15 Shows Like ‘Alice in Borderland’ to Watch Next

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The Japanese Netflix series titled “Alice in Borderland” has just wrapped up its second season, with the third slated for 2025. This intriguing show revolves around a band of individuals who find themselves in an alternate reality, participating in a life-or-death game. The series, which combines elements of science fiction and mystery, was initially introduced in 2020 and garnered a significant following due to its resemblance to “Alice in Wonderland” and its intricate storyline and compelling characters.

As a fellow fan who’s just wrapped up the latest season, I bet you’re craving more action-packed adventures! If you’re on the hunt for another captivating Japanese series or something with comparable backdrops or alternate realities, don’t worry – there’s no shortage of shows to keep you entertained next.

Shows such as “The Silent Sea,” “Dark,” “Kingdom,” and “12 Monkeys” offer storylines similar to that of “Alice in Borderland.” They combine elements of mystery and thriller, with “The Purge” TV series standing out as particularly chilling, even surpassing its film counterparts. Other series like “The Peripheral” and “Panic” also deliver the excitement you might be seeking. Lastly, “Sweet Home” and “All of Us Are Dead,” which have demonstrated that they are more than just standard zombie shows, make excellent alternatives for viewing.

Here’s a list of 15 shows like Alice in Borderland for you to watch next.

15
‘The Uncanny Counter’ (2020 – 2021)

In the vibrant, fictitious city of Jungjin, The Uncanny Counter unfolds as we follow a seemingly ordinary group of noodle shop workers. However, these individuals have hidden talents – they are “Counters,” tasked with tracking down and vanquishing malevolent spirits that have slipped from the afterlife to reassert their presence in our world. The narrative primarily focuses on So Mun, a high school student whose life takes an unexpected turn after a fateful accident, leading him to become part of this extraordinary team.

Supernatural Thrills Behind the Counter

The Uncanny Counter skillfully combines action, enigma, wit, and folklore, making it an ideal choice for fans of Alice in Borderland, a K-drama that revolves around supernatural crime-solving. Similar to the Netflix series, this show maintains an engaging pace and features breathtaking fight scenes, along with numerous life-threatening situations that keep viewers on tenterhooks from beginning to end.

14
‘Stranger Things’ (2016 – Present)

In 2016, the series Stranger Things made its debut on Netflix and quickly became a popular choice for viewers. Set in the ’80s, in the quaint town of Hawkins, Indiana, the storyline opens with the mysterious disappearance of Will Byers, a young boy. As his mother, Joyce, local law enforcement, and friends embark on a search to find him, they cross paths with Eleven, a young girl who has managed to escape from a clandestine government facility. The deeper they delve into the mystery, the stronger the sense of another dimension, called the Upside Down, becomes.

Nostalgic Trip Into Supernatural Mysteries

Stranger Things, produced by the Duffer Brothers, gained immense popularity due to its unique blend of ’80s nostalgia and pop culture with science fiction and supernatural horror elements. The series has been widely acclaimed for its thrilling narrative and tense situations that put the characters in dire straits, pushing them to confront the unknown using their intelligence and adaptability. Reminiscent of Alice in Borderland’s suspenseful and intriguing nature, it makes an excellent pairing.

13
‘My Name’ (2021)

Title Translation: Ji-Woo’s Revenge

This gripping series delves deep into the dark underworld of Seoul, as our protagonist, Ji-woo, witnesses the cold-blooded murder of her father. Fueled by a burning desire for vengeance, she infiltrates the ruthless drug cartel behind her father’s death, gradually climbing the ranks and gaining the trust of its leader, who then trains her to be his secret weapon. As Ji-woo navigates the treacherous waters of crime and justice, she encounters more foes and betrayals than she can count.

Dark Journey of Revenge

One compelling and intense Korean thriller, titled “My Name“, was skillfully directed by Kim Jin-min. This visually stunning production is brimming with deeply emotional character dramas and action sequences that are meticulously designed. Han So-hee delivers a mesmerizing portrayal as Ji-woo, a character who finds herself in life-threatening circumstances, forcing her to stretch the limits of her own moral compass. The series’ vibrant neon atmosphere and unexpected plot twists make it an enthralling viewing experience that should not be missed.

12
‘The Purge’ (2018 – 2019)

Back in 2013, the chilling horror franchise known as “The Purge” made its debut, and now, I’ve got to say, I’m beyond excited that it’s been adapted into a TV series! USA Network has snatched up the rights, and this new venture delves into the same dystopian future America we know from the movies. The storyline revolves around ordinary people trying to survive during the annual 12-hour period where all crimes, even murder, are legal. It’s a nerve-wracking journey that pushes these characters to confront their deepest fears.

