Darker than Black: Kuro no Keiyakusha

Both main characters act all innocent in public. When in private, they kill the bad people secretly and not get detected by the police. 

report Recommended by tamdvd9

DTB has the detective element to it. It's simliar to Death Note because of the "trying to outdo the police" part of the plot. The characters are wonderful, and the plot is unique. I highly reccomend this anime. 

report Recommended by peachykeen

Both are about people with supernatural killing abilities. 

report Recommended by ParaTerran

Both animes are just awesome.  In Darker Than Black, Hei and the other contractors started out as just normal people.  When the Heaven's Gate and Hell's Gate appeared they turned into contractors and got their powers which they killed people with. They lost their emotions and were unable to feel regret about what they did.  In Death Note, when Light finds the Death Note and realizes that he can use it to kill people, he does.  He doesn't feel that there is anything wrong with what he does.  Also, both animes end very sadly... 

report Recommended by hiddenmoonlight

Darker than black and Death Note have a similar appeal and share a similar atmosphere and mood, especially with the characters. They both have supernatural themes and are both mystery stories involving big companies and investigation agencies which try to investigate and outsmart each other. They are also both seinen style (more mature shows) involving darker issues and violence. 

report Recommended by crazyfoalrus

Both anime have an air of mystery, suspense, and darkness to them. Darker than Black has a more ambiguous tone with its plot and characters exposing the viewer slowly to the pieces in the puzzle.

The same can be said about Death Note however the entire puzzle is revealed to the viewer and not to all the characters. However the process of piecing together what will happen next is similar to how Darker than Black unravels.  

report Recommended by Swiftstrike

They are both kinda dark! and they have the detective aginst the main charecter! they both are kinda super natural! and they both KICK ASS!!!  

report Recommended by tashaluvzero

I guess you would say the 'feel' of this anime is so close to that of death note. although its not as brilliantly clever as death note it still has its own parallel in unique anime story telling.  

report Recommended by Holland_Novak

The mood and atmosphere---being very dark---are similar in both Death Note and Darker than Black. Death Note is just a tad darker because there is much less comic relief. Both are relatively gory shows stemming from the use of supernatural abilities. Both Light Yagami and Hei are grim male protagonists with two sides of their personalities, one of which they have to keep hidden in public: Light, with his Kira persona and his public persona, and Hei with his Black Reaper persona and his public Li Shengshun persona. Both anime also focus to some degree on the themes of right vs. wrong (Death Note, more so on this one) and good vs. evil.

Both are highly intelligent and clever, too, and definitely worth watching if you're into very dark and violent but very interesting and suspenseful anime! read more 

report Recommended by EzloSpirit

Neither of the two has humor but focuses mainly on the story line referring it to go even deep into the story to involve audience into much darker personalities and possibilities. As to when ever you watch them you have an unique feeling if i am watching them at the same time. Every new episode builds up your interest to watch it even more but never gives you the ending you expected. 

report Recommended by H-Callahan_XX

Durarara!! addpermalink

Two of the darkest, supernatural AND mystery genera that I know of. They both use a lot of dark lighting for their night scenes, and a lot of light, when it comes to the day time. 

report Recommended by Yemi_Hikari

similar calm and steady plot and feeling of mystery about them 

report Recommended by Chai_

The animation is very similar. Also the way the episodes can shift between the different characters, focusing on specific people for certain episodes. Celty also reminds me of Hei, the main character from Darker Than Black. Both not exactly human. Both seen as kinds of monsters. Both have good hearts deep down and discover this throughout the show. Both are total badasses haha. 
If you love Durarara, then you'll totally love Darker Than Black. 
They're both amazing animes ^^ 

report Recommended by tailsy20

Same type of dark space and people with special powers. It's also very exciting, with a mysterious plot and also to mention; on a screen in Durarara!! they show a picture of Darker than black Ryūsei no Gemini.  

report Recommended by aumym

Similar urban setting, lots of unique characters, great soundtracks. Darker than Black has a more focused/linear story, but does also show a fair few side stories. Durarara!! is a bunch of side stories that all somewhat relate (mostly to the setting). They've both got lots of similar moods, and go back and forth between comedy and more serious action bits. Both are good fun. 

report Recommended by Xaeveax

Both Anime's are extremely dark, both have powerful plots that are hard to recognize at first. Like "Durarara!!" "Daker than Black" has a very scattered plot at first and the later episodes tie it all together, making even things that seemed to be fillers tie directly into the plot. 

report Recommended by ziggyopolous

They both have a dark tone with the supernatural setting.  

report Recommended by DisguisedFairy

Durarara! and Darker than Black both follow several main characters but focus mainly on one male. Both contain supernatural phenomenon and people such as Dullahons and Contractors. Both of the animes mentioned also focus on gangs or organizations and include a substantial amount of violence/fighting.  

report Recommended by jewlya

Darker than Black definitely had a very similar feel to Durarara!! They both have mythical character and gang aspects to them. They were also not completely serious, with moments of lighter comedic scenes. I feel like they both used a darker tone in the artwork that was also very similar. 

report Recommended by shadowkitty123

The similarities start by comparing the setting of each anime. Darker than black revolves mainly around the contractors and their connection to the mafia, somehow I even would compare this to batman (even though I've never watched it through). In Durarara likewise there are the gangs and the struggle of each character against it.  

report Recommended by cartoonartist

Both are action themed stories with a urban setting and lots of powered characters and also nice to look at art and character designs. 

report Recommended by Disapeared_Ghost

Higashi no Eden addpermalink

Both of them have this mysterious feel around the plot and characters working behind the scenes for a larger vision.
 

report Recommended by Metictype

Similar art, both about searching and complicated feelings, a little bit tragic. 

report Recommended by Eriis

The shows have similar themes. Both have protagonists who are involved with questionable organizations and may have conflict with others who possess abilities like their own. They have a touch of sci-fi and take place mostly in urban areas. Darker than Black is more action-oriented. Both shows require the viewer to pay attention in order to keep up with the plot. 

report Recommended by Jeeves

The main guys both have special powers. Higashi no Eden reminds me of Darker than BLACK... 

report Recommended by tailsy20

Both of these take place in a strange version of Japan that's basically our own, but there's one big thing that affects the country - even the world - with the protagonists smack dab right in the middle of things. 

