28 Best Medieval Anime: Middle Age Settings, from Europe and Beyond

Best Medieval Anime

Anime has a way of taking us anywhere, from bustling futuristic cities to quiet countryside villages. But there’s something especially thrilling about medieval settings.

Kingdoms, castles, daring knights, sword fights, or even the shadowy political schemes.

Medieval anime pulls us into rich, detailed worlds where knights clash, magic simmers under the surface, and kingdoms rise or fall on one bold move.

The best part? The world-building.

These shows don’t just tell a story, they craft entire civilizations, complete with politics, cultures, and deep lore for us.

What is Medieval Anime?

When we talk about medieval anime, what exactly do we mean? It’s not just knights in shining armor or dragons soaring over stone castles.

“Medieval” in anime usually refers to a fantasy setting inspired by the Middle Ages, a period in European history roughly spanning from the 5th to the late 15th century.

These stories often take place in kingdoms, empires, or warring states, where swords rule, magic may exist, and feudal systems shape society.

In anime, “medieval” doesn’t always mean strictly historical. It can also refer to the setting or aesthetic inspired by medieval times.

Some are based on real-world history, some use fantasy interpretations of it. Basically, it’s the romanticized version of our “old-world” charm.

Best Medieval Anime

  1. Ascendance of a Bookworm
  2. Berserk
  3. Vinland Saga
  4. Orb: On the Movements of the Earth
  5. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
  6. Delicious in Dungeon
  7. The Apothecary Diaries
  8. Spice and Wolf
  9. The Rising of the Shield Hero
  10. Overlord
  11. Maria the Virgin Witch
  12. Claymore
  13. Attack on Titan
  14. Goblin Slayer
  15. The Heroic Legend of Arslan
  16. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
  17. Yona of the Dawn
  18. Wistoria: Wand and Sword
  19. The Seven Deadly Sins
  20. Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic
  21. Snow White with the Red Hair
  22. GATE
  23. Maoyu: Archenemy & Hero
  24. Black Clover
  25. Kingdom
  26. The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent
  27. The Faraway Paladin
  28. Record of Grancrest War

1Ascendance of a Bookworm

Ascendance of a Bookworm Anime

Looking for deep world-building and a peaceful slice-of-life vibe? Ascendance of a Bookworm might be just your thing.

The story follows Myne, a bookworm college student who dies and is reborn in a harsh medieval fantasy world where literacy is a privilege of the nobility.

Rather than swinging a sword, Myne uses her modern understanding of science and craftsmanship to change society, and make books even at great personal cost.

This anime captures the everyday life of a medieval society: social classes, guild systems, religious institutions, and economic struggles, all without leaning on combat.

It’s a slower-paced but deeply satisfying experience for fans of intelligent, detail-oriented storytelling.

Ascendance of a Bookworm info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Honzuki no Gekokujou: Shisho ni Naru Tame ni wa Shudan wo Erandeiraremasen
  • Episodes: 14
  • Released: Fall 2019
  • Studios: Ajia-do
  • Genres: Fantasy
  • Themes: Isekai, Reincarnation
  • Score: 7.97 (MAL), 7.8 (IMDb)

Watch Ascendance of a Bookworm trailer:

TVアニメ『本好きの下剋上 司書になるためには手段を選んでいられません』ティザーPV

2Berserk

Berserk Anime

GRIFFFIIIIITTH!!!

Let’s take a dark, brutal turn with Berserk, the ultimate medieval anime experience.

Set in a grim, war-torn land plagued by demons, it follows Guts, a lone mercenary seeking vengeance against his former friend Griffith, who betrayed him and set him on a path of blood and suffering.

This isn’t just a tale of revenge, it’s a deep dive into the human soul, exploring themes of fate, power, madness, and survival.

With its gothic aesthetic, intense action sequences, and deeply philosophical undertones, Berserk stands out not just for its medieval setting, but for the emotional weight it carries.

Knights in heavy armor, cursed relics, demonic transformations, and apocalyptic stakes? This show has all the medieval elements but real dark.

If you’re into the darker side of medieval or even fantasy stories, where the monsters are both literal and metaphorical, Berserk is iconic for a reason.

