Anime Like Saekano: 10 Series on Romance, Comedy, and Creative Pursuits
If you’re looking for Anime Like Saekano, you’re in the right place! Each of these anime brings together romance, humor, and a shared creative goal, offering fans a mix of complex relationships and teamwork. From art and music to unique personal projects, these series capture the essence of collaboration and ambition found in Saekano.
1. Bakuman.
In Bakuman., high school students Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi team up to create a manga. Their journey in the competitive world of publishing, alongside developing relationships, brings a unique mix of romance, drama, and creativity. Fans of Saekano will appreciate the focus on artistic ambition and teamwork.
- Release Date: October 2010
- Studio: J.C. Staff
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Shounen
- MyAnimeList Link: Bakuman.
2. Shirobako
Shirobako follows Aoi Miyamori and her friends as they pursue their dreams of working in the anime industry. The series offers a detailed look at the challenges and teamwork involved in production, appealing to fans who enjoyed the creative dynamics in Saekano.
- Release Date: October 2014
- Studio: P.A. Works
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- MyAnimeList Link: Shirobako
3. The Pet Girl of Sakurasou (Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo)
Sorata Kanda, a high school student, moves into the Sakurasou dormitory, filled with quirky residents pursuing their artistic talents. His interactions with Mashiro Shiina, a talented but socially awkward artist, lead to heartfelt moments and humor. The focus on friendship, romance, and self-discovery aligns well with Saekano.
- Release Date: October 2012
- Studio: J.C.Staff
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Slice of Life
- MyAnimeList Link: The Pet Girl of Sakurasou
4. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU (Oregairu)
Hachiman Hikigaya, a socially awkward high schooler, joins a service club where he helps classmates with their problems. His interactions with Yukino and Yui offer a mix of romance, introspection, and witty dialogue. Like Saekano, this anime combines humor with complex relationships.
- Release Date: April 2013
- Studio: Brain’s Base
- Genres: Slice of Life, Comedy, Drama, Romance, School
- MyAnimeList Link: Oregairu
5. Welcome to the N.H.K.
Tatsuhiro Satou, a reclusive young man, believes his struggles with isolation are part of a larger conspiracy. With the help of a mysterious girl, he confronts his fears and tries to break free from his self-imposed limitations. Although darker than Saekano, this anime explores personal growth and creativity.
- Release Date: July 2006
- Studio: Gonzo
- Genres: Drama, Psychological
- MyAnimeList Link: Welcome to the N.H.K.
6. Kono Oto Tomare! (Sounds of Life)
In Kono Oto Tomare!, high school students bond over their shared love for the koto, a traditional Japanese instrument. The series follows their journey to master the art while navigating their personal challenges. Like Saekano, this anime captures the beauty of collaboration and creative ambition.
- Release Date: April 2019
- Studio: Platinum Vision
- Genres: Drama, Music, Romance, School, Shounen
- MyAnimeList Link: Kono Oto Tomare!
7. Kaguya-sama: Love is War
In this romantic comedy, student council members Kaguya Shinomiya and Miyuki Shirogane engage in psychological battles to make each other confess first. With its blend of romance and humor, Kaguya-sama offers a strategic approach to relationships, much like the character dynamics in Saekano.
- Release Date: January 2019
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Genres: Comedy, Psychological, Romance, School
- MyAnimeList Link: Kaguya-sama: Love is War
8. Nodame Cantabile
Megumi Noda (Nodame), a quirky pianist, and Shinichi Chiaki, an elite musician, pursue their dreams in the classical music world. Their journey together involves personal growth, humor, and romance, making it a delightful pick for fans of Saekano’s mix of passion and relationships.
- Release Date: January 2007
- Studio: J.C.Staff
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance, Slice of Life
- MyAnimeList Link: Nodame Cantabile
9. Relife
Arata Kaizaki, a 27-year-old struggling to find purpose, is given a chance to relive high school for one year as part of an experiment. The series delves into friendship, romance, and the journey of self-discovery, making it an engaging choice for fans who enjoyed the themes of Saekano.
- Release Date: July 2016
- Studio: TMS Entertainment
- Genres: Slice of Life, Romance, School
- MyAnimeList Link: ReLIFE
10. Eromanga-sensei
Masamune Izumi, a high schooler and light novel author, discovers that his younger stepsister Sagiri is his illustrator. As they navigate the light novel industry together, humorous and romantic situations unfold. The blend of family dynamics and creative pursuits makes it a unique pick for fans of Saekano.
- Release Date: April 2017
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Ecchi
- MyAnimeList Link: Eromanga-sensei
Final Thoughts
If you enjoyed the mix of romantic comedy, creativity, and character dynamics in Saekano, these 10 anime will offer more of what you love. From artistic collaborations to personal growth, each of these series is filled with heartfelt moments and humor.
