Gungrave - Recommendations

sothis says...

Now, although Berserk and Gungrave seemingly have little in common as far as their synopsis, bear with me. There are very few series I have seen which are so epic and moving in such an unexplainable way. Berserk and Gungrave are both these types of series. It's hard to explain for both why they are so good... is it the way the story was told? The tragedy and emotional aspects of either? Who knows. Regardless, I just know you'd like one if you liked the other, so give it a try.

Wilcon says...

Berserk and Gungrave share many similarities, if you like one, then you'll like the other one as well. Both of the series have this serious, dark, and abit depressing feeling, and they both follow the same pattern in the storytelling. It's hard to find shows with this developing skills and perfection.

Kasimir says...

Well... there's a couple good reasons why these two series match well. First, they can each be watched as a mindless action series filled with lots of blood and killing. If that's the sort of thing you like, have at it, you won't be disappointed. But more importantly, they each tell a much deeper story behind the lives of their respective invicincible badass main characters. They start off similarly: near or at the end of the story, but then take you back through the main character's life to build up a full picture of his past experiences and hardships and present motivations. Each series does a decent job of delving a bit deeper into the minds of their characters, dealing with more meaningful issues such as trust, friendship, and love; and how these things are used and abused in people's relationships with one another. However, this is done in a rather subtle way. The deeper themes are there to think about, but you're not beat over the head with pseudo-psychological nonsense. And of course everything is kept moving by lots of action. So... uhh... yeah... they're both extremely similar in feel and flavor, and have a much more well-written and planned out story than your average action show.

VRDave says...

Man... sometimes there are 2 series that seem sooo different, yet for some reason they just go together. Or maybe I just don't want to spoil anything! ^_^ Berserk fan? you should like Gungrave. new to Berserk? You'll love it more than life itself. Violence is plentiful and delivered well. Also the ambitions of the supporting characters is quite similar.

vivafruit says...

A recommendation so obvious that I feel sort of stupid pointing the similarities out. The two anime, while different in superfluous ways, are eerily similar in story structure, character development and overall themes. In the end, if you enjoy watching anime that explores the price of ambition, the corruption that comes with power, and the true meaning of loyalty, then you really can't miss either one.

BeyondTheGrave says...

Gungrave much like Berserk begins with an episode that might lead one to think that both shows are no more than blood soaked tales of betrayal and revenge each with a tough looking, one-eyed main character with custom weapons. However, the reality of both series is that they both tell a much deeper story that focuses on the lives of two close friends (in Gungrave its Brandon Heat and Harry McDowel while in Berserk it is Gatts and Griffith) and their quest to achieve their respective goals. Both stories allow the viewer to empathize with the main characters current motivations and behaviors by telling the story in such a convincing manner that allows the viewer to fully experience major events in characters pasts that have shaped them.

freakzilla says...

Berserk and Gungrave take place at a different time, yet the atmosphere is very similar. Each is a story about two friends: one has a great objective, and the other will do anything to support him. One has incredible wits, and the other has immense power and capabilities. Both settings and stories have a lot in common.

aldat says...

There are plenty of similarities connecting these two fine series, Gungrave and Berserk. The main characters of both are remarkably similar, altough their silences and attitudes to fighting (which is important part of each of their lives) differ somewhat. Also, both Gungrave and Berserk are stories of friendship between two men (and adult men at that, no kiddies running around and acting like heroes in these series. Which is great, I tire of always watching highschool kids steal the show). Animations are not identical, but similar in, for axample, that aspect that everything is somehow made to look quite real. Not realistic, exactly, but there is dirt ja no fancy bright-coloured costumes anywhere (excluding a slip or two into that in the latter half of Gungrave). Still, both are far from being glossy, altough they do look good. All said, these two are excellent animes and if you haven't seen either, go and watch now.

Ripzter says...

These series might not seem very logical recommendations for each other. But there are some similarities between them. Gungrave is about modern age and the other one is evolving around a medieval setting. Still both series have a same kind of epic flow in their story. We see a man grow from a young boy into an amazing fighting machine and leader. Both series tell a story that lives over a long period of time. If you enjoy this kind of storytelling, you'll love both series.

elcenty says...

