If you loved the thrilling, high-stakes survival drama of Netflix’s hit series “Squid Game”, you’re likely looking for similar shows to fill the void. Fortunately, plenty of other gripping, twisted shows explore themes of class, morality, and the dark side of human nature through deadly games and competitions.
Here are 9 shows to watch next if you’re craving more “Squid Game”-esque entertainment:
1. Alice in Borderland (2020-)
This Japanese sci-fi thriller follows a group of young people forced to compete in a series of deadly games in a deserted Tokyo. Like “Squid Game”, it features gory challenges, high stakes, and a commentary on society.
2. Liar Game (2014-2015)
Based on a popular manga, this Korean drama centers around a woman who gets caught up in a dangerous game show where contestants can win huge sums of money, but also risk losing everything. It explores themes of deception and moral dilemmas.
3. As the Gods Will (2014)
This Japanese horror film, which “Squid Game” director Hwang Dong-hyuk has acknowledged as an influence, features schoolchildren forced to play twisted versions of childhood games with deadly consequences.
4. Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor (2007-2011)
In this long-running Japanese anime series, a man in debt is coerced into competing in high-stakes gambling games. It’s a classic of the “death game” genre that “Squid Game” draws from.
5. Danganronpa (2010-2021)
Across multiple anime, manga and video game adaptations, this franchise centers on students forced to participate in a “killing game” where they must murder each other to survive. It has a similar mix of dark humor, mystery and social commentary as “Squid Game”.
6. As the Gods Will (2014)
This Japanese horror film, which “Squid Game” director Hwang Dong-hyuk has acknowledged as an influence, features schoolchildren forced to play twisted versions of childhood games with deadly consequences.
7. Mirai Nikki (Future Diary) (2011-2013)
In this anime series, 12 people with special diaries that can predict the future are forced to compete in a battle royale to determine the next god. It blends survival horror with supernatural elements.
8. Gantz (2004-2013)
Another classic of the “death game” genre, this manga and anime follows people who are resurrected after their deaths and forced to compete in dangerous missions. It’s known for its graphic violence and dark themes.
9. Cube (1997)
This cult classic Canadian sci-fi film is one of the earliest examples of the “deadly game” premise. It features a group of strangers trapped in a maze-like series of cube-shaped rooms, some of which are booby-trapped. Like “Squid Game”, it’s a taut, psychological thriller.
So if you’re looking for more shows with the same blend of thrills, social commentary, and shocking twists as “Squid Game”, be sure to check out these other twisted tales of survival and the dark side of human nature. Just be prepared for some graphic violence and morally ambiguous characters along the way.
