Samurai Champloo - Recommendations

sothis says...

Truly, Bebop and Samurai Champloo are all about style. I didn't like Bebop a great deal, but love SC, so it all depends. Regardless, I still realize they are very, very good recommendations for each other. Oozing style from the character designs, to the music, to the episodic plotline. Definitely check it out.

XMrNiceguyX says...

Even though both series hardly have any similarities besides that the series are both about a group of wandering people, the humor in both is really similar. Besides the humor, also the characters show quite some similarities.

buu says...

It is all about the music. Cowboy bebob has the up beat jazzy, bebop music theme, and samurai champloo has the new age hip hop, rap theme. Both these series have action scenes that suck you in with the music that blends flawlessly with the overall feel of the shows. It's just about how the music blends that make there series so similar.

tfv says...

Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop are from the same director, but that's not why I'm recommending them for each other, except to the extent that his influence has given both series a very similar feel. Both are style-driven anime, and in each case that style is created through music (in SC's case hip-hop, in CB's case jazz) and the integration of western and eastern themes and archetypes. In addition, a lot of the basic plot is the same - a group of people struggle to survive on the fringes of a culture. And, finally, both have similar amounts and types of action, although I think Samurai Champloo has the edge there. I don't think a fan of one of these series is guaranteed to like the other, but the odds are good - and both series are so well-known and influential that it's useful to see them even if you don't like them.

VivisQueen says...

The pacing of the two anime are very similar (probably because they share the same director). Champloo is also a character-based journey in which the audience is presented with scenes and dialogue that incrementally build up to full, rounded personalities by the end. The action sequences are just as well-paced, smooth, and gorgeous as you find in Bebop, with the same attention to detail in movement. Not to mention you’ve got another experimental mix of genres. Bebop is sci-fi western drama with a jazzy score, and Champloo is a samurai action drama with a hip-hop score. However, Bebop is less gritty than Champloo and not as 'cool', however, but if you're looking for a great sequel-that's-not-a-sequel to Bebop, this is definitely one to get.

Ooric says...

The Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo series do have similar styles. Both have certain music genres and action to get the viewers involved. Also, they have some characters with attitudes. I definitely prefer Cowboy Bebop (a must see) because there seems to be a better variety of unique characters and I feel Samurai Champloo is more "cheesey".

lantis says...

I'm loathe to state the obvious, but if you didn't already know, Samurai Champloo is made by the same people who did Bebop. They are quite different anime, obviously, but a lot of the same elements exist in both. Larger than life characters stumble through life fighting and starving, while funny and serious things things happen. It's a golden equation. Though Champloo lacks the awesome Jazzy beats that Bebop has, Bebop likewise misses out on the swordplay and stronger humor elements of Champloo. Watch both. You won't be sorry you did.

freakzilla says...

Cowboy Bebop is set in the future during the time of spaceships, while Samurai Champloo is set obviously in the past during the time of the samurai. What connects them so closely is the way they are made - both consist of a different story for each episode, yet are very amusing to watch.

aldat says...

I'd like to say that the reason I recommend these two animes together has nothing to do with them being from the same director. But it has. I mean...the plots don't really resemble each other, neither the settings...it's the way they move in these. I could watch that drooling wihout no kind of story at all. In no else anime (except in some ghiblis and Future boy Conan) has this particular thing so much caught my attention. Ah, and there are the characters too. The characters from champloo (Mugen and Jin) kind of bring to mind Spike (from Bebop) only split in two separate (and different) parts...

kmull says...

I watched Cowboy Bebop first then Samurai Champloo, and I still can't figure out which I like better since they are so similar.  Both have a good mixture of action and comedy, and both do a good job of developing characters and plot.  Oh, and how can I not mention that they both have great soundtracks?

neutrino says...

Both are all about musical style, which spills into the story, too.  Other elements seem really similar as well, like random characters getting thrown together in desperate situations, and everyone seems to be looking for a clue to their past.

MrsickVisionz says...

Both shows are about a rag-tag gang of misfits who get into wild and sometimes random adventures. They are also heavy on action and heavy on comedy (whether witty or goofball). They have a large background story going on, which gets resolved at the end, but they don't make every episode dwell on on it. Many episodes are just about putting the characters into a crazy situation and seeing how they react to it and each other. The two shows are similar in art style and both feature great music.

vivafruit says...

One trait that sets Shinichiro Watanabe’s work apart is his refusal to accept this Japanese conformity. In his anime, all of the characters define themselves by their individuality, fighting for themselves and ONLY themselves in a vast and lonely world. In Cowboy Bebop, the characters were thrown together by chance and stayed together only as long as convenience allowed. Although the anime was for the most part an action comedy, even the hilarious moments were subdued by this profoundly forlorn undercurrent of internal solitude.

Samurai Champloo has a very similar feel; in the series, three misfits who would otherwise have nothing to do with each other are thrown together by coincidental events. The characters then proceed to engage in a variety of episodic escapades, finally culminating in a suitably climactic and suspenseful conclusion. This basic plot structure, combined with Watanabe’s trademark freeform style, makes it easy to draw comparisons between the two works, despite the radically different settings.

In any case, if you liked one, watching the other is practically a matter of course.

Uriel says...

Both Champloo and Bebop were made by same author, and have very similar feel to them. Not to mention the main characters - Mugen and Spike have more in common than just their hairstyles and attitudes.

drognen says...

Both Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop are directed by Shinichiro Watanabe and follow a group of people through their adventures and experiences, while dealing with each other. Also, both sometimes have weird and comical situations. Oh, and both have brilliant action scenes.

micromania says...

Both Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop have the same type of music, and because of that, they have a little of the same atmosphere. Also, they have a similar animation style.

DraconAsilian says...

Both Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo hold the same sort of fixation on style above all else. And, what makes them more amazing beyond that is the fact that with such a strong fixation, the story comes out unscathed, and fully enjoyable. Both are great to watch if you're a fan of stylish anime.

GinaBristow says...

