The Best Anime Not Based On Manga

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Summary

  • Many successful anime are based on manga, but original ideas like Star Wars: Visions and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners are also thriving.
  • Sword Art Online and Mobile Suit Gundam Wing prove that anime can be inspired by light novels or original ideas.
  • Cowboy Bebop stands out as an exceptional anime that began as an original idea and has had a lasting impact.

Many popular anime currently airing are originally derived from manga sources, such as adaptations of Dragon Ball, My Hero Academia, Attack on Titan, and numerous others. While these series are excellent, it’s also exciting to witness innovative concepts conceived by creators and studios that later achieve success.

In addition to manga, there are numerous other forms that anime can be derived from, such as video games and light novels. Let’s explore some exceptional original anime concepts, alongside a few adaptations not originating from manga. The selection process will take into account the creativity and quality of the anime itself.

Beyond manga, various other media can inspire anime, including video games and light novels. We’ll delve into remarkable original anime ideas, as well as some adaptations that don’t stem from manga. The decision to include them will consider both their conceptual uniqueness and the overall quality of the anime.

8. Star Wars: Visions

An Anthology Series Based On The West

In 2021, I had the pleasure of diving into “Star Wars: Visions,” an extraordinary anthology series! Each installment presents a unique, self-contained tale, crafted by legendary anime studios and directors such as Studio Trigger, making each watch an unforgettable experience.

Initially, the first season centered around solely Japanese themes. The following seasons expanded to incorporate a broader range of global influences in their episodes. It appears that the upcoming 2025 season will once again delve into Japan-centric storylines. This series is part of the colossal Star Wars franchise, which originated from the 1977 release of “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” derived from the epic Star Wars saga.

7. Welcome To The N.H.K.

A Look Into Japan’s Secret Society

In 2002, the story of “Welcome to the N.H.K.” originated as a novel. A manga series based on the same story followed in 2003, ending its run in 2007. The author Tatsuhiko Takimoto was responsible for both versions. After that, an anime adaptation of the story premiered in Japan in 2006.

The tale delves into the realm of secluded individuals in Japan, commonly known as NEETs, and anime enthusiasts may recognize such characters in their preferred series. It’s a humorous, enlightening one-season comedy anime where characters continually find themselves in increasingly absurd circumstances.

6. The Heroic Legend Of Arslan

A Classic Epic

Arslan Senki, initially stemmed from a Japanese fantasy novel, however, it has left a more significant impact compared to Welcome to the N.H.K. This series was first published in 1986 and continued until 2017. Throughout its run, multiple manga and anime adaptations were produced, with the 2013 version being particularly noteworthy.

Hiromu Arakawa, the brainchild behind “Fullmetal Alchemist,” has been bringing her unique vision to life for “The Heroic Legend of Arslan” as well. The latest animated series, airing from 2015 to 2016 over approximately one and a half seasons, has generated immense anticipation among fans, eager to witness Prince Arslan’s journey to regain his homeland following a brutal conflict. To further demonstrate its popularity, particularly in Japan, a Musou game was developed based on the anime adaptation itself.

5. Sword Art Online

Trapped In An MMO

In 2002, the storyline that would become known as Sword Art Online initially began life as a collection of light novels. The original series concluded in 2008, but due to its unique premise – involving characters navigating various online games – additional sequels in light novel format were produced.

The initial season of the anime adaptation, simply known as “Sword Art Online,” is the most cherished telling of the story. This version was produced in 2012 and showcased numerous players being ensnared within an online MMO, a plot device commonly used in anime, yet remains captivating here.

4. Cyberpunk: Edgerunners

Living On The Edge

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners” is an independent narrative set within the world of “Cyberpunk”. The story first appeared as a pen-and-paper role-playing game (RPG) back in 1988, and was later brought to life as a video game titled “Cyberpunk 2077” in 2020.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners was jointly produced with CD Projekt Red’s game, yet it offers an entirely new narrative set within the cityscape of Night City. A sequel has been confirmed, though specifics are scarce at present.

3. Pokemon

A Global Phenomenon Is Born

In 1996, two games titled “Pocket Monsters Red” and “Pocket Monsters Green” were launched for Game Boy in Japan. However, it wasn’t until the release of “Pokemon Red” and “Pokemon Blue” in North America in 1998 that these games really gained massive popularity. Coincidentally, the Pokémon animated series also debuted around the same time, having started airing in Japan in 1997.

Game Freak and Nintendo strategically dominated the market with an abundance of merchandise that complemented both the games and the anime. While some may view it as a marketing ploy, the initial seasons of the anime have endured fan adoration due to their humorous, endearing, and action-packed scenes featuring Ash, Pikachu, and Team Rocket.

2. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing

An Original Mecha Series

Despite the enormous success of the Gundam franchise, which first appeared in 1979 as an anime, it’s surprising that it didn’t originally begin as a manga. Although there are often manga adaptations to support new seasons or comics published afterward, the majority of Gundam series typically start off as animations and then develop into other forms of media.

In North America, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing was a groundbreaking series that made its debut on Toonami in 2000, long after its initial release in Japan in 1995. This show was an ideal entry point for fans, as it broke away from the original timeline to offer a more action-packed experience full of exciting mechs and captivating characters.

1. Cowboy Bebop

The One Anime Everyone Should Watch

The animated series, Cowboy Bebop, has captivated audiences worldwide since its initial release in Japan in 1998. Originally conceived as an innovative concept, it later inspired manga adaptations but initially made its mark as an anime production, similar to several seasons of the popular Gundam series. Its debut played a significant role in the launch of Adult Swim in 2001 and has maintained a consistent presence on the network ever since.

This series, featuring captivating space animation, gripping storylines, and humorously light-hearted moments, makes it an excellent choice for introducing people unfamiliar with anime. Notably, “Cowboy Bebop” primarily consists of self-contained episodes, set in a far-future setting that somehow manages to feel grounded and relatable, which might explain its wide appeal.

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2025-08-17 23:05