Berserk info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Kenpuu Denki Berserk
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Fall 1997
  • Studios: OLM
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Horror
  • Themes: Gore, Military, Psychological
  • Score: 8.60 (MAL), 8.7 (IMDb)

3Vinland Saga

Vinland Saga Anime

Forget dragons, forget magic. Vinland Saga brings real history into the medieval anime scene, with Viking warriors instead of wizards.

This series tells the story of Thorfinn, a young Norse warrior consumed by revenge after his father is killed by Askeladd, a cunning warlord with grand ambitions.

But as the years pass, Thorfinn begins to question whether vengeance will bring him peace, or just drag him deeper into darkness. He then becomes “Mr. I have no enemies” (JK).

This is medieval realism at its best. The battles are fierce, the politics are layered, and the character development is top-tier.

With its grounded approach to warfare and realistic portrayal of early medieval Europe, Vinland Saga feels less like a fantasy tale and more like a gritty historical drama.

It’s perfect if you like your medieval tales packed with action and moral complexity.

Vinland Saga info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Summer 2019
  • Studios: Wit Studio
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama
  • Themes: Gore, Historical
  • Score: 8.76 (MAL), 8.8 (IMDb)

Watch Vinland Saga trailer:

Vinland Saga Official Trailer

4Orb: On the Movements of the Earth

Orb On the Movements of the Earth Anime

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth is a newer anime that blends historical fiction with rich medieval drama and a touch of dark fantasy.

Set during the European Inquisition, this anime dives into a world where the Church reigns supreme and questioning established truth can cost you your life.

The story revolves around multiple protagonists, each bold (or perhaps reckless) enough to challenge the status quo.

At a time when the belief that Earth is the center of the universe and that everything orbits around Earth is widely accepted, they must find a way to prove the real “truth”.

This anime shines with its mix of grim atmosphere, philosophical depth, and character-driven storytelling.

It tackles big themes like truth, freedom, and the price of knowledge in a time when even asking the wrong question could get you executed.

The setting is heavy on medieval European aesthetics: cathedrals, grimy towns, inquisitors, and the stakes are deeply human rather than magical.

Orb: On the Movements of the Earth info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Chi. Chikyuu no Undou ni Tsuite
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Fall 2024
  • Studios: Madhouse
  • Genres: Drama
  • Themes: Historical
  • Score: 8.71 (MAL), 8.4 (IMDb)

Watch Orb: On the Movements of the Earth trailer:

アニメ『チ。 ―地球の運動について―』本PV第2弾

5Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Anime

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a quieter, more reflective take on the medieval fantasy genre.

It follows Frieren, an elf mage who lived for centuries but realizes too late that she didn’t appreciate the fleeting moments of her companions’ mortal lives.

Now, she travels back through the lands they once explored together with her new companions, trying to understand what it means to live a meaningful life in a short time.

Set in a classic high-fantasy world filled with magic, ancient ruins, and mythical creatures, Frieren brings a fresh perspective to the medieval setting.

Its gentle storytelling and beautiful art make it a perfect choice for those who enjoy emotional depth alongside their fantasy adventures.

The animation is top-notch, the battle is epic. But more than that, it’s the beautiful, emotionally resonant story that reminds us why we’re drawn to these kinds of tales.

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Sousou no Frieren
  • Episodes: 28
  • Released: Fall 2023
  • Studios: Madhouse
  • Genres: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 9.31 (MAL), 8.9 (IMDb)

Watch Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End trailer:

『葬送のフリーレン』本PV/OP:「勇者」YOASOBI   ED:「Anytime Anywhere」milet

6Delicious in Dungeon

Delicious in Dungeon Anime

Looking for something truly unique? Delicious in Dungeon is a comedy-fantasy that’s really unique and worth watching.

After a group of adventurers loses a teammate, who is one member’s sister, deep within a dungeon, they decide to venture back in to rescue her.

But with no food supplies, the only thing they can eat is the monsters they slay. Though it’s undeniably a cooking anime, the story goes beyond just food.

Set in a typical D&D-style medieval world, the show mixes humor, survival, and culinary creativity in a way that’s both entertaining and unexpectedly educational.

Each episode explores different monsters and how to prepare them safely (and deliciously), making it both informative and absurd. Also, the food animation is top-tier.

