Anime and Manga saw much of their success in the 90s (thanks to the phenomenal stories that pathed the way during the 80s). Thanks to international fandom, numerous series became hits both inside and outside the East. Titles like Claymore and Bleach became world-renowned success stories; however, quite a number of Manga did not warrant an Anime adaptation. There are many reasons for this, such as lack of interest, the intense competition inside the Manga community, or creative differences.
For whatever reason, many Manga do not make the cut and rise to be animated but still become successful in their genre (Here are some Light Novels being adapted into their own Anime). Spectacular stories across multiple genres retain hundreds of thousands of readers but do not crossover to be animated. These Manga' are somewhat hidden gems worth reading by all types of fans. Here are some of the best Manga' that do not have Anime.
8 20TH Century Boys
20th-Century Boys by Urasawa, Naoki is a modern psychological thriller surrounding an average boy, Kenji Endo. Kenji becomes enthralled in the dark world of a murderous cult after he finds a connection to his friend's suicide. Yanked out of his ordinary life into peril, Kenji stares into the abyss he didn't know was there. The 20th-Century Boys Manga is a rare case as it was adapted into three live-action films, but no plans of an anime adaptation have been discussed—nevertheless, more than worth the read. Fans of paranoia agent or Serial Experiment Lain will enjoy.
7 Mars
Fans of romance stories like Marmalade boy or Kare Kano will enjoy Mars, By Souryo, Fuyumi. Mars is a romance manga surrounding Rei, a young delinquent, and Kira, a promising artist joining them on their rollercoaster ride down lovers' lane.
Perhaps one of the most elegantly told romance series of the 90s, Mars carries a unique complexity in its story while visually similar to many series. Both Rei and Kira's development and depth throughout the story will leave a pleasant impression on readers.
6 Dragon Head
Dragon Head, by manga author Mochizuki, Minetaro is an emotional and gutwrenching story. It follows three child survivors of a horrific accident awaiting help while trapped in a dangerous situation. Every page will leave readers on the edge of their seats, hoping for the best but preparing for the worse as nothing is promised at the light at the end of the tunnel. Artwise, Dragon Head matches the dread of suffering and mental anguish that comes from expecting every day to be your last. Dragon Head is worth the read for fans of Black Jack or Sprite.
5 Lullabies From Hell
Lullabies From Hell by author Hideshi Hino, notably known as the master of horror, is a mindbending experience that will genuinely disturb readers that are faint of heart and entice those who favor Lovecraft fiction.
Containing four stand-alone stories surrounding multiple anthology-like stories that progress further and further into the dark mind of its author, going as far as an interspecies newborn that could wipe out the planet—a good read for anyone looking for something original yet disturbing.
4 Onward Toward Noble Deaths
Authored by Shigeru Mizuki, it is the author's actual experience during his time in World War II while he was stationed in the pacific island of Britain. A deep dive into the horror of war and what men go through on the battlefield. The Manga is filled deep with the tension of imminent battle and unfortunate fates while it follows a single platoon into a life-risking mission where none may return. An acquired taste, fans of stories that revolve around real-life historical events will enjoy.
3 Mobile Suit Gundam: The Blue Destiny
The Blue Destiny, authored by Mizuho Takayama, is a side story of Mobile Suit Gundam created by Yoshiyuki Tomin. It takes place during the one-year war following test pilot turned ace pilot Yuu Kajima, the user of the earth federation's newest Mobile Suit, The Blue Destiny.
If you are unfamiliar with Mobile Suit Gundam but are a fan of Manga and Mecha, this is a solid story to check out. The Blue Destiny is a top-notch Manga both in story and art style is an epic wartime clash of the Earth VS. Zeon factions.
2 Real
Authored by Takehiko Inoue, Real is an underrated sports Manga that dives into the world of Wheelchair basketball. The story circulates around three main characters, including Takahashi Hisanobu, who was recently paralyzed due to an accident. Real explores the challenges and struggles of the paraplegic community both on and outside the world of wheelchair basketball and trails the journey of adapting to a considerable change and mental strength needed to do so. Vastly ambitious storytelling that will not disappoint those who give it a try.
1 Vagabond
Written and illustrated by Takehiko Inoue, Vagabond is a story about the legendary swordsman Musashi Miyamoto. Based on the book, Musashi by Eiji Yoshikawa. Vagabond brings to life the stories and tales of Musashi in epic martial arts fashion. Beautifully drawn and told, fans of Blade of the Immortal of Sword fo the Stranger will highly enjoy this tale of swordsmanship and the philosophy of a man that lived by the blade. Truly a work of art, the detail on every page with almost calligraphy-like drawing will fid readers turning pages quickly to continue the story.