Gritty and Visceral

From 2018 to 2019, the TV adaptation of “The Purge” spanned over 20 episodes, which are now available for streaming on Hulu. Similar in theme to “Alice in Borderland,” this series delves into how characters respond when faced with insurmountable challenges. With a raw and suspenseful storyline, it also offers insightful socio-political commentary that resonates deeply.

11
‘Wayward Pines’ (2015 – 2016)

As a dedicated fan, I’m thrilled to share that you can now stream the engrossing Fox original series “Wayward Pines” on Hulu. In 2015, this two-season show unfolded a captivating tale about a Secret Service agent venturing into the seemingly idyllic town of Wayward Pines, Idaho, in pursuit of two missing federal agents. However, his stay quickly turned into a struggle to escape the picturesque town that seemed intent on trapping him forever. The series is an adaptation from the novel series penned by Blake Crouch.

Canceled Before Its Time

Immersion in a distorted, dark future landscape offering no apparent exit can be truly alarming, but it’s this very portrayal that makes “Wayward Pines” stand out. Characters like Ethan Burke find themselves entangled in a challenging situation where their only means of escape lies in unraveling a mystery and confronting an impending menace. The unsettling atmosphere combined with a skilled cast gives the series a unique, indelible place on the list. This is reminiscent of characters from “Alice in Borderland,” who also find themselves trapped in complex circumstances.

10
‘Panic’ (2021)

In 2021, “Panic” was a suspenseful television show available on Prime Video, spanning just one season. This series takes place in the tranquil Texan town of Carp, where an intriguing competition is held for high school graduates. The contest offers the opportunity to win substantial funds that could significantly alter their lives. However, the players are pushed to confront their most profound fears within this demanding and perilous game.

Youth and Desperation

The show “Panic” echoes the nail-biting intensity and high-risk premise of “Alice in Borderland.” In both series, the young protagonist finds themselves caught in a lethal game where the penalties for losing are terrifying. However, what makes “Panic” unique is its urgent atmosphere and the characters’ yearning for a brighter future. Penned by Lauren Oliver from her own novel, this series garnered varying reviews, but its 10 episodes make it perfect for an engrossing weekend binge.

9
‘The Peripheral’ (2022 – Present)

Titled The Peripheral, this Prime Video original series unfolds in a future where technology shapes society dramatically. In a humble town, a young woman finds an escape from her hardships through beta testing virtual games created by a friend. A particular game she plays opens up an alternate reality that could potentially endanger her and her loved ones. The 2022 sci-fi thriller is an adaptation of the novel with the same title by William Gibson.

Sci-Fi Thriller With Unexpected Twists

Science fiction/dystopian thrillers have an engaging quality. The intrigue is keen, with unexpected plot twists that captivate viewers right from the start. This series introduces a strange world full of hazards where the laws of nature seem to change frequently. The skillful direction, combined with mystery elements and social commentary, as well as top-notch production values, make it highly recommended viewing. The Peripheral was renewed for a second season, but its continuation was put on hold due to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike and the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike.

8
‘The Silent Sea’ (2021)

This narrative unfolds in a bleak, resource-depleted future Earth transformed into a barren wasteland. The story revolves around a brave crew of astronauts embarking on a perilous journey to an abandoned lunar outpost. Their objective is the retrieval of a secretive specimen, which may hold the key to averting further catastrophe and restoring hope for humanity’s survival.

K-Drama Steeped in Lunar Mysteries

The Silent Sea, a 2021 Netflix original series from South Korea, has garnered acclaim for its stunning visual effects, clever CGI integration, and eerie storyline. Despite not generating as much buzz as other South Korean shows on this list, it’s definitely worth watching in one sitting. With just eight episodes, it makes an ideal choice for a weekend binge-watching session, offering an exciting adventure to enjoy.

7
‘Dark’ (2017 – 2020)

A captivating German series titled “Dark” was streamed on Netflix for three seasons from 2017 to 2020. This mystery show delves into the supernatural, weaving a tale across various dimensions through the blossoming relationship between its central characters. The narrative commences with their inexplicable vanishing, which triggers a series of occurrences unveiling a tangled web of family mysteries and links to the town’s history.

Mind-Bending Time Travel Story

Dark explores themes of time travel and averted apocalypse, setting it apart from Alice in Borderland, yet both shows share an enigmatic atmosphere infused with supernatural elements. The complex narrative of Dark frequently alters the audience’s understanding of cause and effect, earning critical acclaim. A talented cast, spearheaded by Louis Hofmann and Oliver Masucci, delivers captivating performances. As the first significant German series to appear on streaming platforms, it made a notable impact.

6
‘All of Us Are Dead’ (2022)

A South Korean Netflix series titled “All of Us Are Alive During a Zombie Apocalypse” tells the story of a group of high school students who get caught in the middle of a zombie infestation. In order to make it out alive, they have to unite and battle their way through the epicenter of the outbreak while dealing with their infected classmates. As they journey through the turmoil, these students confront their deepest fears and come face-to-face with the harsh truths of their world.