Delicious in Dungeon info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Dungeon Meshi
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Winter 2024
  • Studios: Trigger
  • Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Gourmet
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 8.60 (MAL), 8.0 (IMDb)

7The Apothecary Diaries

The Apothecary Diaries Anime

Court intrigue meets medical mystery in The Apothecary Diaries.

Set in a fictional empire resembling Tang Dynasty China, the story follows Maomao, a clever and curious apothecary who ends up working in the emperor’s palace.

Unlike many fantasy entries, this one focuses on intelligence over brute strength, with Maomao constantly outmaneuvering scheming nobles and solving mysteries along the way.

The setting is richly detailed and distinctly old-world, with a heavy dose of court intrigue and sly humor. Maomao’s deductive skills and dry wit make this show irresistible.

And her relationship with Jinshi, the male lead, is incredibly intriguing, adding a compelling romantic layer to the story.

It’s a slower-paced, more refined experience, ideal for viewers who enjoy political maneuvering, witty banter, and subtle romance.

The Apothecary Diaries info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Kusuriya no Hitorigoto
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Fall 2023
  • Studios: OLM, TOHO animation STUDIO
  • Genres: Drama, Mystery
  • Themes: Historical, Medical
  • Score: 8.88 (MAL), 8.5 (IMDb)

Watch The Apothecary Diaries trailer:

TVアニメ『薬屋のひとりごと』第2クールPV【毎週土曜24:55~ 日本テレビ系にて全国放送中!】

8Spice and Wolf

Spice and Wolf Anime

For a more intellectual and romantic side of medieval anime, Spice and Wolf is a must-watch.

This series follows Kraft Lawrence, a traveling merchant who encounters Holo, a wolf goddess disguised as a human girl.

Together, they journey across the land, bartering goods, outwitting corrupt officials, and navigating the tricky waters of medieval economics.

Yes, economics. Spice and Wolf uses its medieval setting to explore themes of trade, faith, and trust in a world where wealth can be as dangerous as any monster.

It’s slow-paced but rewarding, with surprisingly sharp dialogue and a unique blend of romance, mystery, and historical realism.

Spice and Wolf info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Ookami to Koushinryou
  • Episodes: 13
  • Released: Winter 2008
  • Studios: Imagin
  • Genres: Adventure, Drama, Romance, Supernatural
  • Themes: Adult Cast
  • Score: 8.21 (MAL), 7.7 (IMDb)

Watch Spice and Wolf trailer (this one is 2024 version):

TVアニメ『狼と香辛料』第2弾PV/4月よりテレ東ほかにて放送開始!

9The Rising of the Shield Hero

The Rising of the Shield Hero Anime

The Rising of the Shield Hero follows Naofumi, a man summoned to another world to become one of four legendary heroes destined to save the land from destruction waves.

Unfortunately, he gets stuck with the weakest weapon “the shield,” and faces betrayal, poverty, and prejudice from those he’s supposed to protect.

While it starts with familiar tropes (getting kicked from party), the show quickly subverts them with a compelling mix of political intrigue, personal growth, and moral dilemmas.

The medieval setting is rich with castles, kingdoms, knights, and ancient prophecies. The animation does a great job bringing the world to life.

Also, watching Naofumi rise from betrayal to power is incredibly satisfying, especially if you enjoy themes of redemption and justice in a tough, rule-bound world.

The Rising of the Shield Hero info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Winter 2019
  • Studios: Kinema Citrus
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
  • Themes: Isekai
  • Score: 7.93 (MAL), 7.8 (IMDb)

10Overlord

Overlord Anime

Imagine being stuck in a video game that suddenly becomes real, and you’re the most powerful undead sorcerer around. That’s every man dreams.

The story begins with a game shutting down. But Momonga, a powerful undead sorcerer, gets stuck inside, and decides to embrace being the ruler of the Great Tomb of Nazarick.

Though it starts off like a typical isekai, Overlord quickly shifts into a morally ambiguous exploration of power, leadership, and fear.

The medieval setting is rich with knights, mages, monsters, and kingdoms vying for dominance.

And unlike many other shows in the genre, Overlord focuses on politics and strategy as much as action, making it a must pick for fans of intelligent medieval fantasy.

