If you’ve been captivated by the visually stunning, strategically intense world of Slay the Gods (also known as Zhan Shen: Fanchen Shen Yu), you’re not alone. This breakout donghua hit has redefined what we expect from Chinese anime, blending modern urban fantasy with breathtaking 3D animation and a uniquely dark premise. But once you’ve binged through Lin Qiye’s journey of mastering gods in an asylum, where do you go next?
Look no further! We’ve curated a list of 10 Chinese anime (and even some Japanese anime) that capture the same spirit of overpowered main characters, intricate power systems, dark urban fantasy, and jaw-dropping visuals. Whether you’re hunting for more donghua like Slay the Gods or simply anime like Slay the Gods, this list has you covered.
A Quick Review of Slay the Gods Donghua (Zhan Shen: Fanchen Shen Yu)
Before we dive into the recommendations, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Slay the Gods donghua so compelling. The series introduces us to Lin Qiye, a blind teenager whose internal world is an asylum for mythological deities. He “treats” and eventually harvests powers from these captured gods—from Nyx to Michael the Seraph—while navigating the dangerous modern world.
What makes it great: The animation quality is absolutely top-tier, especially during its psychedelic domain expansions. It offers a fresh take on the OP MC trope, with Lin Qiye relying more on strategy and cunning than brute force. The blend of various mythologies into an urban fantasy setting is a unique and engaging twist.
Where it might test you: The first season is a slow burn, serving as a massive prologue to a grander narrative. Some of the dialogue and “edgy” teen moments might feel a bit cliché, and like many adaptations, it simplifies some of the novel’s intricate details. Despite these minor points, Slay the Gods is a must-watch for its innovative premise and visual spectacle, solidifying its place as a standout Chinese anime with an OP MC.
Our Top 10 Recommendations for Fans of Slay the Gods
Here are the shows that will scratch that Slay the Gods itch:
1. The Demon Hunter (Cang Yuan Tu)
From the same incredible studio (Shenman) as Slay the Gods, The Demon Hunter pushes the boundaries of 3D animation. Expect fluid, artistic fight scenes and a constantly evolving world. If you loved the visual flair of Zhan Shen: Fanchen Shen Yu, this is your next stop.
2. Throne of Seal (Shen Yin Wang Zuo)
Another masterpiece from Shenman, Throne of Seal delivers high fantasy with a “chosen one” narrative. The sense of scale and divine power progression will resonate with fans of Lin Qiye’s journey, albeit in a more traditional heroic setting. This is a prime example of donghua like Slay the Gods in terms of production quality.
3. Swallowed Star (Tunshi Xingkong)
For those who enjoy the “urban fantasy” aspect of Slay the Gods but crave a sci-fi twist, Swallowed Star is perfect. Luo Feng, the MC, navigates a post-apocalyptic Earth and eventually battles aliens across the galaxy. His mentalist powers and the looming cosmic threats offer a similar “existential stakes” feel.
4. Rakshasa Street (Zhen Hun Jie)
This is a fantastic 2D/3D hybrid Chinese anime that dives deep into a modern urban setting where humans with “Guardian Spirits” protect the living world. The concept of summoning powerful historical or mythical figures to fight is very akin to Lin Qiye leveraging his captive gods. A truly unique anime like Slay the Gods with a darker tone.
5. Lord of the Mysteries (Upcoming/Current)
Based on arguably the most famous Chinese webnovel, Lord of the Mysteries is an intricately woven tale of Victorian steampunk, secret societies, and Lovecraftian horror. The MC’s journey to becoming a “Beyonder” and eventually leading a clandestine group of powerful individuals offers a slow-burn, strategic power climb that Slay the Gods fans will appreciate. This is definitely one to watch if you like nuanced OP MC narratives.
6. Full-Time Magister (Quanzhi Fashi)
If you enjoy the “hidden magic in a modern school” vibe, Full-Time Magister delivers an OP MC who possesses rare dual-element magic. While 2D, its focus on magic academies, secret monster invasions, and a protagonist who constantly defies expectations makes it a great entry in Chinese anime with an OP MC.
7. The Outcast (Hitori no Shita)
A collaboration between Chinese and Japanese studios, The Outcast combines modern supernatural elements with intense martial arts. Its world of “Outcasts” (users of hidden arts) and secret organizations operating within society is reminiscent of the shadowy forces at play in Slay the Gods. Expect incredible fight choreography.
8. Dragon Raja (Long Zu)
This high-budget Chinese anime offers cinematic quality animation within a contemporary setting. It follows students with dragon bloodlines attending a mysterious academy to fight ancient dragons. If you love the blend of everyday life with monumental, hidden powers, Dragon Raja provides that epic scale.
9. Jujutsu Kaisen (Japanese Anime)
For those open to Japanese anime, Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-see. Its dark urban fantasy setting, secret sorcerer society, and an MC who hosts a powerful entity (Sukuna) within him share thematic similarities with Lin Qiye’s situation. The action and world-building are top-tier.
10. Noragami (Japanese Anime)
A slightly lighter but still compelling Japanese anime, Noragami explores the lives of gods in modern Japan. It deals with divine conflicts, lesser gods striving for recognition, and the intricate relationship between the human and spiritual worlds, offering a different perspective on “god-slaying” and interactions with deities.
Whether you’re yearning for more spectacular 3D battles, complex power systems, or urban fantasy tales with a dark edge, these 10 anime recommendations provide plenty to explore after you’ve thoroughly enjoyed Slay the Gods. Happy watching!
Last Updated on January 29, 2026 by Yu Alexius
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