Both Bebop and Champloo are about a team of two guys and a girl on a quest. Sure, there is a big difference between bounty hunters and a samurai who smells of sunflowers, but either way the journey is hilarious and the back stories are heartwarming.

LadyFox says...

Correct me if I'm mistaken, but I do believe the creators of Cowboy Bebop we're involved in the making of Samurai Champloo. I really enjoyed watching both shows. Neither of them is exceptionally long and you almost instantly begin to bond with the characters. I love the male comradery between both main male characters each show. I cried and laughed watching both Bebop and Champloo. If you haven't watched them, I highly suggest that you do!

IrishDragon23 says...

Both Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop are made by the same man, and each mixes a variety of elements together. For Bebop, you have outer space and a futuristic design, but a mix in of smooth jazz and that cowboy feeling make it hard to classify exactly. Samurai Champloo is the same way, mixing the culture of Japan in the heart of the Edo period with an element of hip-hop.

j4c3n says...

Both Samurai and Cowboy mix up various cultures. They were made in the same convention and were directed by Shinichiro Watanabe. Although Cowboy is set in the future and Samurai is set in the past, both anime take a lot from other time periods.

Jabaniz says...

Both Cowboy Bebop and Champloo have intense action, light comedy, and are set to to an edgy soundtrack. Each series is based around a group of companions traveling together, with each companion having their own ordeal to complete.

styln says...

Both Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo have some similarities. Both have an episodic feel, yet devote some episodes to developing the main characters and having them confront their pasts. Also, both are very stylish in their own way, with music being the major contributor to the style. Now while the two series differ in the specific music - one is more jazz-like and the other is more hip-hop centered - if you enjoyed one series you should check out the other.

Iahel says...

The same director is enough to put these series together, because Watanabe's way to create is somehow the same with Miyazaki, who share many ideas in his works. The crew contingent is almost the same, a woman and two men (with some exceptions). The story contingent is also almost the same, one episode - one story, with a great story line which has resolution in the end. You'll find moments to laugh yourself to death and to burst into tears. Besides all the above listed you'll enjoy an awesome work with music in these series. It isn't just a background for the main performance, but a very integral part of the creation.

foooo says...

Both series involve folks involved in unlikely partnerships and operating outside social norms (renegade/cowboy types). They have a similar art style and pacing, high quality production, and cover a single major plot arc.

colettelabete says...

In terms of style, story, setting, even music, by no means are these two shows alike. While CB is a meditation on the past, time and death, filled with smoke and sax tunes, SC is a story focused on life and the power to move on, spiced up with hip-hop and break-dance moves. Yet, the lead characters in both series share the tendency towards bending the rules, together with a rebelious idealism, being heroic at times yet maintaing their human quality, and thus making the two shows very much alike at their core.

risuta says...

Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo do not only share the same director, but also have many other simillarities. Having watched Samurai Champloo before C.B. i realized it was a unique anime, all about style. Not only as for the music, but also the characters and its sense of humour.After wacthing C.B. it seems to me that Samurai Champloo was its evolution! Of course no one, in my opinion, could say that they are really like, as they are too unique to compare, but I am sure one would enjoy both !

LordOfKaos says...

Both series are very episodic in nature and tend to have a mix of both serious and comic episodes. The main focus of both series is the random little side adventures that occur as the main story unfolds in the background. They also both have a high emphasis on musical backing albeit a widely different stye of music in both series.

Both series have a similar feel to them with the main differences mainly being their backdrop.

Stellar says...

Cowboy Bebop & Samurai Champloo shares similar settings, even though one is about samurai and the other about sci fi. The main characters (a group of friends) are travelling around (by foot or by spaceship), always poor and hungry, and are very likable. Also, a lot of effort has been put into the music to make sure it sets the mood just right, and it does (jazz in cowboy and hiphop in samurai). Both shows are directed by Shinichirō Watanabe.

foureyedalice says...

Awesome fight scenes meet addictive stories and quirky characters in these action-packed series. Samurai Champloo and Cowboy bebop follow unlikely (and highly entertaining) companions with mysterious pasts sharing their travels as they own up to their histories and learn about each other with lots of fun misadventures on the side.

SpeedyTurtle says...

For the English dub a lot of the same voices appear. It also has the same feel as Cowboy Bebop except with a Hip Hop influence instead of a jazz influence.

JAhU says...

Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo have a very similar construction, that is, while they seem episodic, they actually have a deeper story going on. Then we have similar characters, most notably, Mugen not only looks like Spike, but has a similar personality. Did I mentioned that the same people did those two shows? Well, there are more similarities, but if you seen one of those shows, then you know what to expect (though the story does differ). So, if you liked one, you'll definitely going to love the other.

BloodAlchemist says...

Both of these shows center themselves upon the style rather than the story. They each use different musical genres to add to each episode, throwing in the perfect mood's and overtones. If you enjoyed one of these, its almost a given you would like the other.

Merryberry says...

Animes where the adventure and journey take presidence over a long storyline often produce some outstanding animes. Certainly both Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop managed to pull this off with spectacular results. You don't have to worry about getting confused with a heavy laidened story, but instead can sit back and watch the characters as they endure their endless task of getting enough food to survive. It is a definate that if you enjoyed one you'll like the other despite their completely different settings.

Both series also exhibit an interesting range of characters and music to accompany the series. Well worth watching both.

malamalpa says...

Samurai Champloo had a very unique way of using music to accentuate the anime. Cowboy Bebop does the same just replacing Hip Hop and feudal Japan with Jazz and a futuristic world.

Warlucith says...

Mugen and Spike Spiegal both have similar nonchalant, badass attitudes and personalities. Both anime have fight scenes where the music/rhythm plays a big roll. They also have similar story structure, as there's a new adventure every episode or two.

QuenOScots says...

Both of these shows have the same "feel" to them even though they have completely different characters, genre, and storylines. If you loved one, you should love the other and will end up buying both ;- )

hatepod says...

Both of these series are based on journey stories. During their journeys, chacters exposes themselves to the audience. With each new destination (or adventure), audience learns about their feelings and histories as well as the development on their social relationships. Therefore, the basic theme for both series is quiet similar (and, at least for me, magnificient).

