Haikyuu!! - Recommendations

insatiable says...

Both anime revolve around a sport, the formation and building of a team alongside friendship and rivalry. They have a similar feel to them as well, both being lighthearted and comedic while having an equal amount of serious moments as well. I adore both of them, so if you liked one, I strongly recommend you give the other a try.

Brad says...

This is a recommendation that is immediately apparent after you watch the first few minutes of Haikyuu!!, and possibly the easiest recommendation I’ll make in quite a while. Production IG seem to have stumbled across the perfect formula for adapting sports anime with their fantastic adaption of the Kuroko’s Basketball manga, and it’s a pleasure to say that they’ve done nothing but prove themselves to be more than a one trick pony when it comes to sports shows with Haikyuu!!

Production IG have an almost uncanny knack for portraying sports at their most exciting, their most visceral and their most uplifting in a way that flows seamlessly from episode to episode, all while leaving the viewer begging for more at the end of each episode. The way they handle character interactions means that the shows rarely get bogged down in those annoying sports tropes such as sickening melodrama or the whole “determination overcomes all” bile that turns me right off a sports show. Basically, they know what makes a great sports anime, and goddamn do they do it well!

Naturally both stories focus on a protagonist who initially appears to be at a disadvantage when it comes to competing with his peers, but in each case he has a special talent that gives him a sporting edge that enables him to compete against the very best. There’s also the usual parallels when it comes to a small team who had a proud history, but has since fallen into mediocrity, until our protagonists arrival elevate them upwards in the world high school sports.

The interactions between the characters is sublime in both shows, with a main protagonist pairing that are different, yet complement each other ridiculously well for some intense action, great development and really funny comedy. Everything else from the supporting cast, the sound effects and the pacing are bang on in both shows, so if you found one enjoyable then I fail to see how you could fail to absolutely adore the other.

VivisQueen says...

Haikyuu and Kuroko's Basketball share a strong Production IG flavour, with stylish, energetic sports action sequences and tense interpersonal drama off the sports courts. Another thing they share is that they prefer to lean towards the gimmicky, fantastical side of the sports genre but pull it off without seeming cheap or stupid. If you like one, you're bound to find satisfaction in the other.

ZetsubouKaiji says...

If you like pulse pounding action and edge of your seat excitement then these are the sports anime for you. Both these shows follow the same formula of building up a likable cast with great chemistry that you instantly want to root for. Then it sets them up against interesting interesting opponents that make the matches more interesting. Both of these series know how to play up to the intensity of the given match. 

The sports might be different but these show have the same successful formula. They have the same balance of comedy and drama. They both know how to shift the tone from comedic to serious and back without ruining tension. However, there are enough differences between the series to keep you from getting bored.

The biggest difference between Basket and Haikyuu is the latter is a more realistic in its approach to its sport. Basket often trades realism in favor of being as exciting as possible, but the difference is mostly caused by the differences in basketball in volleyball.

If you like one of these shows then you should consider the other a must watch. 

8MangaMan says...

While they both have the obvious resemblance of being sports anime, Haikyuu!! and Kuroko's Basketball don't stop there.

Both series have amazing animation, and neither series takes any shortcuts.  Once the action heats up, it becomes very noticible how much effort the animators put into each scene.  The OST for these anime are great as well.  Always having a perfect track for whatever moment may happen, may it be a comedy scene or a dramatic one.  

While Haikyuu!! is more based in reality, Kuroko's Basketball is a bit different.  For example, some characters have special abilities.  

I'm positive if you enjoy one of these, you will also enjoy the other.

audinobutt says...

Both series are about sports of course. The team is funny and spirited. There's also ample bromance in both. Kuroko has more flashy, high tension type games, where as so far haikyuu depicts the matches in a more calmer manner. 

anpanshooter says...

It's a popular sports anime with shippable characters. Both ave characters with high goals, and strong ambitions

Alpasar says...

Both of them pass you the same feel. They have nice animation and show you the teamwork and intensity for the win. You will love them even if you don't play any of these sports.

miapark says...

I reccomend this because both the plot and team are the same even the way the characters bond and become a team are very similar. the only problem with these animes are that once you watch both after a while of not refreshing your memory about what happened in which anime the plot and events will start to get mixed up and even some of the characters. when re watching kuroko no basket i was wondering when this character was going to come into play but then remembered that that character was in haikuu. Either was both of these anime are my favorites and dont get me wrong just becasue they are similar they still have their differenced and that is what make them so amazing. I was never into sport andime then i watched kuroko no basket and that got me into haikyuu and free! Sport anime rule and even if your not into that type of thing try this out any way because if you dont your definitally missing out.

Nicknames says...

Both are adrenaline-pumping sports anime that will keep you at the edge of your seat. They focus on a team and the bonds between their members as they strive to be the best team in Japan. The sports may be different, but they are equally enjoyable despite of that!

melanieyeniz says...

Both involve intense tournaments that will keep you wondering, and guesssing over what might happen next. The main team being shown in both animes face other teams that are more skilled. To add, both have an amazing way of developing the characters throughout the show. 

chmoreira94 says...

Sports, High School, Hot Blooded, Train Harder, train more, some cool characters, kuroko lost his good points on the way, i don't want the same to happen to this one.

Adyth says...

one main char with hidden talent joined forces with another one and then they became the strongest weapon of their team

AncientDino says...

Both an amazing sports anime with a lot of good character development.

