually defies his local ruler and invades England, sparking conflict within his own family and community, as well as with the foreign kingdom.

A parallel can be drawn between the Chief of War and the political instability depicted in the show, as well as the protagonist's decision to act against the will of others.

4. Barkskins (2020)

Barkskins centers on colonization as its main theme. Set in 17th-century New France, the story begins as French settlers, missionaries, soldiers, and traders arrive in the rugged forests of New France. Two woodcutters are sent to the land for the colony, but they become entangled in a web of greed, survival, and shifting loyalties. This show resonates with the Apple TV series for its story of colonists, indigenous people, and characters whose loyalty shifts repeatedly.

5. Marco Polo (2014–2016)

Marco Polo depicts Marco traveling from Venice to the court of Kublai Khan with his merchant father. Kublai is Genghis Khan's grandson and the Mongol ruler of China.

As the story suggests, you can expect political and sexual intrigue, along with some unique costumes and visual brilliance in the show, just like the Chief of War.

6. Band of Brothers (WWII War Drama)

Band of Brothers depicts the reign of the East India Company and explores themes of colonization, discrimination, and exploitation. This show is not set in ancient times but still provides an indigenous perspective, similar to the Apple TV show, along with some wartime camaraderie.

7. Vikings: Valhalla (2022–2024)

A follow-up to Vikings, this series examines internal divisions, cultural changes, and the decline of an era. Similar to the Apple TV show, it focuses on shifting identity and power.

Therefore, all these shows offer historically rich stories and immersive worlds that explore lost civilizations. Like Chief of War, many highlight non-Western or indigenous perspectives, which are rarely represented in mainstream TV.