report Recommended by robfoster

for those people who watch dubbed anime, you will notice Takizawa and Hei are voice by the same person in the english version. Hei meets a girl name Suo and she follows hei and help him. in Higashi no eden Saki is the girl who follows Takky around. Also both shows are very realistic(as said in the Funimation Higashi no Eden staff commentary).  

report Recommended by yagamisignum

These series have some strange happenings going on with a select group of people and a rather strange controlling organization that the main character challenges.   Both series have conflict of good vs evil but also have some ambiguities to that problem and difficult choices.   The main characters in both can act in different ways than what would be expected and can act in a self sacrificing heroic way.    Both have a sci fi futuristic theme set in a not too distant future on earth.   These series both have excellent animation art wise and complicated plots that make you think and keep you wondering.   read more 

report Recommended by inzaratha

In both series, there is a sense of mystery in the void surrounding the origins of the settings as well as the characters and organizations involved.

There is supernatural events involved and the main characters gets caught up in situations that puts their lives in danger. There is also a sense of complexity regarding the nature of theses situations.

The main character is also accompanied by a female character and they share a unique relationship.  

report Recommended by Stark700

Both of these animes have main characters who are voiced by the same person in the english dub. And they both have black hair and use cell phones a lot. 

report Recommended by Spankdatmonkey

Both anime have an ''organisation'' whose member(s) are the main characters, and both anime gradually reveal their stories and the characters' backgrounds in a unique way. 

report Recommended by kelpiechan

Both are slower paced, urban-setting anime that build up to an amazing climax. Also, Takizawa from EotE and Hei's "Li" cover identity have similar characteristics and demeanor. 

report Recommended by cruxis107

Hamatora The Animation addpermalink

People with special abilities and groups performing missions. Not to mention all around action. Darker than Black is of course edgier and well, darker [no pun intended] but they have the same feel and pacing. 

report Recommended by HRinka

Read recommendations by 8 more users

Both series focus on battles in a urban scenario, involving unique humans with superpowers that are available through the fulfillment of certain conditions.  

report Recommended by BDL

My first impression was that Hamatora The Animation was going to be a traditional detective one; however, the second which people started to use their power I thought of DTB. 

report Recommended by bAround

DTB and Hamatora consists of an organization of characters with special abilities that deals with supernatural crime in their city.

The main character from both series gets involved into series of bizarre incidents that requires skill, intellect, and their power to reach solutions. There is a sense of mystery relating to both series as each case presents a different circumstance.

Both series presents action with super power themes. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Like contractors in DTB, Minimums in Hamatora have to meet certain requirements (i.e. chew gum) to use a special power. 

report Recommended by Yusa-pyan

Similarities:
+ A group of people with powers who must do something (before in Hamatora and afterwards in DTB) to use that power

Differences:
- Hamatora is flashier and more colorful, while DTB is more serious 

report Recommended by Asfaria

Characters with powers seem they need to fulfill a specific requirement to continue using their powers. Main characters are hired to solve cases. Similar fighting scenes. 

report Recommended by ImTheGuy

Hamatora is very similar in many ways to Darker than Black and very different at the same time. There have not been a lot of episodes of Hamatora but the premise is the same. People with abilities that can only be used if they meet certain requirements. So far Darker than Black takes a darker approach and is bloodier so if you are into that kind of stuff you will probably enjoy Darker than Black more so than Hamatora. 

report Recommended by Lucian1322

Both anime's use the idea of some act having to be completed to access your supernatural powers 

report Recommended by AuroraDragneel

Same sort of feel to both these anime. Certain characters have "super powers" and must complete missions provided for them. 

report Recommended by Delta-David

In both anime few people exist who have super powers.
Both need to fullfill a requirement or a contract for using it.

In each a group of those people exist who take on different tasks in exchange for money.
While Hamatora is more flashier, darker than black has more of a dark mood. 

report Recommended by TrueArcanum

Toaru Kagaku no Railgun addpermalink

Mystery/action shows about super-powered individuals. Both protagonists have electric powers. 

report Recommended by Keirik

DTB's contractors are like the Railgun's espers. Railgun seems to be a moe/girly version of DTB. The main character has the electricity power, and use it to stop the criminal activities of the other persons with special powers. Each special person has only one power. 

report Recommended by Disillusion

Lets just say that both of these shows have "electrifying" scenes that will leave you "shocked". 

report Recommended by monkzzz

While the tone of the two shows is different overall, there are quite a few similarities that  made me think of one while watching the other, including but no limited to:

-Electricity-controlling protagonists
-Adventure arcs
-information from arcs that tie into future ones
-many people with different powers

 

report Recommended by Megatriod

Many similarities. Electric powered MC. The protagonist team had four members, with one of the member act as an observer. The main story is divided by many arcs, which every arc is connected. Also have good actions. 

report Recommended by Samwanwan

If super power is a theme you're looking for, then Darker than Black and Railgun should be considered to be added on PTW for a variety of reasons. First, there is the concept of people who are able to use supernatural abilities. Among these includes a main protagonist with the ability to manipulate electricity. Then, there's the concept of them fighting crime in a city where there are other dangerous people with abilities as well. Thus, expect action and drama to ensure.

The main protagonist in both series contrasts a bit in personalities though but they do what they can to help people with their friends/comrades.  read more 

report Recommended by Stark700

Both Darker than Black and Toaru Kagaku no Railgun includes people with special abilities (supernatural powers).  Darker than Black is more serious and it explores more of the dark sides of those people with supernatural powers. 

report Recommended by Athena159

City with superpowered humans. Railgun tends to be more lighthearted but is more character focused(something that DTB somewhat lacks). 

report Recommended by Sonicshroomz

Both got similaraties about having power and solving problems. 
Toaru Kagaku no Railgun is about people having esper power while Darker than Black is about people having different kind of supernatural abilities. 

report Recommended by HeroArgonaut

Canaan addpermalink

They have a similar sort of mystery/action thing going for them, though the pacing is quicker in Canaan, and the mystery is more... well, mysterious for Darker than Black. 

report Recommended by bettynoire

Read recommendations by 8 more users

Dark organizations, with people having super human powers. 

report Recommended by yumiche

Both are about mysterious organization and people with inhuman power. They have particular "dark" atmosphere. 

report Recommended by MilkShake

Both series deal with conspiracies between world governments & the use of "super-powered" individuals, and contain high-action battles and sequences. Note, however, that Darker Than Black is episodic for the majority of the series, unlike CANAAN. 

report Recommended by PureLionHeart

There both about mysteriouse assignes who lost someone close to them and works for a secret company and at the sametime as there doing that looking for the person or persons who kill there loved one.