Kuroko no Basket is about a basketball team while Haikyuu is about an Volleybal team. In Kuroko no Basket there is also a strong bond between 2 players in the anime. Which is also shown in Haikyuu. However it brings the story rather differently. I personally enjoy both series.

KindaKingdra says...

Very similar plot, fantastic art in both. The character development is very well-done and the relationship between Kuroko and Kagami is very similar to that of Kageyama and Hinata.

Kukzie says...

Both are sport anime and both are quite intense in some moments. I really liked both of them but in comparison of each other Haiykuu is much more of an comedy than Kuroko no Baske or atleast I found myself laughing quite more often at Haiykuu than at KnB.

ccallstar111 says...

Both shows are sports anime about boy's teams. Both contain seriousness in the sports they play along with a few laughs in between. In both Haikyuu!! and Kuroko's Basketball, there are "geniuses" of the sport who are constantly trying to out do each other. There are about two main characters in each and several other characters that are focused on. Both discuss rivalries, hard work, determination, and the importance of friendship and teamwork. If you like either of these shows, you will like the other one.

abinouaraicha97 says...

i find a lot of similarities in kuroko no basket and haikyuu because of hinata and kuroko have there own special way in playing there sports and both of theme needed someone to help theme (kageyama and kagami) so i think if like one of theme you will like the other 

SilverShadowAnime says...

Both of this animes main charactors that are moving foward with wins ans loses to make their dreams come true. At the same time they make friends along the way that were enemies at first, and there are a lot of chaaracters you will both admired and hated.

BloodyRedRoses says...

It's awesome, they both have many similar qualities in the genre and it's just worth watching in general.

PurpleCatAngel says...

Like Haikyuu, Kuroko's Basketball is about two high school students playing for their team. But instead of the two players thing to surpass five talented players, the players are trying to surpass each other with their own talents.

ShadoXRay says...

Both are based on sports and go into the details of how a team is build and how each player is important to the team, both also focus on teaching how to play the sport by explaining the rules in detail

dolldoll says...

These are the two sports animes that I won't regret watching!! They made me turn from laughing to crying within a few seconds. They are different in their own special ways, but both blew my expectations away!! Don't miss them for anything, they will make you want to play sports even if you're born a couch potato! <3 (speaking from personal experience)

P.S. This is my first time writing a recommendation, and I can't believe I wrote in for sports animes... I would never have though I would like this genre so much!

MexDo says...

You can't enter the sports anime genre without watching these two animes as they both have great animations which most sports animes lack as well as they are so thrilling and if you liked one of them you would , of course love the other one. The main difference lies within the reality as "Kuroko no basket" has a bit of unnatural abilities developed in it. However, I may guarantee that you'll love it.

.

.

My Favourite: Haikyuu!!

Best character of both animes: Aomine Daiki (Kuroko no basket)

Ratings: Haikyuu!! (10/10) , Kuroko no basket (10/10)

HaruneAira says...

• Sports anime
• Underdog school trying to become the national champion.
• Talented freshmen duo in the team.
• Becoming a unified team (how everyone is important).
• Both comedic and serious
• Mainly male cast (for the girls out there)

SkylarOnIce says...

Both of these have a simulor theme.

They both include two first years that are a little more than average. I think that you can find how a like the charators are.

Brenna8185 says...

yyyyyybbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbb  llllll  ....................

nature365 says...

They both share the high school team sport where two new players have to come together, learn from each other, and grow together in order for them to become strong. They tend to be stronger working together than apart and the overall team atmosphere grows in unity over time. I would say there is slightly more comedy in Haikyuu than Kuroko, but they are both generally hilarious and the team antics are great.

ClumsyPuppet says...

Both animes keep you on the edge of your seat with anticipation every episode and develop every character (even minor characters) with such detail, so if you liked the thrill and depth of Kuroko's Basketball then you're gonna love Haikyuu and vise-versa. 

Ech0ez says...

They are both sports anime's and the characters are adorable, funny, and have big goals/dreams. Both of the anime's are really good.

SuperBlase says...

Both are sports animes! they are both really good and if you enjoy sprts anime you will enjoy thhem

watchnojutsu says...

both centre around adorable male leads who team up with someone who is a natural/genius at the sport and they progress through matches with their teams. both seirin in knb and karasuno in haikyuu have great chemistry and it's such a laugh when they all get together

QueenofWeebs says...

Both of them are sports anime with the option to look into the tender scenes as somewhat gay, if you like watching anime with hints of homosexuality.

KHB says...

This anime is something that you don't want to stop watching but you feel the need to go on. I binged watched majority of the episodes because I loved it that much but I controlled myself on the last few episodes. I can't wait for the full two parts of Season 4 to come out of Haikyuu so I can watch it. It made me want to take up volleyball which I hope to do one day. Though I feel like I'm already a genius in the technical bits of volleyball including the rules. 🏐 

Kurokos Basketball is a great anime that I've just started watching. It gives me vibes of Haikyuu as it mainly focuses around 2 characters and their team becoming the best of the best. I look forward to this anime. 🏀 

aeroson says...

They are both shounen sports anime with a lot of parallels in the cast. Two main characters on the same team with a fun dynamic going on, trying to win a tournament for their team. They triumph, they are defeated, they grow stronger and closer. The audience is captivated by the spirit of both casts and they are both generally very enjoyable, engaging shows.

kodain says...

