Although the anime industry is growing rapidly, some manga with outstanding stories and artwork remain untouched.
Every year, dozens of new adaptations appear, but the most deserving works don’t always get studio attention. An anime’s success depends not only on reader ratings but also on budget, studio schedules, and market trends.
However, for the five titles below, the lack of anime adaptations is a huge loss for fans.
5. Centuria
Centuria is a dark fantasy manga that impresses with its unique storytelling. It follows Julian, a boy fleeing on a slave ship after killing the man his mother sold him to. Amid the harsh darkness, Julian finds comfort in fellow captives, especially Mira, a pregnant woman who treats him like her own son.
When tragedy strikes, Julian gains new powers and takes on the mission to protect Diana, Mira’s newborn daughter. Their journey to freedom is filled with terrifying and bloody challenges, promising a powerful masterpiece if adapted.
4. 20th Century Boys
Even among the vast seinen library, few works surpass the shadow of 20th Century Boys. Blending sci-fi, mystery, and drama, the story begins in 1997 as the world faces major changes.
Kenji Endo, a convenience store manager, discovers his old friends dying under strange circumstances linked to a secret cult led by a figure called “Friend.” Kenji is drawn into a massive terrorist conspiracy targeting Japan, sparking a decades-long battle of wits.
3. Choujin X
Created by Sui Ishida, Choujin X features his signature dark and captivating art style. The story’s world is inhabited by “Choujin,” superpowered individuals who can protect or destroy society. Shy teenager Tokio Kurohara is forced to inject Choujin serum to survive a brutal attack.
From there, Tokio is pulled into a chaotic world of strange organizations and morally complex characters. With Ishida’s reputation, fans eagerly await an anime that can capture the original’s mesmerizing visuals.
2. Gokurakugai
Set in a bustling district hiding dark secrets, Gokurakugai follows Tao and Alma, two trouble-shooters hired by the Anti-Maga Saragi Organization.
While their main tasks involve finding missing persons and handling gang conflicts, their true mission is to eliminate evil creatures called Magas. Though it debuted in 2022 with monthly releases limiting chapters, its stylish approach and intense action scenes make it a prime candidate for adaptation.
1. Rookies
Unlike typical sports manga, Rookies is a story about growth and redemption. It has sold over 21 million copies in Japan but remains an undiscovered gem internationally.
The story centers on Koichi Kawato, a teacher who believes in the potential of youth, even those rejected by society. He joins Futakotamagawa High School and leads a baseball team of unruly members, helping them transform their lives before graduation. A heartfelt and inspiring story like Rookies would surely resonate with millions worldwide.