Introduction to Anime Like High School DxD
For many fans, High School DxD represents the gold standard of the "battle harem" subgenre. It is a series that masterfully balances high-octane supernatural warfare with unapologetic fan service and surprisingly deep lore. If you have finished the adventures of Issei Hyoudou and are looking for something similar, you are likely searching for that specific blend of comedy, romance, and intense action.
Finding an anime like highschool of the dxd can be a challenge because the series sets a high bar for its production values and character development. Whether it is the mythical themes involving devils and angels or the slow-burn romance within a growing harem, fans crave stories that don't sacrifice plot for the sake of ecchi elements. In this guide, we dive into the best anime like High School DxD to help you find your next obsession.
What Makes High School DxD Unique
What separates High School DxD from the average ecchi series is its commitment to its world-building. While the "Oppai Dragon" antics provide comedic relief, the underlying conflict involving the Three Factions (Devils, Angels, and Fallen Angels) creates a high-stakes environment where characters actually grow and face consequences. Issei’s journey from a perverted high schooler to a respected warrior is a genuine underdog story.
Furthermore, the "Peerage" system, based on chess pieces, adds a strategic layer to the combat that many other battle harems lack. Each character in Rias Gremory’s household has a specific role and unique abilities, making the ensemble cast feel indispensable. This combination of mythology, shonen-style progression, and a charismatic protagonist makes it a difficult act to follow, but certainly not an impossible one.
Defining the Supernatural Harem and Ecchi Genres
To find the best action ecchi anime recommendations, we must first understand the pillars of the genre. A supernatural harem anime series typically involves a male protagonist who gains extraordinary powers and finds himself surrounded by a variety of female characters, often with supernatural origins themselves (vampires, devils, or spirits).
The "ecchi" tag refers to the lighthearted, suggestive themes that permeate these shows. However, the best battle harem anime series of 2026 use these elements to enhance the character dynamics rather than distract from them. These shows often explore themes of destiny, forbidden love, and the struggle to protect one's chosen family against overwhelming odds, all while maintaining a playful and romantic tone.
Criteria for Ranking Similar Series
When selecting anime similar to High School DxD, we used several key metrics to ensure the recommendations hit the right notes for fans. We didn't just look for "harem" shows; we looked for series that share the DNA of Issei's journey. Our criteria included:
- Balance of Action and Ecchi: Does the show provide high-quality combat alongside its fan service?
- Supernatural Elements: Does the plot involve mythology, magic, or non-human entities?
- Protagonist Growth: Does the main character evolve in power and maturity over time?
- Harem Dynamics: Are the female leads distinct characters with their own motivations?
- Production Quality: Is the animation and voice acting up to the standards of modern top ecchi action fantasy anime?
10 Best Anime Like High School DxD, Ranked
1. The Testament of Sister New Devil (Shinmai Maou no Testament)
This is widely considered the closest relative to High School DxD. It features a protagonist, Basara Toujou, who discovers his new sisters are actually a demon lord and a succubus. The series leans heavily into the "Master and Servant" contract dynamic and features intense battles against demonic forces that rival DxD in both scale and fan service.
2. Date A Live
Shido Itsuka must save the world by dating "Spirits"—powerful celestial beings that cause massive destruction. Much like Issei, Shido’s power is tied to his relationships. The series has incredible production values and a vast lore involving secret organizations and complex timelines, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy the supernatural harem anime series vibe.
3. Rosario + Vampire
Set in a secret academy for monsters, Tsukune Aono is a human who accidentally enrolls and meets Moka Akashiya, a beautiful vampire. While the first season is more of a romantic comedy, the second season (and the manga especially) shifts into a high-stakes battle harem that mirrors the progression found in High School DxD.
4. Trinity Seven
Arata Kasuga is a refreshing protagonist who is just as honest about his desires as Issei. To save his cousin, he must master magic at a specialized school, surrounded by seven powerful mages. The magic system is complex, and the banter between Arata and the girls provides some of the best comedy in the genre.