FreeWithinMe says...

Both are writen and directed by the ingenious Shinichiro Watanabe. Both have no "wasted" episodes - all have some value, whether it is character or story development. Both have great animation. The only complaint your average fan has is in regards to the hip-hop music in Samurai Champloo, other than that (which if you like hip-hop is actually a good thing:P) they're both great animes :)

arcanaemia says...

Both series have a similar feel with a wandering ensemble cast.  Spike and Mugen remind me of one another, although they are definately not the same character re-written. The plotlines are strong and engaging, though Samurai Champloo feels darker and more brooding than Cowboy Bebop, in my opinion.  They both have great character development as well; the viewer learns quite a bit about the entire casts through each series, and the characters are not flat in the least.  Finally, for those interested, they are both directed by Shinichirō Watanabe.

melisa541 says...

Amazing animes with a very similar musical style, animation and incredible history. A mix betwen the old, the new.

dhiaku says...

Style and music is similar. There is a similar set of characters. The episodes have a  closed story most of the time. Most actors are adults.

EdtheRadical says...

The defining element of both shows is great character development. Both series also have great music and individual episodes well crafted. The fight scenes are made beautifully. In Cowboy Bebop the episodes sometimes may seem a bit disjoint. However, Bebop has better music and more interesting characters.

Itsathief says...

Both Bebop and Champloo have incredible animation, loveable characters and a soundtrack that not only accompanies the mood of the series but would also please fans of their respective genres. If you loved either one of them you'll love the other one!

klmnumbers says...

Echoing what has been said, there is a distinct similarity between Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop. Both are a rag tag group on a slightly indistinct path. The way the story is told gives you hints of the ultimate goal (finaling confronting someone who has wronged you.. sorta).

Both series have this gentle overall plot filled in with amazingly styled episodic jaunts throughout. Both are beautifully animated, and both even have reoccuring themes (water as a fighting style, anyone?)

All in all, they are both fabulous pieces of work I'd recommend to most anyone.

azanimefan says...

Both anime are very similar in presentation and style.  Both are heavily stylized with contemporary "self aware" humor, and a colorful cast.  Both are episodic.  Both have a great combination of Action, Drama and comedy.  And both are fantastic watches.

AirCommodore says...

Samurai Champloo and Cowboy Bebop are about a group of tough guys with mysteeeerious pasts doing various odd jobs because they're broke. Each has a strong soundtrack, and the same style of comedy mixed with more serious moments.

bearlounger says...

Both series have episodic stories with highly stylistic animation with a bit of a juxtaposed soundtrack. Samurai Champloo is a bit more focused on Japanese culture and despite its intentional anachronisms has an overarching atmosphere of samurai Japan. Cowboy Bebop is more futuristic

    If you like action paired with cool music (in this case, swordfights and hip hop) definitely check out Cowboy Bebop (space bounty hunting and jazz) - or vice versa.

oinopion says...

Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo share not only creator, but also fascinating story-lines and very deep and coplex characters. Both target more mature audience. Last but not least, both are submersed into our rich culture: curious watche can spot references and allusions in every piece.

apfmh says...

Same director for these two animes. Both use music really well in both fight and calmer scenes. Both build very likeable characters who are fun to watch develop and have a quirky sense of humour! They are short series but this is in their favour - many animes lose their fun if they drag on too long! The storyline is Samurai Champloo is a little weaker than that of Cowboy Bebop, but the character development makes up for this!

Ittarius says...

They both have a very similar feel. Some of the characters are very alike. For instance, if you liked Spike/Mugen, then you'd probably like the other.

ermin says...

They are both similarly alike. Music plays a big part in both shows and it is done beautifully, and will set the mood even if you're not a fan of the music. Both shows have a similar theme "another day, another dollar" where both are always struggling to make money just so they could get eat. Plus, the animation for both shows are top-notch!

Megaton says...

It is very evident that Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo were created by the same person.  They're both comprised of a series of standalone episodes with a larger plot always looming overhead.  The stories are played out by a mixed bag of interesting protagonists, stylish action, intense drama, great humor, and a winning soundtrack.  While the formula may be the same, the characters, setting, and style are very different.  Cowboy Bebop is bounty hunters and jazz, while Samurai Champloo is samurais and hip hop.  Both work very, very well together.

KoolKool says...

Slick, stylish characters. Episodic plot lines. Cool soundtracks. The same amazing director (Shinichirou Watanabe).

Fans of one series should love the other too. This is an obvious recommendation.

InVisiGoth says...

Both of these anime have unique soundtracks that fit very well with the series, which makes them all the more enjoyable. Even though they are set in drastically different time periods, the atmosphere of these shows are quite similar and have a good dose of humour to counteract the seriousness of some of the story lines.

BlunterLotus says...

its just common sense, anything but lame at first but before long the story creeps up and gets a real serious tone to it while achieveing the most stylistic cool vibe that makes it compelling within 5 episodes you begin to really care for the characters. 10/10 personally never heard of anyone not liking either one of these classics kinda wish i did so i could knock the shit out of em. ENJOY!

UncannyDoom says...

Each of them comes from the same director, and are about blending several styles to create a truly unique anime. Spike and Mugen are also cut from the same cloth of ultimate kind of anime badass. The structure of both Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo also follow the same build of having a main plot but building up characters and telling lots of stories through stand alone episodes outside of it.

animeditation says...

it has the same kind of vibe around the story plus the freaking dope action scenes that are constantly trown in your face! if you watched samurai champloo for the action you'l like cowboy bebop for shure!

BigCman says...

Both are by the same director.  Both have similar main characters.  Both have the same feel about them.  Both are masterpieces in my eyes.

CluelessGamer says...

Cowboy bebop is older by ABOUT a decade, so the animation for Samurai Champloo  will be an upgrade. However both animes have some of the best voice acting in anime. If you're a fan of Steve Blum, the voice of Spike and Mugen you'll love it. All characters are well developed, these animes have their own style, and probably the best anime soundtracks you'll come across. I'dsay they both have a far more English style than anime is known to have.