Because the central characters attitudes are the same, they are both smooth cool and talented but keep to them selves in that moody way the series' are so alike just in different settings a great pair.

Kastrophee says...

Both these shows inhabit very different settings, yet the focus of trust, friends, ambition, and the cost of all these things are enough to make this an excellent recommendation. Not to mention that the story structure for both series is near identical, down to the first episode that features a drastically different tune then the rest of the series.

Arodec says...

Berserk and Gungrave; they have completely different settings and graphical styles, yet share such a similar atmosphere and characters. Brandon and Gattsu are both incredibly similar: they are fighters of unmatched power who live for someone else instead of themselves.

This someone else would be either Harry or Griffith, ambitious individuals who both aim for the top. These are the only similarities I can put into words, but trust me, watch both and you will understand.

berserk1842 says...

Gungrave and Berserk have a different setting, but a very similar storyline. Both of these series left me on the edge of my seat throughout the story; they are epic. These two are the big boys when it comes to dramatic action anime.

scenthr says...

If you liked the story of unrelenting friendship in Gungrave, you have to watch Berserk. I like to think that Gungrave is like a little brother to Berserk. Let's just put it that way.

BrandonHeat says...

It's crazy how these two anime can be SO different, yet constantly remind me of one another. You will find great similarities in these two stories. Brandon from Gungrave definitely is a reflection of Guts from Berserk, as they can both be considered the top sweepers for their boss, and also both strive for their goal. They are stubborn and NEVER give up. Guts's relation with Griffith is very similar to Brandon and Harry's relationship; they are very devoted and have a bond that is stronger than friendship. Then you have the similarities between Griffith and Harry McDowell. They both have this massive dream where they strive for power and must climb to the top. So although one takes place in medieval times and the other takes place in a fictional modern world where science is magic, the parallels are not ignorable. Both rank in my top five anime.

daniel44044 says...

There's plenty of action and battles in Berserk and Gungrave to interest any fighting anime lover. With a twist of monsters, blood baths and killings, these are both must-see anime.

cos13 says...

In both Gungrave and Berserk, the main character is backstabbed by his best friend and must get revenge... or must he? Gungrave is more emotional, while Berserk is more focused on fighting.

CuddlyMcTickles says...

The character relationships in both stories are what truly make them great stories. You will cry, cheer and be angered by characters that you have come to know.

Pulcher says...

When you first look at these two anime, there seems to be little to nothing in common; different era, different setting, etc. However when one examines the relationships between the main characters in both, the connenctions are just too obvious. If you liked one of these two because of the characters, not just the setting and type of action, you will most likely enjoy the other.

jurexplay says...

Well, it's like comparing DearS with Chobits. They even start very similar. Gg and Bk are one of the best anime series ever produced. Both series are about character development of main characters. After reaching the top they were betrayed by their best friends. The power which both series contain is incredible. Try watching one after another and you won't be out of shock for about a week. You get addicted and after watching it once you want another round and then ... again it's just so powerfull. To sum up If you enjoyed one of them then you will absoultely not be dissapointed with the other and that's a promise !

VivisQueen says...

Gungrave and Berserk share a similar premise of best friends suffering through turmoil as one of them has the ambition to rise to the very top. While one has a more European medieval setting and the other a modern sci-fi setting, they both incorporate violent action, intrigue and excellent characterisation. You can't go wrong with one if you liked the other.

Gundevil says...

Gungrave and Berserk are similar in that both revolve around two friends as their relationship begins and then grows more complicated. Each is about one friend trying to help the other "reach the top" and both are rather violent.

danman says...

