Summary
Isekai anime tend to follow the usual blueprint of reincarnation torealms of high fantasy, whether it’s an MMO-inspired world or a land teeming with magic and sorcery. However, some isekai narratives offer a break from these formulaic tropes through a bit of historical representation. History and fantasy are often viewed as two impermeable themes, yet several isekai anime effortlessly blend these genres for a fantasy narrative rooted in real-world chronicles.
Be itJapan’s own feudal ageor ancient settings in bygone times, historical isekai add a sense of realism to this fantasy-heavy theme. Some anime are set in alternate counterparts of real-world settings, while others are renditions of famous historical events, each acquainting viewers with an equally compelling tale.
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Studio
Typhoon Graphics
Sengoku Night Bloodis a lesser-known isekai, albeit one that stays true to the theme with a frail protagonist suddenly finding herself in a fantasy world resembling Japan’s Sengoku period. The archipelago’s Sengoku Era was marked by accounts of civil violence and in-fighting that tore through the country. The anime capitalizes on this very setting, but with a touch of fantasy by throwing werewolves andvampires into the mix.
Sengoku Night Bloodalso features a rendition of Oda Nobunaga, a recurring figure in almost every historical anime set in Japan. However, the series’ events aren’t an exact retelling of the Sengoku period, as the series takes several creative liberties to present an alternate history of the country, one laced with fantasy and mysticism.
Inuyashaisn’t exactly known for its isekai roots, as this early2000s shojo classicis renowned for its romance, drama, and historical fantasy. However, the premise of Kagome making her way to Feudal Japan and being branded as the legendary priestess is certainly in classic isekai fashion.
With demons and monsters ravaging this alternate version of Feudal Japan,Inuyashaperfectly blends fantasy with its historical setting. The anime’s success landed the franchise a spin-off sequel in the form ofYashahime, though it largely remains overshadowed by the compelling storytelling and nuanced relationships that define the original series.
Mysterious Playis known for its unique method of isekai travel, as Miaka is mysteriously pulled into an old book at the library. While the world is purely fictional, the setting resembles ancient China, with several aspects of the anime being inspired by Eastern mythology. The primary theme of the book is based on four mythological creatures that are known as the guardians of the universe in Chinese mythology.
Despite airing in the mid-90s,Mysterious Playremains a classic isekai anime and one of the few that effortlessly meshes Chinese culture with mysticism. While Miaka can, at times, seem like nothing more than a damsel in distress, the series does an excellent job at fleshing out her character, one that is befitting for the heroine of the book.
Driftersmight be an isekai rooted in fantasy, yet its roster of famed historical figures takes viewers back in time. Based on afamous Japanese samuraifrom the 17th century, the titular character Toyohisa Shimazu is pulled into another world, one that is set to be ravaged by a war between “Drifters” and the “Ends.” Shimazu is accompanied by a few other notable Japanese figures, such as Oda Nobunaga, a man known for unifying most of Japan during its feudal age.
These Japanese historical names are met with their foreign counterparts of equal significance, with Hannibal of Carthage, Jean D’Arc, and Grigori Rasputin taking center stage. Action and stunning fights aside, the anime is a treat for history buffs, as witnessing the animated renditions of iconic figures duking it out in this fantasy world is compelling enough on its own.
Saga Of Tanya The Evilis arguably the most precise depiction of meshing together fantasy with historical accuracy. A Japanese salaryman is reincarnated as a child in a world resembling pre-World War I Europe, all for denying the existence of god. The anime is laced with philosophical nuance, whether through its constant questioning of god’s existence or the social commentary onthe effects of waron soldiers and civilians alike.
The political landscape of the world and the power-hungry belligerents involved in the war are all too reminiscent of the events of the World Wars. Even with a magic system set in place, the setting of a war-ravaged Europe certainly adds a tinge of realism to the premise. However, Saga Of Tanya The Evil’s most promising aspect is Tanya herself, a morally gray character that is often on the wrong side of history, yet viewers can’t help but acknowledge the method in her madness.
