The phenomenon of successful manga naturally leading to anime adaptations has become a staple in the world of entertainment. Fans eagerly anticipate adaptations as they bridge the gap between two beloved formats, bolstering both creators’ reach and viewers’ enjoyment. However, the pathway from manga to anime is not as straightforward as it may seem.
While a long-running manga often hints at a potential anime adaptation, success is not guaranteed. Many titles, whether short or lengthy, have received critical acclaim and commercial success yet remain untouched by the anime industry. This is particularly perplexing given the exceptional quality of certain works, leaving fans to wonder why these standout manga have not yet been brought to life through animation.
10. The Bugle Call: Song of War
Manga by Mozuku Sora & Higoro Toumori; serialized in Jump Square since 2022
This captivating series centers on Luca, the bugler for a mercenary company, who possesses the unique ability to turn his music into light. Luca’s journey begins when the enigmatic Pontiff recruits him to join an army of individuals similarly gifted, tasked with vanquishing the formidable Garland. The stakes escalate as Luca’s ambition to become a genuine musician intertwines with perilous challenges.
Despite being a newcomer, The Bugle Call: Song of War has already made waves within the Shonen Jump lineup, thanks to its rich world-building and progressively sophisticated fight choreography. The manga is set to release in English in 2025, leaving fans hopeful for a subsequent anime adaptation.
9. Rose Garden Saga
Manga by Fujisakimori & Bakotsu Tonooka; Serialized on Comiplex since 2020
Set in a universe where myths reign supreme, Rosen Garten Saga brings to life the story of Lynn, an ostracized villager saved from destruction by the legendary Siegfried’s possession. The narrative takes a risqué turn with humor and adventure as Lynn aims to win the affections of the statuesque warrior Brunhilde amidst chaotic circumstances.
The manga’s explicit content is complemented by striking visuals and creative combat scenes, drawing parallels with successful manga adaptations like Gushing Over Magical Girls. The hope remains that Rosen Garten Saga will one day follow the same route.
8. Goodbye, Eri
Manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto; serialized in Shonen Jump+ in 2022
Tatsuki Fujimoto, known for his hit series Chainsaw Man, delivers a poignant narrative in Goodbye, Eri. The story follows Yuta Ito, an aspiring filmmaker who captures his terminally ill mother’s last days on film. His work faces skepticism, yet it inspires a girl named Eri, who helps him refine his skills amidst her own hidden struggles.
While it may lack the nuanced emotional exploration found in Ninmura’s previous work, Goodbye, Eri employs a cinematic flair that invites comparisons to cinematic adaptations, especially given the recent success of the Look Back film. This raises the possibility of a future anime adaptation becoming a reality.
7. Animal Land
Manga by Makoto Raiku; serialized in Bessatsu Shonen Magazine 2009-2014
In Animal Land, we explore a world inhabited solely by animals, where survival is an unyielding challenge. The story follows a young tanuki named Monoko, who adopts a mysterious human infant, Taroza, whose quest for identity could hold the key to altering the brutal realities around them.
Though Zatch Bell! remains Raiku’s most famous creation, Animal Land is an unsung gem featuring compelling characters and mature narratives. Recent upticks in Raiku’s recognition could pave the way for an anime adaptation of this outstanding title.
6. Pokémon Adventures
Manga by Hidenori Kusaka & Satoshi Yamamoto; serialized since 1997
Pokémon Adventures offers a fresh take on the legendary Pokémon franchise, delving deeper into its lore and characters. This manga enriches the narratives from various Pokémon games, fleshing out the heroes and villains alike, filling the gaps often found in their portrayals within games.
Recognized as the most acclaimed Pokémon manga to date, its robust storytelling begs for an adaptation, even as the original anime continues its legacy. An animated version of Pokémon Adventures could offer fans a rewarding reinterpretation of the franchise’s narrative depth.
5. Fire Punch
Manga by Tatsuki Fujimoto; serialized on Shonen Jump+ 2016-2018
Set against a chilling post-apocalyptic backdrop, Fire Punch recounts Agni’s tragic saga—a man cursed to burn for eternity yet gifted with regenerative powers that defy his fate. His quest for vengeance following the loss of his sister weaves a narrative filled with unrelenting darkness and grit.
While this was Fujimoto’s debut, its raw intensity and innovative narrative style lay the groundwork for his future masterpieces, making the prospect of an adaptation increasingly plausible, particularly in light of interest generated by the film adaptation of Look Back.
4. Billy Bat
Manga by Naoki Urasawa & Takashi Nagasaki; Serialized in Morning 2008-2016
Billy Bat follows Kevin Yamagata, a comic artist who uncovers that his character, Billy Bat, may be a product of plagiarism stemming from his time in Japan. His journey leads him into the depths of a historical conspiracy involving legendary figures and secrets spanning centuries.
Created by renowned collaborators Naoki Urasawa and Takashi Nagasaki, this work exemplifies their signature style with compelling art and intricate plotlines. The rising popularity of Urasawa’s other works has made the likelihood of a Billy Bat adaptation more appealing to studios.
3. Goodnight Punpun
Manga by Inio Asano; Serialized in Weekly Young Sunday 2007-2008, Weekly Big Comic Spirits 2008-2013
Goodnight Punpun presents a unique experience where Punpun Onodera’s internal world is conveyed through bird-like imagery, highlighting his surreal coming-of-age journey filled with darker themes. His story intricately intertwines the trials of childhood and adulthood, drawing the reader into a thought-provoking exploration of life’s complexities.
The emotional depth and exceptional artistry present in this work make it a prime candidate for an anime adaptation, especially given the success of similarly themed series. Fans remain hopeful this poignant narrative will find its way to animation.
2. Yotsuba&!
Manga by Kiyohiko Azuma; Serialized in Dengeki Daioh since
The whimsical Yotsuba&! showcases the life of Yotsuba Koiwai, a vibrant girl who’s endlessly curious and quick to befriend everyone. This episodic slice-of-life manga dives into everyday experiences, capturing the beauty and humor found in mundane moments.
A masterpiece of character writing and charming illustration, Kiyohiko Azuma believes that its simplicity may not translate well into animation. Yet, given the uptick in popularity for slice-of-life anime, many argue it’s an opportune moment for Yotsuba to shine on screen.
1. Vagabond
Manga by Takehiko Inoue; Serialized in Morning since 1998
Vagabond presents a fictional retelling of Musashi Miyamoto, the legendary swordsman and philosopher. It traces his journey from brash confidence to deep philosophical contemplations on strength and existence, complemented by the evolution of his adversary, Sasaki Kojiro.
Lauded for its stunning artistry and masterful storytelling, Vagabond is often hailed as one of the greatest manga ever created. While numerous animation studios express interest, the prospect of capturing its depth on-screen remains daunting, securing its place as the best manga yet to receive an anime adaptation.
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