7 Underrated Manhwa That Deserve Anime Adaptations

by

Summary

  • Many lesser-known Manhwa series have the potential for anime, but struggle due to lack of open-minded producers.
  • Despite having great attributes, some niche Manhwa like Eleceed and Overpowered Sword are underrated for anime.
  • Unique stories like The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide and Standard of Reincarnation are gems worthy of anime adaptation.

In simpler terms, numerous Manhwa series such as “Solo Leveling” and “Tower of God” have surpassed the boundaries between traditional media and attained status similar to anime. This success is half due to the merit of the series itself and half to good fortune. To reach a broader audience, it requires finding a suitable producer who recognizes the potential of the series and makes an attractive proposal to the author.

Observing the world of animated adaptations, I’ve noticed that a multitude of elements play a crucial role in deciding which comics are brought to life and which ones remain relatively unknown, despite their potential for animation. Here, I’d like to shed light on some lesser-known Manhwa series that, in my opinion, merit an anime adaptation.

7. The Lady And The Beast

A New Take On The All-Time Classic

  • Genres: Political Drama, Comedy, Action, Romance, Tragedy, Reincarnation
  • Author & Artist: The Maginot Line

In my perspective, the narrative of “The Lady and the Beast” shares a striking resemblance with the timeless fairy tale penned by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, an unsung author who crafted one of the most enduring love stories in folklore. However, this Manhwa has been overshadowed for years, despite possessing the promise to be an exceptional anime adaptation.

The authors may not be ready for an anime adaptation at this time, or there might not be enough forward-thinking producers who can appreciate the unique blend of romance and tragedy in this story. However, the Manhwa is excellent, continuously improving with each new chapter.

6. ELECEED

It Has Reached Top Quality

  • Genre: Shonen, Action, Comedy, Supernatural, Urban Fantasy, Martial Arts
  • Author: Jeho Son
  • Artist: ZHENA

On certain infrequent instances, readers might come across a manhwa brimming with raw promise and be puzzled as to why it hasn’t been adapted into an anime series. This peculiar situation applies to the title “Eleceed“. It boasts all the appealing elements of an outstanding action/comedy series, perfectly suited for the Shonen audience, yet there has been no mention of an anime adaptation thus far.

A Manhwa series continues beyond 200 chapters due to audience interest, and if fans yearn for more escapades featuring Kayden and his apprentice Jiwoo, they’ll eventually receive it. However, since this particular manhwa is relatively unknown, it may take some time before it gains recognition in global comic rankings.

5. The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide

A Decent Isekai, Something Really Rare

  • Genre: Adventure, Drama, Dark Fantasy, School Life, Reincarnation, Isekai
  • Author: Korita
  • Artist: GREEN KYRIN

In a refreshing twist for the Isekai genre that has been experiencing a stagnation for some time now, “The Extra’s Academy Survival Guide” offers a new lease of life. This lesser-known Manhwa breaks away from the conventional storylines typically found in this niche, shunning the usual trope of a damaged protagonist or the harem plotline.

Indeed, the final chapters have seen Ed Rothstaylor gaining favor from various Academy students, both male and female, who appear to be quite smitten with him. One can only hope it won’t turn into a typical Isekai trope. The storyline and artwork so far have garnered praise from fans of the genre, indicating a promising future for this series. It seems an anime adaptation may also be on the horizon.

4. Overpowered Sword

Romance, Adventure, And Peak Comedy

  • Genre: Action, Fantasy, Drama, Shounen
  • Author & Artist: ELDO

As an observer, I find that among the exceptional fantasy manhwa series, there’s a perfect blend of adventure, romance, action, and drama that truly captivates readers. In my opinion, Overpowered Sword excels in this balance, making it stand out. The characters are likable, the world is intricately built, and its current stage in publication hints towards a promising future anime adaptation.

This is a lesser-known Manhwa series that, despite its niche nature, shines brightly when viewed from the right perspective. A forward-thinking producer should seize this opportunity before it slips away and loses momentum. The artwork is exquisite, and the character designs are equally captivating. It’s an ideal candidate for animation.

3. Infinite Leveling: Murim

All The Strong Points Of A Top 10 Shōnen

  • Genre: Martial Arts, Adventure, Action, Reincarnation, Drama
  • Author: Gonbung
  • Artist: Jinwoo Kim

Infinite Leveling: Murim” is a Manhwa that combines elements of “Naruto” and “Samurai X.” With its promising storyline, it could potentially make an impressive Shōnen anime series. Unfortunately, due to being tucked away in niche areas of the fandom, not many are advocating for it. Remarkably, despite this, it manages to secure a spot among the top 100 most popular series in Korea.

It appears the issue could stem from another source. Much like numerous action comic books designed for adults (Manhwa), animating it accurately could prove expensive. Despite its vast potential, it seems that the costs might exceed the budget constraints of the Korean animation industry.

2. Standard Of Reincarnation

Has A Rough Start, But Gets Better And Better

  • Genre: Adventure, Shonen, Dark Fantasy, Sword And Sorcery, Action, Reincarnation
  • Author: Ilhwang
  • Artist: Ramwoo

Currently, dark fantasy Manhwa is highly sought-after, which makes a show like “Standard of Reincarnation” an excellent prospect for transitioning into an anime series. With its innovative approach to reincarnation and a captivating narrative filled with intriguing dark turns, it keeps readers enthralled for hours as they devour each chapter.

Although it may not be one of the top 500 series globally (based on sites like Myanimelist), it has been noted as one of the rapidly growing Shonen series in 2024. This could suggest that it is gaining enough popularity to potentially be turned into an anime.

1. Transcension Academy

Peak Korean Comedy, Waiting For A Good Producer

  • Genres: Shonen, Action, Comedy, Urban Fantasy
  • Authors: Eojjeoda, Kkyujanneu
  • Status: Ongoing

At Trascension Academy, we skillfully employ humor in a manner that is free from malicious intentions, harshness, or disregard. Our narrative is potent and captivating, revolving around an individual who is remarkably fixated on amassing wealth – for a valid reason, of course.

Because the primary character has the ability to transform wealth into insights about achieving superhuman power, it’s logical for him to pour millions into this. Given the world’s precarious state, it becomes even more crucial. Readers can expect an exceptional manhwa series here, one that may not be as popular as other Shonen genres, but is certainly worthy of its own anime adaptation. When that happens, it promises to be a thrilling experience.

Read More

2025-01-23 21:06