Introduction
In the vast landscape of manga, there are hidden gems that, despite their rich narratives and captivating storytelling, didn't receive the anime adaptation they truly deserve. Some fell victim to production constraints, while others faced the challenge of adapting intricate plots within limited episodes. In this extensive exploration, we shine a spotlight on manga that, in our humble opinion, deserve a second chance with a rebooted anime adaptation.
1. "Oyasumi Punpun" by Inio Asano
Why manga is great: "Oyasumi Punpun" stands as a testament to Inio Asano's ability to weave raw, emotionally charged narratives. The manga delves into the psyche of its protagonist, Punpun, using a distinctive art style that evolves alongside the character. It explores themes of depression, family, and the search for identity with a depth that is a hallmark of Asano's storytelling.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime adaptation couldn't fully capture the emotional intensity and nuanced character development present in the manga. Punpun's journey, which encompasses both the mundane and the extraordinary, requires a delicate touch that the original anime couldn't quite achieve.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: A reboot could provide the necessary time and attention to explore Punpun's complex character arc and the interconnected relationships in greater detail. Given the depth of the source material, a longer series or multiple seasons would allow for a faithful adaptation, ensuring that the emotional impact of the manga is not diluted.
Which studio is better to reboot this: A studio with a track record of handling mature themes and character-driven narratives, such as MAPPA or Wit Studio, could bring the necessary gravitas to "Oyasumi Punpun." Their ability to balance emotional storytelling with striking visuals would complement the manga's unique tone.
2. "20th Century Boys" by Naoki Urasawa
Why manga is great: Naoki Urasawa's "20th Century Boys" is a masterful blend of mystery, thriller, and social commentary. The intricately woven plot spans multiple generations, exploring the impact of childhood dreams on the course of history. Urasawa's ability to create a suspenseful narrative while delving into complex characters makes the manga a compelling read.
What anime missed or ruined: While there was a live-action adaptation, the original anime left fans longing for a more comprehensive exploration of the manga's intricate plot. The rushed pacing and omission of certain key elements detracted from the storytelling experience.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "20th Century Boys" merits a reboot to fully capture the grandeur of its narrative. A carefully crafted adaptation, with attention to detail and a commitment to covering the entire manga series, would allow fans to experience the story in its entirety.
Which studio is better to reboot this: Production I.G, known for their work on complex narratives such as "Ghost in the Shell" and "Psycho-Pass," could do justice to the intricate storytelling of "20th Century Boys." Their ability to handle layered plots and multifaceted characters aligns with the demands of Urasawa's masterpiece.
3. "Hikaru no Go" by Yumi Hotta and Takeshi Obata
Why manga is great: "Hikaru no Go" combines the strategic depth of the board game Go with a coming-of-age story that explores the passion and dedication required for mastery. The manga skillfully incorporates supernatural elements, making the game of Go a thrilling and emotionally resonant journey.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime adaptation concluded prematurely, leaving the story incomplete. It couldn't fully explore the later arcs of the manga, which delve into the complexities of professional Go and the characters' growth into adulthood.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "Hikaru no Go" deserves a reboot to cover the entirety of its well-crafted narrative. A new adaptation could delve into the challenges faced by the characters as they navigate the competitive world of Go, providing closure to their individual journeys.
Which studio is better to reboot this: To capture the intensity of Go matches and the emotional growth of the characters, a studio with a reputation for sports anime, such as Haikyuu's Production I.G or the meticulous animation of Kyoto Animation, would be a fitting choice.
4. "Claymore" by Norihiro Yagi
Why manga is great: "Claymore" offers a dark and compelling fantasy world where half-human, half-monster warriors battle existential threats. The manga delves into themes of identity, sacrifice, and the consequences of wielding immense power. Norihiro Yagi's detailed art brings the monstrous creatures and intense battles to life.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime adaptation diverged from the manga's storyline, creating an alternate ending that left fans dissatisfied. The omission of key plot points and character arcs diminished the impact of the manga's narrative.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: A reboot could provide a faithful adaptation, following the manga's narrative to its conclusion. The dark and mature themes, coupled with intense action sequences, would benefit from modern animation techniques and a more committed storytelling approach.
Which studio is better to reboot this: Given the dark and gritty nature of "Claymore," a studio with experience in handling mature themes and action, such as Madhouse or Ufotable, would be well-suited to bring this dark fantasy world to life.
5. "Beelzebub" by Ryūhei Tamura
Why manga is great: "Beelzebub" blends humor, action, and supernatural elements in a story where a delinquent high school student, Tatsumi Oga, becomes the adoptive father of the Demon Lord's infant son. Ryūhei Tamura's comedic timing and character dynamics make the manga a delightful read.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime covered only a portion of the manga, ending without adapting key arcs and character developments. The abrupt conclusion left fans wanting more of the hilarious misadventures and battles.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: A reboot could reintroduce the series with a commitment to cover the entirety of the manga. The comedic elements, the growth of characters, and the unique blend of supernatural and school life could be explored in greater detail.