Both shows also follow more then one character threw the show. 

report Recommended by gizmo99

Both are excellent action shows with similar feels/atmospheres.  Shadowy behind the scenes organizations manipulating people. 

report Recommended by baltar

- OP lead protagonist. Hei is a ninja-like fighter, prefer using traps and cheats to take down enemies while Canaan's a trooper, she prefer to fighting enemies head-to-head with her guns, bazookas and grenades.
- Both protagonist want to destroy the Syndicate.
- Although Maria's and Rin's personality are contradictory, they both are [i]aho[/i] in their own way. Causing troubles to the rest of the team and the lead protagonist. 

report Recommended by Nym_

i just wanted to recommend these because i feel they are so similar but far far different. when it comes to people with unique abilities and action and blood these two are the ones for it. canaan has a bit of comedy in it and i’d say the same for dtb but overall it’s just seriousness and a lot of action. and of course with some big and sad deaths 

report Recommended by furutta

literary a spiritual successor, – with some other focus, more like a philosophical-mystical thing rather than noirish-stylish (altho it is animated and art-directed well) 

report Recommended by kebenaj

Dimension W addpermalink

The author of Dimension W was the character designer for Darker than BLACK, and this little fact seems to explain why there are so many striking similarities between the two series: DW is probably best described as the author's very own edited version of DtB.

Firstly, there is DW's dead-eyed, knife-rope badarse lead with an initially mysterious past as a soldier in a fictional war; currently finding himself working as something of a jack of all trades mercenary. Then there is the main plot involving a largely unexplained supernatural phenomenon that allows for all kinds of episodicness, such as even a ghost murder mystery story.

So far, I would describe DW as 'Brighter than BLACK' and something of a slightly inferior series to DtB that fans of it will still enjoy regardless.  read more 

report Recommended by AironicallyHuman

They both share the same author (Iwahara Yuuji) and generally gives off the similar vibes. The MCs even attack in a similar fashion of throwing knifes attached to ropes. 

report Recommended by Sigsig

The main characters in these shows are extremely similar when it comes to to their combat abilities and personalities. There is also mystery behind both main characters and worlds they live in.  

report Recommended by opasnimiki

Darker than Black is essentially the better version of Dimension W. The character designer for DTB is the writer of Dimension W, the protagonist is a taciturn bad ass who fights using knives and ropes, with a troubled past, and other similarities that would spoil the story. Seriously, just watch DTB.  

report Recommended by Gerhakiki

Both have a somewhat sci-fi setting (though DtB is more fantasy-like), and both have a main character who uses wires to fight. They're also both fairly dark and are both seinen.

Also, the character designer for DtB created the manga of Dimension W. 

report Recommended by usnb-bjuN-SU

Have a same feel and atmosphere. 

report Recommended by delloskill

more lightweight and straightforward child of a great father 

report Recommended by kebenaj

Fate/Zero addpermalink

Action shows with involving stories, dark atmospheres and very pretty, very flashy battles. 

report Recommended by Keirik

Strong main male characters in Hei and Kiritsugu, both distant but powerful. 'Contractors' in Darker Than Black are the main source of supernatural power, whereas in Fate/Zero they come from a third party 'Servants'. Both have plots you can sink your teeth into and have a very similar feel to them, though differing plot. 

report Recommended by DriveYouCrazy

Both shows set a pretty dark mood. There's death involved, which includes a decent amount of blood, which makes both of these shows pretty serious in comparison to shows that only have people getting beat up instead of actually dying. Both shows are set in the near future, where not many things have changed, but enough to where it definitely affects the plots of both shows. Both shows have a decent amount of action, and little to no comedy, but the great action and serious tone make for  a great plot. So if that's what you're into, then watch it! 

report Recommended by 6Kurozen9

Both Anime have relatively dark plots and multiple twists

Hei has a very similar personality to Fate Zero's Emiya Kiritsugu

Both are not afraid to kill off characters

Based around a supernatural phenomena:
Darker than Black- Hell's Gate
Fate Zero- Holy Grail 

report Recommended by jschultze961

People have unique abilities/magic and only a very select know about these abilities, results in a lot mutal and innocent deaths  

report Recommended by Zukumei

Both the Hei and Kiritsugu are much alike 
Both share dark atmosphere
Both animes have great batles and are very sad. Same feelings. 

report Recommended by Ultimate_Oikawa

-Common elements:

 ->Urban fantasies with a dark and mature atmosphere;
 ->The main character can be considered an anti-hero;
 ->A large cast being explored in different focus;
 ->Fights in the city involving supernatural abilities;
 ->Interesting plot-twists and flashbacks.  

report Recommended by Andrew_Prince

Speed Grapher addpermalink

Both shows contain a somewhat "dark" atmosphere with a lighter tone appearing now and then. Each has a "secret" organization that rules the city. Each also has a sort of "special power gene" that only certain humans can obtain. This gives the characters in both series new skills and abilities. With interesting plot lines, both of these will keep you glued to your chair. 

report Recommended by Xinil

In both shows, certain individuals have unique super-powers thanks to a recent phenomenon.  In Darker than Black, you have factions of these people up against one another.  In Speed Grapher, it's one man against everyone else, a more exciting setup IMO.  Also, the characters in Speed Grapher are less opaque than those in Darker than Black where the mystery usually takes precedence over the story, leaving so much unexplained that the show gets tedious. 

report Recommended by Dorothea

Similar theme, atmosphere, metaphysics governing supernatural powers, story progression and pacing. Both shows take place primarily in a "dark" city controlled by the underground where the main character fights against an omnipresent shadow-organization, filled with various goons who've derived powers based on their character flaws, in order to protect the freedom of a sheltered girl. The theme of science causing god complex is central to either story. The music used in both also strikes me as similar in style, composition and atmospheric use within the anime. 

