Elfen Lied - Recommendations

Harbin says...

Kouta moves to a new town and starts his college life, just like how Kenichi in Higurashi moves to a new town and goes to school. Neither character knows what is going to happen to him in his future. Both main characters are surrounded with female characters who are quite dangerous. The main female character(s) have different sides to them, which makes a very good comparision between anime. Also, both series are very bloodly.

IsmoHaa says...

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni and Elfen Lied have a lot in common on a very basic level. Most specifically, they are series that seamlessly blend the ordinary with the freaky, the normal with the insane and the cute with the bloody and gory. Neither series may be for those who are faint of heart, but a fan of one series is likely to enjoy the other.

BelYaun says...

If you liked the gore and dark plot of Elfen Lied you would like Higurashi because it places a lot of emphasis on the horror aspects of the series. Like Elfen Lied, this anime has its moments of fun with the characters where they kick back a little, but continues to stay true to its plot.

Bedwyr says...

Both series are gory with cute, killer girls in the main roles. Both are about the characters' desires to live a normal, peaceful life, without these horrifying and traumatic events. Higurashi has a better, more mysterious and twisted plot, while Elfen Lied is more heart-shaking and romantic (if you can say that about anime in which body parts float in air ;)). Oh, and both have fantastic opening tracks. ^^

EnseiChan says...

If you liked Elfen Lied, you'll certainly like Higurashi as it also, amazingly, unites bloody murders and cute girls. However, unlike Elfen Lied, it sometimes has lighter climate and funny anime cliché moments. But don't worry, as those are definitely less frequent than horror scenes and simply could be considered a break between them. ;) So if you've taken to the cruel side of Elfen Lied, Higurashi surely won't disappoint you.

icejamez says...

Both Elfen Lied and Higurashi are jam-packed with an intense, creepy sense of horror. They are both pumped full of violence and gore, have a sensitive side, and very artistic opening sequences.

You'll enjoy one's extreme violence if you enjoyed the other's.

faerieponey says...

Elfen Lied and Higurashi are two stories for those who like seeing blood spilled. The producers of these anime didn't put a limit on bloody scenes, so they will satisfy your demands.

Nocturnalgloria says...

Cute characters engaged in bloody acts of violence, torture and death: both Elfen Lied and Higurashi deal with children turned vicious killers and victims of sheer brutality. Yet these series, as disturbing as they get, have a message of hope amidst the chaos. Higurashi's plot is a challenge while Elfen Lied is more straight forward; both are inspired by hauntingly pervasive soundtracks and are not for the faint of heart.

Adam says...

Both of these anime bring together cuteness and violence in a great way. With both the innocent persona of Nyuu in Elfen Lied and the overly-fake cuteness in the starting arcs of Higurashi, the balance of psychotic and sweet is actually pretty good.

pyro says...

Both series are gory and have a lot of blood. Even though Elfen Lied is bloodier, Higurashi's scenes seem more violent; at times it makes you feel a little bad. The main difference is that Elfen Lied is bloody and has romance, while Higurashi is bloody, psychological, and is filled with terror.

chadgeo says...

Both these animes have borderless violance, a gripping story and a few heart wrenching scenes. There were parts in Elfen Lied that left you thinking " theres no way shes going to do that" and then Bam she kills kouta's family. And Higurashi was a rollercoaster of events that is sort of confusing until the second season, but when it hits you, the series comes together so well its kind of scary. Both of these series have very similar animation styles.

TheHermit says...

Both series have a stark contrast between silly cuteness and brutal gore. Both also make a point of showing what young people are capable of when pushed into a corner. Neither series is for the faint of heart, or for people who don't like getting their heads messed with. Or their heartstrings torn, for that matter.

yvonniewaj says...

blood, gore, a little bit more blood and a little bit more gore...oh, and did i mention there was lots of blood and gore?

both series are of your basic horror graphical violence type, but each also manage to incorporate comedy (no folks, not black comedy, but actual funny haha comedy) tragic childhood memories, strange secret company conspiracies, and the sheer will to protect the ones they love the most.

fans of one are often fans of the other and would really miss out if otherwise.

IgnatiusJReilly says...

This show has an equal amount of blood and gore in it, just spread out. The story is very detailed, and keeps you asking, "How? Why? When?", and sometimes, "Who?" On the gore, how does fingernails equal forgiveness, maggots falling out of a neck, and bloody machetes sound? The emotions, past, present, and "future" of these characters is very compelling. It almost rivals, yes, rivals, Elfen Lied. Don't believe me? See for yourself.

SaiAkuto says...

Both shows may look complitly diferent at first sight but they truly have a lot in common. The main topic is a brutality and corruption of the world which couses the main haracters to act sometimes violently but sometimes also with devotion.

IDDKyewD says...

Both casts contain cute little girls who kill remoreslessly. The series are dark, gory and both use great colour paletts. Bright for the characters, but dark in ordeer to invoke mood.

sydneylove says...

Both Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni and Elfen Lied have kids acting violently against eachother. Higurashi no Naku Ni seems to have more of a reason for the violence than Elfen Lied, but overall, fans of gore and mystery should enjoy both series.

Jake1989 says...

Both series turn the Dail up on the creepy factor. If the creepyness is what hooked you then Higurashi no Naku Koro ni is what you want. Although Higurashi no Naku Koro ni is not as bloody Elfen Lied it can shock you at times just how graphic it can be.

If you like Elfen lied for mystery,or just to be creeped out then I highly suggest that you give Higurashi no naku koro ni a try.

chii says...

Both anime have characters engaged in bloody acts of violence, torture, death, and brutality. Yet when they aren't killing they are very sweet and loving. Elfen Lied is more about the gore where Higurashi is more about the horror/mystery of what is happening. If you liked one you will like the other.

TotallyLovable says...

So much blood that you may cry! Or stay alert for the next thing to happen! These are the most likely reactions when watching either Elfen Lied or Higurashi no Naku Koro ni. So much killing that you may just like that either drop it or become addicted to it! Either way, the excitement is just too much. Don't watch if you are not prepared to withstand it!

skipola says...

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, like Elfen Lied, is violent and, at times, kind of disturbing. Nyuu/Lucy also reminded me of Mion (a girl in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni), with both a cute and innocent side, and a violent, murderous one.

crawller says...

Both anime include twisted tortures and gore.

Lucy (Elfen lied) is also kinda similar to Mion (Higurashi) because they both got this sweet and kind side and this crazy side, (killing without feeling guilt)

Finntastic says...

Both Elfen Lied and Higurashi no Naku Koro ni share a intresting style where at one point during the show everything is fine and happy, and then the next it gets very sadistic and violent. As strange as that might sound, it works. Plus for those who enjoy the violent and sadistic part, you can be assured that both are VERY violent and sadistic. Honestly they are the kinds of anime that would give little kids nightmares.

YoLuvMonkey says...

Both of these series are amazing suspense thrillers. While the story line of the two series are completely different, they share the same look, feel and most important the same intensity. Elfen Lied contains a bit more gore than Higurashi does, but they share the same intensity through out the series.

xkub4 says...

There are characters who doesn't look like killers, but they are. They're usually normal, like other people, but from time to time they shows their dark sides and kills other people.

You can find drama and also liters of blood in both.

If you like one of them, you'll like the other.

Larkawolfgirl says...

These shows both have the same dark feeling, and death plot. They both are about girls who you like and feel bad for even though they go around killing people. Both are depressing.

Slausher says...

For those who love dark stories, Elfen Lied and Higurashi (both seasons) are great complements. Not simply because of the gore content (although none of those two animes are lacking), but also the depth of the story and the eeriness they emit.

What people would appreciate in those two animes would also be the contrast between funny and cheerful moments and the sudden ominous and serious tone that could appear unexpectedly. Characters are very likeable and can easily be connected to.

However, Higurashi is a longer series and offers more mystery and unexpected plot twists than does Elfen Lied.

nosaint317 says...

Even though both always end with the basic brutality that both series bring, the characters are amusing and delightful at time. They will make you laugh and grab your attention while the true story takes place, I couldn't turn away while watching both.

Qplayer says...

I consider Higurashi to be very similar to Elfen Lied in its intensity of animation and found myself actually fearful when watching both series. As horror animes, both are very effective in instilling fear in it's audiences. Both series have an element of mystery which forces the viewer to watch to the very end.

MrShadowzs says...