LoveMeMember says...

Ah I just finished watching Cowboy Bebop so I'm still kind of reeling from the emotions. But here's my two-cents on this:

Both stories are emotionally charged. At the end, you feel like 'Ah! Man, don't stop there!' and at the same time, 'That was good. It was a beautiful ending.'

Both groups face the same dynamics. Cowboy has an additional animal+child dynamic going on, while Samurai only has the two guys and girl. 

The biggest difference between the two would be that Cowboy is in the future, with mecha stuff, and space ships and galaxy travel and yada yada.. while Samurai is in the past with swords and kimonos and yada yada. 

Lemme warn you, if you're watched Cowboy because of the mecha, then don't watch Samurai. You'll end up hating me. There's ABSOLUTELY NOTHING MECHA in Samurai. Oh, but if you watched Samurai for the sword-fighting, you do get to see a little sword-fighting action in Cowboy. Remember: LITTLE. Not more than a couple minutes in a couple episodes. Meh.

But if you're watching for the feels, then this is the best option after Cowboy. Or vice-versa. 

Stepas27 says...

its almost the same style anime. Diferenses: music, time, fights. but other stuff is cool in both anime ;)

Rfsancho says...

These two shows share pretty much only two main similarities. The physics aspect of their movements, how it's very slick and lazy looking, and the very episodic yet plot driven presentation.

The casts are very likable with great personalities, and the shows stay pretty smooth in quality of the story per episode.

Definitely check the other.

Rohjake says...

The general feeling in both of these is very much alike. Both also have similar kind of focus on the characters and music. One could say that Samurai Champloo is the spiritual successor to Cowboy Bebop. If either left you craving for more, the other one is really worth checking out.

mrcanadianaviator says...

Both shows have awesome story lines with very emotional and well done endings. They have awesome character deveopment aswell as awesome fighting scenes

Malintha says...

They both follow the same style of small stories contributing little to the main plot with an epic conclusion, and also music plays a major role in both series. With characters who's pasts are hidden for most of the series and a fragile alliance between them, I'd say only the setting is different from each other.Check them both out. 

Swerto says...

Made by the same people. Both have great voice acting, music, and themes. Both are episodic with a light overarching story that isn't as important as each episode's individual story. Both have strong characters. 

miko says...

in a way I can see the connection here, from two opposite sides of the worlds, one space and the other feudal Japan, there's a great similar interest between the characters and trying to solve the mysteries.

hamletsmage says...

Both of these animes have stoic warriors that suddenly have a comedic relief thrown into their midst. There's plenty of wandering, rumbling stomachs, and fight scenes. Also, both have themese that seperate them from the average j-pop. 

DeltaWillow says...

At the start of both these anime, you have no clue about the charicter's past or personal intentions. But as time progresses, with sometimes clever flash backs, you get to know the charicters. Both these anime have the same sort of dramatic shots/technques. Also the same story stucture. Only thing that is diffrent are the charicters, the story and time/location.

MachineManJapan says...

Similar animation styles. Mostly male leads with wiley female counterpart. Amazing music (although different genres, rap vs jazz) Not all episodes advance the plot, but even the "filler" episodes are worth watching

sunnysuraj says...

They're made by the same people somewhere, although I forget exactly what part. But they have the same art style. I'd say Samurai Champloo is a little more comical and they stuff a bit of anachronism in there, but they're pretty similar in a lot of other ways. If I had to say which was better, I'd say Cowboy Bebop though.

dragonballk says...

Both series tell a story about a group of misfits who find eachother and don't like each other much, but go on an adventure together, struggling financially, confronting demons from their past, and eventually parting ways.

subparalien says...

Both embody the same type of feeling and animation style. A kind of mildly existential, fight it out, we're all on different journey's going the same way for a while.

zmconsciencia says...

Two legendary anime written by Shinichiro Watanabe, would recommend to anyone regardless of what they have watched, I guess some things that I like about both of these anime without spoiling anything is the fact that both anime have incredibly well written stories and amazing characters that you start to really care about without knowing too much about them, you'll also learn real things about life while watching both of these.

Enjoy! 

PapizOffz says...

Fits both ways. Very similar plots, vibe and characters. They seem to be opposite, and create opposite stories, but it makes sense. Vibe is lovely.

Eugeniero says...

                                                                                                                              

moonstruckhistoria says...

Yes, they were both directed by Watanabe but there's a lot more to it than that. They're almost the same anime different formats. If you like Spike, you're going to like Mugen. If you like Edward or Faye, there's a good chance you'll like Fuu. Finally, if you like Jet, you're probably going to like Jin. And vice versa for all these characters as well. They're also both stories about wanderers doing silly little tasks throughout the episodes. They are super similar but unique in their own ways

UrBoiRAD says...

Both have amazing soundtracks, action scenes, and great characters. The animaion in both are very impressive considering teh times they were made.

TheGreatMoof says...

These are two of the most stylish, musically-hip action anime of all time. I've never met a person who loved one and didn't love the other as much or even more.

OkamiHime95 says...

While they obviously have different plots and timelines (Cowboy Bebop being futuristic, and Samurai Champloo being set in Feudal Japan), they're both made by the same people, and have great music.

Ariadna says...

Both series are based on samurai stuff. Same fighting style, almost the same atmosphere, and both create the same feeling after watching the episodes. If you liked one, you'd surely like the other.

Uriel says...

Both series have samurai as protagonists; both Afro and Mugen have attitude and exceptional fighting skills. Afro Samurai is very condensed, and although it's only 5 episodes long and focuses on fights it combines a story about destiny, choices and friendship. On the contrary Samurai Champloo is slower paced and focuses more on character development and story, less so on fights.

nekocam says...

Both Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo feature a juxtaposed score, combining hip-hop with feudal Japanese life. The general theme of one's past guiding one's future also features prominently in both. Also, the eclectic action and editing during the fighting scenes give similar exciting feelings during viewing them.

BrandonHeat says...

If you love the "dude on a journey who messes up dudes along the way with a sword" thing then you will love both Samurai Champloo and Afro Samurai. Both also have a cool hip hop theme to them.

tasanime says...

