The closest Japanese shows to Squid Game are Alice in Borderland , As the Gods Will , and Liar Game. They all share the same survival- game tension, high stakes, and desperate “win or die” energy that people usually want after Squid Game.

Best Japanese picks

  • Alice in Borderland — probably the best overall match if you want modern Netflix-style survival games and intense psychological pressure.
  • As the Gods Will — the most directly game-based, with deadly childhood-style games and a darker horror edge.
  • Liar Game — less gore, more mind games, manipulation, and debt-driven tension.
  • Battle Royale — not a series, but it is one of the biggest Japanese survival-game classics and a major influence in the genre.
  • Kakegurui — if you want ruthless competition and psychological intensity, though it is more casino-style than survival-style.

Easiest watch order

  1. Alice in Borderland.
  2. As the Gods Will.
  3. Liar Game.
  4. Battle Royale.
  5. Kakegurui.

Quick pick by mood

  • Want the most similar overall: Alice in Borderland.
  • Want the most brutal classic: Battle Royale.
  • Want puzzle and strategy: Liar Game.
  • Want creepy game-horror: As the Gods Will.

TL;DR

If you want one Japanese title that feels most like Squid Game , start with Alice in Borderland. If you want the original cult-style survival vibe, go for Battle Royale.