High-Stakes Zombie Thriller

In July 2022, the initial season of the chilling coming-of-age series set amidst a zombie apocalypse premiered on Netflix. Due to an overwhelming response from viewers, the platform promptly greenlit a follow-up for Season 2. The narrative’s life-threatening scenarios may seem ordinary, but they are powerfully reinforced by intriguing character growth and profound emotional depth. The gripping zombie encounters and breathtaking special effects further intensify the captivating plotline, ensuring viewers remain hooked from start to finish.

5
‘1899’ (2022)

1899, a mixed-language series, is born from the creative genius of Baran bo Odar, who is also its creator, having previously brought us Dark. This captivating series takes place in the late 19th century and revolves around immigrants from various nations embarking on a voyage from Europe to New York in pursuit of a fresh start. However, what initially appears as a straightforward sea journey soon transforms into a terrifying nightmare as it becomes apparent that reality may not be as it seems. A string of unsettling incidents unfolds, ultimately leading the travelers to uncover a sinister conspiracy.

Delves Into The Unknown

1899, which premiered towards the end of 2022, is one of the more contemporary series on this list. Despite Netflix not renewing it for another season, the initial installment earned positive feedback from its audience. It’s highly praised for creating a world that is both aesthetically pleasing and eerie. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an approval rating of 79%, with critics summarizing it as “an enigmatic mystery” offering a “tense adventure.

4
‘Squid Game’ (2021 – 2025)

In simpler terms, the Netflix exclusive show named “Squid Game” gathers individuals struggling financially, who then engage in lethal adaptations of childhood games for an enormous 45.6 billion winnings. One of these characters, Seong Gi-hun, is a divorced dad with a gambling problem, unexpectedly thrust into the competition alongside other contestants, striving to survive.

Not For The Faint Of Heart

Squid Game, a standout series on this list, boasts an impressive six Emmy wins and a second season that earned an 83% Rotten Tomatoes score, making it worth adding to your watchlist if you haven’t seen it yet. The series delves fearlessly into the systemic problems that drive people to extreme actions, while its unexpected plot twists will undoubtedly leave you stunned.

3
‘Sweet Home’ (2020)

Sweet Home focuses on a solitary high school student who is thrust into an alternate world following a devastating family tragedy. In this world, monstrous creatures seek to annihilate mankind. It falls upon this young man to navigate through the terror, face his fears, discover the origins of the catastrophe, and rescue humanity before it’s already doomed.

Delivers Grisly Fun Throughout

Sweet Home shares similarities with Alice in Borderland as they both weave supernatural and horror elements to create an engaging and visually captivating series. The storylines delve into themes of community, self-discovery, and the impact on these characters’ lives and psyches. With actors like Song Kang and Lee Si-young in the ensemble cast, they deliver convincing portrayals of the emotional and psychological struggles their characters face. In essence, it is a hauntingly brilliant production that deserves attention from viewers.

2
‘Kingdom’ (2019 – 2020)

A Netflix original series hailing from South Korea, titled Kingdom, spans over two captivating seasons. This action-drama unfolds around a crown prince who serves as the last beacon of hope for his realm against an enigmatic plague. The narrative is set in the medieval kingdom of Joseon, where an unusual sickness transforms its inhabitants into ravenous zombies. The political climate is fraught with danger, yet the prince must devise a plan to save the kingdom from destruction.

Historical Drama and Zombie Thrills

As a passionate movie reviewer, I must say that “Kingdom” offers an unforgettable blend of zombie-infested action, intense fight scenes, and captivating period drama. This gripping tale unfolds against a backdrop of historical authenticity, where life or death stakes are ever-present. The series meticulously recreates a world steeped in thematic complexity, yet tinged with an underlying disturbance that will leave you riveted. From the breathtaking cinematography to its thoughtfully crafted script, “Kingdom” is a must-watch for any fan of compelling television. With just 12 episodes, it’s the perfect weekend binge-worthy series!

1
’12 Monkeys’ (2015 – 2018)

12 Monkeys, originally airing on Syfy from 2015 to 2018, is a captivating sci-fi mystery series. The story revolves around Cole, a time traveler, who ventures from a post-apocalyptic future into the year 2015 of our present. His objective: find and eliminate the source of a devastating plague that could wipe out humanity. As the timeline continually shifts, Cole encounters the repercussions of his personal decisions, making for an intriguing watch.

Time, Fate, and Survival Intertwine

12 Monkeys, the series, explores concepts of time and space that challenge our understanding, much like its 1995 movie counterpart featuring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt. Now, this new version stars Aaron Stanford and Amanda Schull, offering compelling performances within a storyline brimming with surprising turns and disclosures. With stunning visuals and an ending that leaves viewers satisfied, it’s a recommended watch for fans of Alice in Borderland.

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2025-04-21 03:38