Berserk is a beautiful well told epic story that is very mature and intelligent. The story is told from a persepective of someone who understands hardship, and how tough life can be. Its not superficial whatsoever, it is real, it is respectable even from a warriors point of view. I consider myself a warrior because this is my way of life, I am in the military and I train like I fight. My life was hard and it still is. I can relate to Berserk, and I can relate to Gungrave. These are real stories. Berserk is fantastic and the character Relationship between Guts and Griffith is a deep bond, only matched by the brotherhood between Harry and Brandon of Gungrave. Sure the action, and some fantasy are elements involved in the storytelling in both series but this is not the main plot and is not what makes the story what it is, its more of a plot enhancer to make the story more epic and fantastical. If you are looking for a very emotional, non corny, real deal, raw, intelligent, and mature story that you will never forget, please watch these both. Berserk was and is my favorite, but Gungrave made me cry, and i dont cry for just anything. Gungrave holds its own greatness. The relationship between Harry and Brandon was just something else. Im starting to babble... anyway enjoy! tell what u thought of the series if you get a chance - [email protected]

ch0p5tixmast3r says...

Both series have a slow, but deep plot line and strong main characters. Each of these really builds and portrays a relationship between best friends. There is a darkness to both series and each is an unusual combination of fantasy-action-drama.T he entire story is spectacular, though both would have been better with a stronger ending. Despite that, the overall experience of these series is extraordinarily great.

Stryder says...

Because both stories are about betrayal and friendship. The two of them share a similar story structure, and a dark atmosphere. Also, the romance problems in both stories have their similarities

iPhoenix says...

Tragedy, betrayal, coldheartedness and loyalty. These elements would be what describe both series at the core. Now at the top they may not seem similar because clearly they're set in different environments. One including a modern day world, the other a fantasy of medievil Europe. But both series put friendship to the test in unimaginable ways.

thedarkknite says...

Gungrave and Berserk, although not very alike in setting are immensely similar in their themes and execution. They both provoke the viewer into examining life and ideals (such as friendship, loyalty, purpose, and power) using compelling character driven stories with action throughout. Other simarities include the use of strong silent main characters with well-developed supporting ones and they both start their stories “in medias res”. I feel if you like the ride one of these great anime gives you then you will enjoy the other (however I find Gungrave to be the more enjoyable of the two).

sonis says...

My friend told me to watch Gungrave, he likes anime, and I liked the series, I told him Berserk would be a good recommendation. He liked the recommendation, Ironically it's the best voted recommendation on gungrave's page.

some people mentioned that the series don't have much in common, but in reality, they do -- because of how the series flows from one event to the next. The ridiculidness that's involved in the series -- both of 'em.

gungrave and berserk are must sees.

zorro2013 says...

Both are great series that revolve around two BFF that end up walking two different paths. Both have serious themes with good meaningful ACTION and well told stories. If you like one you should like the other... Gungrave takes a little time to get great though.

Zech says...

Because i never met someone who likes one and not the other. Because it's about friendship. Because it's about the past. Because it's mixing a first part (after the first episode for both) strongly realistic, and a second part which is clearly fantastic.

quacker says...

Both are stories of two friends. One friend is super ambitious and willing to do anything to reach his goal. The other friend is physicially stronger but rides the coattails of his friend's ambition.

Both series maintain a serious atmosphere, and both start out in medias res, with the first episode beginning in the middle of the plot and then reverting to the beginning. Both have fantastic characters, great stories, supernatural elements, betrayal, and lots of fighting and killing.

Dbag says...

excellent main characters and motivations are powerful, but their exterior is power and cool. 

casandra29 says...

You would most likely enjoy Berserk or Gungrave if you like the other because they both have a similar feel. Betrayal of friendship and trust plays a large part in both anime. Also, the way the series of events are told is similar in that the first episode happens after the betrayal and then it goes back through how the main characters got to that point. Both main characters (Guts and Brandon) talk very little unless nessessary and have big hearts. Both Guts and Brandon feel tragic in some ways. Both stories are dark and deal with antagonists with extreme ambitions. These are just a few I chose to list.

dragonballk says...

Both Anime tell the story of two friends, who rely on each other through tough times, forming a bond that would seem almost un-breakable, who eventually become bitter enemies. 

 Both Anime are grounded in realism most of the time, with a sudden unexpected rush of fantasy/sci fi  element that takes you by surprise but actually works. 

hayavuk says...

Both Berserk and Gungrave capture the character of a man that is missing a vital part of their personality, on a quest to get it back. The stories are quite different, and the outcomes differ as well, but that's exactly why Gungrave and Berserk may complement each other to give you different looks at the same topic.

