Usually manga > anime. But sometimes studios elevate source material into something superior. Here are 10 anime that outdo their manga origins.
10. Demon Slayer
The manga is good; the anime is spectacular. Ufotable’s animation transformed solid source material into visual masterpiece. Every fight exceeds what panels could achieve.
9. Mob Psycho 100
ONE’s art is intentionally crude; Studio Bones made it beautiful. The animation interprets rather than replicates, creating something uniquely suited to motion.
8. Jujutsu Kaisen
MAPPA’s adaptation adds fluidity to Gege’s excellent choreography. The fights benefit immensely from animation. Shibuya’s chaos works better in motion.
7. Attack on Titan
Isayama’s art improved throughout the manga but couldn’t match WIT/MAPPA’s spectacle. ODM gear combat was designed for animation. The titans feel more threatening in motion.
6. My Hero Academia
Horikoshi’s art is great; Bones’ animation is better. The action scenes gain impact through movement. All Might vs. All For One is unmatched in manga form.
5. Vinland Saga
WIT and MAPPA brought historical weight to battles. The emotional moments land harder with voice acting and music. The manga is excellent; the anime is exceptional.
4. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Arakawa’s manga is incredible, but the anime adds voice, music, and animation that complete the experience. It’s the definitive version of the story.
3. One Punch Man Season 1
Madhouse turned ONE’s webcomic into animation showcase. The Boros fight especially transcends what static images could convey. Season 1 specifically—we don’t talk about later.
2. Blue Lock
8bit’s adaptation brought soccer dynamics to life. The manga’s internal monologue works, but seeing the plays execute adds visceral impact. Soccer needs motion.
1. Spy x Family
Endo’s manga is charming; the anime is perfect. Anya’s expressions, the voice acting, the comedic timing—everything the anime adds improves the experience.