Similar themes of sports, friendship and teamwork. Both are lighthearted, an easy watch and have similar art styles too. Haikyuu has definitely more individual character development and is more realistic. Though Kuroko's Basketball has more oomph factor in terms of over exaggeration but in definitely a good way, plus it's finished. Haikyuu is personally my favourite out of the two, simply because you just end up liking and relating to the characters more. But they're both great. 

Max4444 says...

They are both awesome sport anime. 

Haikyuu has more individual character development, and is more realistic, but Kuroko no Basket is also amazing.

totopus says...

both honestly really amazing, at the moment haikyuu is still on going where kuroko is over, but it still very good

tanjirosimp says...

Very similar to Haikyu, but basketball. Characters and storyline are very good. Hot characters.

Beth0410 says...

Two high School Sports team where the characters are striving to become stronger to win the tournaments. 

MaddieT1231 says...

both have fun friendships interesting charecters  and rivalries and intriguing backstories also dont know anything about sports but these are fun to watch

saketh225 says...

both of first year high school student  and both have duo which will help to crush strong player

sealblubb3 says...

i love both of these animes sm and they are definatly similair so if you liked haikyuu you will mot definatly like kuroko's basketball :*

Thatonewiredweeb18 says...

Kuroku no basketball is really cool it has an AMZING plot and awesome characters ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

TheCautionBandi says...

Animated by the same studio, hilarious, and exhilarating, Haikyu and Kuroko's Basketball have a lot of similarities.

Shazzybee11 says...

Both are sports animes that have major character development and growth in sportsmanship. Both series have humourous and lighthearted undertones but follow an inspriring plotline. 

Miyuna says...

They are both sports animes. They also have the same comedic features. It also has the same team aspect of the things. You get involved with a guy that everyone thinks sucks yet later turns out to be one of the best players. Their personalities making the anime even better.

AshleyAas says...

They both include sports, and the main characters in each are very similar. Basketball Vs. Vollyball, the sports are different but the characters of both are so relatable.

wreckage2004 says...

Both anime revolve around a sport, the formation and building of a team alongside friendship and rivalry. They have a similar feel to them as well, both being lighthearted and comedic while having an equal amount of serious moments as well. I adore both of them, so if you liked one, I strongly recommend you give the other a try.

AvaStarlight says...

If you love one the other is bound to be a fav. of yours as well. Both will keep you cheering and on the edge of your seat. 

AnimeTrial says...

Because both of them have a 2 person duo, or relationship.I have watched both and they are awsome! I personally think you should watch it if your looking for another anime like Haikyuu

Bertos08 says...

both of them have the feeling of from weak to strong, and also there is a strong duo with that there are guys that are in 1. grade and one of them has tremendous experience and abilities and the second one is weaker than him, but somehow he will show his true potential

sangwoosleftt0es says...

Kuroko No Basket and Haikyuu are separate in their own ways but they both leave me attached to characters and my body pumping with adrenaline. There's never a dull moment when I watch these sports animes.

Lamia69MJ says...

Both Anime has Interesting & Likeable Characters..as well as Anyoing Characters..has some similarities which is why..Worth Watching..Both Anime has Grove & Gives Want to Sport Vibe..Worth Watching

Rascal says...

Haikyuu and My Hero Academia are shounen that feature a protagonist with big dreams and a friend who seems to be always salty. They both have great character development, progression, and similar themes. Lots of good humor and entertaining character interactions in both.

mishitty says...

well firstly ALL THE CHARACTERS IN BOTH ANIMES ARE SO ADORABLE AND LOVEABLE LIKE???? H O W T O H A T E ?? it's physically impossible, they're all so precious and you just wanna protecc the smol children

the settings and genres may be different but so many situations that happen in haikyuu, you'd think like "wow this is so BNHA of them LOL" and vice versa. the protagonists are so alike- midoriya and hinata are just smol beans who are underestimated but they just wanna make it far and tHEY DO. N YOU JUST WANNA CHEER THEM ON.

idk pls just watch. they're both absolute materpieces

soleilsun says...

- Despite the genres of these two being drastically different, they both contain a main character who is somewhat of an underdog who goes to improve themselves immensely and dominate amongst rivals.

devihelios says...

If you like characters and the way they connect, Haikyuu is one of my most recomended. A lot of people like My Hero Academia for the characters and shipping them too. Haikyuu is perfect for that. Even though ther's much different because of the sports anime genre vs the sci-fi fantasy genre, it gives you sort of the same feel overall. Also, if you're a sucker for underdog characters climbing the ranks, there's not a lot better you can get than these two animes.

PurplePeopleEater says...

Both are very much underdog animes. The main characters have passion and ambition but they start out on the bottom and have to work hard to get to the top. Meanwhile, an unlikely friend who is considered much stronger than them and is even a rival at times, is also an ally. 

yourdailybinoftrash says...

These animes are very different and simalar in ways because of the characters they have a lot in common watch and see for yourself

Bugbreath says...

Though the two are very different, if you love the characters from one you'll most likely love the characters from the other. Protagonists are extremely similar, so are the other characters to an extent but Hinata and Midoriya the most similar to each other. 

savav says...

The main characters are first-year high schoolers with lofty goals. You get to see their growth as characters as they developed their specific skill set. Plus both animes have a TON of good characters. Be ready to have too many faves to count. 

KirstyLlama says...

