Best Manga To Read That Are Not Anime: What Should You Dive Into Next?

If you're a manga enthusiast, you might be looking for the best manga to read that are not anime adaptations. While many popular manga series have been adapted into anime, numerous exceptional manga offer original stories with rich characters and compelling plots. This article highlights some of the best manga available that remain untouched by anime adaptations, ensuring a unique reading experience.

Why Choose Manga Over Anime?

Reading manga instead of watching anime has several advantages. First, manga often dives deeper into character development and story arcs that anime adaptations may overlook due to time constraints. Second, manga is typically released faster than anime, allowing readers to stay ahead of the latest developments in the story. Lastly, the artwork in manga can be meticulously detailed, providing a different visual experience compared to animated formats.

The Best Manga to Read That Are Not Anime Adaptations

1. "Berserk" by Kentaro Miura

"Berserk" is a dark fantasy manga that follows the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary with a tragic past. It is renowned for its intricate artwork and profound themes of struggle, fate, and friendship. Although it has an anime adaptation, many significant arcs and characters are uniquely explored in the manga, making it essential reading for any serious manga fan.

Key Themes

• Overcoming adversity
• Friendship and betrayal
• Survival against overwhelming odds

2. "One Piece" by Eiichiro Oda

While "One Piece" does have anime, the manga continues to build on the story far beyond what the anime covers. This adventure series tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the ultimate treasure. The world-building, character arcs, and action sequences in the manga often surpass those found in the animated version, providing a richer experience.

Reasons to Read "One Piece"

• Diverse range of characters
• Engaging plot twists
• Extensive lore and world-building

3. "Death Note" by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata

"Death Note" is a psychological thriller manga that centers around a high school student, Light Yagami, who discovers a notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it. The intricate cat-and-mouse game between Light and detective L is a highlight of this series, offering suspense and thought-provoking moral questions.

Significant Elements

• Morality and justice debates
• Chilling intellectual battles
• Complex character relationships

4. "Monster" by Naoki Urasawa

"Monster" is a psychological thriller that follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a Japanese neurosurgeon in Germany whose life spirals out of control after saving the life of a young boy who grows up to become a serial killer. This intricately woven narrative poses important ethical dilemmas and examines the nature of evil.

Why You Should Read "Monster"

• Deep philosophical questions
• Suspenseful storytelling
• Richly developed characters

Additional Recommendations for Manga Lovers

5. "Vinland Saga" by Makoto Yukimura

"Vinland Saga" blends history and myth, following the adventures of Thorfinn, a Viking warrior seeking revenge against Askeladd, the man who killed his father. The historical context and character depth make it an engaging read.

What Makes It Unique

• Authentic Viking culture
• Epic battles and personal conflicts
• Exploration of themes like honor and revenge

6. "Fullmetal Alchemist" by Hiromu Arakawa

This acclaimed series follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who use alchemy in their quest to restore their bodies after a failed transmutation. "Fullmetal Alchemist" offers a perfect mix of action, emotion, and philosophical themes.

Main Takeaways from "Fullmetal Alchemist"

• Strong familial bonds
• Consequences of ambition
• Exploration of human nature

Conclusion

Exploring the best manga to read that are not anime adaptations opens up a world of original storytelling and artistic expression. From the haunting depths of "Berserk" to the philosophical quandaries of "Death Note," these works provide a diverse range of genres and themes. Whether you're new to manga or looking to expand your collection, these titles will enrich your reading experience and offer captivating narratives that remain faithful to the art form's potential. Embrace the pages of these remarkable manga, and discover the depth and creativity that lie within.