Overlord info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 13
  • Released: Summer 2015
  • Studios: Madhouse
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: Isekai
  • Score: 7.90 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

11Maria the Virgin Witch

Maria the Virgin Witch Anime

Maria the Virgin Witch is set during a fictional version of the Hundred Years’ War in Europe (France and England).

The story stars Maria, a powerful yet pacifist witch who is fed up with the senseless bloodshed around her and is determined to end the war.

Despite the Church hunting her and angels watching her every move, she still uses her magic to intervene in battle after battle.

Visually stunning and steeped in European aesthetics, this anime combines alchemy, magic, and political conflict in a beautifully animated world.

Maria isn’t just a hero. She’s a force of change, often making morally ambiguous choices for the greater good.

Her journey is both inspiring and tragic, making this one of the more underrated gems in the medieval theme.

Maria the Virgin Witch info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Junketsu no Maria
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Winter 2015
  • Studios: Production I.G
  • Genres: Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
  • Themes: Historical
  • Score: 7.10 (MAL), 6.6 (IMDb)

12Claymore

Claymore Anime

Claymore delivers a haunting tale set in a world plagued by shape-shifting demons called Yoma.

To fight them, humanity employs half-human, half-Yoma warriors known as Claymores: women who wield massive blades and walk the fine line between monster and human.

The story centers on Clare, a lone warrior on a bloody path of revenge and redemption.

This is medieval anime drenched in darkness, with a world where villages are constantly under threat, the Church holds suspicious power, and the warriors are treated like outcasts.

If you like the gritty tone of Berserk but want more female-led action, Claymore is haunting, high-stakes, and full of sword-swinging intensity.

Claymore info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 26
  • Released: Spring 2007
  • Studios: Madhouse
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: Gore
  • Score: 7.73 (MAL), 8.0 (IMDb)

13Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan Anime

Though Attack on Titan leans heavily into horror elements later on, its roots are firmly planted in a medieval-inspired world. Not the time period, but the settings.

Humanity is trapped behind massive walls, haunted by giant humanoid titans, and led by military factions reminiscent of knightly orders.

The story follows Eren Yeager, a hotheaded teen who vows to wipe out all Titans after they kill his mother. Later on, he evolves into a deeply complex figure whose decisions shape the fate of nations.

As the mystery of the titans unfolds, so too does a complex web of political intrigue, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. It just keeps evolving.

The show doesn’t shy away from asking tough questions about war, freedom, and identity, all while delivering jaw-dropping twists and heart-pounding action.

If you’re craving a medieval aesthetic with a modern storytelling twist, AoT is a must-watch rollercoaster.

Attack on Titan info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Shingeki no Kyojin
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Spring 2013
  • Studios: Wit Studio
  • Genres: Action, Award Winning, Drama, Suspense
  • Themes: Gore, Military, Survival
  • Score: 8.56 (MAL), 9.1 (IMDb)

14Goblin Slayer

Goblin Slayer Anime

In this harsh and brutal fantasy world, goblins are not a joke, they’re a deadly threat. Goblin Slayer follows a cold, methodical warrior obsessed with wiping them out.

Set in a medieval realm with adventurers, quests, and guild halls, the series strips the fantasy genre of its glamour and focuses on survival.

The show is unapologetically dark and visceral. It dives into the gritty side of dungeon crawling and gives a realistic look at how terrifying “monsters” could be in a world with real stakes.

While some may find its tone overly harsh, others will appreciate its unflinching portrayal of heroism and trauma.

Not all heroes are noble, sometimes they’re just someone who kills goblin.

Goblin Slayer info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Fall 2018
  • Studios: White Fox
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: Gore
  • Score: 7.42 (MAL), 7.4 (IMDb)

15The Heroic Legend of Arslan

The Heroic Legend of Arslan Anime

Inspired by Persian mythology, Arslan tells the story of a young prince who must reclaim his kingdom after betrayal and invasion from a foreign force.

Armed with courage, intelligence, and a band of loyal allies, Arslan embarks on a quest to restore peace and justice to his homeland.

With sprawling war scenes, plenty of sword-clashing, and lots of old-school strategy, Arslan delivers a sweeping medieval fantasy with a historical edge.

It leans more into large-scale conflicts and royal intrigue than magic, which gives it a unique flavor among its peers.