Whilst the story and themes are very different, the types of characters, their personalities and the emotions you get from both anime are quite similar. Both the protagonist and the people close to them that they work with (Midoriya and his classmates in My Hero Academia, and Hinata and his volleyball team for Haikyuu) are very passionate and determined to achieve their goals, resulting in everyone from both animes always trying their best to improve and become the best. Both protagonists are also underdogs that have to prove themselves to everyone, and are also energetic and can sometimes accidentally cause trouble haha.

No harm in giving the anime a try is there?? Both are very easy to get hooked on anyway and I'm sure that if you liked one then you'll like the other, just because of the similar vibe they give off. Enjoy!

asialol says...

nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn. both animes are different but also similar in different ways but i really would recommend trying my hero academia if u havent and u have watched haikyuu or the other way around  

Sybille says...

Yes, they both are shonens and that's basically the main reason. The mc aims to be the #1 at the thing they like the most: Deku wants to be the best hero and Hinata, the best volleyball player. Also they both start from the bottom and it's cool to watch them grow as the seasons go through. Also, theres some development in the other characters as well. They're both fun and easy to watch (;

yeobi says...

both feature male protagonists who are trying to achieve their dreams, for izuku becoming the #1 hero, and for shoyo being known as the little giant like his idol. they also feature very likable side characters and comedic scenes.

wishtheywerereal says...

its funny they are both theyre good why does it have to have 100 characters oh my god okay so theyre funny and they have u at the edge of ur seat but alos both fandoms scare me but theyre good i think

ayviance1020 says...

     Men's red brheheh at yes s  in comes cc chance hey me me me baa baa e mad bad bad baa box came

Monet1011 says...

They're both following characters who are trying to overcome a great feat and achieve their dreams no matter what. In both shows it showcases amazing characters and it's a great anime overall.

doctorwodka says...

The protagonists of both Haikyuu!! and My Hero Academia are underdogs who have been given the opportunity to become something greater, and both take this chance & run with it. Character growth is very apparant in both shows, and there is rarely a boring moment as you're constantly cheering the protagonist on.

Monnie123 says...

The best anime it has all sort of excitement from going against 1 team to going to nationals this anime is the best 

Max4444 says...

Both are very hype anime. Both MCs want to become something, but because of the way they were born that's harder than for most people. Still, they don't give up on their dreams and fight to become the best. Both have intense fights (the matches in Haikyuu are technically not fights, but they are just as intense as fights), both have some good comedy and both have a large cast with a lot of likable characters.

elll4 says...

both are about the main protagonist having big dreams but they feel like they aren't able to do them. (shoyo being short and midoriya not having a quirk) but then they want to show themselves and others that they can do it even though they arent tall or they don't have a quirk. and then the story follows them along their path becoming the 1# hero or an awesome volleyball player.

Zooted says...

They both have the same vibe and the characters connect with each other simalarily. Deku and Hinata are both underdogs that exceed people's expectations to an extreme level. Both are basically the same thing except one is about volleyball and one is about superhero stuff. Also both of them take place in a high school.

BlkAngle says...

In both animes, the main character starts from the base and the anime shows the progress of him and the sub-characters (who have a prominent role in both animes) well. Also, the main character's rivals were against each other at the beginning of the anime, but then due to events, both of them are forced to be on the same side, but their competition is not diminished.

Rascal says...

Run with the wind and Haikyuu are both about a bunch of boys in a sports team, each with their own quirks and stories. The two are made by the same studio and have similar animation and visual styles which are good for action. The two have good sports and personal arcs for the characters and could also be classified as "fujoshi-bait" by some. If you like one, you'll most likely enjoy the other.

Nicco19 says...

If you liked Haikyu!! or Run with the Wind, you'd like the other because both of them main characters are so similar. Graphic and animations are analogue and both Hinata and Haiji are trying to follow their own dream.

jbstears says...

I can agree in both of them. I watched both of these shows and the main characters are so freaking similar 

Atlas2021 says...

SPORTS ANIMES ARE LIFE no seriously I love Haikyuu, and nothing (sports anime wise) can compare with it, but run with the wind was pretty good.

burntpopcorn says...

both of these series have characters that strive to meet their goals while helping one another out along the way. there is a lot of character development as well. the plots are pretty similar (even though they're about two totally different sports) and both of these animes actually make you want to join a sports team. XD

Jennycortez180 says...

Both abour sports teams, similiar themes throught the series, both produced by ig, similiar animation style, theyre both just really good with a varying cast of interesting characters

fwuity says...

Haikyuu!! is a unique sports anime that shows two protags overcoming their mental and physical flaws to become a good team, it's a light hearted but engrossing anime that shows that not everything is a simple cake walk. Although it is an amazing anime with some funny moments and serious moments, one thing it does lack is the sense of defining character.

Animes such as Free! and Yuri!! on ICE make sure to keep a good balance between off the game and on the game. They give a nice slice of life feel that isn't boring and helps build the characters' relationships, history, and performance during the sport events.That's where Run with the Wind comes in... Unlike Haikyuu!!, more than just the main two people on screen have personalities. Dare I say, the main-secondary characters in Run with the Wind have more personality than the main character himself. They all have unique personalities and something to work for as well as the "Big Championship" that is common in sports animes. They have different branches of work and they express themselves apart from the "Super-jock been obsessed with the sports since I was a child" mentality often found in main characters in a sports anime.If you liked Haikyuu!!, you'll love Run with the Wind. Same concept of breaking mental and physical barriers for the sake of competition, an entirely different and unique sport, and more elaborative on the lives of the main cast.ALSO, Can we talk about how there's a BLACK CHARACTER in a Japan-area anime?? That's portrayed without sterotypes AT ALL???? There's a few sterotypical jokes said by other characters, but it's always hushed and the show appears to have self awareness to these jokes and how to use them. 