Both are bloody yet Higurashi gets inside your head but Elfen Lied is more about the blood yet both of them are about little girls that go around killing people in extreamly gory ways, while for Higurashi I did stay up till two in the morning watching my doorway hopeing Rena wouldn't pop out and cut my head off, while this wasn't the case with elfen lied it was the extreamly well told story with a plot twist about episode nine that I deffently didn't see coming but either way I very much recommend both to any one who has a strong gut.

FireFlower says...

If you liked Elfen Lied, I think you might like also Higurashi no Naku Koro ni because both have a unique plot that you are not just able to guess beforehand.

Twisted, Darkness, Mysteries, Betrayals. Explore the dark mind of humankind!

Kiyohime says...

The blood content in both these animes is crazy. They both have young people, with love interests, who are going through some insane kind of drama.  Both main characters are apart of some kind of mystery that begins to reveal itself as the anime progresses.

Rocketbean says...

Do you like gratuitous amounts of violence? If so you will find a great experience in either Elfen Lied or Higurashi, both of which don't skimp on the bloodshed.

AzureKait says...

Both Elfen Lied and Higurashi no Naku Koro ni have a similar theme of a male character surrounded by many seemingly-innocent (and secretly violent) females. Though the overall storylines are essentially different (Elfen Lied focuses more on romance and social ethics whereas Higurashi no Naku Koro ni has a sort of paranormal mystery going on), don't let that stop you from watching one if you've watched the other. They both feature murderous cute characters, some cringe-worthy torture scenes, and gruesome amounts of blood and gore.

eaper says...

Both Of these series have an extremely dark feel to them, leaving the viewer trying to piece together certain parts of the background behind the characters. Furthermore, both of the series are very violent, with a sense of insanity inherently placed in the series. Finally, both series do a very good job of making the impossible seem very real.

zelos says...

Both of them have for main theme kill and blood, you don´t understand very well what happened when you start to watch, you discover in the middle of the serie everything. 

The Characters don´t be like they seems to be...

demonman905 says...

Keiichi move to town, and so does Kohta.  They both have no knowledge of what psychopathic terror await them.  Both make new friends, and witness the horror of the slaughter brought from them. The main female characters also have split personalities, making these two animes very close to each other. If you love stuff that messes with your head, or blood and gore, both of these animes are for you! definitely not recommended for the weak of heart

tunaroll says...

If you're an Elfen Lied lover, then there's a good chance that you'd be fond of Higurashi. They both have disturbing violence that's sure to give you nightmares. So, if you enjoyed the grotesque "oh -my-god-did-she-just-chop-that-person's-head-off!?" violence of Elfen Lied, then you'll definitely enjoy the gruesome insanity of Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni. The two animes also share the "adorably cute girl" factor in the animation, also.

Thrawn says...

You know what's fun? Comedies that gradually turn into violent blood fests wrought with killing and comedies that can go straight to violence/insanity in a snap. Except- no, that's just about it. Both Elfen Lied and Higurashi no Naku Koro ni are twisted enough to do that sort of jazz. But that's what makes them fun (In a way). They both satisfy those with a taste of comedy who don't mind the occasional jets/squirts of blood and disturbing imagery.

DaZeD says...

Elfen Lied and Higurashi no Naku Koro ni are both excellent series. They both have a very serious tone in one instance--but in the next instance you'll laughing your butt off! Also the art for both series is very good, in my opinion however, Elfen Lied art takes more of a life-like stance as opposed to the more cartoonish art in Higurashi no Naku Koro ni.

NiZEDGE says...

Both these animes have alot of gore thoughout so If you like gore then thats a good start, aswell as this the characters at first seem very normal, but they also have a killer side to them. So if you like higurashi for its brutal side, you will also like elfen lied and visa versa

GGXtreme says...

These animes share a lot: overall dark mood, thriller/shock aspect and violence. Characters in both animes may not be who they seem. They take all of these similar aspects in very different directions, with both having some element of mystery. However, Elfen Lied focuses more on action and drama, while Higurashi is primarily a mystery.

pukahuntus says...

Both Higurashi no Naku Koro ni and Elfen Lied make the point that making friends with a cute girl may not always be such a good idea.Whilst they tell very different stories they both feature characters who whilst appearing harmless and adorable on the outside, actually have a ruthless violent streak hidden behind their childish exterior- both animes are gory and whilst they feature charming colourful artwork at times should not be recomended for a younger audience. Both these animes go beyond the violence, capturing a dark atmosphere full of dramatic tension and horror to leave their audience wishing they had a bigger edge to their seat.

Lushrocker says...

So you like blood, guts, horror, and mystery? You're at the right place. Wether it's elfen lied, or Higurashi no naku koro ni (or when they cry) You get it.

Creepy, mysterious female characters, that cause absolute mayhem. Strange music, and errie undertones, with plenty of violence and gore. I would highly reccomend each of them from each other.

Not for those sensetive to animated blood!

LyDiiA says...

Neither of them will baby you, you're watching a violent anime, that's what you get without faffing around. Both contain mystery and to some degree, until you are given the solution require you to come up with your own ideas.

Both are violent.

Both manage to balance casual happy life with horrific murders very well.

Atalea says...

An anime with a lot of blood, but it also has a good story in it, just like this one. In both animes you'll feel sorry for one of the characters and you keep on hoping on a happy ending. I highly recommend it!

Aurora3500 says...

They're both horror anime and have more beneth the surface than what is initally revealed. With being gory and having unique complex characters I've you've enjoyed Elfen Lied or Higurashi whatever you watched first its likely you'll enjoy the other.

FreddyCrab says...

Both Elfen Lied and Higurashi No Naku Koro Ni are well known for explicit gore and  violence. Their very similar in the aspects that there is a lot of mutilation and horror taking place in both animes. Also in both of them characters slowly turn psychopathic and creepy.

flalayla says...

Both animes are very gory and leave an impact. I personally recommend watching Elfin Lied first, seeing as it may get you ready for the mind destroying ways of Higurashi.

kindagothgirl96 says...

Both Elfen Lied and the Higurashi seires contain a lot of the same ideas. Both combione everyday things with the unexpected. Both have their fair share of blood and gore. But don't let that discourage you. Both of these shows have a superb storyline and completely worth watching. (Especially if you like the horror genre.)

darkes says...

it got the same psychological substance and a deep dark storyline higurashi is a little more deeper and darker than elfen lied  but thats the only diffrence between them  

NicoNicoDesu says...

I think Elfen Lied has more blood, but Higurashi is more F***ed up. Both feature split personality cases and child abuse, and both are VERY difficult to watch. However, Elfen Lied has a deep, heartrenching story; Higurashi's story is more confusing and thought-provoking. Elfen Lied has beautiful art, while Higurashi has ugly art (the anime, not the manga!). On the other hand, both have beautiful opening themes.

hamletsmage says...

If you liked the killer ladies in one anime, you'll love the ones in the other. Both anime start off pretty innocently, then quickly rip off the cute facade. There's plenty of blood and insane smiling to be had. 

FullmetalDragon says...

Lots of blood and gore in both, need I say anything else? .....................................

Quadsar says...

Elfen Lied and Higurashi no Naku Koro Ni are, in my opinion, the two best examples of psychological horror in existence. While Higurashi does have more fear themes than Elfen Lied, it still focuses far more on human depravity than on simple jumpscares and the like. While the storylines are very different, both are built on the same roots and contain some of the best-written psychological horror out there.

kurokam1 says...

Well I would suggest both these. On both sides. Both have slight animation troubles with when they cry having the worse if them. They both are violent bloody and funny. But higurashi a lot funnier. They're also about newcomers Lucy and Keiichi. Keiichi finds stuff out thru other people. while Lucy turns to Nyu and finds stuff out majority sexually. They're is also a large amount of cute lolis who harbor violent intent. Also a lack of male villains and only a few non female deaths. Also lots of emotional abuse with EL taking more of the violent adult side

ABZU says...

I originally found Elfen Lied from a random comment on a youtube video, which I fell in love with, and CRAVED more of. This lead me to watching When They Cry which wasnt necessarily the same but it satisfied my need for more of that type of story.

Fuzzdaddy says...

They both gave me the same feel, both had gore, killing, and blood. Did I mention killing? Anyway, I loved both of them and they are very similar.

evolvjee says...

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Dougifresh says...

In both Elfen Lied and GANTZ, the characters have very different personalities and the story intertwines and links all of the characters to each other. Both have a sci fi feeling to them as well and will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you liked one, you will love the other.

