If you’re a fan of Swallowed Star (Tunshi Xingkong), the popular Chinese 3D animated series inspired by the works of Liu Cixin, then you likely enjoy a mix of thrilling sci-fi, action, and survival themes in futuristic settings. The unique blend of post-apocalyptic storytelling, high-stakes battles, and character development in Swallowed Star has captivated audiences worldwide.
But where do you go next after finishing this anime? Here’s a list of 12 incredible anime—both Chinese and Japanese—that share similar vibes, themes, or aesthetics to Swallowed Star. Whether it’s epic fights, a futuristic backdrop, or deep world-building, these anime are worth your time.
1. Soul Land (斗罗大陆 / Douluo Dalu)
Why it’s similar:
If you enjoy the growth journey of the protagonist Luo Feng in Swallowed Star, you’ll love Soul Land. This Chinese anime (donghua) centers around Tang San, a young man reincarnated in a mystical world where people cultivate spirit powers. It’s packed with action, intricate world-building, and the thrill of leveling up in a world that tests your resolve.
Key Themes:
- Cultivation and growth
- Intense action and strategy
- Stunning visuals and character development
2. Stellar Transformations (星辰变 / Xing Chen Bian)
Why it’s similar:
Both Swallowed Star and Stellar Transformations are based on novels by I Eat Tomatoes (Wo Chi Xi Hong Shi). This story follows Qin Yu, who embarks on a cosmic journey to unlock his potential in a universe filled with martial arts and divine powers.
Key Themes:
- Cosmic adventures
- Overcoming impossible odds
- Strong sense of progression
3. The King’s Avatar (全职高手 / Quan Zhi Gao Shou)
Why it’s similar:
Although this is an esports-themed series, The King’s Avatar shares similar energy with Swallowed Star through its strategic battles and dedication to excellence. It follows Ye Xiu, a professional gamer rebuilding his career in the competitive gaming scene. Both shows showcase meticulous planning and the power of perseverance.
Key Themes:
- Strategic battles
- Competitive spirit
- Character-focused storytelling
4. Knight’s & Magic (骑士&魔法 / Qí Shì Yǔ Mó Fǎ)
Why it’s similar:
In Knight’s & Magic, mechas take center stage. The story revolves around a genius programmer reincarnated into a medieval fantasy world with giant robots. Fans of Swallowed Star will enjoy the mix of futuristic tech and exhilarating battles.
Key Themes:
- Futuristic technology
- Tactical mecha combat
- Aspirational hero
5. Legend of the Galactic Heroes (银河英雄传说 / Yinhe Yingxiong Chuan Shuo)
Why it’s similar:
If the grand-scale conflicts and sci-fi themes of Swallowed Star drew you in, then Legend of the Galactic Heroes is a must-watch. This anime is a space opera masterpiece with political intrigue, large-scale battles, and philosophical undertones.
Key Themes:
- Galactic wars
- Thought-provoking narrative
- Immersive world-building
6. Battle Through the Heavens (斗破苍穹 / Dou Po Cang Qiong)
Why it’s similar:
This donghua is another epic tale of perseverance and growth. Xiao Yan, the protagonist, seeks to reclaim his lost power and status in a world governed by martial arts. Like Swallowed Star, it blends emotional stakes with jaw-dropping battles.
Key Themes:
- Rising from adversity
- Emotional character arcs
- Intense cultivation battles
7. No Game No Life (游戏人生 / Yóu Xì Rén Shēng)
Why it’s similar:
While No Game No Life is lighter in tone, it shares the theme of high-stakes survival in a world where strategy and intellect are key. Sora and Shiro, two gaming prodigies, must navigate a fantastical world by mastering its rules.
Key Themes:
- Survival through wit
- Vibrant visuals
- Complex world rules
8. Alderamin on the Sky (发条精灵战记 天镜的极北之星 / Fà Tiáo Jīng Líng Zhàn Jì Tiān Jìng De Jí Běi Zhī Xīng)
Why it’s similar:
This anime focuses on strategy-driven warfare in a fantastical setting. It follows Ikta Solork, a lazy yet brilliant tactician, as he rises to become a military leader. If you enjoyed the planning and tactical elements of Swallowed Star, this is for you.
Key Themes:
- Tactical brilliance
- Futuristic weapons in a historical setting
- Dynamic characters
9. God Eater (噬神者 / Shì Shén Zhě)
Why it’s similar:
Set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by monstrous creatures, God Eater mirrors the high-stakes survival and battle-heavy themes of Swallowed Star. The story revolves around humanity’s last stand using advanced weapons known as God Arcs.
Key Themes:
- Post-apocalyptic survival
- Human resilience
- Action-packed visuals
10. Terraformars (火星异种 / Huǒ Xīng Yì Zhǒng)
Why it’s similar:
This anime follows humanity’s attempt to colonize Mars, only to face a hostile species of humanoid cockroaches. Like Swallowed Star, it’s filled with intense battles, evolution, and survival in a sci-fi setting.
Key Themes:
- Survival of the fittest
- Evolution and adaptation
- Sci-fi horror
11. Appleseed (苹果核战记 / Píng Guǒ Hé Zhàn Jì)
Why it’s similar:
For fans of futuristic dystopias and sleek mecha designs, Appleseed is a must-watch. It combines cyberpunk aesthetics with thrilling battles, echoing the futuristic elements in Swallowed Star.
Key Themes:
- Cyberpunk setting
- Advanced technology
- Action-packed narrative
12. Attack on Titan (进击的巨人 / Jìn Jī De Jù Rén)
Why it’s similar:
This global sensation explores survival in a world under constant threat from colossal beings. The high stakes, strategic battles, and emotional depth of Attack on Titan will resonate with Swallowed Star fans.
Key Themes:
- Survival against overwhelming odds
- Emotional storytelling
- Strategic and intense battles
Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking for more of the adrenaline-pumping action, intricate world-building, and emotional stakes that made Swallowed Star so captivating, these 12 anime won’t disappoint. From Chinese donghua with rich cultivation stories to Japanese classics that dive into dystopian futures, there’s something here for every fan of sci-fi and epic storytelling.
Dive into these recommendations and discover your next binge-worthy adventure! Let me know which one becomes your favorite!