The Heroic Legend of Arslan info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Arslan Senki
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Spring 2015
  • Studios: SANZIGEN, LIDENFILMS
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
  • Themes: Historical, Military
  • Score: 7.65 (MAL), 7.5 (IMDb)

16Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Anime

Great world-building, great storytelling, but not-so-lovable main characters.

Mushoku Tensei follows Rudeus Greyrat, a NEET who gets reincarnated into a fantasy world where he vows to live his second life without regrets.

Starting from childhood, he grows into a powerful adventurer while navigating complex relationships, moral dilemmas, and slowly learning to grow as a person.

With its detailed world-building and deep character arcs, Mushoku Tensei blends coming-of-age drama with classic medieval fantasy elements.

From academies and guilds to dragons and ancient ruins, the show creates a richly layered universe that feels both familiar and fresh.

It’s also notable for its mature handling of difficult topics (though early episodes might be hard to watch for some people), making it a standout among modern isekai anime.

Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Mushoku Tensei: Isekai Ittara Honki Dasu
  • Episodes: 11
  • Released: Winter 2021
  • Studios: Studio Bind
  • Genres: Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Ecchi
  • Themes: Isekai, Reincarnation
  • Score: 8.35 (MAL), 8.3 (IMDb)

Watch Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation trailer:

TVアニメ『無職転生 ~異世界行ったら本気だす~』PV第2弾/1月10日(日)放送スタート

17Yona of the Dawn

Yona of the Dawn Anime

Yona of the Dawn delivers a powerful coming-of-age story set in a feudal kingdom inspired by ancient East Asian cultures.

It follows Yona, a sheltered princess whose world is turned upside down when her father is killed in a coup by her cousin.

Forced to flee, she begins a quest to reclaim her throne and uncover the secrets of her land’s mythology that might be the key to do it.

This series combines royal drama, martial arts, and magical elements in a lushly animated world. Each arc introduces new territories, cultures, and warriors tied to ancient legends.

While it’s more fantasy than strictly historical, the medieval vibes are strong: from castles and courtyards to clan rivalries and prophecy-driven quests.

Yona of the Dawn info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Akatsuki no Yona
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Fall 2014
  • Studios: Pierrot
  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 8.03 (MAL), 8.0 (IMDb)

18Wistoria: Wand and Sword

Wistoria Wand and Sword Anime

Wistoria is a magical academy anime set in a medieval fantasy world. This one is basically Harry Potter meets Black Clover.

The MC, Will Serfort, is a rare non-magic user in a school full of wizards. He can only rely on swordsmanship to rise through the ranks and fulfill a promise to his childhood friend.

This anime balances school life, fantasy lore, and underdog grit in a richly built magical world.

It’s a newer title, but the charm and heart are unmistakable. Great for fans who like slow-burn growth arcs and magical coming-of-age stories.

Wistoria: Wand and Sword info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Tsue to Tsurugi no Wistoria
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Summer 2024
  • Studios: Actas, Bandai Namco Pictures
  • Genres: Action, Fantasy
  • Themes: School
  • Score: 7.87 (MAL), 7.5 (IMDb)

19The Seven Deadly Sins

The Seven Deadly Sins Anime

A fun and action-packed romp through a land of knights, magic, and ancient curses.

The Seven Deadly Sins follows a group of legendary warriors who reunite to clear their names and protect their kingdom from destruction.

Each member of the team represents one of the deadly sins, and they wield incredible powers that come with dramatic backstories.

Though it leans toward shonen-style battles and humor, the medieval setting is always present. Kingdoms, tournaments, holy wars, and mystical artifacts abound.

It’s a great choice if you want a mix of comedy, fantasy, and high-stakes adventure without getting too bogged down in realism.

The Seven Deadly Sins info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Nanatsu no Taizai
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Fall 2014
  • Studios: A-1 Pictures
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 7.62 (MAL), 7.7 (IMDb)

20Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic

Magi The Labyrinth of Magic Anime

While most medieval anime draw from Europe, Magi takes inspiration from the Arabian Nights and Middle Eastern myth.

The story follows young adventurers Aladdin, Alibaba, and Morgiana as they battle for their place in a world where empires rise and fall, and the balance of power is always shifting.