Malcom13Blossom says...

Made by the same animators, there's a new mood to this more mature take on sports. With everyone being in College, I wonder what sort of Shinanigans they'll get up to in this higher level playing field of extraordinary human ability.

KindaKingdra says...

Both animes are about athletes coming together and building a team dynamic they never imagined. Both animes feature prodigies at their sport (Kakeru is a running prodigy and Kageyama is a volleyball prodigy) who have closed themselves off from people because of their shared past traumas of being isolated because of their talent. Neither anime is about "magic" sports, but both feature stylized animation to add to the sense of discovery and ambition that both teams feel. The animation style of both of these shows is modern and visually appealing. And both are my favorite sports animes, if that sways you one way or another.

DinoDancer says...

Both anime have likeable characters who have really good relationships with one another. Run with the wind is a little more slow paced than Haikyuu but the character growth of the MC is just amaing to watch. Both anime have an english dub if you prefer to be able to just watch it although sub is better.

crowlsparrow says...

Both of these shows are sports with fantastic characters and animation. Although Haikyuu!! is a much more popular anime, I enjoyed Run with the Wind just as much. Both were very motivating.

OtomeEnthusiast says...

Very similar in terms of the ambience! If you loved one of them, you'll love the other one. 

Discenshi says...

Although they are both about sports, I think the similarities are more about how the characters are represented and developed. 

chanai09 says...

Realistic gameplay, the relationship between characters, and excellent character developments are the main charmpoints of Haikyuu!! and Run with the Wind. You'll end up rooting for everyone before you know it.

Kusabimaru says...

Character design is great and the story overall does great job incorporatingthese characters

you would love the other if you loved watching any one of them

Leahchu says...

Both anime feature a mostly male cast of characters that are in the same sports club together. Each show has similar archetypes, like the extroverted group center that everyone rallies around, the 'weaker' newbie that has to put in extra effort compared to other teammates, a guy who isn't as dedicated to the team as the rest, and the stoic boy who has had negative experiances at his last team. Both anime have amazing visuals during their respective tournaments. Each anime focuses on the characters developing inner growth that end up showing in their results. If you enjoyed the high paced action of one, the other should scratch the same itch!

Starletka says...

The obvious connection between Free! and Haikyuu!! is that they have to do with sports, but they also share a pleasant, peaceful atmosphere and have very likable (mostly male) characters. As a person who never even liked the sports genre, I can honestly say I enjoyed both of these series.

ccallstar111 says...

Both Haikyuu!! and Free! Iwatobi Swim Club are sports anime, with boys being the main characters. Although Free! is more serious than Haikyuu!!, both shows have common themes such as teamwork, friendship, hard work, and determination. Both shows also contain a rivalry between two characters who are also friends. If you like either show, you will like the other one.

Nemirel says...

They're both sports animes. In Haikyuu!! there's more of a focus on training and there's always comedy, while in Free! it's more serious with a little comedy, about how they live with their past and get over personal obsticles. They both have rivals that are also good friends, Nekoma and that training group for Haikyuu!!, Rin and his team for Free!. In Haikyuu!!, the characters are more diverse, so there's almost a guarentee that one will become your favorite. In Free!, there's only a few characters, so you get to know them, and their pasts extremely well. Haikyuu!! is a longer series than Free! with almost 50 (as of this time) episodes in two seasons (third hasn't come out yet), while Free! only has about 25 in both seasons.

EmmaHomestuck says...

its about sports. i googled shows like free because i really love it and haikyuu came up. i havent watched haikyuu yet but i hope its good

Maxchan says...

Even though they may not seem similar, both Haikyuu and Free are both very similar. Yes, one is about swimming and the other is about volleyball. But the way both animes show how the team bonds with each other and grow stronger, winning and losing against other teams, building friendships and a little on actual school life. 

In my opinion both are great animes! I loved the characters and how the team isn't OP. They have to work and grow stronger to win. The thing is I get way into these types of animes and just start yelling at the screen for them to win XD 

I would agree with this recommendation if you enjoyed free or Haikyuu! Both are great but it really depends on how you see the story of them.

Kirasan8 says...

If you love/like haikyuu, you will also love/like free... There are handsome boys, emotions, sport and (mainly) bl ships. If you are fujoshi/fudanshi, you will enjoy both of those anime series. I hope this rec helped you and I'm sorry for mistakes in my english :)

soleilsun says...

- both are sports animes that involve a team whose goal becoming stronger in order to compete nationally 

- both involve rivalries between teams (Aoba Johsei, Shitorigawa, Nekoma/Karasuno) (Iwatobi/Samezuka)

MeiSieuIsStarlord says...

Both show the intensity of a difficult sport from the perspective of teenagers, who build a school team where one either didn't exist before, or was still being realized. Both delve into the intensities and insecurities of the team collective and the individual. On a lighter-hearted note, both also include the endearing/infuriating banter and antics between teammates and rivals (though Haikyuu parodies its characters and these situations more). 

Both are personable animes. Neither are boring. 

devihelios says...