Darkpenguin13 says...

If you like extreme limb ripping, decapitations, and violent anime with lots of naked chicks, GANTZ and Elfen Lied are for you! I personally like Elfen Lied more because of its better story line and character development. Although Gantz starts out very unique and interesting it is not finished the way it was intended to; there is a manga that takes a different course that is longer than the series.

Aporias says...

GANTZ and Elfen Lied are very similar in terms of action and gore. That being said, these two series are psychological mind trips that question the characters' moral and ethical beliefs. You'll see as each and ever character slowly passes that thin line of sanity and enters this world of violence and death. Though the plots may be different, you're bound to feel a strange sense of satisfaction as both series do a great job in portraying questionable amounts of unattached limbs and exploding heads.

GodsDragon says...

Both Elfen Lied and GANTZ have enough blood and guts to make any horror fan happy. If you are into blood & gore or like horror anime these series should be on your must watch list.

ForgottenSon says...

While Elfen Lied and GANTZ are most obviously similar to each other in their liberal use of gore and the rather dark, brutal atmospheres that result, they are also very similar on an emotional level. Both contain powerful, opposite themes of isolation, suffering and loss and companionship and love. In all these aspects, both are shows of extremes, so if you enjoyed one it is highly likely that you will enjoy the other.

APWZ says...

Both Elfen Lied and Gantz are somewhat rare anime because they show people dying in the most horrible of ways. It wouldn't be wrong to think of both as survival games.

JefWithOneF says...

Both Elfen Lied and GANTZ provide the fast-paced action that we crave without holding back even one drop of blood, all while following our lead protagonist (who seems to never fully grasp the situation until it is too late). I recommend one if you enjoyed the other.

Nocturnalgloria says...

Elfen Lied and Gantz revolve around shock value and how it can be turned into a narrative devise. Both push the envelope in terms of graphic violence and excessive gore with plenty of nudity to boot. EL has peaceful interludes that keep it from becoming utterly without hope while Gantz hardly ever slackens its pace of bloody action. These series manage to horrify and move the viewer, in EL the cute character design makes the massacres all the more poignant while Gantz's mostly realistic design adds an air of verisimilitude to the insanity.

takuhii says...

You'll find a lot of recommending this anime as a good Anime to watch if you like them bloody and violent.Both cover similar themes, and both contain a lot of violence, sexual undertones, blood and scenes of a sexual nature ;)

icejamez says...

These two animes are alike in their echii factor that plays into each and there dark stylings. In all of my anime watching GANTZ and Elfen Lied are at the top of the gore fest chart. They are filled with it along with a sexually tension that is tooken seriously in GANTZ and somewhat Chobits style in Elfen Lied. They have very dark themes and end rather sad. A fan of dark anime and gore who is mature should would definetely enjoy both animes.

lostinthespiral says...

It's already been said many times over that both of these Anime are EXTREMELY gory and, therefore, are similar. But, both have very clean-cut animation (personally I can't stand anything that's poor-quality or too "cartoonish") and a sense of mystery/impending doom that lasts through the whole series. Basically, the feeling of excitement and suspense I got out of watching both Anime were about the same. Both are A+.

Halcyon says...

One thing is for sure, Elfen Lied and GANTZ are similar in that both are shockingly brutal. Not much is left to your imagination, the violence is up close and personal. Add a little mystery to the mix, and the feeling of horror, and you got yourself a recipe that really works, both for Elfen Lied and GANTZ.

YannickR says...

They're both heavy on the gore and drama factor.If you loved one for the gore or drama,you'll feel the same way about the other.

IDDKyewD says...

Both Gantz and Elfen Lied combine gritty, viceral gore with the story of a boy and his libido. The violence in both anime is off the wall, containing such things as animal cruelty, and the nudity is just as gratuitous. A strong stomach is needed if you're to venture into these anime. If you've already seen one, than you'd probably enjoy the other.

Xaian says...

So, you've just watched Elfen Lied or GANTZ, and your sad now that the blood has stopped dripping. Want more? If you miss the gore and dismemberment then watching GANTZ/Elfen Lied should be your fix. Storylines are different though, where in Elfen Lied the protagonist is killing not only out of psychotic behavior, but for her freedom. In GANTZ the reasons for destruction is just a game, the prize? ... life

jurexplay says...

Both shows contain a lot of violance and blood. People die there in a lot of diffrent ways that makes watching a bit more interesting. However if this was all to it then it wouldn’t be a good show would it? Characters seen in these anime are interesting, you get to watch the other side of human nature, typical anime shows tend to show the good side of humans. But thsese anime concentrate on the bad side so much that sometimes you have enough and you want to turn it off. That’s what makes them so good and that’s why they are worth watching. Both Gantz and Elfen Lied.

Nyu says...

Elfen Lied and GANTZ both have a lot of gore and violence so if you liked one you are bound to like the other for that reason. I also thought that both series had good soundtracks. The type of music used in each was very different but the music really added to the mood of the anime.

sonoshi says...

Gantz and Elfen Lied have a lot of blood and I mean a lot of blood and yet they both have romantic parts. They also are surrounded in confusion in Gantz they don't know why they were chosen and in Elfen Lied the main characters cant remember anything.

MrElg says...

Gantz and Elfen Lied contains exremly graphic violence. If you like anime with adult themes, you might like both of these. There's a lot of gore and nudity in both series, but in my opinion Gantz is somehow darker and more mysterious than Elfen Lied.

Toyashi says...

if you like extreme violents, gore, boobshots and lots of shocking moments...then both GANTZ and Elfen Lied are what you need. They both share a few factors, the allmost "no real end" plot, the very shocking ways people die and the very beautiful animations.

but mostly how unpredictable both story's are, you'll be very surprised in every episode about how things are turning out and sometimes you hardly belive whats happening.

chii says...

Both shows have ecchi, violence, gore, and nudity. Not to mention a LOT of blood. The stories are good but don't really end. If you liked one you will like the other.

Oehr says...

Gore, perverted scenes and humilation. These are the points they are identical. The stories are completely different. While Elfen Lied let's you think about humanly researches, Gantz makes you go WTF?! Just watch and you'll see!

doomsday says...

Both series feature a lot of nudity, over-the-top gore, and a lot of swearing. Though Elfen Lied has a better story, GANTZ is a lot more fun to watch since it's just fight after fight with a kind of weak story backing it up. Overall, I recommend watching both of these series at least once, cause they're both awesome.

Releashi says...

Gantz and Elfen are based on very different concepts but they both contain a lot of blood mixed with slightly out of place humour. When mixed together make uncomfortable but interesting viewing.

YoLuvMonkey says...

These two are both excellent series. Both Gantz and Elfen Lied have similair levels of violence and gore. The story line for both of them progress in a similair fashion and will leave you guessing all the way up to the end.

sahilms says...

If you like that impending doom like, gory, horror filled anime then elfen lied is the 1 for you, filled with bone chilling experiences gauranteed gorier than gantz  elfen lied is ditto to gantz in those ways, storywise completely different but if you liked that kind of feel watch it has a pretty good story of its own.

Kiyohime says...

Both Gantz and Elfen Lied contain elments of horror, mystery, and romance. Elfen Lied, while still dark, is considerably more light hearted than Gantz. Their's a love triangle in both animes which always guarantees drama, but with horror and gore topped onto all of it, it makes both animes unforgettable.

FireFlower says...

If you liked Elfen Lied for its abnormal amount of blood then I bet you will like this also! It got blood, guts, body parts flying everywhere!

Load your weapon, suit up, load and lock and then listen a rock and roll from radio and start blazing!

risuta says...

The reason is pretty much simple! Blood, hanging limbs, big boobs, dark at times non existing plot! However underneath a point of view and a message about deep matters as existance and life!

Still lots of blood, crazy action, you're not getting bored! If you are looking for those, trust me, you'll find them in both Elfen Lied AND Gantz!

Merryberry says...

To say that GANTZ and Elfen Lied had massive similarities would be highly wrong and inaccurate.  Actually, the sole reason as to why you would enjoy watching the other series, is because of the gore.  Both anime, produce some incredibly, horrific deaths and although most people can or will be put of by the sight of blood, these series seem to take it in their stride.

SadisticTendencies says...