It's not just the animation styles that are crazy, confusing and full of beat in these series! Both are a vibrant mix of crazy talking chracters, funky hip-hop beats, colourful character designs/settings and unique fighting styles.

freakzilla says...

Other than the obvious samurai connection, Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo also have music as a major similarity. Both use a hip hop style to add extra atmosphere to the fights.

styln says...

The style and atmosphere of Champloo and Afro are very similar. They feel alike and have a nice blend of hip-hop and samurai action that leads to a unique experience.

Tronos says...

You, most probably, are looking for a not-so-deep, martial arts/battle-related and well-animated series.

Both Afro Samurai and Champloo are about rogue samurai warriors and the way they overcome any appearing problem, always with a based-on-the-tip-of-their-sword attitude.

takuhii says...

Both very similar Anime in terms of plot, ways enemies are dispensed of, and the alternative take on the period of history the shows are conducted in. Both very enjoyable!!

CuddlyMcTickles says...

This isn't a recommendation based soley on the fact that both shows have Samurai in the title. The animation style in both of these shows varies from norm of mainstream anime. And they both have a modern "hip-hop" feel that helps add to the unique experience of watching it.

The fight sequences are stylish and entertaining. The characters are well developed and you won't forget about them the minute you start watching a new anime. In my opinion of you watch one, you might as well do yourself a favor and watch the other.

LordOfKaos says...

A very tentative recommendation here. Both series have a somewhat similar backdrop and both contain some very cool samurai action with a similar style of fast paced action and swordplay. Theres also a hip-hop element behind both series.

There are big differences though. The main one being is that Afro is a bit of a mindless action brawl that tries to be deep(and fails) where as the emphasis in Champloo is on the varied and random little adventures that occur along the journey that is the main story.

crzymn246 says...

I must compare Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo in that they are both very hip-hop influenced, with cool characters. Both are very action-packed, and Samuel L Jackson voicing in Afro Samurai has to be the most bad-ass thing ever. You can't get more GAR than that.

Either way, both are very interesting spins on the Japanese samurai styles, though both add their unique spin on it. I recommend both, especially if you like a bit of "funk" in your anime line-up.

arahal88 says...

If you enjoyed Samurai Champloo at all you will most definitely enjoy Afro Samurai, no matter how short it is. Both shows display top notch animation, especially during fight sequences, which were some of the most fluid and intense I've yet seen. Not only does the animation cease to amaze, but the main characters in each have deep back stories that leave you wanting to know more about them. Each show also has a perfect mix of action, comedy, lust, and adventure, with just the right amount of each so as not to detract from the main point of the series. Also, the undertones of hip-hop and rhythm really give both shows a sense of style and flare. If you liked Samurai Champloo, or any Samurai anime at all, I highly recommend Afro Samurai to you.

3rdiEyeiVis says...

Both series not only have beautifully choreographed fight scenes, but they also share mild hip-hop themes. Afro and Mugen are similar not only in the style of sword they use, but also in that they seem to only be in their situation for themselves.

keridas says...

Well, first of all both are about samurai, that's a given. But more than that, both are similar in animation, sound. Eerily parallel to one another, the main difference would be the seriousness of Afro and the laid back atmosphere of Champloo. If you loved the amalgamation of old samurai tradition with modern culture, these two are a match.

ShiWeiLi says...

What an easy recommendation to make.  Do you like Hip Hop?  Do you like samurai?  Do you like the fusion of the two in a creative way?  Well then, Samurai Champloo and Afro Samurai are right up your ally.  Both very ambitious, both don't dissapoint, worth the watch.  The sense of style in the animation itself really shines through on both series.  On a related tangent, Sukiyaki Western Django by Takashi Miike is another fantastic fusion twist on the samurai flick, but it's live action so it's not covered in this database.  Look it up!

MonkeyZerg says...

Liked the quirky combo of aspects of Black American culture and samurai settings? Want more? Both Samurai Champloo and Afro Samurai feature this combo, so if you've liked one, be sure to check out the other!

Both of these shows feature excellent swordplay, animation, music, and characters. And while Samurai Champloo is the lighter of the two, Afro Samurai has Samuel L Jackson as one angry bad-ass!

TheOperator says...

Excelent fight scences, off beat comedy, and a hip hop undertone. If you like one you will definalty like the other. The usual samurai with a past on a journey to find a destiny that will require constant fighting.

DeathCrunch says...

Skilled samurai leads who's fighting style oozes flashy and cool all over the walls.

Set to rhythmic hip-hop and makes the most of it to giving the fights a definite flow.

Hiryukun says...

If you liked the combination of Hip-Hop and samurai styles in one of the series, you'll definitely enjoy the other.

KoolKool says...

Both shows have the interesting juxtaposition of hip-hop music and samurai culture. There is also some great action and truly excellent animation in these shows.

However I must add that Samurai Champloo is a far better show in terms of the characters and overall entertainment though, and is enjoyable from start to finish. One of my favourites.

MugenKatana says...

Both animes have nice samurai sword action scenes. Champloo is as funny as afro is serious, both highly recommended.

Proxy11 says...

Both are out of the norm for Samurai anime, Afro even more so, but the fights are intense and a visual eye candy. The plot for each is fairly water thin. But they don't try to be anything else but a feast for the eye's.

Sidonia says...

Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo mix Feudal Japan with elements of the American hip-hop culture.

Additionally both are stories about revege.

aniexile says...

Both animes are based on samurai traveling, and fighting, looking for someone. Both are very bloody and heavily influenced by hiphop.

corkboard says...

The styles in each are uncannily similar, with the anachronistic samurai on a quest.  Samurai Champloo is funnier, Afro Samurai more graphic.  Both will definitely appeal to the same audience.

triplestrike says...

Both Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo dabble in comedy but place most of their chips into combat. Both look great and for the most part are excellent for introducing new people into anime. Although they do have some huge differences they are both great!

Theta says...

Nothing really duplicate Samurai Champloos blend of samurai and hip-hop.  Afro Samurai comes close.