report Recommended by bbobjs

yeah, very much alike but the Grapher is waaaaaay better in story and character developement than DTB

preffer the Grapher much more... 

report Recommended by diadora

supernatural, action - more psychology, detective and ACTION 

report Recommended by 5hockwav3

Both series have a similar feeling as they have rather dark atmospheres, characters with special powers, and a loli sidekick (who is someone that the MCs need to protect). There are some other various similarities that both series have which really make one anime feel like the other. 

report Recommended by RafaelDeJongh

Both anime contain a dark atmosphere and have a secret organization to unmask. A few people have a "strange virus" that can be activated and can give to them strange powers. Both do no have a foregone conclusion. 

report Recommended by revengerofdeath

Senkou no Night Raid addpermalink

Does one have an interest in storylines about "mutant"/ESP powers? Darker than Black and Senkou no Night Raid both happen to have this around their storylines and have dark storylines that includes the relationship between those who have the powers. The style is also rather gothic when it comes to the animation and character design, not to mention also rather detailed. 

report Recommended by Yemi_Hikari

Super-powered individuals working for agencies and doing their dirty work. DTB is set in a fictional futuristic setting with stronger elements of sci-fi, while SNNR is set in 1930's shangai with the background surrounding the story based on actual events 

report Recommended by eyerok

Both series deal in the secret world of intelligence agencies, spies, and the military. Also the main characters are a group of individuals with supernatural powers that can be used for a limited amount of time. They are both action packed. 

report Recommended by ilikewhiterice

Characters using same kind of abilities and There is a small organization making secret missions when i was watching Senkou no Night Raid , i felt like im watching a different kind of DTB :) 

report Recommended by bolaykim

Both animes has main characters with supernatural abilities who work for some secret organisation. Both had a lot of action. And, I hope, Senkou no Night Raid would have enough good drama too 

report Recommended by Nachtwandler_21

They've both got the "team of secret agents" theme in the series, along with having superpowers. They've both also got the same kind of sexy jazzy soundtracks. 

report Recommended by geno93n0

Both series involves around supernatural beings assigned on missions.

Both series has a similar feeling of action and drama as the episodes progresses. 

There are conflicts of war, politics, and espionage in both series that makes it intriguing to watch beyond just the action and fighting.  

report Recommended by Stark700

Persona: Trinity Soul addpermalink

Both are sci-fi animations with a gloomy atmosphere and people who have strange abilities. 

report Recommended by Lain--

Have a similar dark atmosphere 

report Recommended by Titan-Kikumaru

the atmosphere is somehow alike and when watching your brain can't grasp everything because it's really confusing plot... 

report Recommended by janusik5

Both are action/scifi animes that use the action-battle-superpower framework to explore the simple facets of the human psyche. Troubled male protagonists with interesting but generally non-romantic relationships, unravelling conspiracies within which they are entangled. 

Persona -trinity soul- is a tad more reflective and at a slower fluid pace, while darker than black has a wider with more unique powers. 

report Recommended by NoMercy

The premise is extremely similar as both of them deal with people with supernatural abilities that are born after a mysterious event. However, whereas Darker than Black is more seinen, Persona is much more melancholic and slowly oriented.  

report Recommended by matt-addison

Both series presents the same feeling with a dark setting and mood focusing on various characters with supernatural abilities. 

Both series has action, some comedy, drama, and a mystery atmosphere that depicts the the phenomenal setting at its finest. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Both are supernatural and mystery themed series with lots of action as well as also dark tones in them as well too. 

report Recommended by Disapeared_Ghost

Wolf's Rain addpermalink

Also made by Studio Bones. Has a similar concept of social outcasts (Contractors/Wolves) of whose existence the general public is unaware, posing as humans and trying to survive any way they can.  

report Recommended by quitearush

They are both dark anime,and in both of them,races with supernatural powers,hunted by the normal humans, are trying to find their benediction.
In Darker than Black,they are the contractors,that need to go to the Hell's gate,and in Wolf's rain,they are the wolfs,that are searching to find their own paradise.
Police is also related to both anime,as well as mystery and experiments.
It is only that Darker than black is more ''light'' mooded,it even has some comedy at times,when in Wolf's rain that doesn't exist. 

report Recommended by Lunaria

Bones made both of these animes with about the same depressing, slow-moving tone.  The major difference is that DtB is very episodic and Wolf's Rain tends to just wander all over the place.  The protagonists, Hei and Kiba, are practically the same character. 

report Recommended by owlf

Very similar styles of exposition, in that there is very little blatant expositional spouting; you have to think and pay attention to really get what's going on. Both are mostly serious shows with some humor. 

report Recommended by -7-4ucjs5-8fe

The storytelling and plot progression are very similar; However, Darker than Black is more episodic. Protagonist Hei is also much like Wolf's Rain's Kiba, in that they are more secluded and serious leaders trying to find their ways to something. Each have a supernatural aspect of themselves and are rather skilled at fighting. Both stories are more dark than happy and each involve the police and fantasy and sci-fi themes. The tone is both are kept more serious. As they are created by the same company, the art styles are comparable with similar colors and quality. While Wolf's Rain takes a more religious approach, Darker than Black is a bit more on the scientific explanation, yet both are set in an odd future of sorts. The stories may not be completely related, yet the mood of both are alike. Both include fighting and going against a strong group opponent. read more 

report Recommended by Contaminated

These are some of the best endings you will ever see in anime. 