Both have fun plots with interesting and unique characters. They bond over their sport and get through their hardships together. Obviously it isn't as cheesy as I'm making it sound, but they are similar in that way. Also, the main characters are both way too obsessed with their chosen sport and have a natural knack for it. (Hinata still has someway to go, but good intuition, reflexes, etc.)

Snushy says...

I watched these quite far apart in time but just a couple of episodes into Haikyuu i definitly got Free vibes.. plus Kagayama's design was based off Haru, or so I've heard! I love these boys with my entire heart soo....

gingswifey says...

both have to do with sports 

like even if you dont play any sports (which honestly same) youll enjoy these :)

and there are conflicts and funni stuff in between

the boys are also cuties lolol try not to simp too much tehe

xyst says...

Both anime are in the sports genre and follow a group of male students. The character in both shows face many obstacles and will generally pass them with the support of others or determination by themselves. 

evelynannb says...

Two brilliant sports anime combined loveable comedic characters with brilliant arcs and development. What more could you ask for?

maidmelody says...

both sports animes that have extremely lovable characters who go through amazing character development

though free! deals with some slighty heavier topics, both shows are enjoyable and lighthearted and will (hopefully) leave a smile on your face :)

Hutai says...

Both anime have 2 guys who end up being close friends, trusting each other wile growing, chasing their passion and trying to win.Lots of action, humor, good story and music

Xeujin says...

sk8 and haikyuu are both sport anime's and if that your kind of thing then I reccomend watching both of them, the team of kurasuno has a very captivating bond and I believe you can find a similiar bond with Reki and his friends. Both anime's have a sense of almost like you could feel being there in my opinion. Overall I think both are very good anime's and if you like one I reccomend trying out the other.

KageLoki says...

Both of these animes are in the sport category. The main characters are a little different. While in Haikyuu they first don't really get along. In sk8 they hit it off right away.

Both animes go into emotional and physical struggles of the main characters (and others).

In Haikyuu there is more of course, it's longer and has more characters you can connect to. 

They both have the fact that they can be easily imagined in the category: Shounen Ai. Which is usually what you get when there are primarily boys in an anime. 

callmechrollo says...

Both are sposrtss anime duh. But for the most part both have such great cjaracters that you can form a bond with. Although SK8 is more dramatic and less realistic it still gives off that same vibe where your rooting for everyone. 

TheCautionBandi says...

Sporth anime go brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

ihavenoideawhattoput says...

both shows have teenagers as the main characters, so there's a lot of humor and relatable moments. the characters are very loveable, and you can tell how passionate they are for skateboarding/volleyball. you get to see their 'journey' throughout the season/s of how they grow and improve their skills, and as characters. overall amazing shows and are my favourites!!

evelynannb says...

Both have wholesome feel-good storylines, with a great blend of comedy and drama. I may be biased because I love both shows to death but I can't recommend them enough. These shows are also great if you love seeing characters overcome their own limitations.

Max4444 says...

Both are sports anime that make you feel hyped and excited and make you want to be active. I don't know a lot about skateboarding, but the things they do in sk8 seem like things you can do in real life, and Haikyuu is also very realistic. 

Drpx1 says...

If you like to see friendship blossoming then these are both a good choice, while SK8 is more individual theres still a sense of a team spirit that builds.

On the flip side Haikyuu starts off with some of the individualistic tendencies which blossom into a good team spirit for Vollyball.

Either way theyre both enjoyable regardless of which you've watched first, if you like the one then youd be sure to like the other.

Saturn0 says...

Sports anime goes brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

piscisnonsum says...

Similar comedic banter and relationship dynamics, both have their main characters trying to learn and improve at their sport. There is a bit more angst toward the end of SK8, and Haikyuu has some of that, but it hits a bit differently. Both have an emphasis on high-energy games and characters, determination, and friendship (as well as shipping potential if you're into that). It's quite easy to get invested in either of these shows, and I'd say they're both top-notch.

AnimeBinger123 says...

Both have comedy, cute anime boys, and a wholesome story that makes each charcter seem powerful

mymindishoax says...

   

Brad says...

Haikyuu!! and Yowamushi Pedal are two sports anime that manage to strike a perfect blend when it comes to representing their sport, providing likable characters, excitement and humour. They each manage to give the supporting cast as much meaningful screen time as the main protagonists, which is a major plus in team based sports shows where a show cannot just meander along focusing on one or two people for the duration of its run. The comedy in each is usually perfectly timed, and so excellently written that you get more laugh out loud moments than you would imagine.

They each absolutely nail the excitement factor, and have the viewer pumped for more by the time the credits roll, especially when it comes to the intense matches/races where episodes fly by. Really if you enjoyed one then you should give the other a shot, because I think you’d end up finding a show that you can really sink your teeth into.

Kamodo303 says...

Bith are easily relatable, make you laugh and can watch a second time through without getting that "I have already seen this before" feeling.

ZetsubouKaiji says...

If you want to see sports anime done right then check out both of these excellent series. The sports might be different, but they have the same heart of a thrilling sports anime. Both of these shows have the perfect combination of drama and comedy. Both of these shows have super likable casts that make you care about the results of the matches/races. Most importantly both these anime know when to amp up the tension to make the anime as exciting as possible. 

The only difference between these shows is the sports are different. Both of these shows make cheese and melodrama a strength rather than a weakness because the emotions are very genuine and both work hard to make you like the cast. 