Magi shines thanks to its world-building and character relationships. There’s action, politics, and surprisingly deep questions about freedom, power, and destiny.

The medieval setting (Eastern vibe) is giving a distinct flavor compared to typical European-based fantasy.

If you’re craving adventure with a different cultural flair, this one’s a magic carpet ride you shouldn’t miss.

Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 25
  • Released: Fall 2012
  • Studios: A-1 Pictures
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 8.01 (MAL), 7.8 (IMDb)

21Snow White with the Red Hair

Snow White with the Red Hair Anime

Romantic and refined, Snow White with the Red Hair is a charming medieval-inspired romance wrapped in a lush fantasy setting.

Shirayuki, a young herbalist with unique red hair, catches the attention of Prince Zen after fleeing from a noble who wants to force her into marriage.

After a series of encounters, she ends up working in his palace, helping heal the sick and protect the kingdom.

While not action-heavy, the show shines in its portrayal of court politics, medical practices, and cultural exchanges between regions.

The medieval vibe comes through in the architecture, clothing, and social customs, making it a refreshing mix of historical drama and gentle fantasy.

Snow White with the Red Hair info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Akagami no Shirayuki-hime
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Summer 2015
  • Studios: Bones
  • Genres: Drama, Romance
  • Themes: Medical
  • Score: 7.76 (MAL), 7.6 (IMDb)

22GATE

GATE Anime

Modern military soldiers vs. dragons and magic? Yep. In GATE, it works. This one is a mix of both fantasy world and Earth, where it’s divided by a huge portal (gate).

When a mysterious portal opens in Tokyo, unleashing monsters and chaos, and the Japanese military steps through it into a full-blown fantasy world.

A group of self-defense force soldiers is sent to investigate, only to find themselves in a land filled with knights, monsters, and warring factions.

Expect armored knights clashing with tanks, diplomacy between empires, and even the occasional elf. Oh, don’t forget the U.S. eyeing the gate for colonization.

The show blends futuristic tech with old-world weaponry in hilarious and sometimes serious ways.

While it can be controversial due to its depiction of power dynamics, GATE offers an intriguing look at how modern military strategy would play out in a medieval context.

Will it work, or won’t it?

GATE info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Gate: Jieitai Kanochi nite, Kaku Tatakaeri
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Summer 2015
  • Studios: A-1 Pictures
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: Isekai, Military
  • Score: 7.68 (MAL), 7.5 (IMDb)

23Maoyu: Archenemy & Hero

Maoyu Archenemy & Hero Anime

What if the Demon King and the Hero fell in love and decided to team up to end the cycle of war and suffering?

That’s the premise of Maoyu: Archenemy & Hero, a surprisingly thoughtful and romantic take on the classic good vs. evil trope.

Set in a medieval world where wars are fought not just with swords but with economics, food, and education, this anime explores how these two work behind the scenes to bring peace.

Their journey takes them through villages, kingdoms, and battlefields, showing how systemic issues like poverty and misinformation fuel conflict.

It’s a smart, low-key anime that rewards patient viewers with meaningful commentary and heartwarming moments.

Maoyu: Archenemy & Hero info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Maoyuu Maou Yuusha
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Winter 2013
  • Studios: Arms
  • Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 7.23 (MAL), 6.7 (IMDb)

24Black Clover

Black Clover Anime

A more traditional shonen pick, Black Clover follows Asta (not Yuno, hm…), a boy born without magic in a world where everyone else has it.

Determined to become the Wizard King, the most powerful mage in the land, he trains relentlessly and eventually gains a rare anti-magic grimoire.

This is classic underdog in big shonen anime, set in an inspired-medieval world full of knights, grimoire-based magic, and dangerous creatures.

The medieval trappings are vibrant and energetic, and though the early episodes are a bit shouty (literally), the world keeps expanding in exciting ways.

Black Clover info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 170
  • Released: Fall 2017
  • Studios: Pierrot
  • Genres: Action, Fantasy
  • Themes: N/A
  • Score: 8.14 (MAL), 8.2 (IMDb)

25Kingdom

Kingdom Anime

One word: warfare.

Set during China’s Warring States period, Kingdom is historical fiction at its most ambitious.

