’80s Romance Manga That Are Still Worth Reading - August 2024

'80s Romance Manga That Are Still Worth Reading

Highlights

The 80s era birthed timeless romance manga like Maison Ikkoku, still relevant and inspiring today.
Boyfriend showcases a delicate love story between Masaki and Kanako, overcoming personal struggles.
Rough captures the journey of rivals turned lovers, navigating sports, family drama, and romance.

As a seasoned manga enthusiast who’s been around the block more times than I care to remember, I must say that these three masterpieces have left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. Growing up, I was always drawn to stories of love and rivalry, and these mangas hit the nail right on the head.

In today’s flood of annual manga releases, recalling titles from years past can be a challenge. However, exceptions abound, particularly from the ’80s. For some avid readers, the ’80s might evoke a sense of nostalgia, as it could be associated with memories of love, joy, and sorrow. This period saw the birth of several romance manga that have since become beloved classics. Even in our current era, these ’80s romance manga continue to resonate.

One enduring masterpiece of the ’80s is Maison Ikkoku, which serves as a wellspring of creativity for other art forms, similar to Love Hina. There are other timeless manga, such as Maison Ikkoku from the ’80s, that remain relevant and continue to inspire artists today by providing them with elements to incorporate into their own works.

7 Boyfriend

Relatable Love Story

'80s Romance Manga That Are Still Worth Reading

Genre(s): Award Winning, Drama, Romance
Chapters: N/A
Author: Souryo, Fuyumi (Story & Art)

In this critically-acclaimed comic series, we follow the tender romance between characters Masaki and Kanako. Initially perceived as a troublemaker, even his father loses faith in him, causing him to squander potential in a promising basketball career.

Following his expulsion from his former institution, Masaki lands at Kanako’s school. An encounter with the compassionate Kanako, who has a delicate health condition, significantly improves Masaki’s life. Despite facing challenges due to her heart problem, which made her miss nearly two years of academic work, Kanako manages to cultivate a bond with Masaki, offering him a positive influence in return.

6 Kimagure Orange Road

Love Triangle

Genre(s): Drama, Romance, Slice of Life, Supernatural
Chapters: 156
Author: Matsumoto, Izumi (Story & Art)

Kimagure Orange Twist is a classic romantic manga with a touch of the supernatural. The lead character, Kyosuke, possesses multiple supernatural abilities which compel him and his family to relocate numerous times until they find a permanent home on their seventh move.

In the fresh town where he’s moved, Kyosuke encounters Madoka, a classmate at his new school. From the get-go, Kyosuke is smitten by her, but her notorious reputation makes it difficult for him to express his feelings. Meanwhile, unaware of his affections, Madoka harbors feelings for him as well, yet Kyosuke is in a relationship with Hikaru, Madoka’s close friend. This predicament leaves Kyosuke entangled in a romantic dilemma, torn between the two women who have affectionate inclinations towards him.

5 Video Girl Ai

Unrequited Love

Genre(s): Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi, Supernatural, Ecchi
Chapters: 131
Author: Aoyama, Gosho (Story & Art)

Heartbreak can vary in intensity based on specific circumstances. Youta experienced an intense heartbreak that left him yearning for a diversion from the agonizing sensation in his chest. It turns out that his crush has affection for his best friend, which she subsequently confessed. This revelation left Youta’s heart shattered and devastated.

As he journeys homeward, he stumbles upon an enigmatic video game emporium, seeking solace from his troubled thoughts, he decides to purchase a title. Little does he realize that the games in this establishment can manifest their female characters into reality to boost the player’s spirits. Through this digital realm, Youta crosses paths with a virtual woman named Ai Amano. The emergence of Ai in Youta’s life helps him move past his old infatuation and experience affection anew as he develops feelings for Ai.

4 Magic Kaito

Blend Of Different Genres

Genre(s): Adventure, Comedy, Romance
Chapters: N/A
Author: Aoyama, Gosho (Story & Art)

Eight years following his father’s demise, Kaito discovers that his dad wasn’t just any ordinary man but was famously known as the phantom thief, “Kaito Kid.” Furthermore, it wasn’t an accident that took his life, but a murder instead. In between his quest to track down and punish his father’s assassins, Kaito leads a typical teenage life, attempting to win over the affection of his crush.

In his role as “Kaito Kid,” Kaito takes on his father’s responsibilities, but the primary obstacle he encounters is none other than the father of his crush, Aoko. Aoko’s dad, a police officer, is determined to apprehend “Kaito Kid” and halt his antics. Ironically, Aoko shares her father’s disdain for “Kaito Kid,” unbeknownst to her that Kaito himself adopts this persona. Amidst this complex situation, a budding romance blossoms between Aoko and Kaito, as they both harbor feelings for each other.

3 Rough

Rivals And Then Lovers

Genre(s): Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sport
Chapters: 119
Author: Adachi, Mitsuru (Story & Art)

Watching characters transition from adversaries to lovers is truly intriguing, and the story Rough skillfully portrays this transformation. The lead characters, Keisuke and Ami, belong to rival families but their deep-seated feelings manage to overcome their generational animosity.

Without realizing it, they share an unresolved feud within their families, yet their mutual passion for swimming brings them together. As they grow closer, they confront hurdles in their sporting endeavors, family dynamics, and personal connections. This manga engrosses readers, immersing them into a world brimming with sports competitions, budding romance, and intense family drama.

2 Maison Ikkoku

Perfectly Captures The Imperfections Of Love

Genre(s): Comedy, Drama, Romance
Chapters: 162
Author: Takahashi, Rumiko (Story & Art)

Love isn’t always smooth sailing, as Maison Ikkoku, a classic romance manga, beautifully illustrates. This story is filled with unexpected challenges, but Yusaku Godoi and Kyoko Otonashi manage to keep their love intact despite the hurdles. The narrative isn’t straightforward; Godoi develops feelings for Kyoko, who is still grappling with her past as she struggles to move on from her late husband. In a unique twist, Godoi initially chooses to befriend Kyoko, providing comfort and understanding rather than pursuing a romantic relationship immediately.

In a turn of events, the captivating Kyoko attracts the wealthy Mitaka, creating tension that could potentially displace Godoi. However, Godoi’s unyielding affection for Kyoko prevails amidst the mounting confusion, which puts a strain on their relationship. Yet, they manage to navigate through each misunderstanding and eventually find their way back to each other, culminating in a joyful resolution where they cement their love and find their contentment together.

1 Touch

Grief And Love

Genre(s): Award Winning, Comedy, Drama, Romance, Sports
Chapters: 257
Author: Adachi, Mitsuru (Story & Art)

In this critically acclaimed comic series, we follow the emotional journey of Tatsuya and Kazuya, twin brothers who both harbor feelings for their childhood friend, Minami. While Tatsuya has consistently put Kazuya in the limelight and never showcased his own talents to outshine him, this act of selflessness does not seem to win over Minami’s affection.

In the limelight for his exceptional baseball skills, Kazuya finds a kindred spirit in Minami, who shares his passion for the game. Together they form a couple, until tragedy strikes, claiming Kazuya’s life. This loss drives both Minami and Tatsuya towards each other during their shared grief.

2024-08-19 08:04