'To Be Hero X' and 4 Other Chinese Donghua, Which Are Just as Good as Japanese Anime
These Chinese projects are capable of captivating even the most devoted fan of the Japanese animation school.
Over the past decade, China's donghua industry has made tremendous strides, offering fans bold, original, and technically impeccable works instead of copycat projects.
These titles blend the richness of Chinese mythology and culture with modern storytelling techniques, striking visuals, and intricate fight scenes.
1. 'To Be Hero X', 2025-...
IMDb Score: 8.6/10
In this donghua world, anyone who accumulates the required number of faith points can become a hero. The greater the belief in a person's success, the greater their power. Twice a year, the best of the best compete in a tournament to determine who is worthy of the title Hero X.
The world of superpowered individuals is not at all what many of them imagined – the images of strong, successful heroes can hide many secrets and deceptions.
To Be Hero X is a dynamic and spectacular donghua about superpowered heroes, created using 2D and 3D animation, which is reminiscent of Arcane.
2. 'Link Click', 2021-...
IMDb Score: 8.5/10
The plot introduces us to Lu Guang and Cheng Xiaoshi, two photo studio workers. They can travel back in time using photographs to the moment the photo was taken.
Typically, the two friends use their abilities to learn or convey important information without altering key events. Although the opportunity to change the past is tempting, crossing the line can have unthinkable consequences.
Have you heard of the butterfly effect? The main characters of Link Click are familiar with it firsthand.
3. 'The Founder of Diabolism', 2018-2021
IMDb Score: 8.4/10
Wei Wuxian, known as the founder of the Demonic Path, returned to life after 13 years. A cultivator sacrificed his body to summon the dead man's soul.
Upon returning to the world of the living, Wei Wuxian became immediately embroiled in mysterious events and encountered former friends and enemies alike.
If you're unfamiliar with Chinese mythology and literature, you may find this title challenging. However, this donghua captivates with its charismatic characters and plot twists.
4. 'Psychic Princess', 2018-...
IMDb Score: 7.8/10
Psychic Princess stands out not for its superb animation or complex plot, but for its amusing characters and sparkling humor.
Qian Yunxi, the unloved daughter of the prime minister, is forced to take her younger sister's place as the concubine of the cruel Prince Ye Yuming. The girl is unhappy with her fate but has no choice.
Life throws more unpleasant surprises at Qian Yunxi, but thanks to her ability to see spirits and her martial arts skills, she perseveres.
5. 'Spare Me, Great Lord!', 2021-2024
IMDb Score: 7.4/10
Spare Me, Great Lord! is a captivating donghua from the Chinese animation studio Big Firebird Culture. The title transports viewers to modern-day China, a world in which people with magical powers exist.
Many years ago, Lu Shu's mother abandoned him, leaving only a pendant behind. Years later, while walking with his adopted sister, Lu Shu stops to watch a street magic show. Afterwards, mysterious men kill the magician.
Who are these men, and why are they hunting magicians? Following this incident, Lu Shu discovers his own supernatural abilities and embarks on a perilous journey.