RedAce1122 says...

If you liked Afro Samurai or Samurai Champloo, you'd like the other because they both involve themes of hip hop and samurai traveling around to complete their mission.

anto13 says...

 The main plot is not really similar,but both sereis are reminding on each other,the sword fights, the hip hop music background....except Afro Samurai has fantasy and Sci-Fi elements and is much better.

Thrawn says...

Hip-hop, samurai, what's there not to love about those, put together no less? Both use that kickass concept with a stylish hip-hop soundtrack and plenty of awesome samurai action to keep things poppin' fresh on the down low.

AndreaJoynt says...

They are both about samurais, they both occur in feudal Japan, but what really brings these animes together is the use of hip hop music and culture. The juxtaposition between ancient Japan and  a modern style of music creates a very distinct style that both Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo share. It's super cool.

The main difference is the tone. Afro is a lot more serious and gory while Champloo has a lot of comedic moments. It also focuses more strongly on relationships, while Afro focuses on revenge. However, they share enough in common that if you like one, you will probably like the other.

Brino says...

Afro Samurai and Samurai Champloo are both based around hard-boiled and serene characters that overpower almost every enemy without a lot of struggle.

In fact, Jin and the Afro Samurai have a lot in common and the Sidekick of Afro and Mugen deliver a lot of over-the-top moments and refreshing crazyness to the mostly calm protagonists and the gloom settings.

Afro Samurai offers a more straight storyline and a perhaps little more intelligent background, but Samurai Champloo is a lot more playful when it comes to style and character-design and is more dramatic in it's ending scenes.

Both series have a very unique kind of ost that mixes up various elements of rap, grunge, electric and traditional asian styles.

KarmaKhameleon says...

both anime depict a ssmurai's journey through Fuedel Japan. Although set in Fuedel Japan, both have a modern urban flare and a great hip hop soundtrack.

prozzaks says...

If you like katana fights, "the way of the samurai" and that you enjoyed Samurai Champloo, you might also appreciate Kebshin. Both series take place in Japanese history, however, Samurai Champloo make a point of distorting history in the favor of humor that Kenshin so direly lacks. As in Samurai Champloo, there are meny episode that are strictly filler and do not contribute anything to the story. However, once again, Samurai Champloo gives you laughts when Kenshin might make you want to do something else. In the end, I would recommend Kenshin to the people that really like sword fights and never ending combat scenes in the setting of Edo and Meji period.

aboumonkey says...

These two anime feature samurai - to be more specific, wandering ronin. Both are also set in feudal Japan, and they both combine comedy and slapstick humor with swordfighting and some serious issues .

freakzilla says...

If you liked the sword fighting in either Kenshin or Champloo then you'll like the other. They are done in the same style, and both anime add some nice music to the fights which draw you in even more. Champloo is more about the characters than about a story, but Kenshin also has some nice character development, using flashbacks at the right moments.

MeloColi says...

Samurai Champloo and Kenshin are both about samurai and swordfights. They both have a bit of drama and are emotional at times, yet are also comedic. The only difference is that SC is a bit more dark and emotional, while Kenshin has more comedy.

Cordam says...

Though Samurai Champloo is "cooler" and a bit more relaxed in the style, both of these anime draw parallels and are quite similar in certain aspects.

Main similarity: they both kick ass!

Deadlystrike6 says...

Both Champloo and Kenshin are set in traditional historical settings and feature a skilled protagonist facing corruption, personal crises, and must overcome many combat-related roadblocks in order to achieve success. Champloo has a slightly modern feel to it, while Kenshin is swamped with nostalgic scenery. Neither series is bloated with fillers, if any, and provides excellent fare for viewers seeking amazing fight sequences in serious anime.

Ddbill says...

These both show beauty, grace and brute force all in one. With the compelling plots of each, your brought through a nice story line wit grand depictions of swordsmanship in their many forms. If you like one, you'll definantly like the other.

tasanime says...

There are many similarities one can draw from these two series par the obvious samurai/action theme. Although most characters in each are sword wielding men, the way in which they fight is highly unique, styles intertwined with another fighting technique. Both provide depth to the central characters though the use of a female medium and the ties/bonds that are developed over time as well as the unwitting desire to protect others - for self gain or otherwise. If it was indeed these aspects of the series which you enjoyed, than I recommend you seek this in the other.

ConnorD says...

If you liked Samurai Chalmpoo or Rurouni Kenshin then i think you will like the other. both ahve really good action/fighting scenes and both have masters of the sword. if you liked on then give the other a try

QuenOScots says...

If watching sword battles admist interesting characters and a touch of humor is what you desire, you should watch this series. Both Rurouni Kenshin and Samurai Champloo really appealed to my husband who loves stories about samurai and their adventures. In fact these are the only two anime shows to date that he wants to purchase and I am not going to complain ;-)

Ryokashi says...

Samurai Champloo has an emphasis on combat, the two main characters being masters of their own unique styles of fighting. Both of them have mysterious origins, and sides to them that often end up hurting them in the long-run. This is similar to Kyoshiro, who transforms into his alter-ego, Kyo, a killer who was said to have killed 1000 men in a single battle.

chamomille says...

It's obvious that both series are enjoyable especially for samurai lovers. But that's not the only similar point. Both series are very funny and can also provide you a little info about japanese history. Both main female characters Fuu (from S.Ch.) and Kaoru (from R.K.) are strong, open and brave ladies. The main male characters are very skilled in martial arts and they are almost invincible. They just have different view on human life. While Kenshin tries to avoid killing (after all, RK takes place in peaceful Meiji era), Mugen and Jin from S.Ch. don't hesitate to kill someone even if it's not necessary^^..I'm sure that if you liked one, you'd like the other.

LxTrix says...

These guys know how to use swords. These guys know how to fight. They all have someone to protect. They live in the name of the Samurai.

noone says...

Jin, Mugen and Fuu have nothing in common, except for a destination - the location of a mysterious "sunflower" samurai.