OldManLav says...

Both revenge tales with similar story set-up. Both explore mature themes and incorporate brief time jumps.

FMDGandi says...

As gungrave is considered the inofficial follow up to Trigun I think it's kinda obvious that if you like the one, you'll like the other too. There are many similarities like the characters and their personality remind of each other. "Grave" and Vash are both lone heroes, striving to make up with their ruined past, a main subject in both animes. As Yasuhiro Nightow had a strong influence on both productions it's no surprise that they resemble each other so much, for all you Trigun fans out there, WATCH GUNGRAVE, for all Gungrave fans, WATCH TRIGUN!

trajector says...

Even though Gungrave is a dark anime whereas Trigun is more humorous and lighthearted, if you liked one you will probably like the other. Both anime are about gunslingers with great skills and contain some great shoot out sequences. In my opinion Gungrave is the slightly better of the two due to its deep storyline (even though I greatly disliked the ending); but nevertheless if you watched and enjoyed either of these anime the other is a must.

BrandonHeat says...

Vash from Trigun is a lot like Brandon from Gungrave. Both are badass gunslingers who also have a soft side. Both have the same writing style too because Yoshiro Nightow wrote them both.

torlax45 says...

Gungrave and Trigun are filled with action-packed gunfights and have fast-paced storylines. In each, the main character fights for what he must protect.

Adam says...

They both have "gun" in the name. That's good enough for me.

In all honesty, if you liked Vash in TriGun, you will probably like Brandon in Gungrave, and vice versa. Both characters are badasses with a soft side, though Brandom more badass and Vash more soft side. Plus, both involve two people who were very close, but are torn apart by betrayal, and now vie to kill eachother.

Anyway, you'll enjoy one if you liked the other.

jurexplay says...

Well in terms of plot those 2 series haven't got propably nothing in common maybe apart from badass main character. These anime are a great watch for action, drama oriented fans. Trigun has some comedic relief but it can be deadly seriuios as the series progress.

Malek says...

Both series are in a time period slightly different than our current and have some form of futeristic feeling whilst still not being a full blown sci-fi. Also both series have an awesome story involving both the past as the present of the main character. Also the amount of action in both series will satisfy your desire.

urbansamurai01 says...

Both of these anime where to originally written by the same Manga artist and the music composed by the same composer. So the style over all gives these two anime the same feel. The gunslinger action in both of these are really well done and the stories well thaught out.

wazeem says...

Both series are very good. While its hard to recommend either series due to the vast difference in the setting/plot/characters I always do, simply because both anime have very high production values.

The story telling is brilliant in both with perfect pacing (although Gungrave's is better). The anime have a great respect for bonds and how characters change. If you like gungrave and dont mind some comedy Trigun is perfect. If you like Trigun and dont mind darker anime's then Gungrave is perfect too.

Lastly the music in both is spot on ;).

awpaperwings says...

Trigun and Gungrave are essentially the same show with emphasis on different points. Trigun on one hand is a forever memorable comedy with some great action scenes and a protagonist unwilling to compromise his morals. On the other hand Gungrave is a darker, more serious show also filled with great action, but also with characters with great character development and some great shock values. The protagonist's unwillingness to give up on his morals also comes in to play in Gungrave. Both shows you will remember for a long time and anyone that has seen one of these and enjoyed it should be sure to check the other out. You will certainly return to rewatch these many a time.

badazz5001 says...

well besids both having gun in he title, being in produced by madhouse, having the same director and being in my top 5 anime of all time bouth series  have simmiler animeation although admittiley gun grave is of better quality. Both deal with thems of betrayl and revenge and bothe have simmiler settings. vash is a lot like brandon because they have simmiler goles and both dont corupt themselves. and i dont want to give anything away but harry is a lot like knives. also bouth start out taking place in a slightley realistic world and then slowley transishin into sci fy. LOng story short if you liked one you will like the outher.

quacker says...

