Everybody knows by now that when source material such as a manga or light novel is adapted into anime form, a lot tends to change. Sometimes they add more to the story or remove important parts in order to fit it into a 12-13 episode show. Other times they might fail to go in depth with the character progression, in turn creating two dimensional and boring characters. Just because this is what usually happens, doesn’t mean it always happens. Here are five anime adaptations that are just as good as their originals.
Hunter x Hunter (2011)
Hunter x Hunter was originally published as a manga series in March of 1998. It was first adapted into an anime in October 1999, but that is not the adaptation we are talking about. Later, in 2011 as the name suggests, it was again adapted in anime form but this time being faithful to the original. In Hunter x Hunter, Hunters exist to perform all manner of dangerous tasks like capturing criminals and bravely searching for lost treasures in uncharted territories. The story follows Gon Freecss, a twelve-year-old boy who hopes of becoming a top Hunter in order to find his father. Along the way he meets Leorio, Kurapika, and Killua, who all have their own goals and aspirations. They soon realize that the path to reach their goals is much harder than expected.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is another manga adaptation having originally been published in 2001. The original has since been completed and spans across 27 volumes with 116 total chapters. The series follows Edward and Alphonse Elric, who both lost parts or all of their body for trying to bring their mother back to life via transmutation. Edward is the youngest state-recognized alchemist who got the title at only 12 years old. Years later, the brothers travel the world in search of the Philosophers Stone. However, a dark secret lies behind the stones existence.
Your Lie in April
Your Lie in April is almost famously known for it’s hard hitting feels towards the end of the show. It’s genres include drama, romance, school, and music most importantly. The series is based around Kousei Arima, a renowned child-prodigy pianist who had won multiple competitions on a national level. This all changed with the death of his mother, which rendered him unable to hear the notes being played. Now in high school, he meets a unique violinist named Kaori who is extremely upbeat and cheerful. She stirs up his world and sets him on a journey to enjoy music again. Additionally, the soundtrack for this show is beautiful, which is an additional plus to the already amazing show.
One Punch Man
One Punch Man, originally a web comic by ONE posted in 2012, was possibly the most popular anime of 2015. After rigorously training for three years, the previously ordinary Saitama now has the immense power to beat everything in one punch. After seeing his power, Genos now wants to be his apprentice in order to learn the secrets of his power. Having been a “hero for fun” Saitama and Genos decide to actually register and become full-fledged heroes. They do this in order to find strong enemies and earn the respect of the people.
Food Wars
Shokugeki no Souma (aka Food Wars) is a show that will literally make you hungry watching it. Souma Yukihira has been helping out at his fathers restaurant since he was a kid. But when he abruptly decides to shut it down to travel the world, Yukihira is sent to an elite Japanese cooking academy. The institution is famous for its competitions known as “Food Wars” that have chefs facing off against each other. As him and his classmates struggle to survive the extreme lifestyle, the challenges put his years of learning under his father to the test.