In fact, not only do they not fit each other's company, they usually end up arguing and ready to do blodshed. But as they travel through Japan looking for the man Fuu's remembering vaguely, they find things to tie them and slowly start working together. Which doesn't mean they get too friendly. The three of them are cynical people after all.

One of the best anime I've seen recently, and the music, art and story are great!

JinX08 says...

When you were hooked on Samurai Champloo you will just love Blade of the Stranger. Both titles have some incredible sword action. Another thing they have in common is the slowly built relationships between strangers. Everyone in both titles have their on goals but what unites them is the path they take. On this path they fight togehter and strengthen their bondes until the end.

JAhU says...

If you like samurai shows with lots of top quality action scenes, then Samurai Champloo and Stranger are anime for you. Additionaly,both feature a character seeking strong opponents and it makes those two anime them feel alike.

Menchi says...

Samurai Champloo and Stranger (aka Sword of the Stranger) share similair major themes. Both titles depict the way of the samurai, and travelling is a key element in the plot of these anime. Friendships are made, as well as hardships are encountered and usually defeated. Samurai Champloo might be a little more laid-back series, but for fans of swordfight these two are both worth checking out.

AirCommodore says...

Brought together by chance, the characters in Samurai Champloo and Sword of the Stranger embark on a difficult and action-packed journey despite their differences. Both feature some pretty swanky fight scenes and endearing characters.

Proxy11 says...

Although Samurai Champloo is much lighter in tone and has a water thin plot, the two have amazing battle sequences with real time backgrounds. Stranger is a must see for anyone who is a fan of samurai action with a classic tale, Champloo will give you a fun ride with plenty of shounen eye candy.

Virdelet says...

Same fast fighting and character introduction. Samura Champloo is funny and fit for 16+ watchers, while Sword of the Stranger is family friendly (Its gorey, but I am talking about the story)

miko says...

dealing with the sword, but both are on a mission in order to find something and somewhere they belong.

hamletsmage says...

Samurai for hire, samurai for hire, right here. Can be paid in food! So, you're an especially difficult customer that needs a little armed protection getting from point A to B? But you're a little strapped for cash? No problem! These wandering samurai will epically fight for you for the virtually nothing. And you can watch as they beat the crap out of everyone in a beautful fashion. Comedy, action, foreigners? These two anime have it all! 

Rascal says...

Samurai Champloo and Sword of the Stranger are both feudal-japan set and feature traveling swordsmen in well-animated battles, and are similar in style and tone overall.

PapizOffz says...

If you like sword fights, those two are best for you. Well, Samurai Champloo has much more abundant plot, characters, and vibe, so i reccomend it first. But to see just cool sword fights its ok to watch Sword of the Strander as well. I like that there is a hole in its plot, and we can add something by ourselves.

Nocturnalgloria says...

Katanagatari and Samurai Champloo have a distinctive mixture of historical anime and a vibe of eccentric pop culture. Deliberate anachronisms, sleek action sequences with plenty of sword wielding and an ongoing travel, all ties up these two anime. In visual terms these two anime are very refreshing albeit in different ways, Katanagatari's very simplified style does not even look like anime and Samurai Champloo oozes sophistication in every frame. 

unitzero says...

Both of these series take place in an alternate feudal Japanese setting and utilize a mixture of traditional music with modern hip hop style sounds as BGM. Each story is told over the course of a journey and features main characters who travel across Japan. This means that with each episode you get a different setting and some different minor character interactions. Both anime feature swordplay action as well as a bit of mystery and hidden agendas which are slowly pealed back as the narrative progresses.

VivisQueen says...

Say you're into chanbara cliches. Say you want to see highly skilled martial artists slice'n'dice the bajeesus out of each other. But say you also want this to come with a high dose of humour and poignantly realised characters you can deeply care about. This is why you liked Samurai Champloo or Katanagatari, and that is why you should watch the other next.

kingloser says...

Feudal Japan with a twist, powerful characters being led on a journey without being told the full details. The similarities between the two series are great, but not to the point that it would diminish enjoyment of either series. If you enjoyed one, you will certainly enjoy the other.

norco says...

Fighting with style. That's the best way I can use to describe these two shows. Katanagari has much more dialogue and Samurai Champloo has more intricate fight scenes, but they both have a unique kind of polish that makes them entertaining. The setting, art, and characters give these a similar feeling. If you like one then definitely give the other a try.

sysmibmip says...

Both anime boast some eye-catching action, with top-notch soundtracks to top it off. They both involve an adventure of Edo Japan dotted with exciting anachronisms.

Theta says...

These are two top rated entries in the samurai genre.  Interesting and vibrant animation showcase original plots that are packed with action. 

Doomoo says...

While I enjoyed Katanagatari more than Samurai Champloo they are both similar in their themes. They do however differ a large amount in the overall execution and animation style. But if you enjoyed either of these for their general genre and themes then you will likely enjoy the other.

Jax33 says...

If you loved Samurai Champloo's original take on the samurai genre you'll also enjoy Samurai 7. While it doesn't quite have the same humour or reach the same heights in terms of quality Samurai 7 is still worth checking out if you have become bored of cliche samurai anime.

tasanime says...

Both host a variety of friends and foes, set in historical periods in which Samurais are no longer needed but a Samurai is always a Samurai, who unwittingly will want to protect those at the mercy of poor government policies. Apart from the mass of great sword fights similarities can be found in added humour and a strong desire to be fed!

RedCrossRobbery says...

Both Samurai 7 and Samurai Champloo have a peculiar anti-government of the time feeling. Both have a strange distant feudal leadership that leaves samurai feeling alienated.

HarioSagara says...

Badass swordfights, interesting characters and funny situations abound in these excellent samurai anime. All the characters in Samurai Champloo and Samurai 7 have interesting backgrounds that have turned them into the samurai they are now. Looking for awesome fight scenes? Look no further, either of these shows deliver in the action department.

HKBattosai says...

If you like Samurai Champloo or Samurai 7 then you will probably enjoy the other. Both contain protagonists who are primarily samurai and, to a lesser degree, both take place at a historical time in which the day of the samurai is all but gone. Plus, both series contain some quality visuals with the swordfight scenes looking excellent.

akiihiko says...

