With “Arcane” creating tidal waves across Netflix, the appetite for shows of a similar caliber is higher than ever. But where do you find those precious gems that fill the Arcane-sized hole in your heart?
TL;DR:
- “Arcane” soared to #1 on Netflix in 52 countries within a week.
- There are other amazing shows out there, with narratives as captivating.
- Dive into a curated list of 10 shows that deliver the Arcane experience, and possibly, even more.
When Gaming Meets Film: The “Arcane” Phenomenon
Statistics don’t lie. “Arcane” quickly became one of the most popular shows on Netflix, reaching the #1 spot in 52 countries within a week of its release. Riot Games’ venture into episodic content wasn’t just a wild swing. It was a home run. And the fact? It’s based on the famed video game “League of Legends”. This move brought the lore of Runeterra to both die-hard fans and fresh eyes, and the world ate it up.
Christian Linke, co-creator of the series, once said, “We always wanted to do a show that doesn’t just appeal to gamers but to everyone, and I think we’ve achieved that with Arcane. It’s a story about family, about choices, and about the consequences of those choices.“
Alright, enough with the background music. You’re here for a list. Here it goes:
10. Death Parade – Judgment at the Bar
- Available on Hulu, this animated series introduces us to Quindecim, a bar where souls are judged.
- Perfect if you enjoy thought-provoking narratives mixed with a bit of fun and laughter.
9. Carnival Row – Forbidden Love Meets Supernatural
- Stream it on Amazon Prime and delve into a world of magic, love, and societal clashes.
- Engaging storytelling and fantastic acting – it’s an Arcane fan’s cup of tea.
8. The Dark Crystal: Age Of Resistance – Puppets and Rebellion
- A unique mix on Netflix of puppetry and live-action.
- Just as in Arcane, characters in a broken world rise to challenge overpowering overlords.
7. She-Ra And The Princesses Of Power – Power, Rebellion, and Magic!
- Streaming on Netflix, She-Ra offers a blend of magic, transformation, and epic battles against evil.
- Don’t let the 80s vibe fool you. It’s deeply engaging!
6. Kiss Me First – Virtual Reality Meets Real Emotion
- Netflix hosts this combination of live-action and virtual reality. A lonely teen gets too involved in an MMORPG, with dark twists ahead.
- Emotional, dark, and packed with surprises.
5. Eighty-Six – A War-Torn Animated Epic
- Available on VRV, dive deep into the horrors of war and prejudice.
- Remarkable art and compelling characters make this a must-watch.
4. Dorohedoro – A Tale of Two Worlds
- Another Netflix gem where two class-based societies collide.
- Engaging from start to finish with an enchanting aesthetic.
3. Castlevania – From Game to Gripping Series
- Catch it on Netflix. A story of humans vs. vampires based on the famous game.
- Stunning animation, captivating story arcs – it’s a feast for the eyes and mind.
2. Cowboy Bebop – Space Cowboys and Intergalactic Drama
- A live-action adaptation on Netflix. High-octane action, a cohesive cast, and memorable characters.
- Different from Arcane, yet equally enthralling.
1. Love, Death & Robots – A Rollercoaster of Emotions and Stories
- Found on Netflix, each episode offers a unique story with various animated styles.
- Dive deep into science-fiction elements, thrilling adventures, and more!
A Deeper Dive into Our Top 3 Recommendations
3. Castlevania- The Legacy of Dracula
The world of Castlevania isn’t just about vampires versus humans. Adapted from Konami’s famous game series, it spins a tale of intrigue, loyalty, and the gray areas between good and evil. Dracula’s vengeance-driven mission collides with the determined Belmont clan, bringing to life a narrative that is both violent and deeply emotional.
What to expect: Gothic settings, morally complex characters, and an exploration of the thin line between monsters and men.
2. Cowboy Bebop
There’s something timeless about Cowboy Bebop. Though its story is set in the future, its themes, aesthetics, and music have a nostalgic charm. Each episode is a thrilling chase of the Bebop crew pursuing the galaxy’s most dangerous criminals, but beneath the surface, each character grapples with their own haunting pasts.
What to expect: Stylish spacefaring action, melancholic character backstories, and a soundtrack that’s a character in its own right.
1. Love, Death & Robots
An anthology series, Love, Death & Robots serves as a canvas for creative minds to bring diverse, short stories to life. Each episode, varying in style and tone, explores different facets of the human experience, often blending it with technology and the unknown. This series is a masterclass in how varied and expansive storytelling can be.
What to expect: Stories that range from hilarious to horrifying, evocative art styles, and deep dives into societal issues and personal dilemmas.
Personal Insights by Spezzy: Each of these shows offers a unique narrative, beautiful graphics, and compelling character dynamics. While they all capture some essence of Arcane, they stand strong on their own. So, gamers and non-gamers alike, ready your popcorn!
FAQs
Q: Are all these shows animated like Arcane?
No, while many are animated, some blend live-action with other formats, offering a diverse viewing experience.
Q: Which show is the most like Arcane in theme?
While each show has its own flair, “Death Parade”, “Dorohedoro”, and “Castlevania” offer themes closest to Arcane.
Q: Where can I stream these shows?
Many are available on Netflix, but others can be found on Hulu, Amazon Prime, and VRV.
Q: Are any of these shows based on games like Arcane?
Yes, “Castlevania” is another epic series based on a video game.
Q: Which show would Spezzy personally recommend the most?
While all shows are worth the watch, Spezzy has a soft spot for “Death Parade” and “Castlevania”.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing the adrenaline highs of Arcane or merely seeking another world to get lost in, there’s no shortage of shows to fill that void. With the expanding intersection of gaming and media, the future promises even richer narratives and breathtaking visuals. Until then, our list should keep you plenty entertained.
And remember, while it’s fun to immerse ourselves in these fantasy worlds, nothing quite compares to the real-world experiences we share with fellow enthusiasts, be it in a game or discussing the latest episode of a riveting series. So, game on and happy watching!
Sources:
- Netflix User Statistics
- Forbes interview with Christian Linke
- Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Netflix show databases
