Summary
- Anime adaptations elevate beloved manga stories by adding sound, action, and immersive visuals for a wider audience to enjoy.
- Some anime series, like Nichijou & K-On!, excel in conveying friendship, music, and heartwarming themes better than their manga counterparts.
- Shows like Gintama & Mob Psycho 100 use exquisite animation and voice acting to enhance humor, emotion, and action in the original manga plots.
As a seasoned anime enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in the vibrant world of Japanese animation, I can wholeheartedly affirm that these three series – “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” “Yu Yu Hakusho,” and “Mob Psycho 100” – are absolute gems that truly shine when brought to life on the small screen.
Comics or Manga are renowned for their in-depth narratives and stunning visuals on each page, but it’s Anime that truly elevates these cherished tales by adding sound effects and action sequences. Studios frequently draw inspiration from Manga, even adapting famous web novels and graphic stories into animated form to reach a broader audience. Interestingly, some anime series actually surpass the original story in terms of quality.
For avid manga enthusiasts, nothing quite matches the thrill of delving into the sequences, conflicts, and feelings portrayed as they flip through page after page. Yet for some, experiencing the same realms and figures brought to life with soundtracks, voice actors, dynamic action, and visual fluidity on screen represents a fresh realm of immersive amusement. When executed skillfully, an anime adaptation can infuse additional dimensions of drama, color, and emotion into already well-loved tales. In the following, we examine 10 such anime adaptations that surpass the original manga they stem from.
10 Nichijou – My Ordinary Life (2011)
Located in a charming countryside town, the anime series titled “Nichijou – My Everyday Life” focuses on the humorous escapades of three high school girls: Mio Naganohara, Yuuko Aioi, and Mai Minakami. They embark on their daily adventures alongside three companions, a genius, a robotic caretaker, and a chatty feline. With a blend of absurd yet relatable scenarios, each day unfolds in a whirlwind of laughter and pure silliness, as they find amusement in the most ordinary situations.
Escalates the Absurdity of the Manga
An anime based on Keiichi Arawi’s popular manga series, “Nichijou,” stands out as one of the funniest and most creatively animated comedies within the genre. The manga is already excellent and contains numerous humorous moments, but it truly shines through its expert application of slapstick and absurdity. By stretching the jokes from the manga to comic extremes using well-timed gags and clever puns, it transforms ordinary situations into hilarious ones.
9 K-On! (2009 – 2010)
The narrative of K-On! revolves around Yui Hirasawa, a girl brimming with enthusiasm for high school life. Her eagerness stems from the prospect of joining a club. She ends up in the school’s Light Music Club, yet finds herself lacking the skill to play an instrument. The club is on the verge of dissolution, but after hearing her bandmates perform a song, Yui feels inspired to stay and learn. This newfound motivation leads the band to focus on preparing for a live performance.
Focusing More on Friendship and Music
K-On! focuses on building lasting friendships, enjoying memorable moments together, navigating graduation, and supporting one another’s growth – all while maintaining an adorable charm. Originally based on a four-panel comedic strip, Kyoto Animation skillfully brings out the nuanced emotions and overall optimistic vibe of the story. The anime extends the original concept, deepens character interactions, and showcases heartfelt musical performances to express the delight of youth.
8 Bunny Drop (2011 – 2012)
In my personal perspective as a fervent admirer, when I, a 30-year-old bachelor named Daikichi Kawachi, discover that my late grandfather had an illegitimate daughter, a six-year-old girl named Rin, I understand that it’s my responsibility to care for her. Displaced from her familiar surroundings, Rin initially appears timid and hesitant. As for me, I’m equally green when it comes to child-rearing. The heartwarming anime Bunny Drop, or Usagi Drop as it’s also known, chronicles the blossoming of a unique connection between us.
Achieves a Special Feat with Its Ending
In the manga series penned by Yumi Unita, the relationship between Daikichi and Rin is portrayed with tender affection. However, the anime version subtly enhances this bond. The manga culminates with Rin maturing into a sixteen-year-old who expresses her feelings for her pseudo-father. In contrast, the anime steers clear of contentious elements, instead emphasizing heartwarming and tender moments. It beautifully explores the theme of found family, and offers an ending that appeals more to fans, setting it apart from many others in the genre.
7 Made in Abyss (2017)
Up until now, we’ve discussed anime series that surpass their manga versions in terms of feel-good factors. However, “Made in Abyss” is an exception as it belongs to a darker, more terrifying genre. This series takes place on a massive island and revolves around Riko, an orphan girl who yearns to follow her mother’s path as a Diver, exploring the enigmatic chasm known as the Abyss – a deep, mysterious hole in the world rumored to contain ancient artifacts and strange creatures. During her expedition, she forms a bond with a robot boy whom she names Reg.
Dark but Visually Stunning
Exploring the perilous and chilling realm of the Abyss on screen, brought to life by stunning animation and precise portrayal, offers an unparalleled excitement. This anime adaptation excellently highlights the strengths of Akihito Tsukushi’s manga while avoiding gratuitous fanservice or uncomfortable scenes. Moreover, it is highly commended for its exceptional soundtrack.