It follows Xin, a war orphan who dreams of becoming the greatest general, and his rise through military ranks amid brutal battles and court conspiracies.

Though not set in Europe, Kingdom takes place in a period that can be considered medieval. It has all the hallmarks: warlords, castle sieges, royal intrigue, and heroic quest.

With its jaw-dropping action sequences and deep historical roots, Kingdom is a thrilling ride for anyone who loves grand-scale military war stories.

Kingdom info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: N/A
  • Episodes: 38
  • Released: Summer 2012
  • Studios: Pierrot
  • Genres: Action
  • Themes: Historical, Military
  • Score: 7.89 (MAL), 8.7 (IMDb)

26The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent

The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent Anime

Another entry in the “trapped in another world” subgenre, The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent is a magical isekai wrapped in soft glow.

This series tells the story of Yuria, a hardworking office lady reincarnated as a saint destined to save the realm from dark forces.

The twist? They accidentally summoned two women, and the STUPID prince preferred the other one (even though she’s not).

This anime stands out by focusing on nation-building and characters growth rather than endless fighting.

With its medieval setting full of kingdoms, temples, and magical beasts, it’s a breath of fresh air for viewers tired of the usual isekai tropes.

This anime is all about self-discovery, herbal magic, and gentle romance in a medieval world.

The Saint’s Magic Power is Omnipotent info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Seijo no Maryoku wa Bannou desu
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Spring 2021
  • Studios: Diomedéa
  • Genres: Fantasy, Romance
  • Themes: Isekai, Medical
  • Score: 7.31 (MAL), 7.1 (IMDb)

27The Faraway Paladin

The Faraway Paladin Anime

Someone once described it as Game of Thrones on a budget and in anime form. It’s not technically wrong if we’re talking about the storytelling and worldbuilding.

This series tells the story of a man who dies in the modern world and is reborn into a fantasy realm, raised by three undead beings who teach him morality, strength, and faith.

Blending mystery, family bonds, and a deep sense of morality, The Faraway Paladin is a touching and occasionally tragic tale set in a world of gods, demons, and ancient ruins.

The setting is rich with temples, holy relics, and mystical creatures, giving it a mythic feel that stays with you.

The Faraway Paladin info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Saihate no Paladin
  • Episodes: 12
  • Released: Fall 2021
  • Studios: Children’s Playground Entertainment
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
  • Themes: Isekai, Reincarnation
  • Score: 6.87 (MAL), 6.7 (IMDb)

28Record of Grancrest War

Record of Grancrest War Anime

From the same creator as Lodoss War (this one is medieval as well), this anime takes a faster, flashier approach to medieval warfare.

Grancrest War follows a mage and a knight who team up to unite a continent plagued by endless war, corruption, and Demon Lord.

It’s packed with battles, betrayals, and magical politics. The pacing is brisk, and while the plot sometimes rushes, it offers solid fantasy action and ambitious world-building.

If you love medieval anime that combines battlefield tactics with a bit of romance and betrayal, Grancrest has all the good you’d expect from an epic fantasy.

Record of Grancrest War info (MAL):

  • Alternative Title: Grancrest Senki
  • Episodes: 24
  • Released: Winter 2018
  • Studios: A-1 Pictures
  • Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Romance
  • Themes: Military
  • Score: 7.22 (MAL), 7.1 (IMDb)

Conclusion: A Medieval Anime Send-Off

At its heart, medieval anime is about more than just knights, dragons, and ancient towers. It’s not just about our old-world setting or aesthetic. It’s about humanity and its history.

These stories explore who we are, what we fight for, and how we find meaning in a world shaped by fate.

And whether the setting is rooted in Europe, Asia, or pure imagination, the medieval vibe remains strong.

They offer us a chance to ride into battle, fall in love under moonlit skies, or uncover the truth behind ancient mysteries.

So… did we miss a hidden gem you love? With so many anime using medieval settings or aesthetics, it’s hard to keep up. Let us know in the comment something we miss!

Pici
Pici’s been deep into anime, manga, and movies since 2014, a true man of the culture. Alongside that passion, he’s built solid experience in SEO, honing his skills since 2018. Fun Fact: Pici is a fan of Gigi Murin, a VTuber from Hololive English.

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