They both involves a main female protagonist and samurai's like even the names are similar. I think that Samurai 7 is nearly the same as Samurai Champloo so if you want something different but same amount of action not here ; if you want practically the same thing then yeah I would recommend you watch Samurai 7

subparalien says...

Samurai. If you like samurai and older style animation these two are for you. Samurai Champloo has more light hearted moments and incorporates modern themes into the historical setting. Samurai 7 has traditional values plus mecha.

norco says...

Both Samurai Champloo and Seirei no Moribito seem to take place in the same time period. They both have fight scenes that have excellent animation. Also, much of the character development is done through similarly styled flashbacks.

SaiAkuto says...

Bothe series are about a great masters of sword which travel in order to complete a quest they have taken.They meet a lot of enemys which couses their personality to change and develope. One more similarity would be that both animes leave you with a great desire for secound seson.

poetax says...

While one story centers on two male samurai protecting a girl, and the other one female samurai protecting a boy, both are very similar. Both have original choreographed fighting sequences that never become boring. They each also deal with elements of hardened characters who grow to appreciate the company of the ones they are traveling with. If you can appreciate one, you will find good parts in the other.

Nocturnalgloria says...

Samurai Champloo and Seirei no Moribito are very unique anime that stand apart from the rest. Taking place in feudal Japan, both have to offer high production values that shine in the highly detailed landscapes and very fluid animation. The fighting scenes are pieces of careful choreography that blend with the soundtrack. While Samurai Champloo is zany and filled with pop culture references that make it deliberately anachronical, Seirei no Moribito reproduces the period rather accurately and is a sober anime about human emotions; both defy a too strict categorization in a particular genre

hamletsmage says...

Both anime are set in a distinct time period of Japan. The storylines are similar. Powerful warriors protecting someone of importance on a journey of discovery. Jin (champloo) and Balsa (Seirei) are also quite similar in personality.

KiyoneSaya says...

Both series focus on unlikely individuals brought together to go on a journey to find anwers to unaswered questions. With great fight scenes and quiet moments

subparalien says...

Fantasy swordfighting and an older style of animation. Seirei no Morbito is far more supernatural, while Samurai Champloo veers into the punk. Both are a good time.

sothis says...

While I didn't like Champloo, there's no doubt in my mind that it and Michiko to Hatchin are a great pair. Both ooze style (with music by the legendary Shinichiro Watanabe) and have quirky and upbeat stories of unlikely heroes. I strongly prefer the Studio 4C-esque animation and feel of Michiko, but fans of one would likely enjoy the other regardless.

VulturEMaN says...

These two shows have very similar plots, characters, and overall "feel". You won't regret it!

VivisQueen says...

Combining a road trip format with a cool visual style and instantly memorable characters, Samurai Champloo and Michiko to Hatchin have a lot in common. They're roughly as good as each other too. The former follows in the chanbara tradition as the name suggests while the latter tries a jazzy Latin American flavour, but generally, they're both a wild ride as the characters follow their winding destinies.

bklynbajan1989 says...

They both have a similar feel to them. Both shows also involve the search for a father that may or may not want to be in the picture.

HasseRovdjur says...

Both anime are stylish, cool, have a funky soundtrack, and are about a journey searching for a missing man. Action-packed, but not without more dramatic or low key moments, I feel that these are as similar as they can be, while still being so geographically and temporary far apart, setting-wise.

Sphuxis says...

Very stylized, dynamic and colorful animations. A feast to the senses. Plus the whole aesthetic and music. It all sets these two animes apart from the rest. Nonstop fun.

Bluebynature says...

Michiko & Hatchin has a more modern setting but still has a very similar premise to Samurai Champloo. People searching for someone who may or may not even still be alive. 

whatismyname says...

The action scenes in each of these shows are both fluid and elegant. While the weapons are different (samurai sword and guns) each tool is used with precision and some cockiness as well.

risuta says...

Although Samurai Champloo is an anime with samurai ans takes place during the Edo era while Black Lagoon is about a mercenary group and takes place in modern time Southern East Sea, both hava a lot of action and badass blood thirsty characters! The characters fight with awesome style in both anime and the animation in both is terific! So if you watched and liked one of them, and you are in the mood for an anime with lots of fighting, I suggest you watch the other one as well!

kieiPL says...

Both are great action and fun animes to watch. They have the same feel to them. The characters have both serious and careless moments and the interactions between characters are just great to watch.

I would reccomend Samurai Champloo to anyone that enjoied Black Lagoon's characters, action and presentation. and Vice Versa 

promethiumx says...

While the setting and weapons belong to different places in time. The jouney that is experiernced is very similar.

jugemxjugem says...

both animes are basically cool badass characthers doing their thing, tho Black Lagoon has much more of them.

RG says...

Since both Champloo and Ran are set in the same period (the Edo era),I wouldn't be surprised if Ran and Meow faced Jin and Mugen.That said,Champloo has little to some of the humor expected from KTR.

cococrow says...

The animation of the fighting is simlar, as is the comedy. Samurai Champloo is much, much darker however, and Carried By The Wind is much truer to the period, meaning you won't hear any hip-hop here, but still a really get show.  

Kinnara says...

Two pairs of people travel the roads, help maidens in distress and kick the bad guys’ ass. One a traditional samurai with exceptional fighting skills, the other a carefree roamer with unique style and difficult character. The only exception being, that in Champloo, the pair is male, in Kazemakase, female.

These anime are similar on very different levels. Not to mention the characters, era and story, also the animation style (especially the fights) looks alike. The soundtrack is rather good, and the episodes very loosely connected.

If you watched one and wanted more, with a minute of adapting, you can easily treat the other as a sequel.

hamletsmage says...

Set in the edo period, both animes delve into the lives of traveling samurai. In both anime, the strictly-trained samurai is accompanied by a street fighter that is more skill than technique. Both anime are fairly episodic, (KTR a little more so than Champloo). Both anime feature the odd-couple fighting bandits, saving people, and trying to find money.