Elfen Lied and Gantz. Two series packed with melodrama, nudity but most of all extreme violence that suddenly fills the screen with blood in huge amounts. Furthermore, both shows seem satisifed with just featuring as much shock-value as possible; characterization is never a very high priority, and while both storylines are very dark they are also pretty simplistic.

CecilliaPasternack says...

GANTZ and Elfen Lied are very similar because they're both gory and Ecchi, but they're also pretty intresting to watch because they have a rather difficult plot ... 

FreddyCrab says...

Both Elfen Lied and Gantz are known for being some of the bloodiest anime out there, they both are exeedingly violent from minute one and cover a lot of taboo subjects.

They both mess with the viewers mind and are very psychologically dsturbing also.

Quingie says...

If you are into animes that are bloody, action packed and make you wonder what will happen next these animes are for you. Both have uniques stories which will keep you interested beyond the ending.

TeeDeeDubYa says...

Hot chicks... check

Adult themes...check

All rediculous bloody gore... double check

The story lines of these two animes are fairly unique which I would consider a plus.  Quite different endings too.  The people in GANTZ I'd say are dramatically more flawed as people which I thought was salt on my fries.

xxSilencexx says...

DEADMAN WONDERLAND and Elfen Lied have numerous similiarities which make them ideal if you like one, yet still seem so different.

First, neither hold back on the gore and violence, if you against body parts been ripped haphazardly by innocent character stay well away. Both series feature a 'gifted' breed of human in Elfen Lied it's the Diclonius and in DEADMAN WONDERLAND it's the Branches of Sin. Both lead male character believe they know their past, but find that important parts have been forgotten.

Finally, they are both about trying to find something in a world where there is nothing but death, blood and destruction.

Anathemus says...

EL and DW are fairly similar in terms of execution, theres a lot of violence, sick characters and disturbing scenes, both stories are constantly trying to shock the viewer, and sometimes this feels a bit too unrealistic in my opinion. There's also sci-fi supernatural abillities on both shows mixed with a bit of ecchi. From my opinion DW is much more exciting in terms of plot, fighting scenes and characters overall.

Llamamoe says...

Bloody and cruel scenes, people with mysterious powers experimented upon and treated cruelly, theme of a mysterious childhood friend of whom main character has lost memories.

These would be similarities between the animes. If you enjoyed Elfen Lied you will probably enjoy Deadman Wonderland and the other way around.

scizorg45 says...

Lots of people dying: Check. Lots of blood: Check. Gruesome events: Check. Magic and supernatural abilities of sorts: Check. The only real difference is that DMW is focuessed on one particular place(prison, which is huuuge btw) and Elfen lied goes all over Japan. If you liked one, check out the other.

sakara says...

Both deadman wonderland and Elfen Lied are incredibly similar upon watching, They both feature excessive ammounts of gore but still have enough storyline to make it entertaining. I reccomend you watch them both if you have not already.

whitelionV says...

Extremely similar character/story development... as in "Dear God these are extremely similar" or "Dejav... no wait, it was teh other anime!"... Now seriously, the main difference is that in DW the main male has powers, in EL he doesn't... and DW has no lolicon. Both animes will end and you'll feel the urgent need to go read the manga (But in the good way, not the Damn-it!-These-guys-only made-the-anime-to-make-me-read-the-manga way). Gore gallore in both. Humanity sucks in both. Psychological conflict in both. I-know-something-the-main-character-doesn't-and-its-gonna-be-OMGWTFRELEASETHEKRAKEN-when-he-finds-out in both. etc...

kayelyn08 says...

The two of these share the tragedy of losing hope, and love in the series. There are conspiracies and also their dark pasts are included. Although in deadman wonderland, it is darker and more sinister compared to elfen lied. 

Atalea says...

In Deadman Wonderland and Elfen Lied there are humans who have gained a certain power that can be used to kill. With this ability comes a lot of bloodshed, so if you're into gore, you will love them. Another similarity is the girl that seems innocent at first, but actually has a dark side. The main character has a history in which his beloved ones have been killed. What they don't know is that the girl with them played a big role in that event.

JayDHD1130 says...

Both of the animes feature a large amount of swearing and gore. Though the storylines are obviously different, they share a similarity in covering the lives of two individuals being stuck in all-around bad life situations. 

hamletsmage says...

These anime have plenty of similarities. The top is a main character with a childish personality but the ability to kick enough ass to save her wimptastic male friend. There are also side-stories about repressed memories, secret societies, and some twisted experimentation. A lot of the main cast have supernatural abilities and are not hesitant to use them on anyone who stands against them. Both of these animes are also heavy on the bloodshed. 

IKindaLoveAnime says...

Both of Yandere heroines, as in both Lucy and Shiro have killed people close to the protagonist. Both the heroines also have split personalities, making the similar in almost every way.

Cerulean1 says...

Both Elfen Lied and Deadman Wonderland focus on a male lead who at first is not entirely sure what he's getting in to. They both have a female friend who's not entirely sane, but there is more to them than meets the eye.

Both anime feature quite a bit of gore, ripped off limbs and a lot of blood.

luckyvmeryl says...

both of them are about people considered freaks for their abilities killing each other. Lots of gore and adult material and both great shows.

bebopsamurai300 says...

Both anime exonerate a certain macabre style and deal with mean characters who are unsure of their pasts and/or suffer amnesia of one sort or another.

AriaEleanor says...

Both of them are full of blood. That's it. And also, both have unexpectedly original storylines, which will keep you entertained till the end. Elfen Lied and Deadman Wonderland have very good graphics and drawing, this is what connects them. If you like one, you'll probably won't be disappointed by watching the other.

Enziety says...

These two animes share many similarities you feel like you have watched history repeat itself, only in a different environments. They are both extremely graphical and gory, and revolves around one murdeous being that emerges from being caged up their whole life.

cjdcoy says...

After seeing Eflen Lied, i was searching something similar and I found Deadman Wonderland.

Indeed, you can find blood, action, fights and beautiful relationship in both of em'.

mistery says...

The main characters Lucy and Shiro share very similar aspects. Other than the characters, the plot is also very similar: an unknown virus causing the "branch of sin" vs. a mutation causing the development of "vectors" which are mainly elements to kill, the main characters having a loss of memory and personality, deep sentiments under apparent actions, a mystic atmosphere at times and finally, flying body parts and blood... For those who liked Elfen Lied, I certainly believe that Deadman Wonderland would be a great anime to watch. More than that, the male main character is more involved compared to that of Elfen Lied, and there are a couple of very cool, crazy and powerful characters who make the anime even better than it could have been.

PrincessPlum says...

The relationship between Ganta and Shiro of Deadman Wonderland can definitely be compared to that of and Nyu/Lucy and Khota. Lucy and Shiro are alike in many ways, having 2 different sides to them at times...cute and innocnet, and yet ruthless.

SparkIgnite says...

They both have a female lead with a mysterious past. Also a significant amount of blood and blood fountains. 

livingegg says...

Both contain extreme violence and mass murder perpetrated by people who have gained some kind of super power through experimentation. Both have deep and complex backstories, in both cases with the male protagonist not having all their memories intact initially you will learn more about the characters as you progress through the show.

HiddenNugget says...

Both anime have the very similar weapons (branches of sin vs vectors) and a hell of a lot of bloodshed!

xSykezz says...

both is like survival anime, with different superpowers, just so awesome to watch, highly recommend watching them both if u havent already, if u love actions with blood these ones for you.

Fluffs says...

Both of these feature female characters with dark, violent secrets and superpowers. Violence and gore are prominent, and there are elements of conspiracy.

danrondstat says...

If you're not so crazy about the violence factor of Elfen Lied, but you loved the Nyu storyline and budding romance between the simple, abandoned girl and the bumbling Kouta, you'll certainly find Chobits appealing. Substitute an amnesiac mutant for an amnesiac robot, get rid of Lucy and the government conspiracy, and you'll have Chobits, a light romance series about a guy who finds a robot who can only say "Chi," is completely helpless, yet loves him unconditionally (sound familiar?). Elfen Lied is Chobits' bipolar, psychotic cousin.

MrSpoon says...

Both series are about a cute, naive girl with a secret who falls into the care of a kind guy. Elfen Lied is a much darker version of this tale, whereas Chobits is light-hearted.

wolfangel87 says...

The main heroine characters, Chii in Chobits and ‘Nyuu' or Lucy from Elfen Lied, are very similar to each other and act the same way when they first appear. I thought that the story lines were very similar to each other too, except Elfen Lied has a great deal of gore in it whereas Chobits focuses more on the ‘cute' aspect of the characters.