Important questions are answered yet it remains open-ended enough to decide the happiest ending, or the saddest one. 
That's all up to you sugar plum! 

report Recommended by McKemzie

Bungou Stray Dogs addpermalink

This is simple since on the one hand there is the port mafia and on the other hand you have the mafia in darker than black led by wang shao tang. Supernatural elements are given to the contractors in darker than black as well as the actors in stray dogs. Overall personally I got the same vibe while watching these anime even though I didn't like darker than black as much as stray dogs but that doesn't change the fact that both anime are comparable.   

report Recommended by cartoonartist

Both of these series have some sort of "agency"(I don't know if the Syndicate counts), I guess you could say that goes against other agencies, or individuals
Both of these series hold lots of secrets that get revealed through out the series
Also they both feature people who have special abilities
This is all I can write without spoilers, so yeah... 

report Recommended by gomi-chu

- Both animes of Mystery and Action.
- In a world where some people have supernatural powers, the protagonist works for an organization resolving cases involving other organizations that also have people with supernatural powers. 

report Recommended by DCardoso_MAL

Bungo Stray Dogs and Darker than black share similar crime/ mystery/ superpower genres, with BSD also being more comedic, also having somewhat loose plot structure, however getting more plot heavy as the series progresses (season 2 in BSD). 
They also share some darker themes and than your average superpower series, using the powers to move the plot rather than as a main theme of the series.
The only negative difference is that I don't think Atsushi is as interesting as Hei as a main character, however the support characters in BSD are pretty good so it doesn't really effect the series.
 

report Recommended by Shane0

Both being from bones as well as focused on dark supernatural story telling in a contemporary setting as well too. 

report Recommended by Disapeared_Ghost

"Darker than Black" and "Bungou Stray Dogs" are anime series with action and supernatural themes. Both involve characters with special abilities, secret organizations, complex storylines, and protagonists leading dual lives. They explore dark and serious themes but differ in tone, with "Darker than Black" being more mature and "Bungou Stray Dogs" incorporating comedy. Overall, they appeal to fans of action and supernatural genres. 

report Recommended by dark_knight_065

Anime: Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex

Koukaku Kidoutai: Stand Alone Complex addpermalink

Both share a similar style where a greater storyline is carried on by seemingly unrelated episodes (or episode pairs in the case of Darker than Black). 

report Recommended by luinthoron

Show is episodic in nature for the most part and is a crime/drama as well. 

report Recommended by ElectricSlime

They both have an episodic "crime of the week" format combined with a long-term story arc. There are sometimes similar plots, and both explore the idea of people who are somehow different from ordinary humans (cyborgs in GITS, people with superpowers in DTB). Both are intelligent (moreso GITS), dark (moreso DTB), and mature and have kickass soundtracks by Yoko Kanno. 

report Recommended by Nyktos

Both, Darker than BLACK and GiTS: Stand Alone Complex have similar plot build ups. While each episode seems mostly independent of the other on a deeper almost all episodes are related in some way. Also both revolve around a team protagonists (although admittedly both teams has its own protagonist) 

report Recommended by RustiX

These two animes revolve a protagonist with a strong support team in a political and action thriller featuring unique powers (although that's a given in most animes).

While Ghost in the Shell series revolves more around a central political plot, Darker than BLACK asks similar metaphysical questions underlying Ghost in the Shell. 

report Recommended by AncientPC

Both are based around teams in secret organisations investigating and participating in missions.

Similar style of case by case operations, with undertones of something more serious going on.

Both groups have specialists in their teams based on resources and abilities that aren't available to general public, some of which must be kept secret.

International governments/organisations trying to manipulate and control information and access to resources.

Both series look over the implications on society after drastic changes to what being human means.

report Recommended by BlackVirtue

Ergo Proxy addpermalink

An atmosphere of darkness and mystery flushes both of these series. The main character in Ergo Proxy and Darker Than Black live a double life, they have masks which hide their true faces. But not only similar characters put these titles together. The worlds described in DTB and Ergo Proxy are results of great catastrophes, connected with the main characters' destinies. 

report Recommended by Iahel

Read recommendations by 4 more users

They have similar character development
world in future that has been destroyed due to human actions.
colours .. dark .. ergo proxy and darker than black are the two animes that really made me watch them almost like nonstop .. and they still often come back in my memories .. 

report Recommended by ThePuisiitis

Not terribly similiar in their facades. However, that's what's clever about the two series'. They both have subtle details and philosophical questions that the average viewer won't be able to perceive on their first viewing. Physically, they both focus on chasing after truths that lie beyond a secure womb-like environment. Not to mention some of the brilliant animation that is present in both of them. 

report Recommended by lancelotgeass

Both set in rather dark and misterious environment, with a motive of main heroes searching for their identity and being trapped in a network of connections that not only can't be trusted, but also seem to be relatively changing with the plot. And most important of all (even though I rated Ergo Proxy slightly higher) - they are great series, evolving with time, yet very addictive from first eps. 

report Recommended by jumikao

For the ones who likes "Ergo Proxy" series tv, DTB is a increable option of anime to see. If you like sci-fi, then you'll must like it. ^^ 

report Recommended by haasseo

Darker than Black and Ergo Proxy have a dark, western style art type. They share some similar genres though Ergo Proxy is more psychological, not focusing on action. Where as Darker than Black has considerably more action and is less psychological. These two anime are story driven as they focus on the main characters, their interactions with the people and places around them and the choices they make. 

report Recommended by Snakes

Tiger & Bunny addpermalink

Very similar super powers and how people use them . 

report Recommended by DarknessAngel

Baccano! addpermalink

Darker than Black follows a more episodic structure, but both of them have memorable soundtracks filled with jazz. 

report Recommended by heiserx

Read recommendations by 4 more users

D.Gray-man addpermalink

Both have a guy who seems innocent on the outside, but have special powers and connected to secret organisations which battle against certain phenomena which affect people within the city; all part of many principles tying up to form a large plot. Both have the same dark supernatural power which takes over certain people which they must overcome. 

report Recommended by sugarplumfairy

Gangsta. addpermalink

Two dark and austere cities. One has people who possess supernatural powers, the other inhuman abilities. But in both cases, they have to compensate for their powers and they are feared by many and admired by few. Wrapped in secrets, the cities harbour a mystery or two that are only waiting to be unveiled. 

report Recommended by tameiiki

Zetsuen no Tempest addpermalink

In both:
- A mysterious phenomenon takes place: In DTB is the appearance of Hell´s gate and in ZnT is the Tree of Genesis.
- A group of people has supernatural powers related to that phenomenon: In DTB are psychics and in ZnT are mages. 
- The use of magic requires remuneration. 
- One of the main girls is able to use powers related to time, while other has a power that can be used for good or evil. 
- Both have complicated dialogues/plot and are by studio BONES. IMO, Znt had more likable and more "human" characters than DTB. 
 

report Recommended by Orulyon

Anime: Zettai Karen Children: The Unlimited - Hyoubu Kyousuke

Zettai Karen Children: The Unlimited - Hyoubu Kyousuke addpermalink

The existence of espers and beings with supernatural abilities are prominent in both of these series. In fact, some of these individuals are considered dangerous to society.

The main character in both series have similar personalities in being calculating, independent, and often does things on his own. He does have a partner though who aids him with various goals.

Both series has action, drama, and a mysterious background to them. In addition, they have a similar mood to them involving organizations. 

report Recommended by Stark700

Jigoku Shoujo addpermalink

Both have the same hellish atmosphere to them. They're also similar in terms of series structure whereas Darker than BLACK is a different story every two episodes and Jigoku Shoujo is a story per episode. Definitely worth checking out if you liked one or the other 

report Recommended by Isumers

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood addpermalink

Similar dark premise as far as story lines are concerned, main characters are different but seem to both fit in their perspective storylines well. Common misconceptions from the main charcters, help thicken both plots. Great action scenes of the use of superhuman abilities, as well as the idea of an alternate reality. Overall DTB was an awesome anime, what else would you expect from a BONES production, but greatness. 

report Recommended by Aiege_Rikumaru

Needless addpermalink

The premise are extremely similar to each other as both deals with people with supernatural abilities that are born after a mysterious event. However, whereas Darker than Black is more seinen and SF, Needless is much more shounen and action oriented. 

report Recommended by wakka9ca

Mekakucity Actors addpermalink

Different mood but shares similar qualities, both series adapts a small cast of main characters gifted with supernatural abilities. With those abilities also come with responsibility as they play their roles in their perspective stories. And speaking of stories, there are mysteries relating to the origins, context, and characters. There is more comedy in Mekakucity Actors while Darker than Black has a more serious nature. Nonetheless, I recommend both series for anyone interested in supernatural phenomenons.  

report Recommended by Stark700

Code:Breaker addpermalink

+Both main characters are similar, both are mysterious and are assassin.
+Both are Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Super Power genre.
+Both anime got  secret organization or Crime syndicate.
+Both anime main female character got a girl beside them. 

report Recommended by TrOjAnHoRsE

Both anime Have bad ass main characters who are assassins with strong powers whom work for a secret organization. In DTB, Hei has an electric type ability, and in Code Breaker Oogami Rei has a flame type ability.

Both involve humans with super-human-powers, not just the main characters, but most of the supporting characters as well. In DTB they are called contractors because they have to make a "payment" of sorts EX: smoke a cigarette, or sing, or fall asleep, etc. after using their ability. 
In Code Breaker they don't have payments, but they do have a limit of how much they can use their power before going "lost" which caused them to lose their power temporarily and it's effects are a little different for everyone,

Both main characters have to kill people in their line of work and both act as though it's not a big deal and it doesn't bother them. They also both have a different public identity and a secret identity.

I think DTB is a little more serious than Code Breaker.

In my opinion both anime are amazing, and have great action along with a great story. I only wish they were longer so they could flesh out the stories some more. But because they are so short, they are both worth checking out. DTB (25 ep) Code Breaker (13 ep)
DTB has a second season, and a short "in between" season, but they are not as good as the original and they story line is different, but Hei is still the main character. Code breaker has only 1 season.

 read more 

report Recommended by onsey80

"Darker than Black" is pretty much the series that "Code:Breaker" tried to be- a conspiracy anime involving super-powered assassins hunting down criminals, but WITHOUT an annoying pacifist girl getting in the way of it all. The powers of the superhumans (Contractors, as they're called) are explored a great deal and are much more varied, with many having an ability other than controlling the elements, though those do exist as well. Hei and Ogami are also very similar in some ways, having a friendly, easygoing personality in public but a cold and ruthless one when on the job, with the difference being that Hei has electricity powers while Ogami has fire. 

Basically, if you found "Code:Breaker" to be as tedious and melodramatic as I did,  than "Darker than Black" should easily fill the void. And if you liked "Code:Breaker" than so much the better. read more 

report Recommended by Joe_Devaney

The way you'll never get any explanation on superpowers while the story and it's characters are interesting enough to keep you watching the series through the end. 

report Recommended by evergreensarv

Gilgamesh addpermalink

both series are about some weird event that changed the world and some individuals got super powers after that

they are so damn similar, i wonder from wich book they are copied or wich one is the rip off of the other one. :/ 

report Recommended by JudgeRuthless

Both shows take place after an otherworldly phenomenon changed life as we know it.  In Darker than Black, it's Hell's Gate, in Gilgamesh, it's Heaven's Gate--go figure.  The associated phenomenons are directly related to certain individuals acquiring mysterious powers.  Darker than Black is brighter and more entertaining than Gilgamesh and the powers are much more interesting and varied, but the setup is similar. 

report Recommended by Dorothea

Both Darker than Black and Gilgamesh begin when a large-scale disaster changes the earth's sky (in Gilgamesh, it becomes reflective; in Darker than Black, a fake sky with fake stars appear, from where shuttles do not return), and, for some reason, gives certain individuals super-powers. 

Both series are heavily focused on city-life, and even share the name of where the incident happened, Heaven's Gate, though Darker than Black goes one further and adds a Hell's Gate to the mix. 

Both are action orientated and have a dark, cynical atmosphere, culminating in the characters ultimately questioning the future of humanity. 

However, notable differences are apparent. Whereas Darker than Black focuses on action, Gilgamesh focused on unravelling the mystery behind the superpowers. Darker than Black is more recent and has a better quality animation, whereas Gilgamesh is stylistically ugly and minimalist. The characters in both are pretty dissonant from the audience, but Darker than Black has some character-to-character humour sprinkled throughout, whereas Gilgamesh has none.

Both have excellent dubs and are worth watching if you enjoy mysterious conspiracies, explosive action, quasi-scientific babble and super-human abilities.  read more

report Recommended by marusamarento

Both shows use a very similar world and scenario. In both a dimensional door named Heavens Gate opens and humanity's dealing with this leads to a world-changing global catastrophe. The sky is scorched and there are mass fatalities. As a result of the event, super-powered individuals appear among the humans.

The stories themselves are quite different. Gilgamesh is dark and psychological, while Darker Than Black is more action oriented. And despite DtB having "dark" in the title, it's by far the "lighter" version of the scenario - which says something about how extraordinarily sinister Gilgamesh is. 

report Recommended by inim

Kekkai Sensen addpermalink

Set in cities where a strange, other worldly gate has appeared turning the city into a place filled with the strange and wonderful. Kekkai Sensen tends to be lighter as it contains comedic elements, while Darker than Black maintains it's serious tone throughout the series. 

report Recommended by Kylax-

Steins;Gate addpermalink

There are so many similarities between these two shows even though the plots/stories are incredibly different. first of all, both series are very dark and involve a lot of action. the main characters in both series are incredibly alluring and the female supporting cast is epic as well. mayushii and yin are both mysterious heroines whose roles and relations to the male protagonist remain a mystery throughout the series. most of all both shows own SUSPENSE!!! great thrillers that are both a MUST WATCH! 

report Recommended by ItsmeAshtray

Ga-Rei: Zero addpermalink

it has the same feel to it...with organizations and fight scenes...not to mention the supernatural powers 

report Recommended by lyza

Tokyo Ghoul addpermalink

Both are dark animes with great plot, very good action  and loved both of them 

report Recommended by RedExorcist

GetBackers addpermalink

Get Backers is more light and comedy than Darker Than Black, but the themes of powers is the same, and both series has main characters that manipulates electricity in similar ways. 

report Recommended by krisjunaeien

Guilty Crown addpermalink

Both series contain sci-fi themes mixed in with action and drama. Additionally, both series have a darker mood as the episodes progresses. There is also a bit of mystery in both series covered up malevolence. 

In addition, the main character are accompanied by a girl with supernatural powers and with a similar stoic personality in which the protagonist tries to save.

report Recommended by Stark700

Black Lagoon addpermalink

Darker than Black has a more supernatural tendency than Black Lagoon, but the idea of mercenaries kicking butt everywhere is pretty much universal to both these anime. 
Amazing action sequences, gun fights, agendas and plotting, blood and gore, they've got them both. If you want an anime with similar action style, watch this 

report Recommended by Mythical_Truth

Towa no Quon 1: Utakata no Kaben addpermalink

Both show has a cool story around all the character who's process super nature power...... 

report Recommended by SnowLife

Anime: Mnemosyne: Mnemosyne no Musume-tachi

Mnemosyne: Mnemosyne no Musume-tachi addpermalink

Both have main character with surpernatural ability , and both are very enjoyable anime  with great and dark storyline too. 

report Recommended by tornado63

Black Bullet addpermalink

Both anime involve humans with superhuman abilities who pair up together and an encased world that is cut-off from anywhere else.

Darker than Black has contractors and dolls while Black Bullet has initiators and promoters.

Black Bullet's world has protective walls built around it, whereas Darker than Black has two large areas  on Earth that became inaccessible due to a strange phenomena.

There's also neat fight scenes between superhuman characters in both.

report Recommended by Chdata

Blassreiter addpermalink

If you equate the Contractors with the Demoniac, everything else falls into place. 

report Recommended by Shurtugal

Shingeki no Kyojin addpermalink

These two anime have virtually nothing in common in terms of plot. However they both have similar fast paced and impressive action sequences without sacrificing a compelling and coherent plot. Both also have a-typical protagonist personalities. 

report Recommended by Azeal

Fullmetal Alchemist addpermalink

Like the law of Equivalent Exchange (The rule that alchemists in the series consider to be the foundation of Alchemy, or even the fundamental law of the world: to obtain, something of equal value must be lost.) in Full Metal Alchemist; Darker than BLACK has a similar form of "payment" as a form of a contract payment or remuneration in exchange for their superhuman powers. 

report Recommended by alugirl613

Elfen Lied addpermalink

They're both dark Animes... they have really lovable villains... and in DTB the main character kinda has split personalities too... Elfen Lied's the bloodier of the two.. but if you like one of them... the other is worth checking out ^^ 

report Recommended by StabbyPWNS

Anime: Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2

Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2 addpermalink

Although the plot is a litte different, both main characters are very similar.
Hei possesses supernatural powers, wears mask on his missions and hides his true personality exactly like Lelouch. For both the most important are their younger sisters. Yin resembles Anya (similar hairstyle and emotionless). Both C.C. and Amber travel through the time, have many secrects and look alike (green long hairs, similar white clothes). 

report Recommended by Kokkishin

91 Days addpermalink

Baccano was already recommended so i wanted to recommend another...
Both deals with crime and have the same atmosphere/ feeling (dark, 'eerie', violent)  
'Waging war in the dark' and both goes under the seinen genre i guess 

report Recommended by WeiWeiWei

Noir addpermalink

Both are very psychological, have well-choreographed fight scenes and influences from film noir. Homewer, Noir setting doesn't involve sci-fi or fantasy elements. 

report Recommended by Miyamoris

Golgo 13 (TV) addpermalink

Anime protagonists with professional killers.
Golgo 13 the protagonist is very smart and simply cold and the best sniper in the world, for those who like very op.
Dark Than Black has very op protagonist as well.
Recommend! 

report Recommended by xCr4zyEviiL

Naruto: Shippuuden addpermalink

-Both Naruto and Darker Than Black have people fighting with powers that are elemental, supernatural, eye powered, and destructive
-Some characters fight a similar style in both series even ninja like
-Gadget and weaponry involved
-both are episodic, dark, and comedic as well
-Mystery, Mission like, Huge Scale Fight, and World affairs
-destruction and chaos involving world and people 

report Recommended by Rikudo14

No.6 addpermalink

Similar atmosphere in these series. Little dark and gloomy, but still have funny and cute moments. And there is a "isolated town" leitmotiv in both. 

report Recommended by Bufu-hime

Gintama addpermalink

It might seem like a bit of a long shot, but Gintama and Darker than Black do share similar elements especially in story structure. The obvious difference is that Gintama is full of slapstick and dirty jokes while Darker than Black has no comedy at all (that I can recall). The similarities come in its story telling; once Gintama establishes its world and characters the show focuses on telling stories about new guest/side-characters usually in 2-3 episode arcs.  Darker than Black does the same but in 2 episode arcs. The protagonists, Sakata Gintoki in Gintama and Hei in Darker than Black, usually play a back-seat role in these stories with them being the one that resolves the conflict even if they weren't all that present during the arc. 

