Summary
Mo Dao Zu Shi,or as it’s more commonly called,The Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation, is a manhua based on a danmei novel by the talented Chinese author, Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. The popularity of Mo Xiang Tong Xiu’s work is quite impressive, because not only does the novel feature the aforementioned manhua, but it also boasts a donghua and alive-action adaptation,The Untamed. In fact, that’s more than most danmei novels can say in a heavily censored place like China.
In Mo Dao Zu Shi, readers meet Wei Wuxian, a brilliant yet controversial Cultivator known for his knack for forbidden practices — though not by his own design — which sends him spiraling towards a tragic end as theFounder of Demonic Cultivation. Thirteen years later, he comes back to life in the body of Mo Xuanyu, more than ready for a life of tranquility after his previously chaotic life. But fate has a twist in store — serendipitous, though he’s blissfully unaware of that — when he runs into Lan Wangji, his old frenemy.
With that in mind, here are thefivebest manhuathat evoke the same charm and intrigue asMo Dao Zu Shi.
2021
Genre
Action, Xianxia, BL, Fantasy
For those on the hunt for a read that dives into complex, emotionally charged relationships, all set against a backdrop of intrigue, magic, and martial arts,The Husky and His White Cat Shizunis definitely worth checking out. It expertly packs in all the goodies that madeMo Dao Zu Shia titillating sensation — xianxia,BL, heart-pounding action, rebirth, second chances, and, of course,a dark romance.
InThe Husky and His White Cat Shizun, Mo Ran gets a do-over after his first life as the merciless Taxian Jun, a tyrant with a laundry list of crimes. After his rebirth, Mo Ran finds himself back in his younger body, weighed down by the guilt and trauma of his past actions. Just like Wei Wuxian’s second shot at life, this opportunity lets Mo Ran sort through his feelings, mend fences, and find redemption, all while juggling the intricate and sometimes tricky relationship he has with his mentor, Chu Wanning.
Their relationship may not echo that of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji to the letter, but the emotional tension, angst-riddled pining, and miscommunication are equally captivating, with the same emotional depth and redemption arc that’s seen Wei Wuxian’s and Lan Wangji’s relationship bloom inMo Dao Zu Shi.
2019
Comedy, Wuxia, BL, Action, Transmigration
Scumbag Systemis yet another fantastic work from the author ofMo Dao Zu Shi,Mo Xiang Tong Xiu. Based on the danmei novel,The Scum Villain’s Self-Saving System, this manhua is set in the contemporary backdrop of a hilariousisekai-style transmigration, yet it still gives a nod to the cherishedMo Dao Zu Shiwith a delightful mix of the fresh and the familiar, making it a must-read for genre enthusiasts.
This manhua introduces Shen Yuan, a guy who accidentally transmigrates into a web novel he kind of hates and, voilà; he’s now the villain of the story, Shen Qingqiu. Now, he’s got the monumental job of reshaping his grisly fate and…well, avoid getting murdered by his student, Luo Binghe, like the original Shen Qingqiu was.
Fans will feel right at home withScumbag System’srich, wuxia-inspired storytelling, a sprinkle of BL, and a fun mix of action and comedy that keeps the thrills coming. While this manhua might feel a tad different fromMo Dao Zu Shi,the theme of redemption, and personal growth really shines through in a way that is similar to the transformative journeys of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji.
Unfortunately, the official manhua adaptation has hit a bit of a snag due to some drama between the controversial artist and the fandom. Luckily, the vibrant fan community ofThe Scum Villain’s Self-Saving Systemhas kept the spirit of this story alive with their own unofficial manhua on WEBTOON that’s as good, if not better, than its official counterpart.
2022
Wuxia, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
The Land of Miracles Unparalleled Beadis a manhua that is somehow enticingly reminiscent ofMo Dao Zu Shi,yet has its own distinct narrative style and flair that makes it outstanding in its own right. It comes with a heart-pounding adventure set in Ancient China, packed with mighty artifacts, fierce battles, and an unbreakable connection between the two leads — everything thatMo Dao Zu Shienthusiasts can’t get enough of.
It revolves around Jin Zhu and Bai Tian, two lively teens from opposite ends of the globe. They cross paths when they accidentally find the Peerless Bead, a true gem among the legendary Seven Divine Artifacts. This amazing discovery gives them the incredible power of symbiosis, paving the way for an adventure unlike any other.
Much like the Stygian Tiger Amulet fromMo Dao Zu Shi, the Peerless Bead is a coveted gem for the dark forces itching to unleash chaos by gathering all seven artifacts. In a never-ending game of cat and mouse, Jin Zhu and Bai Tian daringly go up against demons hunting for the Seven Divine Artifacts, and their partnership grows stronger, bringing to mind the legendary team that Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji make.
WhileThe Land of Miracles Unparalleled Beadmay not fit theclassic BL model, the rock-solid friendship between Jin Zhu and Bai Tian is brimming with emotional depth, rooted in trust, and sprinkled with a generous dose of mutual respect, much like what fans see inMo Dao Zu Shi.
2020
Action, Shounen-ai, BL, Fantasy, Historical
Dinghai Fusheng Recordsdives into themes of redemption, unlikely partnerships, and battles against formidable evil, drawing some intriguing parallels withMo Dao Zu Shi.The story mainly focuses on the teamwork between Chen Xing and Xiang Shu, much like the dynamic between Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji. Chen Xing, the last Great Exorcist, has a mission: stop the demonic Mara from making a comeback. Simple, right? Well, just one problem.
He has to do it with his Protector, Xiang Shu, a death row convict accused of killing thousands — though he insists he’s innocent. This brings to mind the tragic story of Wei Wuxian, who got the short end of the stick, falsely accused of intentionally dabbling in demonic cultivation, and pinned for a string of murders, leading to his ultimate downfall.
Therefore, it may be said that both manhua featureunconventional heroeswho find themselves misunderstood and hunted by the very society they’re trying to protect. Xiang Shu can’t shake off his haunting past, even though he’s innocent, while Wei Wuxian’s rebellious foray into forbidden cultivation has left him on the outside looking in. Their journeys highlight themes of justice and atonement, where these individuals face not just external challenges but also the judgment of society.
Dinghai FushengRecords, much likeMo Dao Zu Shi,combines wuxia principles, intrigue, adventure, and heartfelt moments as the two men race against time to bare their true selves to each other and avert disaster for their world, just like Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji do throughout their manhua.
Xianxia, BL, Drama, Action
Heaven’s Official Blessingis one of the most popular manua ever, making it a must-read for any fan ofMo Dao Zu Shi.Based on the danemi novel by Mo Xiang Tong Xiu, it explores themes and emotions reminiscent ofMo Dao Zu Shi, especially in its portrayal of enduring love and sacrifice.
Just like the author’s previous works, this manhua dives into the chaos of the cultivation world, xianxia, and, of course, tantalizing romance. Xie Lian, diety and former Crown Prince, is in quite a jam with Heaven in the manhua, getting banished over and over. This brings to mind the kinds of challenges and backlash Wei Wuxian had to face inMo Dao Zu Shi. Both characters are burdened by their pasts and the judgment of others, yet they find solace in the beautiful connections they have with their partners — the Ghost King, Hua Cheng for Xie Lian, and Lan Wangji for Wei Wuxian.
Just as Lan Wangji waits for Wei Wuxian in the hope that he might still be alive while knowing he might never return, Hua Cheng’s steadfast love and unwavering devotion to Xie Lian proves that true love transcends time and societal expectations.