TheVampireLastat says...

Both Chobits and Elfen Lied have to do with love and girls who are not human. While Elfen Lied is more violent and Chobits is funnier, both have the same feeling of loneliness surrounding the two girls.

Cauvin says...

If you took the blood and gore and violence out of Elfen Lied, then you would get Chobits. Lucy and Chii have a hard time understanding their surroundings regardless of how hard they try.

dunkyrok says...

From out of nowhere, two seemingly harmless and innocent young women fall into the lives of our two protagonists - Kohta and Hideki, two young men with plenty on their mind already. With no concept of everyday life, or even of manners and normal behavior, expect plenty of opportunities for funny moments and compromising situations as Chii and Nyuu have to be taught everything from scratch, and also show a liking for running around completely naked, but fail to understand why people have a problem with that.

Yet these two young ladies also have another side to their story and plainly they have another function in life. The lives they have begun to make for themselves now will be directly threatened and haunted by their old lives, as their true identities and abilities are revealed to all over time. Will Kota and Hideki still want to be their friends when they learn the truth?

Verdandi says...

The sense of humor concerning the antics of a naive girl who has a darker side is a pervasive theme throughout both Chobits and Elfen Lied. Although where Chobits is usually a light hearted comedy, Elfen Lied is a darker, more violent exploration of what it means to be human.

Salvio says...

Chobits has a bit of a less death centered plot then Elfen, but still has to do with loving someone that isn't human.

FreeWithinMe says...

Take out the violence, guns and death. And you have Chobits. Nyu and Chi are so similar it isn't even funny, both can only say one word in the beginning, both completely innocent and both have "nice" guys find them. Also, both have 2 girls fall for them (but can only choose one).

All in all, I liked Cobits better, less violence and nudity. A  funnier and friendlier Anime you could say. So if you've just watched Elfen Lied and gone "hmm, nice romance/relationship happening, but kinda overdosed on violence and nudity" have a look at Chobits :)

CloudyDays says...

This is because the two stories start have many surprising similarities.  Hideki (Chobits) finds Chi in the dumpster, naked....well almost. Same in Elfen Lied, Nyuu/Lucy is found naked on the beach.  Nyuu is named Nyuu because it is the only thing she can say, "Nyuu" as Chi can only say "Chi".  Both have a past that they cannot remember...for the time being.  As this being only the way the characters in the two animes are introduced, the stories themselves have too much in common.  Lucy on one hand has a history/future of killing while Chi is rather quite innocent.  Elfen Lied has gore while Chobits is about love.  But both are pretty good and one connects to the other through the that characters a introduced....

Oh and...Chi has those persicom ear thingies.  Lucy/Nyuu has Horns.

SarangChihinoke says...

It is similar because 'Chi' lost her memory and went to Hedeki and 'Nyu' lost her memory and went to Kouta, plus the two girls are naked a lot.

jahler says...

The main character Nyu and Chi is kinda alike, both is cute and naive exept that Nyu turns in to a killing machine sometimes. Overall both shows are great.

Lushrocker says...

A little of an odd reccomendation, I know, but if you liked chobits, and don't mind blood, then Elfen lied is a good way to go, as it has the memory - wiped long haired girl, who is very cute, and can only say one word.

If you like elfen lied, abd dont mind cuteness and pervyness, then chobits you should go! The same reasons as above, a girl, or persocom loses her memory, and has to be taught, and she too, has her own cute little catchphrase, as the only word she can say.

Also, both female lead characters have strange ears in some way.

Chii!/Nyu!

RedCrossRobbery says...

So essentially... these are the exact same show... In Chobits, we have a robotish lifeform with a split personality that can only say "Chi!" (Initially). She was found out of the blue one day, and taken in by a bumbling boy who freaks out in nerve-wracking panic whenever he sees something he shouldn't. In Elfen Lied, we have a robotish lifeform with a split personality that can only say "Nyu!" (Initially). She was found by a bumbling boy who freaks out in nerve-wracking panic whenever he sees something he shouldn't.It of course differentiates as Chobits is a romance adventure, and Elfen lied is a horror thriller.

hamletsmage says...

Take out the bloody parts of Elfen Lied and replace them with A.I.s, and you have chobits. Amnesia-laden leading ladies and the men who care for them.

sakara says...

To simply put it, Chobits does not have gore or anything like that such as elfen lied, but if your someone who liked the nyu storyline it feels alot like that.

NicoNicoDesu says...

In both anime, a clueless girl is found by a boy. The boy names the girl the only word she is able to say. The big difference between "Chobits" and "Elfen Lied" is the fact that "Elfen Lied" is much bloodier and more explicit. It also is a deeper, more heartbreaking anime than "Chobits."

biglittleorme says...

You would like Elfen Lied as well as Chobits because they both have a boy teaching a girl who can only say one word.

phoniefly says...

I agree in the sense that the mains are female that have no idea who they are or what they are. Also thru the story both in chobits and elfen lied the females have to discover who they are and start remembering what really happened. Also the male ends up loving the females in a way no one can understand

lindapearl says...

The main characters in Chobits (Chii) and Elfen Lied (Nyu) is very similar, both are machine with strange ears and act very cute and innocent but have a sad past. Even through Elfen Lied is more bloody then Chobits they are similar in plot. Both anime evolve around the main characters falling in love and having their past slowly revealed through out the story.  

gamerchaos says...

Both anime are romances about strange amnesiac girls with moral undertones. The main difference is the violence and sophistication of Elfen Lied is greater.

AcciesLad says...

Both Animes are very similar story wise, both have very deep meanings and and a dark twist to them. i would say chobits is just the goryless version of elfen lied

Starletka says...

While these two may look vastly different on the first look, they both share the core of their respective plots - they both center around a girl who lost her memories, and her developing a romance with a guy who found her. While Elfen Lied is a violent horror, Chobits is a romantic comedy.

Rasengan22 says...

Both series are extremely dark and gory, and are centered around an organization (run by men) that sends female characters to do their evil bidding. Clare, like Elfen Lied's Lucy, share the same kind of independent streak that leads to trouble. If you enjoy the kind of series that isn't afraid to make its protagonist suffer, and especially enjoy a strong female lead character, you'll like Claymore, too.

anime018 says...

Asgorath says...

Although both Elfen Lied and Claymore take place in very different settings I think if you like one, you might like the other as well. Both anime have a significant amount of gore (used in different ways however), but the central theme that I think might appeal to people is the strong central characters: both are strong, cold women who have suffered a lot, and wield a lot of power.

Both anime also have similar themes about righteousness, suffering, justice and injustice.

RaptorClaw says...

Both Claymore and Elfen Lied are bloody and mature, with highly emotional content based upon the pressures of growing up in a harsh environment, and the effect of that childhood upon the characters' minds. The heroines are complex characters, and the fights are violent but beautifully drawn.

freakzilla says...

Claymore can be considered a darker version of Elfen Lied; they don't share a lot of similarities, but they do have several of the same basic concepts. You nearly become the main character because of how well their feelings come across. There's also a lot of gore and violence in both.

Elfen Lied has quite a bit of fanservice, so watch it if you need something a bit more lighthearted. Claymore stays true to its dark and gloomy style, so watch it if you want to be kept on your toes with story that toys with your emotions.

yinyang88 says...

Elfen Lied and Claymore are similar. Both have a lot of blood and great action scenes. Their plots are not as similar, but they are still both two great series that you should watch.

wolfangel87 says...

Each main character in Elfen Lied and Claymore are the strong type female role, fighting to deal with the suffering and pain of their pasts which are very sordid. The effects of their childhood experiences create the story that is now being told and strives to explain why they take the actions they do. The character’s back story reveals a great deal about the character portrayed in the series.

vesebeteg says...

Both series has graphic violence, with girls killing, spraying blood and multiple deaths at scenes.

Both also has a fine romantic viewpoint.

animelovexx says...

These two anime are similar, because they both are about mutation of humans struggling to fit in. Both give you that sad twinge when you're watching it.

chii says...

Killer girls created by corporations with horrible pasts that has made them into the killing machines they are today. Claymore's animation is more dark and sinister where Elfen Lied is more colourful yet still gives you that sinister feeling. If you liked one check out the other.

JAhU says...

Both of those anime are strong on gore. Heck you can see cuted/ripped off limbs in almost every episode. So if you into gore, those two shows should satisfy you, but if your not into such stuff, stay away from them.