Gungrave and Trigun share very stylized approaches and tell tales of two friends. They both have "legendary" main characters with big guns and big hearts, sci-fi elements, and lots of gun fights. Trigun is more comedic and cheerful, and maintains a more cohesive and refined western style. Gungrave has a grimmer tone, leaning a bit toward a noir style. Trigun has cleverer fight scenes, while Gungrave has a more epic story. But if you like one you should like the other.

miko says...

as they both contain a man with a gun in a desire to protect those he loves, they come from different angles.  both are related to being located in the future, however, as gungrave approaches the very serious side, trigun approches from the more comedy angle than serious side.  but if you liked one, you're certain to like the other.

VRDave says...

I know it seems generic, however the attitude of both Grave and Alucard are quite the same, and just the cocky attitude mixed with negative emotions. It's great. I can't really say more without spoiling, so I will just say watch it!

MelandStv says...

Both Gungrave and Hellsing are quite dark, have "dead"ly lead characters, deal with the supernatural and have great shootout scenes.

trajector says...

Both Hellsing and Gungrave center on a main character who has a dark past and an even darker future. Also, both characters are talented gunslingers and both are undead, although in Gungrave that wasn't always the case. In both series the mood is prevalently dark, a little more in Hellsing in my opinion. It just so happens that there also is a female side character in both anime that the protagonists try to save. So if you're in the mood for an anime with a good story and a good amount of wild action scenes then these anime are for you.

takuhii says...

Both anime feature gun-totting undead types fighting on the side of all that is good. There past eventually catch up to haunt/hinder them.

Synn says...

Both characters have the similar attitudes. The feel of the series are dark. They both have a coffin...though the uses are different. ~.^ They are both packing heat, fighting evil, supernatural enitites, and a conflicted past and a darker future.

Sheex says...

Though the two don't share much direct correlation, Gungrave and Hellsing carry remarkably similar feels. Gungrave does carry a slightly more coherent story, however, so it strays a bit from the norms, whereas Hellsing does little to separate itself from a stereotypical vampire story. Still, the nature of both series indicates they're aimed for the same audience, so if you enjoyed one be sure to check out the other.

Zirulan says...

The first moment I saw this series i noticed that the Hellsing organisations vampire Alucard reminded a lot of Brandon. Now for the real deal. If you really liked the whole idea with Beyond the Grave then the whole Hellsing story ain't that far off and I truly belive that you'd like it, and it also do have a lot of lovely stand offs.

DeathCrunch says...

Both involve utter bullet magnet protagonists who can withstand hundreds of bullets and still be left without even the slightest of damage. 

Plenty of acrobatic fight scenes and dark humour in equal spades.

fat10 says...

Both anime have a formidable character, extremely effective, defeating their opponents without hesitation, with very different objectives, but in the end have a connection. It is true that surpasses Gungrave Hellsing, and certainly has a better story, but for those who like the style of Brandon, will certainly like Alucard.

Chariot says...

The main characters are very similar in personality, though Alucard is more on the psychotic side. The same gun-slinging action can be found in both of them.

OkamiHime95 says...

While Hellsing is much more on the supernatural side, these anime actually have similar qualities to each other. For example, they both have a powerful gunslinger MC, good music, and tons of fighting and action.

SeiyaManG says...

Both series deal heavily with the underwold and the mafia lifestyle and both do a great job of portraying it. Phantom goes the more realistic route, while Gungrave involves more fantasy. Both series deal with main characters who are extremely well trained killers, Zwei in Phantom, Brandon Heat in Gungrave, that have to deal with death and questions of morality. If you liked the tone and the themes in one show, you will most likely appreciate the other.

puolukankukka says...

If you like either Phantom ~Requiem for the Phantom~ or Gungrave, there's a good chance that you will like the other one too. Both animes do a wonderful job creating a mafia setting, and portraying a clash of interests within that world. Questions of loyalty are central to both - who picks their friends wisely, lasts; but can friendship last in the world of organized  crime?

Gungrave is a bit more rugged in style compared to Phantom. And even if both tell a tragic story, Phantom concentrates much more on the emotions. But they both have a fair deal of flashy action sequences, violence, and Machiavellian drama.

