The global phenomenon of “Squid Game” left viewers on the edge of their seats with its high-stakes games, compelling characters, and sharp social commentary. If you’re one of the many fans eagerly awaiting the next season or simply looking for similar shows to scratch that survival-thriller itch, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of 15 shows and movies that echo the themes, intensity, and drama of “Squid Game.”
1. Alice in Borderland
This Japanese Netflix series is a must-watch for “Squid Game” fans. It follows Arisu, a video game enthusiast, who suddenly finds himself in a deserted Tokyo alongside his friends. To survive, they must participate in life-threatening games where logic, strategy, and teamwork are key. Much like “Squid Game,” the games are brutal, and the show explores the darker sides of human nature, friendships, and morality.
2. Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor
An anime precursor to many survival game dramas, “Kaiji: Ultimate Survivor” centers on Kaiji Itou, a man with crippling debts. He’s lured into a series of high-stakes gambling games where losing has deadly consequences. The psychological intensity and moral dilemmas faced by Kaiji mirror the emotional depth of “Squid Game,” making this series a compelling choice.
3. The 8 Show
Released in 2024, this South Korean thriller takes eight contestants and places them in a shared living space. Each contestant resides on a different floor, and the longer they stay, the more money they earn. However, as secrets about the game’s true nature come to light, alliances are tested, and the psychological tension builds. The layered storytelling and moral quandaries will resonate deeply with fans of “Squid Game.”
4. Hellbound
In this supernatural thriller, mysterious entities begin appearing in Seoul, condemning people to hell. These occurrences ignite societal chaos and give rise to a cult. “Hellbound” shares “Squid Game’s” knack for exploring morality and societal breakdown, while adding a layer of horror and spiritual intrigue. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho of “Train to Busan,” this show is a thought-provoking exploration of human behavior under extreme pressure.
5. All of Us Are Dead
This South Korean zombie thriller follows a group of high school students who must band together to survive a virus outbreak that turns their classmates into zombies. While it’s not centered around games, the survival aspect, combined with themes of sacrifice, group dynamics, and societal collapse, makes it a natural pick for fans of “Squid Game.” Its intense action sequences and character-driven storytelling make it unmissable.
6. Sweet Home
“Sweet Home” takes a supernatural turn, following a group of apartment residents as they battle against monsters that are physical manifestations of their deepest desires and fears. Like “Squid Game,” it explores human nature under stress, focusing on how people cope when pushed to their limits. The visually stunning monster designs and dark themes will keep you hooked.
7. 3%
Set in a dystopian future, this Brazilian Netflix series depicts a world divided by wealth. Young adults are given a chance to escape poverty by competing in “The Process,” a series of intense challenges that test their intelligence, morality, and survival instincts. Only 3% of participants succeed, making the stakes as high as those in “Squid Game.” The show’s exploration of class disparity and moral dilemmas aligns closely with the themes that made “Squid Game” so compelling.
8. Battle Royale
Often regarded as the blueprint for survival game narratives, this 2000 Japanese film throws a group of high school students onto a deserted island where they’re forced to kill each other until only one remains. The intense violence, ethical questions, and psychological battles make “Battle Royale” an essential watch for fans of “Squid Game.”
9. Physical: 100
This reality competition show from South Korea pits 100 of the country’s most physically fit individuals against each other in a series of grueling challenges. While it lacks the life-and-death stakes of “Squid Game,” the physical intensity and competitive spirit are just as captivating. The diversity of the contestants, including MMA fighters, military personnel, and bodybuilders, adds an interesting layer to the show.
10. Liar Game
In this Japanese drama, contestants are thrust into a high-stakes psychological game where deception and manipulation are key to winning. The protagonist, Nao Kanzaki, is an honest woman who must navigate a world of liars and con artists. With its focus on strategy and moral dilemmas, “Liar Game” offers a cerebral experience akin to “Squid Game.”
11. The Purge
Based on the popular film franchise, this series explores a dystopian America where all crime, including murder, is legal for one night each year. While it doesn’t feature structured games, it delves into societal decay, class struggles, and the human capacity for violence—themes that will resonate with “Squid Game” fans.
12. Strangers from Hell
This South Korean psychological thriller follows Yoon Jong-woo, a young man who moves into a creepy, rundown apartment complex. As he interacts with his bizarre and unsettling neighbors, he becomes entangled in a nightmarish scenario. The claustrophobic setting and exploration of human depravity echo the intense atmosphere of “Squid Game.”
13. Black Mirror
While “Black Mirror” is an anthology series, episodes like “Fifteen Million Merits” and “White Bear” align closely with the themes of “Squid Game.” These episodes explore dystopian worlds where individuals must endure dehumanizing systems for survival or entertainment. The show’s focus on technology and societal critique makes it a natural follow-up.
14. Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
This Spanish series follows a group of robbers led by “The Professor” as they execute intricate heists on the Royal Mint and Bank of Spain. While the stakes differ from “Squid Game,” both shows delve into class disparity, human resilience, and group dynamics. The iconic red jumpsuits and masks also bear a striking resemblance to “Squid Game’s” aesthetic.
15. Escape Room
This American series takes the concept of escape rooms to deadly extremes, with participants solving puzzles to avoid gruesome deaths. While less nuanced than “Squid Game,” the high-stakes tension and creative challenges make it an entertaining watch for fans of the genre.
Each of these shows and films captures elements of what made “Squid Game” a cultural phenomenon—whether it’s the high-stakes survival, social commentary, or exploration of human nature under extreme conditions. Whether you’re in the mood for psychological thrillers, dystopian dramas, or intense action, these recommendations will keep you entertained until the next season of “Squid Game” arrives. Happy watching!