Amid the events of 2020, marked by face masks and isolation, “Rent a Girlfriend” emerged as a refreshing addition. As the first season concluded, many fans are left wondering if there are similar shows that capture the essence of “Rent a Girlfriend.” The answer is a resounding yes!

In curating this list, we’ve considered three key aspects. First, the endearing nature of the characters, their ability to shine even in challenging circumstances. Second, the presence of fake relationships. And finally, the inclusion of a harem, where multiple female characters are drawn to a single male protagonist. With these criteria in mind, here are three anime series akin to “Rent a Girlfriend.”
Nisekoi: False Love
Without a doubt, “Nisekoi” requires no formal introduction. In fact, Chitoge Ichijō from “Nisekoi” stands shoulder to shoulder with Chizuru in the realm of cuteness. Some dedicated fans have even drawn comparisons, suggesting that if you were to amalgamate all the qualities of the female characters from “Rent a Girlfriend,” the result would closely resemble Chitoge Ichijō. Their observation holds merit.
“Nisekoi: False Love” follows the narrative of Raku Ichijou, a character entangled in a fake relationship with Chitoge Kirisaki. This artificial connection arises from the peculiar circumstances of their respective families, establishing a thematic similarity with “Rent a Girlfriend.” Furthermore, “Nisekoi: False Love” shares another parallel with its counterpart—female characters who bear a striking physical resemblance to one another.
Wolf Girl & Black Prince
In essence, this series might appear somewhat twisted at its core, but the creators skillfully veil its complexities. “Wolf Girl & Black Prince” revolves around its main character, Shinohara Erika, an average high school girl who, unlike her friends, lacks a boyfriend. Faced with mockery from her peers, Shinohara’s high school pride compels her to snap a random photo of an unfamiliar guy on a random street, intending to use him as a scapegoat.
However, her scheme takes an unexpected turn when she discovers that the guy in the photo is, in fact, a fellow student at her school. To maintain this charade, Shinohara implores Sata Kyouya, the student in question, to pretend to be her boyfriend. Sata agrees to this facade but with a peculiar condition—he demands that Shinohara becomes his “pet.”
Setting aside the peculiar pet aspect, the show shares a common thread with “Rent a Girlfriend.” In both series, the primary cast engages in fake relationships driven by the need to uphold their self-esteem and navigate the complex world of cunning high school desires.
Koi to Uso
Set in a futuristic Japan, “Koi to Uso” presents a world where government-mandated rules compel citizens to marry their supposed perfect match at the tender age of 16, enforced by the formidable “Red Threads Of Science” program. Yukari Nejima, the protagonist, harbors a deep crush on his childhood friend, Misaki Takasaki, but the program intervenes, assigning him a new wife, Ririna Sanada.
Ririna, however, takes a different approach. She endeavors to assist Yukari in winning Misaki’s heart, driven by her belief in true love. Along the way, Ririna herself falls for Yukari, resulting in a tangle of emotions and a tangled web of lies. The anime delves into the complexities of fake relationships, constant deceit, and features a cast of beautiful anime girls, making it akin to “Rent a Girlfriend.” If you’re seeking more charming characters after Mizuhara, “Koi to Uso” offers a dreamland of waifus.
Conclusion
“Rent a Girlfriend” made a significant impact in the world of romance anime, captivating audiences with its compelling storyline. The series continues to engage fans with fresh artworks and chapters, leaving them eagerly anticipating a new season. The Rent a Girlfriend community fervently hopes that Reiji Miyajima, the creator, will heed their calls for a second season. They are particularly curious to see if Mizuhara’s feelings for Kazuya evolve or if it’s merely a plot twist. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting journey.