LovelyOne says...

Both series have a very strong female with deadly powers as the lead role.  However, Elfen Lied contains some humor while Claymore remains fairly serious.  With the mix of gore and a compelling storyline, if you watch one of these anime, you must watch the other!

eaper says...

Both of these anime are extremely dark, contain a very large amount of violence/gore, are focused around a lot of "not-quite-human" beings, and have several extremely deranged characters.

Galadriel says...

both Claymore and Elfen Lied feature alot of bloody violent, gory scenes, both of them are heavy on emotional content and both animes feature main female protagonists possessing supernatural abilities and make use of them in different circumstances, also both animes feature main protagonists with a past covered in sorrow and painful memories. Though the action takes place in different settings in what i mentioned above this two are quite alike so if you like one of this shows be sure to check the other one as well.

TropicalSwirl says...

These two anime take place in different settings with different atmospheres, but they have a dark tone to them. Violence and blood are rampant in both. They also focus on the pasts and powers of female characters that are struggling with who they are.

hamletsmage says...

Both Elfen Lied and Claymore have some pretty powerful women who take orders from an organization and are given numbers instead of names for the most part. Both anime are very interesting tales of what it means to be human, and both involve a lot of blood and gore. 

DuskFey says...

Elfen Lied and Claymore are both violent, dark stories where young women get amazing powers at a terrible cost. With strong female leads, weak male sidekicks, solid action, and a dash of gore, these really are a good match.

dinosaur says...

Both anime have a gruesome and sad story line, and neither lack in depth of characters or plot

Forsakenn says...

Both series are extremely dark and gory, and are centered around an organization (run by men) that sends female characters to do their evil bidding. Clare, like Elfen Lied's Lucy, share the same kind of independent streak that leads to trouble. If you enjoy the kind of series that isn't afraid to make its protagonist suffer, and especially enjoy a strong female lead character, you'll like Claymore, too.

Jdogtoocool says...

I agree. Violence, gore, superpowered fights with a touch of purity, innocence, and justice. That's what you're going to get from these two amazing anime. If you liked one I'm sure you'll love the other.

xSykezz says...

recommending both of these, cause i really love them both

it is pretty different stories between them, but what makes them both fun is that there is a lot of action and blood, which im usually look after when im starting to watch a anime 

SmoothlyDIF says...

If you've enjoyed one you'll enjoy the other, both are heavy on the gore (Claymore a little less so) mostly committed by the strong FMC

Nocturnalgloria says...

Blood+ and Elfen Lied deal with the definition of what it means to be human and humane. In both cases, a super-evolved species represented by an apparently frail female lead, presents a menace to mankind. Yet humanity is to be blamed for much of the violence that follows. While EL is occasionally borderline ecchi and Blood+ maintains a very serious tone through and through, both series are emotionally-moving exercises that allow emotional bonds to be forged, despite the deeply violent world-scape they present.

freakzilla says...

Though Blood+ is not as gory as Elfen Lied, there are still a lot of similarities in terms of plot, flow, atmosphere (at times) and characters. Keep in mind that Elfen Lied leans more to the fanservice side and has a bit of everything, while Blood+ sticks more to its serious story.

RaptorClaw says...

There's just so much in common with these anime, both in feeling and characters. They both revolve around an alien species that is living amongst humans. These girls are an evolved version of humans but still want to attain normality, which causes a dilemma. Elfen Lied is bloodier and somewhat lighter, while Blood+ focuses more on emotions and character relationships; but if you liked one, you will surely love the other, as they are kindred stories.

MeloColi says...

Elfen Lied and Blood+ are both a bit dark and have gore. They also have cool fights, although Blood+ is more focused on fighting while Elfen Lied is focused on guns and gore. They are both very good anime and have a lot of sad moments. If you liked one, then you will like the other. ;)  

thedudave says...

Elfen Lied and Blood+ are both very intriguing Animes with big background storys. In the beginning the viewer gets thrown in a complex story where most is unclear. But with continuous action the background is revealed steadily. And the viewer gets in contact with a very tragic childhood of the leading characters an begins to understand what leads in the presence to such a sorrowful ongoing developement. Also the cruel abuse of several charakters is a great silimarity between these both series.

skye456 says...

Both of these series have really good action in them. Granted, Elfen Lied is a lot more bloody, and it has about half the episodes, but both of them were really good animes. There's a little behind the scene secret story in each!

tasanime says...

How to put it delicately.... Blood+ and Elfen Lied are not in any way similar in main plot. Granted they're bloody, gory and feat powerful, demon-like creatures but that does not necessarily mean they'll be enjoyed by the same kind of viewer. So why the recommendation? It is this greater sense of inner turmoil both the female leads are going through whilst surrounded by a greater sense of unfortunate destiny or call of duty. The way they must suffer in a world that's not truly theirs, the impact of their existence within this world on their sanity and on others is surely reason enough to identify the two together. The progression of horror lies not in that of their actions but the destructive nature in their heart.

Raziiell says...

The biggest thing I look for in an anime is a serious tone and a solid enveloping story (and none of that 'Naruto Effect Kawai stuff'). Elfen Lied drew me into it. The characters were developed in such a way you became attached to them. You understand and sympathize with the characters and the situations presente, despite how insane they may be.

Blood+ is similar in this reguard (although a much longer series). They evoked the same emotions from the viewer. A complex story is presented. Despite it not being hard to understand or overtly complex, it is more hard to absorb than anything.

The closings in both of the series hit me rather hard. They left me with a sense of completion, but yet still things left open ended enough for you, the viewer to draw your own conclusions (and not neccisarily a happy ever after ending). An anime can be ruined completely by an ending that doesn't seem to give the series justice. Where as in Blood+ and Elfen Lied, it ends quite as beautifully as it began.

All in all, if you're looking for a solid, serious, mature, deep story then I believe these 2 series are for you.

wolfangel87 says...

Blood+ and Elfen Lied have female heroines that take part in a battle not only with the demons around them but also within themselves trying to figure out who they really are.  They are not humans but are trying to take place and live in a humane world in which the lines of what is right and wrong are tested.  Both series deal with a great deal of violence and questions about humanity as a whole and the ideals humans’ represent.  Both deal with hardships of the main characters and tests the powers of each individual.  

NoCheerios says...

They are both very explicit, and in both cases, the cause of this ecrude violence is usually female. Not to mention both have detailed emotional plots. So, for most people, if you liked the idea of Blood+, Elfen Lied won't disappoint.

SoulScopes says...

Both animes are different in their own ways but just the feel of one is very much like the other. If your into dark animes and things of that sort then check em' out

gpardini says...

if u are the kind of anime fan that loves the mix between hot girls, blood and a good story, these are the points in comun between thos to animes.

tayinoop says...

Both story lines include a girl who has forgotten about her past and needs to "wake up" to remember, but it's best for both girls if they don't remember. Both have actoin and lots of gore, both are amazing and have some sad scenes too.

archer1988 says...

I fully believe that the two heroin within these animes are just simply trying to find thier way in this world like anyone else, and though Lucy had more of a direct approach to it, Saya was more laid back and more family oriented.  I did enjoy both of these animes to see how the characters also changed throughout the series... Though Elfen Lied could have been longer IMO. But oh well, Still a great series :) Probably will watch it again in a few months when i have time. 

sandbecca says...

If you like action, drama, romans and to get that little extra, you will love those anime. Both of them are like each other but also entirely different.

Katiep30 says...

Both of these anime contain violence(obviously). Beneath the violence, are two tales of emotional insecurity from the past. They are both very intersecting and I would recommend them to anyone.

phoniefly says...

Blood + and Elfen Lied have action and friendship. They explain what it is to feel like you are a monster but still showing how even the inhumane things can show passion for things. They both have a great story line. And they both show what it is like to become the person you really are meant to be

placebo213 says...

I saw Gunslinger Girl before I saw Elfen Lied, and as I was watching EL, I found myself thinking it was a lot like Gunslinger Girl.

The plot is similar in GG where little girls who are not fully human are programmed to kill on command. The story evolves to tell each girl's story and you get to know them and care for them, and all they want is, in some ways, just to be normal.

In EL, Lucy is also born to kill, but her intentions weren't always that way. The story also goes into depth on her feelings and struggles as a killing machine.

The two stories also have similarities in tone (deep and thoughtful), sad beauty, penetrating music, excellent art, and bloody action.

dryoldscholar says...