Kurses says...

Both series deal with mafia and assassins as a base concept while adding in scientific alteration of human beings to make them into more effective killers, although the methods vary in the two series.  Both shows also touch on a gradual power struggle to the top of the criminal underworld, only to lose sight of your original goal and to have it all come crashing down on your head.  A bit of betrayal from close friends exists in both shows to keep enough twists in the series to keep things interesting.

KiraRin says...

Be prepared for some amazing storytelling that involves the rise of a nobody in the underground mafia. Both Gungrave and Phantom have twists and turns aplenty to keep the viewer guessing at what the final outcome will be for the main protagonists.

Coming highly recommended from yours truly, fans of one are sure to love the other.

shinigamidono says...

Both revolve around mafia-type organizations where the male lead is a highly skilled assassin.

scizorg45 says...

Both anime are in a dark setting and lots of murdering happen throughout the series. But that's why you'd watch this. If you liked one, check out the other.

Eindbaas says...

Mafia, assasinations, friends. Rising to the top of the organization. In the end, what's stronger; the hunger for power or friendship?

They both also have a good deal of action & firefights. Fair amount of drama/romance too.

Rfsancho says...

Both of these shows play out suprisingly similar. Simiar underworld lifestyle, similar character issues, similar twists. They both give off great vibes that definitely complement each other.

sonis says...

This is a good recommendation. Ein is like brandon heat. both series goes into how they train to become assassins. they work in mafias. shooting. ridiculidness all around.

you should watch this series.

mexigogen says...

Both Gungrave and Texhnolyze are similar in the sense that they are dark stories involving mafia activities. The main characters are pretty similar as well; both are silent strong types who got involved with the mafia because they simply lacked other options.

tasanime says...

If you ever wondered how man responds to a new body that allows them to live beyond the strength of the average man, then Texhnolyze and Gungrave will provide all the answers you desire. The protagonists in each series similarly have to gain understanding of the world around them once their bodies have been physically enhanced. Each is packed to the brim with a unique outtake on life, a sense of mystery and intrigue, confusion regarding friends and foes, and is shrouded in darkness.

Funari says...

Both Texhnolyze and Gungrave are rather dark series featuring a mob drama as a large part of their storyline, yet both also show a bigger process behind it all, both having to do with the inevitable end of an era.

Both also feature a very silent and loyal (perhaps even to the point of servitude) protagonist who carry out their orders without question, leaving the audience only guessing what their own thoughts are, although Ichise starts out as quite a bit more feral than Brandon.

Also, neither series shies away from showing just what kind of price does making people super soldiers via science carry with it. Texhnolyze's violence is gruesome in a more restrained, grotesque way while in Gungrave things explode in a more adrenaline-filled way, but aside from that I'd say if one strikes your fancy, try the other.

phnsr says...

The main characters are rather similar. Both Brandon and Ichise end up physically modified, but that is less important than their ambivalent, confused outlook on life. Both join an organization they initially dislike and then try to establish their identity in relation to it, with nearly identical results. The tone/feeling of both series is quite similar as well. Bonus similarity: Both feature instrumental intro music.

herano says...

Both of these dark anime feature a silent protagonist who gets in the favor of the mafia. Animation and music are great in both. Texhnolyze is a lot trippier, but it is worth the time if you liked gungrave. Gungrave is more straitforward, but the characters are quite alike and are developed masterfully. Both feature a lot of dark human emotion. If you like one, try out the other.

FoxMaskCain says...

Dark, gloomy, and slightly futuristic, these two titles share much more than just a quite, loner protagonist. Both show the inner workings of a major criminal organization, so if you enjoy watching how the mafia works then I suggest you jump to the show you haven't seen yet.

Zabuzaxtr says...

Both anime's are showing a mafia story and both have revenge theme,however Texhnolhyze is falling into the cyberpunk genre by involving robotic limbs and such while former is not really going into those details much(computers etc.)

subparalien says...

The main characters have grit and the determination to protect something. They keep moving forward, even as everything falls apart.

sothis says...