If you like sports anime or even if you just like either Haikyuu or Yowamushi then you should consider the other to be a must watch.

karasunocrows says...

Both Haikyuu!! and Yowamushi Pedal feature teams that are/were pretty strong but haven't been on top. They have a feel good vibe without it being "All we need is friendship and teamwork, and we can win anything!" The cast in both are very likeable and you can relate to them. 

Personally, I like Haikyuu!! more, but I still really like Yowamushi Pedal.

RaghadSama says...

both of them are talking about how could rocky become awesome . and there's a nice competition between character which going to makes you hold your breath

SilverShadowAnime says...

They are both good shows that push the main characters to their limits. With new friends and enemies both the major characters in this anime move foward to reach their goal.

Awadel says...

both talk about companionship and overcoming yours goals, with so good humor and excelents characters. They make you glued to your screen.

ZeldaMoon says...

Both are sports animes that have a cast of mainly teenage boys. The shows both focus on friendship, determination, and teamwork. Both of the plots are largely based on the ups and downs of competitive sports training.

TheQi2B says...

The main character in Haikyuu and the red headed sprinter in Pedal have very much  the same look and vibe. If you liked one you'll enjoy the other!

magicman1999 says...

I LOVE sports anime so no matter which way you slice this cake i want them both. though i enjoyed haikyuu more because of the tournament style and there training, its probaly just a personal pref. though.

JailBait707 says...

In both Yowamushi Pedal and Haikyuu you're represented with an anime that mainly focuses on the sport itself and how said characters grow stronger and better at the sport as it continues on. If you enjoyed the aspect of being able to learn something about said sport and how the sport works, you'll definitely learn something from both animes. Both of the casts for the anime have extremely likeable characters with a team that has great chemistry. Another notable similarity in the anime is how it just doesn't focus on the growth of one character but rather the whole team. Both of the animes also offer a likeable cast for the other/opposing teams and focus on them at some points of the anime

Aliceanne says...

Both anime has likable or interesting characters, hype moments that'll make you scream, funny moments or interactions... anyway, it's worth it to watch both, and you can see the similarities.

And if you don't have time to watch them, you can watch in 1.5x speed or something.

whimsical says...

Both anime focus on a player straight out of junior high that have immense potential, and how their high school team helps them get closer to their dreams.

OtakuVoice says...

Both Haikyuu and Ace of the Diamond have main characters who have a natural talent unknown to them at first but after getting to high school work hard to become national champions. Added that both characters really don't know how to give up and want to be the star of the team.

thatotakugirl says...

Both series follow a high school sports team as they work hard through the ups and downs of reaching the top. The main characters are loud and fun but work at their strongest when paired with their "partner" who, despite clashing personalities, draw out the best potential with equal parts being mean and encouraging. The secondary characters all have their own personalities and can steal the spotlight just as easily with the skills they posess. 

TKHecticX says...

Both of the main characters start off as the only amazing player on a sub par team then they get thrown into a top teir team and have to work their way up the ladder.

Knightwalker08 says...

If you want some realistic sports anime without super powers, like Kuroko no Basket, I strongly recommend this two anime - Haikyuu!! and Ace of Diamond (Diamond no Ace)

vihuff says...

Main characters have very similar personalities between both shows. Similar feel and themes. Shows have a lot in common other than the different sport. If you like Haikyuu, you'll like Ace of the Diamond.

AnokiSenpai says...

If you like Haikyuu because of the teamwork, rivalry or characters with a higher goal then you might like this anime. 

The main charachters also act a lot like the characters from Haikyuu and  the matches in the anime are thrilling as well. 

this anime is really UNDERRATED so if i was you i would try it well actually i want to erease my own memories to watch this anime again it was sooooooo goooodddd.

Wendy12352 says...

They both have very similar MCs. 

their both supper energetic. Their personalities are very similar over all. But the feel of the anime is different in the way that Haikyuu has a more serious feel to it, AOD has a very energetic and more funny side to it. In AOD characters are just a lot more energetic and outgoing which makes it have a funnier and relaxed side to it.

Both MCs work very hard though to be the best, in Haikyuu the MC works hard to prove how he can play through his perception of being bad because of his height in that way in AOD the MC also works very hard to prove himself. in AOD he is a great player but he is not consistent and has little experience so he works hard to prove himself.

Bothe MCs work ethic is admirable since they keep going even through their setbacks.

Dstr says...

They are both about an athlete who has a lot of natural talent however hadn't had the facilitys to prove and improve themsleves. At the beginning of both anime's they needed a lot of help from their seniors and a partner who could bring out all of their raw talent. They both realise their flaws and try to overcome them throughout both of the animes. They are both very real and tap in with emotions that everyone will have had at some point in their lives with struggling, the pain of defeat, fights with other people as well as the highs of success and winning. There is also the slow climb to the top to try and get to where both the schools used to be. The MC's both have very similar goals both with being the 'ace' of the team in respect to their sports. They have the desire to improve and will try and grasp their asperations no mater what the costs and both will try and get past any walls that come their way no matter what.

hamletsmage says...

Both of these anime are about the underdog struggling to make it in the sport of his choice. The anime introduce a lot of strong male figures, both rivals and support for the main guy. Yuri is a little more blatant about the gay undertones, but Haikyuu has its moments. If you like one, check the other. 

YagamiRiku says...

Both of these animes are about sports, and the angst and struggles of the characters in them to overcome their fears, as well as the competition of their sports. 