6 Hunter x Hunter (2011 – 2014)
In the annals of shounen anime, Hunter x Hunter has carved out a place among the greats. The story revolves around Gon Freecss, who was left behind as an infant when his father, a renowned Hunter, chose to pursue this elite profession that requires rigorous training to acquire extraordinary or survival skills. Driven by the desire to reunite with his missing father, Gon embarks on a journey to become a Hunter himself. He signs up for the challenging Hunter Examination, a grueling selection process, as the first step towards achieving his dream.
Elevates Storytelling with Its Deft Pacing
Initially, Hunter x Hunter offers a playful journey, but it evolves into an exceptional narrative with deep character development, skillfully constructed depth, and intense emotional moments. While Yoshihiro Togashi’s manga is an artistic masterpiece, his health issues have caused inconsistencies in the past. However, the anime adaptation addresses these concerns by ensuring a cohesive and fulfilling ending.
5 Gintama (2005 – 2021)
In the quirky setting of Edo, presented in Gintama, swords are forbidden in public following Japan’s capitulation to a dominant alien force. Despite this rule, the silver-haired samurai named Gintoki Sakata continues to uphold his warrior image and carries a wooden sword, accepting various assignments as a freelancer. His associates include Shinpachi Shimura, Kagura, and their large pet dog, who often join him on these adventures.
Features an Iconic Voice Cast
With a heavy emphasis on absurd humor and witty satire, Hideaki Sorachi’s original manga is arguably one of the funniest works of art available today. Although it’s already laugh-out-loud funny in its written form, the animation of Gintama elevates its quirky atmosphere to new heights with rapid-fire reaction shots and clever fourth wall breaks. The anime is further enhanced by its talented voice cast, featuring Daisuke Sakaguchi as Shinpachi, Akira Ishida as Katsura, and Tomokazu Sugita as Gintoki.
4 Bocchi The Rock! (2022)
In the year 2022, the sensational series “Bocchi The Rock!” unfolds, focusing on a timid middle schooler named Hitori “Bocchi” Gotou. Despite yearning for a multitude of friends, Bocchi’s social awkwardness impedes her from maintaining regular conversations and she typically spends her time strumming her guitar. However, Nijika Ijichi, an exuberant drummer, manages to persuade her to join their small band named ‘Kessoku,’ which brings immense joy to Bocchi.
Deserves The Hype It’s Gotten
At a moment when global unease and sudden bouts of fear were prevalent among people worldwide, Bocchi The Rock! resonated deeply with anime enthusiasts. This anime isn’t just a continuous loop of humor, but it masterfully portrays the protagonist’s panicky responses and inner turmoil with exceptional precision. While the manga is already excellent, the anime enhances everything great about the original content.
3 Demon Slayer (2019 – 2024)
In a simple, nurturing existence, selling charcoal earns Tanjirou Kamado’s livelihood, making him a gentle soul. However, this tranquility is abruptly disrupted when demons ruthlessly kill his entire family, with only he and his transformed-demon sister Nezuko surviving. The narrative of Demon Slayer unfolds as Tanjirou embarks on a journey to transform himself into a demon slayer, seeking vengeance for his family’s death and rescuing his sister from her demonic state.
The Animation Adds Depth to the Story
One of the highly acclaimed shounen anime series is “Demon Slayer”. Its remarkable animation is largely responsible for its phenomenal popularity, as it elevates both intense action scenes and casual character interactions to exhilarating levels. The animation imbues the series with an intensely realistic and potent feel. Although the manga boasts impressive artwork, the anime accentuates the unique fighting styles of each demon slayer more effectively, and the music heightens the urgency of the protagonist’s fight for survival.
2 Yu Yu Hakusho (1993)
Yu Yu Hakusho narrates the tale of Yuusuke Urameshi, a 14-year-old with little regard for his future. In an act of selflessness, he gives up his life to shield a boy from a speeding vehicle, only to perish in the crash himself. Miraculously revived as a spectral entity, Yuusuke learns that he must work under the guidance of death god Botan as a Spirit Investigator, handling cases involving otherworldly phenomena and demons that pose a threat to the human realm in order to maintain his existence.
Rewarding Action and Diverse Characters
In the anime adaptation of “Yu Yu Hakusho,” the speed and impact are amplified, particularly in the martial arts battles and spirit gun confrontations. Rather than dwelling on the occasional detective work of the protagonist, the series jumps straight into the action. It boasts intricate choreography, exceptional fluidity, and a fantastic soundtrack to tie it all together. Moreover, the anime enhances the final arcs of each character compared to the manga.
1 Mob Psycho 100 (2016 – 2022)
Originating from the web manga series penned by ONE, the creator of One Punch Man, the storyline of Mob Psycho 100 revolves around an ordinary middle school student named Kageyama Shigeo. Endowed with extraordinary psychic abilities that amplify his power when he experiences intense emotions, Kageyama strives to maintain control over his thoughts and feelings. A swindler named Arataka Reigen instructs him on how to manage these powers, yet Mob’s skills may be utilized for purposes that could be either beneficial or detrimental.
Offers a Unique Visual Experience
ONE is an exceptional mangaka, but his art is often chaotic and messy. While that is a signature in the world of the written word, when translated to anime, Mob Psycho 100 only becomes more enriched and awe-inspiring. Under impeccable animation from Studio Bones, it conveys character emotions, meticulous fight scenes, and fluid work of comedy with unmatched flair. Overall, the anime offers a more rewarding and cathartic experience than what’s available to read.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-08-12 06:32