I know what you are thinking.. that I just recommended these two series for each other because they both have to do with people with guns. Well, you are wrong! Each of these stories is told in a very unique manner, both with the animation, music, and general storyline. This unique manner makes the watching experience very interesting, and sucks you in to the plight of the characters. Heavy character development and harsh violence also accompany both. Gungrave is definitely a lot more interesting as far as plot, but I still think if you enjoyed one, you'd enjoy the other.

VRDave says...

Something about these two series makes them very similar. The story is actually kind of the same too. The morbidity underneith innocence. In any case the style and atmosphere will keep you wanting to watch more of either of these.

cameronanimeangel says...

Gungrave and Gunslinger Girls have some common themes in them one of them is disappear and the other is hope. In the series Gungrave the story is very dark straight from the beginning of the show. The main charades loss everything that they hold precious to them both and then regain it all just to lose it all in the end. While in Gunslinger Girls the story is that of tragic events that lead each one of the girls to the agency in which they work. Though the idea of hope is present in each show. In the case of Gungrave there is a young female that is said to help bring the company back to its true ideals and make things right. In the case of Gunslinger Girls the hope is that each girl is alive and has the opportunity to make their lives better. The voice acting for both is great as they breathe life in to the characters. The music for both is engaging and will make you want to listen to it even when the shows not on. The style for both can be bloody at some times and dark, you have to see past to see the future of the characters in both of the shows. If you like guns, Shakespearean drama, and sci-fi then both of these show's are for you.

KiraRin says...

I notice most people making a recommendation for these series are looking more at the violent aspect of the shows. But for me, Gunslinger Girl and Gungrave were a lot more than that.

The animation is beautiful, the narration is faultless and the characters are all well developed to the point you feel you know them and have grown with them. Don't go into either expecting a gunslinging battle, as the action is not the main focus.

An epic story line, with a very satisfying ending makes both of these absolute gems in the anime world.

Ajna says...

If you are looking for another anime that will make you shed tears, then try this one.

Notice that neither of this to show will give you "easy" tear; instead you will be moved by an earnest narration, without abused and easy tricks to make you cry (and that usually give me opposite results).

fat10 says...

Both anime tells the story of a corporation that makes an illegal work in Gungrave can see the work of the Mafia, while in Gunslinger Girl see a corporation funded by the Italian government, to do the dirty work. Both have lots of action anime, and weapons to the mix.

scizorg45 says...

Both anime feature a lot of assasins(ations). If you like a dark background story and don't mind lots of killing happening there, check them out!

tasanime says...

Both Gungrave and Black Lagoon are beautifully animated action packed series with plenty of interesting characters and some great gun fights throughout. They also similarly provide the viewer with an insight into the psychi of law breakers and the greater criminal organisations giving more depth to the overall themes. Both are must sees for any fan of chaotic violence with a touch of humanity.

jurexplay says...

If you are looking for action packed, dark and storywise anime than here you got it. Bl together with Gungrave are propably the best gun fighting anime out there. Both series will make you shiver with excitement and you will be amazed by greatly done character development that both series have to offer. Graet and enjoyable watch!

awpaperwings says...

Mafia activity, blazing gunfights and illegal dealings are the storytelling medium of both of these shows. While each tells a different story, the protagonist of each changes drastically from the man they were in the beginning. Both are loyal to their friends, but Rock tends to avoid and discourage violence while Brandon becomes more and more entrenched in it. If you have seen one of these and enjoyed seeing how that protagonist changed during the show, enjoyed the action, or simply are curious about the other, be sure to check it out! I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed!

Valksta says...

Both of these anime portray a sense of realism to there respective themes as far as criminal settings, weapons, and character growth goes. But they also have some crazy, over the top action sequences that are reference to a many John Woo flicks,(flipping- somersault bullet time stuff) to which then kind of contradicts the whole realism aspect of it all. While both anime have crazy "Equilibrium" like gun battles (Christian Bale Kung foo Gunslinger!), Gungrave's focus is more so on Character growth while Black Lagoon is all about shooting first and maybe asking questions later if your still alive(too cool for school!). So if you watched Gungrave and happened to really dig the action sequences too, then you'll probably get a kick out of Black Lagoon!