AudreyDYC says...

Haikyuu is the best... If I actually see anyone who doesn't like it, I'll cry my eyes out. Seriously. It makes me laugh a lot and it keeps you wanting to know what happens next. 

boopdeedoop says...

Yuri!!! on Ice and Haikyuu!! both follow sports and humor. I find both of them really captivating on their stories and their struggles. Haikyuu!! (just like Yuri!!! on Ice) puts a lot of effort into every single character. They even have back stories for characters that were in the background until the third season! Both are worth watching.

Kurain says...

Both are sports-anime, with some deeper bonds hidden in the story + there are also comedy elements

AnimePixel says...

They both halve one of my favorite ships!!!! And they are also both basically about two main characters who work together to become the best!!!

savav says...

At first glance, these animes are super different besides the "sports" aspect, but both are about the growth of the main character in their dream field. Both Hinata and Yuuri are incredibly talented and driven. Plus they are so sweet, they deserve the world. They both have secondary main characters that are prodigies which act as a FOIL for the main, but also grow to be great friends.  (Kageyama for Hinata, Yurio for Yuuri). 

The biggest difference is that Hiakyuu is super team-oriented and focuses a lot on improving with other people and relying on your team. Yuri on Ice focuses more on self-improvement and building up self-confidence. Both animes are in my top 3 favorites. 

1EmoKing1 says...

Both sports animes, they are honestly are really great to, they both stir up emotions during tournaments, the main characters have a goal to win while being nervous beans, they are both great animes. 

K0RRRAAAAA says...

These two animes are very similar if you watch them both: underdog prodigies, character development, a "feel good" anime, and the relationship between rivals and the bestest of friends both overcoming their fears.

Yuri is more focused on self improvement and Haikyuu is focused on team improvement (it's kinda obvious it's SINGLES men figure skating and volleyball). 

audinobutt says...

Both are sports anime of course. The main characters are really talented, but dont realize it. They have a really talented partner on each team that fights to bring out their full potential. Ookiku is more laid back, and sweet with a set of younger people. The main character isn't as charismatic and flashy as Shoyo but they are in some way alike when it comes to not recognizing when they are amazing at what they can do for their team.

youkais says...

Both series are about how one need other to play in a team. Both of them are about hard work, passionate playing and friendhood.

Unless Ookiku is about baseball, a lot more pased in every episode (you will love Mihashi and Abe), and Haikyuu!! is about volleyball, you can see the same outcome and tension in everyepisode. You will love one if you loved the other.

BiteyCabbit says...

Both pull you into enjoying a sport through the use of very dedicated amatuer players, their evolution as players, and their relationships with the characters around them in a school setting. 

Haikyuu!! and Ookiku Furikabutte (Big Windup)'s main characters share the sadness of being wildly dedicated to a team sport without having a proper team. They also share a similar appearance.

mMIDNIGHTm says...

The relationship between Abe and Mihashi is similar to kageyama and hinata's                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Malcom13Blossom says...

There is an amazing main character duo, the charming, funny, and adorable secondary cast, and an amazing display of character and relationship development. These animes are about believing in yourself, your teammates and your friends. That your history doesn't make who you are. Highly recommend.

Hyperfanchan says...

Both series are about sport animé, and both will have you rooting for the main cast of characters. You take time to learn about all of the characters, and see them as they grow stronger together.

Rwebsterjustlivin says...

They both you rooting for the underdog. Unlike Haiyku, big windup is starting from scratch in terms of building a team. I think that's what's interesting about this anime. I will admit the main protagonists in this film gets on my nerves because of lack of confidence. The main one in haiyku I love because of he has so much confidence but that could Just be a personal preference.

Inu230 says...

Dynamic Duo’s in these series shine bright when they’re in sync. 

As long as the ball is called for it will be sent

Team manager ha stouching reason(s) for wanting her role on the respective team.

M.C. will practice till they drop.

maidmelody says...

both sports anime that focus on a lively protagonist, with a slightly stoic best friend/rival 

dhere1 says...

They both have loveable characters, the plot is amazing, give it a chance! Not only do they have love able characters but the characters backstories are amazing. The animation in both animes are also done very well.

KaoriTtowiatam says...

They are similar                                                     

Emmam14 says...

I liked both anime a lot , i am obsessed with haikyuu! so i thought i'd try backflip and it didn't dissapoint

kazumera says...

Both shows have characters that are well written + really easy to get attached to. The 2 main characters from Backflip!! really remind me of Hinata and Kageyama. 

alicwxe says...

First of all, if you watch it in japanese the voice actors of the two main characters are the same as hinata and kageyama's. It's a sport anime and the characters have developed backstories

yujiosato says...

Haikyuu!! is like Bakuten!! but bigger. There was more world-building and characters in it so there was always someone to relate to. I recommend going from Bakuten!! to Haikyuu!! because while it is newer that means it's smaller right now and easier to keep up with since there are fewer characters to learn about and keep track of. (truthfully at first I couldn't keep track of everyone's names in Haikyuu!! until later on. it overwhelmed me a bit at first but I love it)

DokjaBorae says...

The most obvious answer is that both are sports animes; so, if you like that genre, you'll most likely like it. 

Despite that, there're quite some similarities between the main characters and the plot. Without actually spoiling anything, the main characters are kinda in the same situation, and they grow thanks to others characters.

Anyway, both are really good and you'll love them. Also, both openings are so dope!