5. Strike the Blood
Kojou Akatsuki is the world’s most powerful vampire, and he is "monitored" by a beautiful sword-shaman named Yukina. The action is top-tier, and the series utilizes a "blood-drinking" mechanic to unlock new powers, creating a unique dynamic between the protagonist and his harem that feels very much like the power-ups seen in DxD.
6. Freezing
Set in a future where "Pandoras" (genetically modified girls) fight alien invaders, Freezing offers a darker, more visceral take on the action ecchi genre. While it is more serious than DxD, the partnership between the Pandoras and their male "Limiters" creates a bond-based power system that fans of Issei and Rias will appreciate.
7. So I Can't Play H\! (Dakara Boku wa, H ga Dekinai)
The title might sound purely comedic, but this show features a surprisingly emotional story about a pact between a human boy and a Goddess of Death. Ryosuke Kaga, like Issei, gains strength from his "perverted energy," leading to some hilarious yet high-stakes supernatural battles.
8. Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? (DanMachi)
While the ecchi elements are more subtle, Bell Cranel’s journey is the quintessential "zero-to-hero" story. He serves under Hestia, a goddess with a small "Familia," and works to become stronger to catch up to his idol. The RPG-style growth and mythological setting make it a spiritual successor to the better parts of DxD's plot.
9. Demon King Daimao
Akuto Sai wants to be a high priest but is prophesied to become the Demon King. He quickly finds himself surrounded by girls who either want to kill him or serve him. It’s a classic high school fantasy setting with a protagonist who struggles with a dark destiny, much like Issei’s struggle with the Ddraig's power.
10. Sekirei
Minato Sahashi is caught in a deadly "game" where he must partner with superpowered beings called Sekirei. The show focuses on the "Winged" bond between Minato and his partners, which grants them incredible strength. It is an action-heavy series that perfectly encapsulates the battle harem trope.
Top Action-Packed Supernatural Recommendations
If you specifically love the warfare aspect of High School DxD, you should look toward series that prioritize combat choreography and power scaling. Shows like Campione! involve protagonists who slay gods and steal their powers, leading to epic confrontations. These stories often rely on the harem animation tropes to provide emotional weight to the battles.
Another excellent choice is Aesthetica of a Rogue Hero. It flips the script by following a hero who has already defeated the demon king in another world and returns to Earth with the demon king's daughter. It’s gritty, action-oriented, and features a confident protagonist who doesn't shy away from his strength or his harem.
Best High School Romance with Fantasy Elements
For those who prefer the "High School" part of the title, there are several series that focus on the daily lives of supernatural students. Omamori Himari follows a young boy protected by a cat demon bodyguard on his 16th birthday. It balances the "monster-of-the-week" format with a growing household of supernatural beauties.
The Familiar of Zero is another classic. While set in a different world, it focuses on the relationship between a failing mage and the human she summons from Earth. Their bickering romance and eventual growth into a powerhouse duo captures the same heart that Issei and Rias share in their quieter moments.
Honorable Mentions: Other Must-Watch Harem Series
The world of battle harems is vast, and there are a few more titles that deserve a spot on your watchlist if you are searching for anime like highschool of the dxd. Heaven's Lost Property offers some of the best comedy in the genre, while Infinite Stratos focuses on a futuristic school where only women (and one boy) can pilot powerful mech suits.
If you are looking for something more modern with high-definition animation, check out Chivalry of a Failed Knight. While it has a smaller harem focus, the relationship between the two leads is one of the best in the genre, and the sword-fighting animation is legendary among fans of action-heavy fantasy.
Conclusion: Finding Your Next Favorite Supernatural Anime
High School DxD left a lasting legacy because it proved that an ecchi series could have a heart, a brain, and a lot of muscle. Whether you choose to jump into the demonic politics of The Testament of Sister New Devil or the celestial dates of Date A Live, you are sure to find a series that captures that same magic.
The key to enjoying these recommendations is to look for the balance that suits you best. Some fans want more action, while others want more romance. No matter your preference, the supernatural harem genre continues to thrive in 2026, offering new stories that push the boundaries of imagination. You can keep up with the latest legal releases on platforms like Crunchyroll to ensure you never miss a new episode of your favorite battle harem.