IMHO, GG is the closest parallel to EL. Both stories are centered on children deprived of everything and doomed to die early and kill until they die. Both demonstrate that, even under these conditions, it is still possible to remain human and find love and happiness. They show how little is actually needed for it. Both share the atmosphere of sad beauty and bright fatalism. Even in death there is life, and even in such desperate life can be a purpose.

GG is much more calm and light than EL, which is entirely torn apart by painful emotions. GG tells of a silent acceptance of one's destiny, whereas EL depicts a revolt against it.

Rhesian says...

Both series immerse their viewers in a moral dilemma using children and/or young adults. For Elfen Lied, the questions are tied to the survival through harsh brutality and the ability to forgive in a cruel world. For Gunslinger, the questions involve the ethics of using (and possibly abusing) children as well as the ethics of each girl's relationship with their handlers. Both are great series for fans of mature anime with a healthy dose of graphic and implied violence.

Malek says...

If you liked Elfen Lied, you'd like Gunslinger Girl because both anime have a bit of violence in them; however most of the story involves the development and relationships between the characters. Also both series have the same kind of contrast in them: a little sweet girl who's killing people in Gunslinger girl, whereas in Elfen Lied it's Nyuu, the sweet and innocent personality, and Lucy, the violent personality.

keshmori says...

Both of these movies have a darker theme and slowly introde you to girls who have had a very tramatic childhood. Although, one lies in fantasy (Elfen Lied) and the other in a more sci-fi world. In both cases you find yourself feeling sorry for a girl who is a cold blooded (and very good at it) killer.

SomeoneElse says...

Both Gunslinger Girl and Elfen Lied share quite a few similarities when it comes to the basic story. What separates the two is the tone that they take. While Gunslinger Girl is a straightforward realistic future approach to the girls with guns genre, Elfen Lied is a more whimsical, and slightly ecchi take on a common horror theme. What really brings these two stories together is the glimpse of innocence that prevails even through a storm of blood and destruction. The love that forms between seeming strangers in both series is shown to be a fragile thing which is sometimes stronger than the hate that the heroines must inevitably fight against.

Jonster says...

While watching Elfen Lied, I kept thinking about how similar the series was to Gunslinger Girl due to it's character's personalities and interactions. In Elfen Lied, Lucy is born a killing machine, with really no choice as to who she is. The same could go for Gunslinger Girl as the girls are raised to be assassin's and machines existing solely to kill.Another similarity that Elfen Lied and Gunslinger Girl have is their tendency to show a bit more blood than a normal series would have. While some series' tend to go overboard, it's a bit more necessary in these two series to help build a believable "environment" and explain just how deadly these characters are. Both series also go deeper into who these characters are and their interactions with each other more than just showing violence and action. Watching the characters interact and watching their personalities build up is a bigger plot focus with their violent tendeciess being more of an addtion as to who they are.

AsukaLangley says...

Gunslinger Girl and Elfen Lied are both about adorable little girls who are merciless killers. Ethical question are brought up about killing and love and what is right. The fights in both are well animated and drenched in blood. If you like this, watch the other.

kyuzosgirl says...

Both series are about young girls forced to face things that normal girls their age should never have to deal with. This, of course, leaves them troubled in ways they do not understand and ultimately tarnishes their views of right and wrong.

stingreis says...

Both anime's are surrounded around young girls who kill. Frankly that should be enough, but if not... They both have had circumstances that caused them at a young age to be used and through that they develop a connection to someone close to them, thus creating a series of events that usually ends in chaotic killing.

Null says...

I watched Gunslinger Girl after having seen Elfen Lied and I would be surprised if anyone who likes one of them won't love the other as well.  They both have beautiful animation with a realistic style, evocative music, and good action elements.  However, what really connects them for me is the tone.   Both stories revolve around mistreated children now enmeshed in violence and both stories evoke not only a sorrow, but also a true tenderness in their characters and tone.  The stories and pacing are very different, but if you find yourself moved by either EF or GG, definitely watch the other as well.

fat10 says...

Both animes go through the same objective, where the two main characters are fighting for their goal with all his strength. We see a similar style, whether in fighting techniques as in the backstory. The fights are intense. Naruto is a story of ninjas in action, while Hunter x Hunter is more real, but both good stories worthy of being seen.

sonnytiger says...

They both have people - girls actually - who are treated as weapons when they actually have feelings as well, the only difference between the two really is the greater violence factor of Elfen Lied and having more intense sad stuff.

memojuez says...

Aside from both anime are based on adolescent female killers/assassins, each one delves deep into their psychological aspects.  Both series show haunting memories, current fears, wishes and deep desires. Gunslinger Girl does put more of an emphasis pyschology from the onset with the opening subtitle "The girl has a mechanical body.  However, she is still an adolescent child."

animeandwwefanDXXD says...

Both animes have a similar feel, and significant amount of blood and gore, although Elfen lied has way more (so far compared to mirai nikki) and is a lot more disturbing in nature/themes, but also both animes somehow manage to have this along with cuteness from the same main charachter that kills people - Yuno/Lucy and then they both develop a relationship with the main male charachter - yukki/Kota

so overall if you like gore/blood animes then you would like either, and even if you don't, you still might like them for the romance/cuteness!

 i was reccomenned both these animes from my friends, and despite not liking gore, i still liked elfen lied for the romance/cuteness, and mirai nikki as well, so far has a really interesting concept.

Ebhen says...

Yep! They are both about scary but cute girls that have no hesitation to kill people they think are in their way or are threatening to themselves or the person they love. :) There is a lot of violence and blood but you get used to it when the story grabs you.Elfen Lied surpass Mirai Nikki though in that area but the other have more psychologic approach. But to be honest, the show have a good storyline so you don't mind the gore and violence after a while.The connection between the two lead characters are the glue to hold the show together.

Mirai Nikki have an anoying and stupid main character that can drive anyone crazy but Yuno makes up for it somehow with here Yandere-style that is way of the scale! :)

(Mirai Nikki isn't finished when I write this so I can't say anything about the ending yet)

Salvio says...

Like the twisted, morbid story? Like the voilence and the killing? Blood doesn't bother you? Crazy girls with pink hair that kill without batting an eyelash? Then this is the anime for you!

popmik says...

as mentioned by others, there's a lot of blood and gore in both animes and in both you've got twisted main female characters

Toisen says...

If you like rivers of blood and serial killers than you will like this anime too! Total genocide and mysterious challenges don't let you go until the end.

Korosive says...

They are very similar in violence, brutality and both have a cowardly guy, but Mirai Nikki has a better plot.

LagannHorizon says...

Gore galore, and a love story between two people who have a twisted past with one another. Both are superb anime and I could not recommend them any higher. Stop everything in your life and watch these!

Noiz19 says...

Well they both have a relationship based story, and they bth have horror and thriller. they are both enticing and intereting, i recommed both of them and if youve watched one, watch thet other.

weylander says...

Has same plot bending, same horrifical kind of characters which live a dramatic love. If u loved Elfen Lied. Then this is what you should also love.

usagishiroi says...

Both have a deep story and heavy on the darkside. Mirai Nikki deals with a boy who is stuck in a avoidable situation, while Elfen Lied is about a girl who was was treated like a test subject and is "broken" mentaly. they both have to fight to live and both have to come to terms with whats around them. I would reccomend both of these anime more mature people due to the graphic nature of both. 

TreeOfWolf says...

Psychos women with pink hairs. I love them. Very bloody, original, violent...

That's really all you need to know, no need to make me write more.

Quadsar says...

Both Elfen Lied and Mirai Nikki are great examples of psychological horror. Though Elfen Lied is far and away the better of the two, Mirai Nikki is worth the watch as well if you're looking for a slightly longer series that still has strong elements of the psychological genre.

kurokam1 says...

 The main females are similar pink haired psychopaths who kill for love and are trying to find their place in life. I liked both of them. Though ones about trying to become god and ones about her love for her mans I think you'll like them. Also the main male of Mirai Nikki has the same hair and bitch attitude. They both also involve blood. Lots of it. Anyways I like both they're my two favorites and I'm sure u will like them too

Heatseeker96 says...