VivisQueen says...

Gangsters, tough talk, guns and more guns. Both Gungrave and Black Lagoon take a gritty approach where blood and betrayals are aplenty and the world is an unforgiving place to those who don't watch their back. Black Lagoon is firmly set in realism whereas Gungrave tacks on some sci-fi at the end, but the general gist is very much the same. Enjoy.

flclkris says...

Gungrave and Cowboy Bebop are arguably two of the best in modern action anime. While Cowboy Bebop takes the more stylized super futuristic science fiction approach, Gungrave takes a more gritty, realistic approach. However, both series blead over in these characteristics and in some respects they are very similar. Cowboy Bebop is more serialized with self contained episodes while Gungrave is more geared towards devoping a building main plot. Both have an engrosing back story and some of the coolest action sequences around. If you like either one I'd definitely reccomend trying the other.

Aporias says...

Aside from the action, Cowboy Bebop and Gungrave go far deeper in comparison. The two series excel at bringing forth this great level of depth as each character finds themself trying to fight the mistakes they have made in their past. Not only do these two anime show a large amount of struggle and emotion, but they also exceed at blending them together with the gun fighting and explosions. You'll find this plot of vengeance, love and uncertainty all too familiar as you watch one after the other.

Urufu says...

Both Gungrave and Cowboy Bebop have a similar jazzy crime feel to them and share plot elements such as former friends now facing off as foes.

subparalien says...

There's something fun about shoot em up style fights. Dramatic guns! Tension! Blood! the general works.

freakzilla says...

Both Gungrave and Blood+ have a strong story that takes a bit of the supernatural and places it in our own world. This gives the anime a realistic feel. Character development and atmosphere play another huge part in these anime.

DreamerBlade says...

In each of these anime the main character is forced into difficult situations and lose things that were very close to them. Both are also filled with action, and freakish zombie like creatures that seem unstopable.

tasanime says...

Both anime are successful attempts at exploring revenge, death and cruelty, through the central protagonists who dutifully serve the kindness and friendships they identify with saving in a bloody violent world. Both are fluidly animated, spawning great action scenes, a variety of different kinds of evil and a cast of characters who you will come to loathe or admire. You may just enjoy them both...

Annalyn says...

Gungrave and Blood+ are similar enought that I think if you love one, you will at least like the other. Both have intriguing plot, deep friendships, similar levels of action (with some variation of weapons and style), and tasteful supernatural elements. Gungrave's plot may be slightly more sophisticated and unique than Blood+'s plot, but not so much that fans would be terribly disappointed. Blood+ isn't without its plot twists, either.

These two anime have enough of a similar feel than a fan of one will probably enjoy the other.

Uriel1988 says...

Both series start off in such a way that the viewer doesn't really have an idea of what exactly is going on; after which a flashback starts that lasts for a large part of the series and details the events leading up to the situation shown to the viewer in the first episode (first two episodes in Ga-Rei-Zero's case). Both series also happen to revolve around a deep friendship between two people that somehow took a turn for the worse, the how and why also being revealed over the course of the story.

adriande2 says...

I would recommend that you watch Gungrave if you liked Ga Rei Zero and vice-versa. Both series start out with a flash-forward explaining that they are enemies at the time. You later learn that they use to be very close friends in both series and in some way they were betrayed by their own friend without knowing it first. They are also similar in a way that the main characters have to deal with death and fight undead-like monsters. I definitely recommend that if you liked one of these anime you should watch the other.

Szwagier says...

Both are a stories about two close friends, that in some point turn against each other. While their motives are essentially different, the result is pretty much the same.

Both shows use In medias res formula (starting from the middle of the story, then showing the past, and finally ending it all in the finale).

Both show deal with the supernatural powers, that alter the course of the plot greatly.

DeathCrunch says...

Incridibley similarm in terms of structure, plot and backstory.

A couple of impossible to understand episodes at the start and cuts to flashbacks for half a series to clue you in.

Backstorys involve the same surrogate-family like bond of friendship being shattered.

Plenty of cannon-fodder hell-creatures being decimated in either series.