Classroom of the Elite was born from Shogo Kinugasa’s light novel and manga. It first rocked our screens in July 2017 with Season 1, followed by Season 2 in July 2022.
The story revolves around Kiyotaka Ayanokoji. He is an unassuming protagonist who scores a ticket to a prestigious college-guaranteeing school. But he’s dropped into the class of misfits. Alongside newfound pal Horikita and his eclectic classmates, he unveils the secrets of the school’s system.
Are you on the hunt for more heart-pounding, plot-twisting anime like Classroom of the Elite? Well, look no further; we have got you covered. Our treasure trove of recommendations is right here, waiting for you to dive in. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
10. Talentless Nana (2020)
A mysterious island, home to students with otherworldly powers honed at a special school. But a secret player, the “Enemies of Humanity,” is out to wipe these powered-up peeps off the map.
Nanao Nakajima is the new kid with a mind-reading talent. But she’s not here to make friends. She’s a top-secret assassin sent by the big bad organization to eliminate the gifted bunch. The plot thickens as Nana questions her sinister orders and faces off with Kyoya Onodera.
It is a dark journey that goes deep into morality, manipulation, and trust. If Classroom of the Elite lit your fire for mind games and twisted characters, you’re going to dig Talentless Nana.
9. The Fruit of Grisaia (2014)
This series weaves magic with several genres to create a jaw-dropping story. Let us set the stage: Yuuji Kazami, our main hero, lands in the exclusive Mihama Academy with only four other students. And Yuuji’s the first guy to grace the campus.
These five are no strangers to tragedy. Each of these fabulous five has a tale to tell – a tragedy that sets them apart. Their stories are as unique as a snowflake, from heart-wrenching losses to soul-shaking moments. If you’re into the whole anime like Classroom of the Elite scene, this one’s calling your name.
8. Death Note (2007)
This show isn’t just a show; it’s a brain playground. Clever characters, edge-of-your-seat moments, and twists that’ll twist your brain. Sure, it’s got some supernatural jazz in there, but that doesn’t take away from the classic coolness.
Light and L are total rivals, absolute legends. Mind games on steroids – that’s what you get with these two. They’re like the ultimate mental sparring partners, always keeping you guessing. While Light’s got that supernatural edge, L’s just a plain old genius.
Death Note dives deeper than Classroom of the Elite. Light’s not just trying to ace school, he’s out here trying to be the world’s top hero… by offing criminals left and right. Yeah, it’s the kind of darkness that hooks you, makes you question, and keeps you up at night.
7. Hyouka (2012)
Houtarou from Hyouka – on the surface, he’s a sleep-loving slacker but a secret genius. While Kiyotaka from Classroom of the Elite might ring a bell, Houtarou is cut from the same “meh” cloth. Both master the art of blending into the background, rocking average grades on purpose.
Yet Houtarou’s deduction powers could give Sherlock a run for his money. Unlike Kiyotaka, Houtarou’s not into the whole mind-games thing. Instead, he teams up with his Classics Club pals to solve mysteries. So, if you’re all about that “Average Joe with hidden talents” vibe, this anime is for you.
6. Baka and Test – Summon the Beasts (2010)
Baka and Test is a quirky contender that could pass as Classroom of the Elite’s comical cousin. Fumizuki Academy, where they slice and dice students and funds into classes. Top-tier Class A and the underdog Class F play the ultimate school survival game. They’re not ordinary exams. It’s all about these spectral ‘Avatars.’ Knock your Avatar around, lose points, and risk demotion.
Meet Mizuki Himeji, a brainiac stuck in Class F. Joined by fellow misfits like Akihisa ‘Baka’ Yoshii. They’re taking on Class A in an epic showdown. Started as a light novel by Kenji Inoue, this series sprouted into two anime seasons and two OVAs.
5. The Irregular at Magic High School (2014)
Imagine the Classroom of the Elite, sprinkle in a dash of magic, and voila, you’ve got this gem. These two shows are like long-lost siblings. They share the same school backdrop, the whole ‘smarties in the spotlight’ deal, plus a kick-butt MC.
Japan, post-World War III, stands tall as a superpower. Enter the Shiba siblings – Tatsuya and Miyuki. They snag spots at a prestigious magic school. Miyuki’s all “elite first-class,” while Tatsuya’s chilling in “second class,” labeled as not-so-great. Here’s the Plot twist, he’s a superpower in disguise, outshining everyone in the school. This anime is a magical ride you won’t want to miss.
4. Kakegurui (2017)
Welcome to Hyakkao Private Academy, where only the cream of the crop – kids of the wealthiest elites – get a shot. Their status isn’t about top grades but rather about the stakes they put on the line in gambling. Winners rise like kings, and losers sink like debt-ridden anchors.
Along comes Yumeko Jabami, a cheerful student with a secret. Beneath that smile, she’s a gambling addict driven by her gut. Her thrill-seeking spirit stirs the pot, catching the eye of the Student Council.
If you loved how Classroom of the Elite’s characters transformed from elite to extraordinary, you’re in for a treat. Kakegurui has the same mind-bending tricks and psychological showdowns.
3. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU (2013)
This show has a different story but a sprinkle of similarities that make it onto our radar. Meet Hachiman Hikigaya, a twin to Classroom of the Elite’s Ayanokoji. Quiet as a shadow, Hachiman’s like a hawk, spotting every detail around him.
But life takes a swerve when his love interest gives him the cold shoulder. Hachiman takes a hit in the heart department and turns all antisocial, with no friends or love. Then a twist of fate lands him in the Volunteer Service Club with the prettiest gal in class, Yukino Yukinoshita. If you’re hunting for an anime like Classroom of the Elite, look no further; this is the perfect pick.
2. Assassination Classroom (2015)
A gang of misfit students is on a crazy mission to take down their new teacher, a tentacled alien with insane powers. But guess what? He’s not just a tough nut; he’s also the most epic teacher they’ve ever had.
Now, it might not be as dark as The Classroom of the Elite. But both of these anime serve up a hearty dose of psychological battles for these seemingly ‘weak’ students. Assassination Classroom is your golden ticket to an anime adventure if you’re all about that shounen psychological action.
1. Tomodachi Game (2022)
If you’re hooked on the mind-bending challenges and the genius of Ayanokoji in Classroom of the Elite, you’re in for a treat with this show. This isn’t your typical class rivalry scenario. Yuichi Katagiri, who treasures friendship like pure gold, embarks on a wild journey.
Five pals dive into the mysterious Tomodachi Game when their school trip fund vanishes into thin air. It is a friendship-testing rollercoaster that’s about to unveil some shocking truths. If you’re looking for an anime like Classroom of the Elite, Tomodachi Game is your next must-watch.
Honourable Mentions
Here are a few anime, like Classroom of the Elite, that didn’t quite snag a spot on the main list. But you can check them out nonetheless:
