I’ve been absolutely obsessed with the SANDA anime premiere lately, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably hunting for more shows that capture that same magic. Let me tell you, finding anime that hits all the right notes – mystery, supernatural elements, and that perfect blend of action and emotion – isn’t always easy. But after diving deep into the anime universe, I’ve discovered some absolute gems that every SANDA fan needs to watch.
What Makes SANDA So Special?
Before we jump into the recommendations, let’s talk about why SANDA has captured our hearts so completely. Set in a dystopian 2080 Japan where children are incredibly rare, this series follows Kazushige Sanda, a 14-year-old who discovers he’s the descendant of Santa Claus. Yeah, you heard that right – Santa Claus! But in this world, Christmas is just a legend, and Santa has been sealed away by some mysterious curse.
What I love most about SANDA is how it blends ordinary school life with extraordinary supernatural elements. The moment Shiori Fuyumura reveals Sanda’s connection to the mythical Santa Claus, everything changes. Suddenly, we’re thrown into a world of superpowers, hidden destinies, and the weight of carrying such an incredible legacy. It’s this perfect mix of mystery, action, and emotional storytelling that makes SANDA stand out.
And can we talk about the animation? Science SARU (the same studio behind Beastars) absolutely knocked it out of the park. The fluid action sequences, the detailed character expressions, and that unique art style – it’s all just breathtaking.
1. Beastars
If you loved SANDA, then Beastars should be at the top of your watchlist – and not just because it’s from the same creator, Paru Itagaki! Trust me, when I first started Beastars, I was blown away by how it captures that same perfect blend of social commentary and absolutely ridiculous (in the best way) storyline.
Beastars is set in a world of anthropomorphic animals where herbivores and carnivores try to coexist peacefully. The story follows Legoshi, a wolf who gets accused of murdering a herbivore student. What I find fascinating is how both shows tackle complex social issues while keeping you thoroughly entertained with their unique premises.
Why you’ll love it:
- Same creator as SANDA, so you know the storytelling is top-notch
- Perfect mix of social commentary and engaging plot
- Incredible animation by Studio Orange
- Complex characters that grow and develop throughout the series
- That same ability to balance serious themes with moments of humor
2. Dandadan
Okay, can we just take a moment to appreciate how absolutely bonkers Dandadan is? In the best way possible! When I first heard about this show, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it quickly became one of my favorite anime of all time.
Dandadan follows Momo Ayase and Okarun, two high school students who are on opposite sides of the paranormal belief spectrum. Momo believes in ghosts but not aliens, while Okarun believes in aliens but not ghosts. Their quest to prove each other wrong leads them into some of the most insane paranormal battles I’ve ever seen in anime.
Why you’ll love it:
- Absolutely ridiculous and hilarious storyline that keeps you guessing
- Stunning animation by Science SARU (same studio as SANDA!)
- Strong female lead character who doesn’t take anyone’s crap
- Perfect balance of comedy and intense action sequences
- That same feeling of ordinary characters thrown into extraordinary situations
3. My Hero Academia
I know, I know – everyone recommends My Hero Academia. But there’s a good reason for that! If you loved SANDA’s focus on a young protagonist discovering incredible powers and navigating a world where supernatural abilities are the norm, then MHA is absolutely perfect for you.
The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy in a world where 80% of the population has superpowers called Quirks. When he inherits the powerful One For All Quirk, he enrolls in U.A. High School to train to become the greatest hero. Sound familiar? That’s because both shows nail that “ordinary kid discovers extraordinary destiny” trope that we all love.
Why you’ll love it:
- Perfect school setting with supernatural elements (just like SANDA!)
- Incredible character development throughout the series
- Amazing action sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat
- Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and what it truly means to be a hero
- That same feeling of watching someone grow into their incredible potential
4. Jujutsu Kaisen
If the darker, more intense aspects of SANDA really resonated with you, then Jujutsu Kaisen needs to be next on your watchlist. I remember watching the first episode and being completely blown away by how it balanced incredible action with genuinely creepy supernatural elements.
Jujutsu Kaisen follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who swallows a cursed object to save his friends, becoming a vessel for a powerful Curse. He then joins Jujutsu High to learn to control his new powers and fight against malevolent Curses. What I love most about this show is how it doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of its supernatural world.
Why you’ll love it:
- Dark fantasy elements that create a truly immersive world
- Incredible fight choreography that rivals the best action anime
- Complex power system that’s both fascinating and well-explained
- Perfect balance of humor and genuinely intense moments
- That same feeling of ordinary characters facing extraordinary, terrifying challenges
5. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
I have to admit, when Demon Slayer first came out, I was a bit skeptical. Another shonen anime about a kid fighting demons? But let me tell you, this show completely exceeded my expectations and became one of my all-time favorites – just like SANDA did.
The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, whose family is slaughtered by demons while his younger sister Nezuko is turned into one. Tanjiro becomes a demon slayer to find a cure for Nezuko and avenge his family. What makes this show so special is how it balances incredible action with deeply emotional storytelling.
Why you’ll love it:
- Stunning animation that will leave you breathless (Ufotable really outdid themselves)
- Perfect blend of action, emotion, and supernatural elements
- Strong family themes that resonate on a deep level
- Incredible character development throughout the series
- That same ability to make you care deeply about every character
6. Blue Exorcist (Ao no Exorcist)
If you loved the supernatural school setting of SANDA, then Blue Exorcist is going to be right up your alley. I remember binge-watching this series in one weekend because I just couldn’t get enough of its unique take on exorcism and demons.
Blue Exorcist follows Rin Okumura, a seemingly normal teenager who discovers he’s actually the son of Satan. When his guardian is killed by demons, Rin decides to become an exorcist to fight against his father and protect others. He enrolls in True Cross Academy, a school for exorcists, where he trains alongside his brother Yukio.
Why you’ll love it:
- Perfect school setting with supernatural elements (just like SANDA!)
- Interesting twist on religious mythology and demon lore
- Great balance of action, comedy, and emotional moments
- Complex family dynamics that drive the story forward
- That same feeling of discovering hidden powers and heritage
7. Guilty Crown
Guilty Crown is one of those shows that I think doesn’t get enough credit for how well it handles its complex themes. If you loved the mystery and emotional storytelling in SANDA, this is definitely a series you need to check out.
Set in a future Japan that’s been taken over by the GHQ after the outbreak of the “Apocalypse Virus,” Guilty Crown follows Shuu Ouma, a quiet student who discovers he has the power to extract “Voids” – weapons manifested from people’s hearts. He gets drawn into the resistance group Funeral Parlor and must decide what kind of person he wants to be.
Why you’ll love it:
- Incredible animation by Production I.G. (the studio behind Psycho-Pass)
- Complex themes about power, responsibility, and identity
- Perfect blend of mecha action and emotional drama
- That same feeling of ordinary characters thrown into extraordinary circumstances
- Amazing soundtrack that enhances every scene
8. Zetman
If the darker, more mature aspects of SANDA really caught your attention, then Zetman is going to be perfect for you. I remember watching this show and being completely blown away by how it handled complex moral questions about what it truly means to be a hero.
Zetman follows two very different heroes: Jin Kanzaki, a man born with the power to transform into the superhuman ZET, and Kouga Amagi, a tech genius who fights as the hero ALPHAS. Both have their own ideas about justice and heroism, and their paths cross as they battle creatures called Players.
Why you’ll love it:
- Darker, more mature tone that explores complex moral questions
- Interesting take on what it means to be a hero
- Great character development for both protagonists
- Perfect blend of superhero action and philosophical themes
- That same feeling of characters struggling with their identity and purpose
9. Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan
If you loved how SANDA explored the protagonist’s hidden heritage and supernatural abilities, then Nura: Rise of the Yokai Clan is going to be right up your alley. I remember watching this show and loving how it balanced supernatural action with coming-of-age elements.
The story follows Rikuo Nura, a boy who is part human and part yokai (supernatural creature). He’s the grandson of the Supreme Commander of the Nura Clan, but he wants nothing more than to live a normal human life. However, as he grows older and his yokai powers begin to manifest, he must accept his heritage and take his place as the next leader of the Nura Clan.
Why you’ll love it:
- Perfect exploration of hidden heritage and supernatural abilities
- Great balance of action, comedy, and emotional moments
- Interesting yokai lore and mythology
- Strong character development as Rikuo accepts his dual nature
- That same feeling of struggling between two different worlds
10. The Twelve Kingdoms
If you loved the mysterious, otherworldly elements of SANDA, then The Twelve Kingdoms is an absolute must-watch. This show is a masterpiece of world-building and character development that I think every anime fan should experience.
The Twelve Kingdoms follows Youko Nakajima, a red-haired high school student who has never quite fit in. One day, a mysterious man appears in her classroom and calls her his master, before she’s attacked by monsters and dragged into another world along with two of her classmates. In this new world, Youko must learn to survive and discover her true purpose.
Why you’ll love it:
- Incredible world-building that creates a truly immersive experience
- Complex character development as Youko grows from a timid girl to a strong leader
- Perfect blend of mystery, action, and political intrigue
- Fascinating exploration of identity and purpose
- That same feeling of being thrown into a completely new and mysterious world
Why These Anime Resonate with SANDA Fans?
After watching all these shows (and many more), I’ve noticed some common threads that make them perfect for SANDA fans:
Hidden Powers and Heritage
Just like Sanda discovers his connection to Santa Claus, many of these shows feature protagonists who uncover hidden abilities or family secrets. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching characters discover they’re more special than they ever imagined.
School Meets Supernatural
The blend of ordinary school life with extraordinary supernatural elements is something SANDA does perfectly, and these shows capture that same magic. There’s just something relatable about characters dealing with homework and crushes one moment, then fighting monsters or discovering incredible powers the next.
Complex Themes Beneath the Surface
While all these shows are entertaining on the surface, they also tackle deeper themes about identity, responsibility, and what it means to be human (or in some cases, not quite human). SANDA explores questions about belief and destiny, and these shows do the same in their own unique ways.
Emotional Storytelling
At their core, all these shows – including SANDA – are about the characters and their emotional journeys. Whether it’s family bonds, friendship, or personal growth, the emotional stakes are what make these stories so compelling.
What to Watch Next?
If you’ve already seen all the shows on this list (or if you’re just hungry for more), here are a few more recommendations that I think you’ll love:
- Fire Force: Supernatural battles with incredible animation
- Hunter x Hunter: Epic adventure with complex characters and power systems
- Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood: Perfect blend of action, emotion, and philosophical themes
- One Punch Man: Hilarious take on superhero tropes with amazing action
- Mob Psycho 100: Great character development with incredible psychic battles
FAQ
What is SANDA about?
SANDA is set in a dystopian 2080 Japan where children are extremely rare. The story follows Kazushige Sanda, a 14-year-old who discovers he’s the descendant of Santa Claus and has incredible supernatural powers. The series blends mystery, action, and supernatural elements as Sanda navigates his new reality.
Who created SANDA?
SANDA was created by Paru Itagaki, the same creator behind the popular anime Beastars. The anime adaptation is being produced by Science SARU, known for their work on shows like Devilman Crybaby and Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!
When was SANDA released?
SANDA premiered in November 2025 as part of the fall anime season. The first episode has already generated significant buzz among anime fans.
Is SANDA connected to Beastars?
While SANDA and Beastars share the same creator (Paru Itagaki) and animation studio (Science SARU), they are separate stories with different settings and characters. However, fans of Beastars will likely appreciate SANDA’s similar blend of social commentary and unique storytelling.
Where can I watch SANDA?
As of now, official streaming information for SANDA hasn’t been announced. Keep an eye on major streaming platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix for announcements about where you can watch the series.
Are there any manga recommendations similar to SANDA?
If you’re enjoying the SANDA anime, you might want to check out the original SANDA manga, as well as other series like Beastars, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Demon Slayer which all have excellent manga adaptations.
What makes SANDA different from other supernatural anime?
What sets SANDA apart is its unique premise – a dystopian future where Santa Claus is real but has been sealed away, combined with the rarity of children making them incredibly precious. The show also excels in its character development and the way it balances action with emotional storytelling.
Is SANDA appropriate for all ages?
SANDA contains action sequences and some mature themes, so it’s likely best suited for teen and adult audiences. As with any anime, I’d recommend checking content ratings and reviews if you’re concerned about age-appropriateness.
How many episodes will SANDA have?
The exact episode count for SANDA hasn’t been officially announced yet. Most anime series these days run for 12-13 episodes per season, but we’ll have to wait for official confirmation from the production team.
Will there be a second season of SANDA?
It’s too early to say whether SANDA will get a second season. Typically, anime renewal decisions are based on factors like Blu-ray sales, streaming numbers, and overall popularity. If the first season performs well, there’s a good chance we’ll see more of Sanda’s story in the future.
Final Thoughts
I’ve got to say, discovering SANDA has been one of the highlights of my anime-watching journey this year. There’s just something special about a show that can balance mystery, action, and emotional storytelling so perfectly. And the fact that it’s from the same creator as Beastars? That’s just the cherry on top.
What I love most about these recommendations is that they all capture different aspects of what makes SANDA so great. Whether you’re in the mood for something dark and philosophical like Zetman, or something more action-packed like Demon Slayer, there’s something on this list for every mood.
Remember to bookmark this page so you can come back whenever you need a new anime to watch. And if you’ve got any other recommendations that you think should be on this list, drop them in the comments below – I’m always looking for new shows to add to my watchlist!
Happy watching, and don’t forget to come back once you’ve finished these gems. I’ll be here with more recommendations whenever you need them!