Both anime have are quite similar (yet very different) to each other. Each series is centered around a girl with a split personality (Yuno and Lucy/Nyu both have a cute and a violent side), they contain very fleshed out characters, have a few unexpected plot twists, aren't afraid to show scenes with explicit violence or nudity... They also contained some interesting psychological themes. I personally like Mirai Nikki more because I think that one had a better story, but I do think that fans of one of these anime will like the other.

alcuinsmokydrag says...

"there is nothing wrong with me us... but the universe around us is wrong"-Narutaru. "The monsters, the inhuman ones, are you"-Elfen Lied. As can be seen from the above quotes, both animes are tales of the monsters in this world. And the monsters are us humans, and the struggle of the few to survive. In addition, elfen Lied and Narutaru share many mature themes, particularly exessive and brutal voilence

Ripzter says...

Both series are extremely weird. Personally I'm not a VERY big fan of this type of series, but something tells me that people who like either of these series should also love the other one. You might give Narutaru a little more time than just the first few episodes.

freakzilla says...

Seemingly harmless creatures are more dangerous than anything you can think of. Though I did consider Elfen Lied to be more cruel, it might be because Narutaru builds its story up slower. You'll like this one!

CodeWordChobits says...

Disturbing is the one word that comes to mind when I think on either of these series. And it is as good a reason as any to connect them. Although they are more similiair than just that. Violence experienced by children and dealt with in very adult ways is the real similarity in these shows. You will surely experience the same strange emotional roller coaster with this one.

clem says...

These two gory, blood-filled anime are extremely similar in that they share the recurrent theme of monsters, darkness, and of course, blood.

hurin says...

Elfen Lied and Narutaru share a similar atmosphere, where the situation constantly goes from normality to something deeply disturbed.

Of the two Elfen Lied is the far superior show. I got the feeling Narutaru is often disturbing for the sake of being disturbing, but in Elfen Lied it is an integral part of the plot.

icejamez says...

Narutaru and Elfen Lied contain a certain shock value that is really rare to find in most anime. They are very dark animes and they are both about the same length if I recall correctly.

They tell rather tragic tales that can be very nerving to some. Narutaru is more spastic and weird where as EL is more violence and gore. Still they are alot alike in principal and those who enjoy dark anime should give both of them a watch.

AverageShinigami says...

Both Elfen Lied and Shadow Star Narutaru are mystery series with grabbing plots. The similarities between the two are very numerous, ranging from superficial things (cuteness and everyday life mixed with suspense and gore) and certain plot elements to shared themes.

sothis says...

Narutaru and Elfen Lied are easily related, as far as the sheer shock of how messed up and disturbing they are. Combine cute animation with horrific acts, both violence of the highest degree, as well as moral situations that will make you cringe, and you have a very unusual watch. You easily would like one if you liked the other.

Kiyohime says...

Creatures that have never existed are fighting weapons in both of these anime. As per usual with dark anime, their is someone who craves power and seems to be willing to kill and destroy everything to get it. While the creatures in Elfen Lied are more complex and have more of a seperate will from their creators, they all ending fighting either to save themselves or because of the whims of others. Both animes also contain a military theme. Difference is that the military in Shadow Star is trying to stop the creatures, while the military in Elfen Lied is the reason that the creatures exist.

Omurqi says...

One word: Disturbing. Both Narutaru and Elfen Lied have their fair share of sick scenes, usually executed by teenagers with an extraordinary power. Elfen Lied is more showing with the gore and bloodbath, but Narutaru makes up for it with... err... more "creative" ways of suffering. Basically, if you want to sick back, relax and feel your stomach turn, I'd recommend both these shows to you.

sakie3 says...

If you want something extremely violent and shocking than both Elfen Lied and Narutaru are the animes for you. However both these anime suffer from a similar problem; the manga is vastly superior and expansive. Give both a shot and if you find yourself wanting more, read it and you will not be disappointed.

Nocturnalgloria says...

While the tone of these two series is not very similar they both feature extremely violent situations in which apparently fragile female characters are revealed to have a potential for being highly destructive. Little girls as weapons form the main premise of these series, although it is carried out differently; EL opts for a more graphic approach that maximizes the use of colour, while Saikano is more subdued, using a mostly grey palette to convey a feeling of hopelessness. In both cases romance blooms and is put to a ferocious test. These two series may differ in a lot of aspects - the ecchi factor that is predominant in EL is absent in Saikano, and the apocalyptic impact of the latter is non-existent in the former - but they are similar enough to warrant this recommendation.

TheVampireLastat says...

Both Elfen Lied and Saikano give you a similar feeling. They both have two main characters that are in love but it's a hard relationship to maintain, seeing that the guys are both normal and the girls are not completely human. They also have other women that are in love with them but don't confess it. Each anime has amazing character development and a great love story. They also have action, but Elfen Lied has more violence. If you liked/loved one you'd love the other.

Fireaxe says...

Elfen Lied and Saikano are similar anime, and are two of my personal favorites. Both will give you goosebumps, will make you uncontrollably shake, and will likely make you cry before the end.

Saikano features a slightly more obvious love story (when compared to the Nyu-Kouta affair) and it takes place in a world war environment.

Both anime are really intense, well-paced and have well-written stories; but what makes these two on top of a lot of Top 10s is the fact that you REALLY feel for the characters. You feel like crying every time you see them shed a tear. Trust me, if you liked Elfen Lied, you'll love Saikano and vice versa.

Jonster says...

Saikano and Elfen Lied are similar in the way they portray their characters and their interactions. In Saikano, Chise's body is the home of a military weapon, turning her into a seemingly unstoppable force, used to defend Japan from unknown forces. However, the story is more about her relationship with her boyfriend, her coping and living with her abilities and their relationship because of who and what she is.Elfen Lied shares this aspect as Lucy reverts to her other personality, Nyu, and how Kohta and the other characters react to her. The series focuses more on their relationship and the love triangle between Kohta, Nyu, and Yuki more than other series' would, just like Saikano, making the series more often a drama series rather than action.

hyperbole1729 says...

Both series will give you pretty much the same feelings. They're both heart-wrenching to watch.

They also have a few common points: both have a principal non-human female character with destructive powers and both have a common nice guy who fall in love with them.

If you love one, you definitly won't be disappointed with the other.

Merryberry says...

If you enjoy girls who wield unnatural and devasting powers then both Elfen Lied and She: The Ultimate Weapon fulfill this with ease. Add in the main character romance with the weapon means that liking either one will result in you enjoying the other.

Inky says...

I don't know why no one stuck EL and Saikano together yet. The sad fate of the female characters, that was brought upon them against their will, and also the male protagonist dealing with the problems that arise because of their girlfriends are things that connect those two anime. There are other similarities, e.g. a love triangle.

If you liked either Saikano or Elfen Lied, you'll definitely like the other one!

usiRev says...

Both series are about a girl who has a close relation to a boy :) but they have other part (a secret), that they do not want to tell him, but it is a secret that will come out eventually. Elfen Lied is a strange evolution of mankind into dicolnius, and Saikano is a man-made womam-to-ultimate-weapon-transformation. Both girls are dangerous and used for other purposes, but they do not want to obey others but themselves. With the vision of peace in the hands of a boy - EL Kouta, S- Shuiji, they go they own path, but still followed by "the Boss."

Both hearth-touching, full of love and death, worth watching.

Elfen Lied has a happy ending, if it coud be calld that, but saikano has a sad ending, so prepare your handkerchiefs, they might come in handy for saikano.:)

vesebeteg says...

If you liked this for its main characters' fight for thier love, then you sure like the other, plus, the female character is a weapon for the military force in both stories. At the times when they act as a weapon, their behaviour changes into a laconic, determined style.

MrsickVisionz says...

Both shows feature girls as weapons, but the real connection to me is tragedy and death. Elfen Lied has more gore, but Saikano is just brutally sad because it mixes tragic death and a complex romantic relationships together and its just... extreme depression.

If you're into that type of show and you enjoyed that element of Elfen Lied, you will love Saikano.

Galadriel says...

both Saikano and Elfen Lied feature female protagonists used as weapons in wars or in military force, both of them are very romantic dramas, featuring female protagonists fighting for the beloved one, changing their mood and personality battle after battle until their love seems to become agony. If you liked the bloody Elfen Lied then for sure you will enjoy the melancholic Saikano and vice-versa.

Viminas says...

Both Animes have a striking and sad storyline and determined characters. Both show the hardships of relationships during hard times, be it a war against the rest of the world (Saikano) or a battle against scientists attempting to reclaim an "Experiment gone incredibly violent" (Elfen Lied).