12 Anime Adaptations That Dramatically Improved on the Manga

Anime adaptations can sometimes disappoint manga fans, but certain ones take the source material and elevate it with stunning visuals, tighter pacing, or deeper emotional beats. These series refine their origins, turning good stories into unforgettable experiences.

We’re hooked on these adaptations for how they enhance the manga’s strengths and fix its flaws. From action epics to quiet dramas, this list of 12 anime, ranked from great to greatest, showcases adaptations that outshine their manga counterparts, delighting fans and newcomers alike.

12. ‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011-2014)

Yoshihiro Togashi’s manga follows Gon Freecss on a quest to become a Hunter, but the 2011 anime by Madhouse polishes its sprawling arcs. It trims filler and boosts fight animation.

The manga’s incomplete art and hiatuses pale against the anime’s vibrant pacing. Its emotional depth and crisp visuals make it a standout.

11. ‘JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’ (2012-present)

Hirohiko Araki’s manga spans generations of quirky heroes, but David Production’s anime adds dazzling colors and dynamic music. It captures the manga’s wild energy with flair.

The manga’s static panels can’t match the anime’s over-the-top battles. The bold style and voice acting make every arc pop.

10. ‘Mob Psycho 100 (2016-2022)

ONE’s manga about psychic teen Shigeo is raw, but Studio Bones’ anime refines its sketchy art with fluid animation. It enhances emotional moments and psychic battles.

The manga’s charm lies in simplicity, but the anime’s visuals and score. It’s a vibrant, heartfelt gem that feels more complete.

9. ‘Attack on Titan’ (2013-2023)

Hajime Isayama’s manga about humanity’s fight against Titans is intense, but WIT Studio and MAPPA’s anime tightens pacing and elevates action. The anime’s music and animation amplify dread.

The manga’s rough art and rushed ending fall short of the anime’s polish. It’s an epic that feels grander on screen.

8. ‘Vinland Saga’ (2019-2023)

Makoto Yukimura’s Viking epic is detailed in the manga, but WIT Studio’s anime adds stunning battles and emotional weight. The anime streamlines early arcs for impact.

The manga’s dense panels gain life through animation and voice acting. It’s a gripping saga of revenge and redemption.

7. ‘Haikyuu!!’ (2014-2020)

Haruichi Furudate’s volleyball manga is beloved, but Production I.G.’s anime brings matches to life with dynamic animation. It sharpens character arcs and team rivalries.

The manga’s static art can’t rival the anime’s kinetic energy. The vibrant sports drama hooks even non-volleyball fans.

6. ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’ (2019-present)

Koyoharu Gotouge’s manga follows Tanjiro’s demon-slaying quest, but Ufotable’s anime stuns with breathtaking visuals. It enhances fights and emotional beats with lush animation.

The manga’s simple art pales next to the anime’s cinematic flair. It’s a tear-jerking, action-packed triumph that elevates the source.

5. ‘March Comes in Like a Lion’ (2016-2018)

Chica Umino’s manga about a shy shogi player is heartfelt, but Shaft’s anime adds vivid colors and dreamlike visuals. It deepens Rei’s emotional journey.

The manga’s quiet art gains warmth through animation and music. It’s a tender, visually rich drama that shines brighter.

4. ‘Kubo Won’t Let Me Be Invisible’ (2023)

Nene Yukimori’s manga about a boy who often goes unnoticed is sweet, but Pine Jam’s anime adds charming animation and music. It polishes the rom-com’s gentle humor.

The manga’s simple panels feel flat compared to the anime’s warmth. It’s a cozy, heart-melting watch that perfects the source.

3. ‘Made in Abyss’ (2017-2022)

Akihito Tsukushi’s manga follows Riko and Reg in a perilous abyss, but Kinema Citrus’ anime amplifies the eerie beauty and horror. Its lush visuals and haunting score elevate the stakes.

The manga’s art is striking, but the anime’s animation adds emotional weight. It’s a chilling, gorgeous journey that outdoes the original.

2. ‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009-2010)

Hiromu Arakawa’s manga is a fantasy epic, but Bones’ anime refines pacing and adds cinematic battles. It sticks closer to the manga than the 2003 version, perfecting it.

The manga’s art is strong, but the anime’s music and animation elevate it. It’s a gripping, emotional journey done right.

1. ‘Gintama’ (2006-2021)

Hideaki Sorachi’s manga mixes samurai action and comedy, but Sunrise’s anime boosts gags with wild animation and voice acting. It sharpens the humor and heart.

The manga’s sketchy art can’t match the anime’s chaotic energy. It’s a hilarious, heartfelt epic that perfects its source material.

Which anime adaptation do you think topped its manga, or did we miss a gem that improved the original? Share your picks in the comments!