 If you liked
3-gatsu no Lion
|
 ...then you might like
Chihayafuru
|
Both mangas give off the same heart-warming feeling when you read them.
They also have similar characters, like Arata and Rei. They both were considered a child prodigy in a japanese competitional game, in Arata's case, karuta, in Rei's case, shogi. They both become professional players at a young age. They are also marked by the loss of a close relative.
If you enjoyed Chihayafuru you will more than certainly enjoy 3 Gatsu no Lion as well.
Both series consists of a thought provoking premise with slice of life moments that connects characters' relationships together. There is also the concept of games (3-gatsu no Lion has shogi while Chihayafuru focuses on karuta). Needless to say, both series builds on the motivations of the characters. It's also noticeable that both series engages in drama that has good deal of realism. Along with a genuine feeling of comedy, I recommend both series to anyone.
Both can be classified as sports manga like Haikyuu!! or Run with the Wind, though for more unorthodox sports (karuta and shogi, respectively). There's more focus on the psyche than most other sports manga rather than just physical action, though matches are still undoubtedly high tension with high stakes. The sports are explained well so that even those completely new to the sport like I was, can understand the basics. Side characters and rivals are almost as developed and sympathetic as the mains, and while romance is a focus, it isn't the main focus.