1. "Attack on Titan: No Regrets"

Original Series: Attack on Titan
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
"Attack on Titan: No Regrets" focuses on one of the most beloved characters from Attack on Titan: Levi Ackerman. This spin-off explores Levi's origins and the events that led him to become the elite soldier fans know and love. While the main series focuses on the larger war between humanity and the Titans, No Regrets dives deeper into Levi's personal journey, his relationship with Erwin Smith, and the emotional struggles that shaped him. Many fans appreciate the character development and backstory in this spin-off, which gave new depth to the larger Attack on Titan universe.

2. "Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya"

Original Series: Fate/stay night
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
The Fate franchise is known for its complex narratives and intense battles, but Fate/kaleid liner Prisma☆Illya offers a refreshing twist. This spin-off focuses on Illya, a supporting character in Fate/stay night, and reimagines her in a magical girl setting. While it retains some of the core elements of the original series—such as the Holy Grail War—it introduces a lighter tone, more humor, and a distinct magical girl aesthetic. The spin-off gained popularity for its ability to stand on its own while providing a different flavor to the Fate universe, appealing to both existing fans and new viewers.

3. "A Certain Scientific Railgun"

Original Series: A Certain Magical Index
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
While A Certain Magical Index was popular in its own right, its spin-off, A Certain Scientific Railgun, managed to surpass it in terms of critical reception and fan admiration. Railgun shifts the focus to Misaka Mikoto, a beloved character from the original series, and delves into her life and abilities. Unlike Index, which combines magic and science, Railgun stays primarily within the realm of science and technology, offering a more focused and cohesive narrative. The spin-off also provides better character development, emotional depth, and a more balanced mix of action and slice-of-life moments, making it a standout in its own right.

4. "Boruto: Naruto Next Generations"

Original Series: Naruto
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
While Naruto is undoubtedly a legendary series with a massive fanbase, its spin-off, Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, surprised many by offering fresh takes on themes introduced in the original. Boruto follows Naruto's son, Boruto Uzumaki, and his journey in a world that has changed since the events of Naruto. The spin-off excels by showcasing a new generation of ninjas while exploring the consequences of peace and technological advancement. With more advanced animation, unique new characters, and thoughtful exploration of generational gaps, Boruto has carved out its own identity, earning a dedicated following that goes beyond nostalgia.

5. "The Disappearance of Nagato Yuki-chan"

Original Series: The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya was a groundbreaking anime in many ways, known for its non-linear storytelling and eccentric characters. However, its spin-off, The Disappearance of Nagato Yuki-chan, takes a different approach by focusing on a more grounded, alternate reality version of Yuki Nagato. This version of Yuki is shy and awkward, unlike the stoic and mysterious character in the original. The spin-off explores Yuki’s developing romantic feelings and her interactions with her friends, delivering a heartwarming and touching narrative. For fans of the original series who wanted to see more personal and emotional development, Nagato Yuki-chan offered something new and satisfying, earning praise for its character-driven storytelling.

6. "Dragon Ball Z"

Original Series: Dragon Ball
Why the Spin-off Surpassed It:
Though Dragon Ball laid the foundation for what would become one of the most successful anime franchises ever, Dragon Ball Z took the series to entirely new heights. Dragon Ball Z builds on the adventures of Goku as he transitions from a young martial artist to a defender of Earth, facing ever-stronger foes. With its introduction of iconic characters like Vegeta, Frieza, and the Super Saiyan transformation, Dragon Ball Z elevated the stakes and became a cultural phenomenon worldwide. The action sequences, intense battles, and epic story arcs made it a legend in the anime world, far surpassing the original in terms of popularity and influence.

Conclusion

While original series often capture fans' attention first, these anime spin-offs prove that sometimes, the continuation or reimagining of a story can shine even brighter. By focusing on new characters, expanding on existing lore, or offering fresh perspectives, these spin-offs went above and beyond, establishing themselves as standout works in their respective franchises.