If you liked
ef: A Tale of Memories.
|
...then you might like
Clannad: After Story
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Both of these shows have a similar art style, that I believe aids in the telling of the story. Although I would identify Ef as a bit more on the artsy side, both shows tell their respective stories in interesting ways that fully utilize the characters and art style. Also, the characters in both these shows are vivid, real and relatable, which just enhances the ability of these shows to pull on your heart. Also, both of these shows have a unique supernatural element that at first I thought would "cheapen" the stories, but in the end I think it added to the surreal art and plot style of the works. Though these shows have a few differences (mainly in the way Ef has that distinctive SHAFT style that I love in all their works) I enjoyed both of them very much, and I still identify these shows among my favorites.
If you liked
ef: A Tale of Memories.
|
...then you might like
White Album 2
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The way drama and romance are played out in these two shows are similar. There are even some plot similarities between a story arc in Ef and White Album 2. Other similarities between the two shows are the maturity of the relationships between the characters, and the intense feelings both shows invoke. Lastly, both shows have love triangles and show the tough decisions that have to be made in the end, and the lengths people will go to follow their heart. Often love triangles can get a little out of hand and the relationships become unrealistic (example: School Days); however, both these shows manage to have love triangles while maintaining great characters and a compelling story. In conclusion both shows will tell stories that will leave a lasting impression and I highly recommend them.
If you liked
Mushishi
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...then you might like
Hotarubi no Mori e
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The art of these two shows and the main male protagonist are similar. The beautiful landscapes of both Mushishi and Hotarubi are breathtaking and very similar. The art design for the characters is also quite similar. Not only do Ginko and Gin look alike, they also have a very similar purpose in their respective plots and act/think in similar ways. There is also a very similar kind of nostalgic tone to both shows. Additionally, both have meaning under the literal and will leave you thinking.
If you liked
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai
|
...then you might like
Phantom: Requiem for the Phantom
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Note: This is for both seasons of Higurashi Although this may not seem like the most likely paring of shows, when you boil them down they can be quite similar: The mystery (phantom to a lesser extent) as the story slowly unfolds, the layers of drama and tragedy, the drive for survival, the insanity. Both of these shows tackle similar ideas; however, they just present them in different ways. They both cover the themes of: trying to protect those you love, dealing with loss, and hatred. Most of all, they are both about obtaining freedom. On a more obvious note they are both great thrillers with a lot of mystery and murder. Both shows waist no time to grab your attention from episode one and send you on a thrill ride you will not forget.
If you liked
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai
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...then you might like
Steins;Gate
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Note: This is a recommendation for both seasons of Higurashi These two shows are similar in the sense that they are both about defying fate to reach a more perfect world. Both shows are placed in a world that have a seemingly unstoppable impending tragedy and the shows revolve around fighting what is said to be "fated." They also include some good humor and a lot of exiting mystery; you will be entertained from the first episode to the last. Both are amazing works and I would highly recommend one if you liked the other.
If you liked
Nana
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...then you might like
Byousoku 5 Centimeter
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In both Nana and 5 cm, nothing really goes as planned. They also talk a lot about desire and longing to be with someone and as much as they wish, they just can't be together. Both also talk about the pain involved with desire for another. Nana goes much more in depth in many other aspects as well such as relationship dilemmas and real life issues but that is to be expected since it is 47 episodes while 5 cm is only 3 parts. However, both will incite deep and real emotions.
If you liked
Elfen Lied
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...then you might like
Ga-Rei: Zero
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The themes of love and hate are huge in both of these shows. People battling their emotions and coming to understand each other. The idea of the power of hate vs the power of love is the core of both these shows. Both shows feel very similar and both are extremely moving. If you love action shows for more than just the violence, these shows are for you.
If you liked
Itazura na Kiss
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...then you might like
Clannad: After Story
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These shows are similar in the sense that they show the couples before and after marriage. However, Clannad After Story is on a completely different Level then Itazura na Kiss. Clannad is much more serious and deep compared Itazura na kiss. Secondly Nagisa in many ways reminds me of Kotoko. They both have a lot of tenacity and determination even in the face of almost certain failure. Although the shows aren't very similar I would still make the recommendation since they cover the after marriage side of a relationship.
If you liked
Shakugan no Shana
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...then you might like
Zero no Tsukaima
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Both of these shows are fantasy/action with plenty of drama and romance mixed in . The characters are not very similar nor are the settings. However, both worlds are very interesting and fun to learn about and both shows have a similar feeling while watching them.
If you liked
Mushishi
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...then you might like
Ookami to Koushinryou
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Although the plots are very different, both male protagonists are similar. They are similar in the way they act, travel and see the world. Additionally, they both have deeper meanings built into them, but it is much more prevalent in Mushishi. Spice and Wolf focuses on the depth of person to person interactions while Mushishi explores the interaction between humans and the world around them.