If you are looking for something with slapstick and dirty jokes or something with a mature world and characters then I can't recommend these two, but If you are looking for something that follows that style of story telling then these might be for you. read more 

report Recommended by Kylax-

Toaru Majutsu no Index addpermalink

They are completely different in terms of atmosphere, but there are some interesting similarities: Episodic plot focus, Both take place mostly in a huge city and most importantly, both have lots of characters with unique supernatural abilities. 

report Recommended by PorcupineHead

R.O.D: The TV addpermalink

Superpowers, secret organizations, badass main characters, the powers in R.O.D are much cooler and original than DTB but the plot of DTB is more interesting   

report Recommended by BleakBurst

Charlotte addpermalink

Both anime involve characters with abilities but they have restriction on using them both are very well made amazing story and art style one is the abilities are held by anyone and the other only teens can have abilities.   

report Recommended by AkatsukiUlquiora

Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens addpermalink

They give off very similar vibes. Urban settings (mostly at night), assassins, action, etc. Very similar jazzy soundtrack that really make the mood work well. They are also both about large organizations/cities that try to organize the characters. If you want something fun and exciting, while a bit ridiculous, these are both enjoyable. 

report Recommended by Xaeveax

Shinseiki Evangelion addpermalink

Both are set in post apocolyptic times, however a bit different 

report Recommended by Anna0_o

Jigoku Shoujo Futakomori addpermalink

Both series have similar structures; each series have small stories with minor characters that do not heavily feature the main protagonists until the end. Death is a recurring theme in both series. 

report Recommended by lordblackness88

Yozakura Quartet addpermalink

The animation is similar, the characterdesign is similar and in both animes the protagonist/s are fighting against creatures who look like humans and have special abilities. 

report Recommended by Lopika

Akudama Drive addpermalink

Similar concept. Love both universes. 

report Recommended by monica_aaaa

Persona 5 the Animation addpermalink

Both shows deal with a knife wielding masked MC who leads a double life is guided by supernatural companions and a talking cat in a gothic and murder setting filled with mysteries that needed to be uncovered while opposed by the law enforcement and a female prosecutor. 

report Recommended by WingZeroRequiem

Pandora Hearts addpermalink

Somehow Pandora is similar to Darker than BLACK - series shows a road to the important place, which is isolated and in here almost everything is explained, but there are some questions that left. 

report Recommended by Eriis

Deadman Wonderland addpermalink

Special powers, fighting and violence. DTB is more about story and DW is rather more about boy. 

report Recommended by Eriis

Anime: Kara no Kyoukai Movie 1: Fukan Fuukei

Kara no Kyoukai Movie 1: Fukan Fuukei addpermalink

Watching Kara No Kyoukai came to mind that it made me think about Darker Than Black. After watching Darker than Black and Kara no kyoukai, both animes seem so incredibly fascinating in terms of supernatural events, not necessarily supernatural but Kara no Kyoukai has more mystery into it that leads to more further investigating than Darker Than Black. 
Darker Than Black deals with contractors who are humans as well, though I haven't really come to study about the true meaning of contractors, but contractors are just like humans who possess human characteristics. 
That being said, I highly recommend this anime to Kara No Kyoukai due to the fact they both deal with investigation type of scenario.  read more 

report Recommended by MysticStrider

Akame ga Kill! addpermalink

in akame ga kill all have some magnificient power this is like in darker than black hei and oteas have power the story is kind of same that all of his comrades are gone one by one and i think it is the most saddest part in both anime anime. both animes are excellent to watch  

report Recommended by FlaMeGaIzER

Skull Man addpermalink

Masked men, mysteries, action, supernatural or sci-fi genres. Both are highly enjoyable series for the fans of mentioned  themes. 

report Recommended by Jazma

Gungrave addpermalink

If you need action and a deep multiple episode long story to get your anime hard-on, either of these will work. Darker than BLACK contains supernatural action and police-scoured situations with a slowly evolving story, and Gungrave takes the action one step further with intense gun-fights and classic mafia-esque plot development. Watching one will prepare you for the alternative, but make sure you have several months of free time if you plan on watching both @_@ 

report Recommended by Starman

Ghost Hunt addpermalink

They are both creepy and dark but have a very good story line and have very likeable characters. 

report Recommended by Fayt

The Big O addpermalink

Big O and Darker than Black draw influences from film noir (and, some may say, Batman). Both are set in a grim future brought about by a cataclysmic event that occurred years prior. The protagonists are well-known professionals in their line of work with shady pasts that may be connected to the aforementioned disaster. 

report Recommended by Berkut

Noein: Mou Hitori no Kimi e addpermalink

Both involve high technology, plenty of battles and a somewhat dark storyline. 

In DtB, Hei is somewhat related to an incident resulting in the disappearance of South America. Similiarily, in Noein, Karasu is distantly related to the disappearance of various alternate worlds. Both protogonists are capable fighters, and both are searching for what happened in past times. 

report Recommended by HalRyder

Zankyou no Terror addpermalink

The highlight of both show's main similarities are centered around the main protagonists:
They are willing to do wrong to achieve things which are right to them.
They have a dark past which constantly taunt them.
They are emotionless when it comes to violence.
They use aliases but their true names are unknown.
They are terrorists in the eyes of society.

Other than that, both shows somehow touch on society's problems but also involve conspiracy plots. They are also dark. Of course, the visuals are nice in both of these shows.

When it comes to differences, however, DtB is more fast-paced in action and has more characters to fill in the plot of the show while ZnT is more cryptic, more realistic as well as having few characters which are important enough to set the whole story in motion.
 read more 

report Recommended by FalloutShounen3

B: The Beginning addpermalink

Similar tone and feel. Both revolve around action, mystery, and confusing plots that unravel over the course of the show.  

report Recommended by kburger8

Hitsugi no Chaika addpermalink

Tooru reminds me Hei from Darker than Black. I think they are quite close in fighting styles and general attitude. Both of them fight with daggers with attached strings and glow in red/blue when using their powers. Both refer themselves as soulless killing machines - a Saboteur and a Contractor, while often showing unexpected kindness and dignity.
Also, Chaika is somewhat similar to Suo from DTB2 with her magical sniper rifle, although differs from her in personality.
Also, both shows are made by the same studio, Bones. 

report Recommended by robert_foster