If you loved The Fable for its grounded action, dark humor, and deep dive into the world of assassins, you might be looking for more anime that offer a similar mix of realism, character-driven storytelling, and intense action. While anime often leans into the supernatural and over-the-top powers, some series keep things grounded, focusing on gritty crime, realistic martial arts, and complex human interactions. Here are five more realistic animes like The Fable!
Black Lagoon
Imagine you’re a regular office worker who suddenly gets kidnapped by modern-day pirates and then decides to join them instead of going back home. That’s exactly what happens to Rokuro “Rock” Okajima in Black Lagoon. Thrown into the world of mercenaries, arms deals, and organized crime, Rock teams up with the Lagoon Company, a group of ruthless but strangely likable criminals.
Each episode follows their high-risk missions in the lawless city of Roanapur, where survival depends on who’s holding the biggest gun. The deeper Rock gets into this underworld, the more he struggles with his own morality, questioning whether he’s still the same person who once lived a corporate life. It’s a story of transformation, where Rock’s old world and new one collide in ways he never expected.
Much like The Fable, Black Lagoon focuses on a protagonist who has to adapt to an ultra-violent world. The action is intense but not exaggerated, with realistic shootouts and hand-to-hand combat. The series also dives deep into its characters, exploring the morality of mercenary life and whether someone can keep their humanity in such a brutal environment. If you enjoyed The Fable’s mix of humor and violence, Black Lagoon will keep you hooked. The anime’s gritty atmosphere and unpredictable storytelling make every episode feel like a high-stakes thriller. Plus, the chemistry between Rock and his crew, especially Revy, adds an extra layer of intrigue that makes it hard to stop watching.
Gangsta
In the city of Ergastalum, two men known as the “Handymen” take on jobs that no one else is willing to do. Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo are mercenaries who navigate the underground world of crime syndicates, corrupt cops, and a deadly group known as Twilights, enhanced humans created through drug experimentation. When a simple contract job puts them in the middle of a gang war, the duo must fight for their lives while uncovering the city’s dark secrets. As the violence escalates, their pasts start catching up to them, revealing deeply personal struggles that shape their every move. Their bond, though forged through violence, gives the series an emotional weight that makes the action all the more gripping.
If you liked The Fable’s realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld, Gangsta offers a similar gritty feel. The fights are raw and intense, and the characters, especially Nicholas, feel incredibly human despite their violent lives. The show doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of crime, addiction, and power struggles, making it a compelling watch for anyone who enjoys serious, mature storytelling. What sets Gangsta apart is its portrayal of people with disabilities. Nicholas, who is deaf, communicates through sign language, making him a unique and powerful protagonist. The series pulls you into its dark, immersive world where every fight carries weight, and survival is never guaranteed. This makes it one of the best more realistic animes like The Fable!
Crying Freeman
Yo Hinomura was once an ordinary potter until a run-in with the Chinese mafia, the 108 Dragons, changed his life forever. Brainwashed into becoming their top assassin, he carries out their orders flawlessly. However, he’s not a cold-blooded killer. Each time he takes a life, he sheds tears of remorse, earning him the title Crying Freeman. His journey is a mix of high-stakes assassinations, betrayals, and attempts to regain his freedom. As he becomes one of the deadliest men alive, he also finds himself entangled in a tragic romance that challenges his loyalty to the mafia. His struggle between duty and personal redemption creates a fascinating emotional conflict.
Like The Fable, Crying Freeman focuses on an assassin who is far more human than he appears. The series captures the emotional weight of taking lives and the internal struggles of someone who doesn’t want to kill but has no choice. The action is stylish but grounded, making it a perfect match for those who loved The Fable’s realistic approach to combat and character development. The detailed animation and fluid fight sequences keep the tension high, making every assassination feel personal. Plus, the deep exploration of identity and fate adds depth beyond the action, making it a gripping character study as well.
Golgo 13
Duke Togo, also known as Golgo 13, is the world’s most feared and respected hitman. With unmatched precision and professionalism, he completes every job he takes, whether it’s assassinating high-profile targets or infiltrating heavily guarded locations. He operates alone, following a strict personal code that ensures his success. Every episode follows a different mission, showing just how efficient and deadly he is. No matter the circumstances, he never fails to deliver, proving why he is the most sought-after contract killer. His cold demeanor and methodical approach make him one of the most fascinating assassins in anime history.
If you admired the cold, calculated professionalism of The Fable, then Golgo 13 is a must-watch. It takes a no-nonsense approach to assassination, focusing on the tactics, planning, and execution of each job. There’s no unnecessary flair, just a realistic portrayal of what it takes to be the best in the business. The episodic format makes it easy to pick up, and the tension in each mission keeps things exciting. While Duke Togo may not have a deep emotional arc, his sheer presence and legendary skill make him one of anime’s most compelling antiheroes. Watching him outmaneuver opponents with precision is always satisfying.
Tokyo Tribe 2
In an alternate version of Tokyo, different gang “tribes” rule the streets. Rivalries run deep, and battles break out regularly over territory and power. The story follows Kai, a member of the Saru gang, as he gets caught up in an all-out gang war after his friend is murdered. With the city descending into chaos, Kai must navigate the brutal world of underground crime to survive. The intense turf wars make for a fast-paced story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The more Kai gets involved, the more he realizes there’s no easy way out of the gang life.
Much like The Fable, Tokyo Tribe 2 brings a hyper-realistic yet stylish portrayal of crime and street life. The action is raw and intense, and the gang politics add an extra layer of depth. If you enjoyed the street-level conflicts in The Fable, this anime will give you a similar adrenaline rush. The hip-hop influences in the show’s aesthetic and soundtrack make it stand out from traditional crime anime. With unpredictable fights and dramatic twists, Tokyo Tribe 2 offers a unique and thrilling take on gang warfare.
Final Thoughts
Realism in anime isn’t always about avoiding superpowers or exaggerated fights. It’s about making the world feel lived-in and the characters feel human. Each of these anime, much like The Fable, brings something special to the table: intense action, deep character development, and a sense of realism that makes the stakes feel higher. Whether you’re into crime thrillers, assassin dramas, or gritty underworld stories, these five anime are worth adding to your watchlist. Also, don’t forget to check out the best anime where a bunch of immortals fight!
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