Which studio is better to reboot this: For a series that balances humor and action, a studio with experience in both genres, such as Studio Bones ("My Hero Academia") or Studio Pierrot ("Naruto"), could capture the energy and diversity of "Beelzebub."
6. "Kingdom" by Yasuhisa Hara
Why manga is great: "Kingdom" is a historical epic set in China's Warring States period, following the journey of an orphan, Shin, as he strives to become a great general. Yasuhisa Hara's detailed world-building and intricate battle strategies make the manga a compelling exploration of war and ambition.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime adaptation faced criticism for its CGI animation, which detracted from the immersive quality of the manga's world. Additionally, the limited number of episodes prevented a comprehensive exploration of the manga's extensive narrative.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: A reboot could rectify the animation issues and provide a faithful adaptation of the expansive storyline. With a longer episode count, the complexities of war, politics, and character relationships could be explored in greater detail.
Which studio is better to reboot this: To capture the grand scale of battles and political intrigue, a studio experienced in historical and action anime, such as Wit Studio or Studio MAPPA, could do justice to the sweeping narrative of "Kingdom."
7. "Nana" by Ai Yazawa
Why manga is great: "Nana" is a dramatic tale of two women with the same name who become unlikely roommates and navigate the complexities of love, friendship, and the music industry. Ai Yazawa's mature storytelling and realistic character portrayals elevate the manga into a profound exploration of adult relationships.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime ended abruptly, leaving the story incomplete. The unresolved character arcs and relationships left fans yearning for a conclusion to the emotional journey of the two Nanas.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "Nana" deserves a reboot to provide the closure that the manga offers. With a continuation or an adaptation of the remaining manga chapters, the anime could deliver a satisfying resolution to the emotional arcs of its characters.
Which studio is better to reboot this: For a series that navigates mature themes and complex emotions, a studio with experience in character-driven dramas, such as A-1 Pictures or J.C. Staff, could capture the emotional nuances of "Nana."
8. "Psyren" by Toshiaki Iwashiro
Why manga is great: "Psyren" blends science fiction and action as a group of individuals is transported to a post-apocalyptic world called Psyren. Toshiaki Iwashiro's creative world-building and the exploration of psychic abilities create a thrilling and mysterious narrative.
What anime missed or ruined: The original anime adaptation only covered a fraction of the manga, leaving many questions unanswered. The rushed pacing and lack of a conclusive ending left fans wanting more of the intricate mysteries of Psyren.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "Psyren" deserves a reboot to fully explore the mysteries of its world and provide a comprehensive adaptation. With a longer episode count, the narrative intricacies and character developments could be given the attention they deserve.
Which studio is better to reboot this: A studio experienced in handling science fiction and action, such as Bones ("Cowboy Bebop," "My Hero Academia"), could bring the dynamic and visually engaging elements of "Psyren" to life.
9. "Berserk" by Kentaro Miura
Why manga is great: "Berserk" is a dark fantasy epic that delves into the themes of trauma, destiny, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Kentaro Miura's masterful storytelling and detailed art create a visceral and emotionally charged experience, making it one of the most acclaimed manga of all time.
What anime missed or ruined: While there have been multiple anime adaptations of "Berserk," none have managed to fully capture the depth and brutality of the manga. The use of CGI animation in recent adaptations faced criticism for not doing justice to Miura's intricate and atmospheric art.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "Berserk" deserves a reboot that honors the source material's dark and mature themes. A faithful adaptation, with a commitment to traditional animation methods, could bring the haunting world of Guts and Griffith to life in a way that truly befits the manga's legacy.
Which studio is better to reboot this: Given the mature and dark nature of "Berserk," a studio with a history of handling intense and mature themes, such as Madhouse or Studio MAPPA, would be well-suited to tackle the complexities of Miura's work.
10. "Tokyo Ghoul" by Sui Ishida
Why manga is great: "Tokyo Ghoul" is a gripping exploration of identity, morality, and the thin line between humans and ghouls—entities that consume human flesh. Sui Ishida's narrative weaves psychological horror with profound character development, creating a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is chilling.
What anime missed or ruined: The anime adaptation faced criticism for rushing through the source material, leading to omitted character arcs and critical plot points. The pacing issues and changes to the narrative left fans divided and desiring a more faithful representation of the manga.
Why it Deserves a Reboot: "Tokyo Ghoul" deserves a reboot to provide a more faithful and comprehensive adaptation of Ishida's work. A reboot could delve deeper into the psychological struggles of Kaneki and the complex relationships between ghouls and humans.
Which studio is better to reboot this: A studio with experience in handling dark fantasy and horror, such as Wit Studio or Ufotable, could bring the haunting atmosphere and emotional depth of "Tokyo Ghoul" to the screen in a way that aligns with the manga's impact.
Conclusion
These ten manga, each unique in its storytelling and genre, deserve a second chance to shine on the small screen. A rebooted anime adaptation could not only bring these stories to a wider audience but also rectify past shortcomings, ensuring that the essence and depth of the original manga are faithfully captured. As fans, we can only hope that these hidden gems get the attention they truly deserve in the world of anime adaptations.