Anime has seen an incredible boom in popularity over the years, with new shows constantly making waves and older classics receiving fresh adaptations. However, despite the endless stream of new content, there are still some legendary anime series that have been left behind, gathering dust when they really deserve a major revival. Whether it is because they ended too soon, had an incomplete adaptation, or just never got the modern treatment they deserve, there are many anime series that are long overdue for a comeback.

From action-packed classics to fan-favorite romances, there are countless anime series that need either a remake, a reboot, or a continuation to finally reach their full potential. Some were cut off too soon, while others suffered from poor adaptations. Regardless, fans have been waiting long enough. It is time for these beloved series to make their triumphant return, and with anime being more popular than ever, now is the perfect time.

10 Fist of the North Star

Anime Series by Toei Animation; Based on the Manga by Buronson and Tetsuo Hara

Fist of the North Star (1984)

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Fist of the North Star
Release Date
1984 - 1988
Directors
Toyoo Ashida

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming
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Few anime series have had as much influence on the industry as Fist of the North Star, yet despite its legendary status, it has not gotten a faithful modern remake. The original anime, which aired in the 1980s, is a cornerstone of action-packed shōnen stories, featuring brutal combat, an iconic protagonist in Kenshiro, and an unforgettable post-apocalyptic setting. However, the animation, while groundbreaking at the time, now feels dated compared to modern action anime.

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A remake that stays true to the original's art style while incorporating fluid, high-quality animation could re-invent Fist of the North Star for a new generation. Modern technology could bring Kenshiro's martial arts and explosive battles to life like never before, finally doing justice to the series' incredible action scenes. If anime like JoJo's Bizarre Adventure can receive stunning adaptations, then Fist of the North Star surely could as well.

9 Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple

Anime Series by TMS Entertainment; Based on the Manga by Syun Matsuena

Kenichi The Mightiest Disciple

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Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple
Release Date
2006 - 2013
Directors
Hajime Kamegaki

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple is an underappreciated gem that was tragically cut short. First airing in 2006, the anime follows Kenichi, a bullied, friendless boy who transforms into a powerful martial artist through sheer determination and grueling training. Unlike many shōnen protagonists who gain power through supernatural means, Kenichi earns every victory through sweat, pain, and dedication, making him one of the most relatable heroes in anime.

Despite its strong story and character development, the anime was canceled before it could be adapted into the full manga storyline. Given today's anime landscape, which has seen revivals of many older series and the rise in shōnen anime, Kenichi deserves another shot. A remake with updated animation and a commitment to finishing the story could finally give this underrated martial arts anime the recognition it deserves.

8 Yu Yu Hakusho

Anime Series by Studio Pierrot; Based on the Manga by Yoshihiro Togashi

Yu Yu Hakusho poster
Created by
Yoshihiro Togashi
Latest TV Show
Yu Yu Hakusho
Cast
Nozomu Sasaki, Justin Cook, Cynthia Cranz, Christopher Sabat, Kent Williams, Shigeru Chiba, Tomomichi Nishimura, Sanae Miyuki, Takumi Kitamura, Shuhei Uesugi, Jun Shison, Kanata Hongô

While Yu Yu Hakusho is considered one of the greatest anime of all time, it is still underappreciated by modern audiences. Its biggest hurdle is its outdated animation, which, while charming in a nostalgic way, lacks the crisp visuals and fluid action that today’s anime fans expect. As a result, many younger viewers are hesitant to give it a chance, despite its gripping story, fantastic characters, and incredible battles.

A full remake with modern animation, similar to what Hunter x Hunter received, would introduce Yu Yu Hakusho to a whole new audience. With its blend of supernatural elements, martial arts, and deep character arcs, there is no doubt that a reboot would be a massive success. Considering its legendary status and the rise of shōnen anime, it is surprising that this stellar series has not already gotten a remake.

7 Claymore

Anime Series by Madhouse; Based on the Manga by Norihiro Yagi

Claymore

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Claymore
Release Date
2007 - 2007
Directors
Hiroyuki Tanaka

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Claymore is a dark fantasy anime that deserves so much more attention than it gets. Featuring a strong female protagonist, an interesting storyline, and brutal monster-hunting action, it had all the makings of a major hit. However, despite its potential, the anime never received a second season, leaving fans longing for more.

With dark fantasy anime like Demon Slayer, Berserk, and Vinland Saga achieving massive success, Claymore is the perfect candidate for a revival.

With dark fantasy anime like Demon Slayer, Berserk, and Vinland Saga achieving massive success, Claymore is the perfect candidate for a revival. The story, which blends medieval-inspired world-building with supernatural battles, remains incredibly compelling, and a new adaptation could finally bring it the mainstream popularity it deserves.

6 The Promised Neverland

Anime Series by CloverWorks; Based on the Manga by Kaiu Shirai and Posuka Demizu

The Promised Neverland-1

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The Promised Neverland
Release Date
2019 - 2021-00-00

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Season 1 of The Promised Neverland was a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, staying faithful to the manga and delivering one of the most gripping anime experiences in recent years. However, season 2 was a disaster that felt rushed, was poorly executed, and skipping entire arcs of the manga. This resulted in the anime being effectively killed, leaving fans disappointed and frustrated.

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The only way to fix this is to remake season 2 entirely, giving the story the adaptation it originally deserved. The manga's later arcs are rich with tension, intricate world-building, and deep character development, all of which were completely lost in the botched adaptation. If done correctly, a redo of season 2 could restore The Promised Neverland to its former glory, raising it to the popularity level of other series like Hunter x Hunter and My Hero Academia.

5 Berserk

Anime Series by OLM (1997), Millepensee (2016-2017); Based on the Manga by Kentaro Miura

Berserk Franchise Poster
Created by
Kentaro Miura, Kouji Mori
First Film
Berserk: The Golden Age Arc 1: The Egg of the King
Latest Film
Berserk: The Golden Age Arc 3: The Advent
First TV Show
Berserk

Berserk is one of the greatest manga of all time, but its anime adaptations have been a mixed bag. The 1997 series was excellent, but it only covered the Golden Age Arc. Later adaptations, especially the 2016-2017 Berserk anime, were heavily criticized for their subpar CGI and lackluster execution.

Fans have been begging for Berserk to receive a faithful, high-quality adaptation that does justice to Kentaro Miura's masterful storytelling and artwork. With modern animation techniques, the series' brutal combat and emotional depth could finally be properly realized. If any anime deserves a remake or continuation, it is Berserk.

4 Tokyo Ghoul

Anime Series by Studio Pierrot; Based on the Manga by Sui Ishida

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Tokyo Ghoul
TV-MA
Drama
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Anime
Horror
Supernatural
Release Date
2014 - 2014-00-00
Network
Tokyo MX

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming
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Few anime series have as much wasted potential as Tokyo Ghoul. The source material is phenomenal, but the anime adaptation strayed far from it, making drastic changes that left fans disappointed. Instead of faithfully adapting the manga, the anime rushed through major arcs and skipped important character development, resulting in a disted and unsatisfying viewing experience.

A proper adaptation of Tokyo Ghoul, one that follows the manga from start to finish with no shortcuts, could turn it into the massive hit it was always meant to be. If done correctly, it could easily stand alongside today’s top anime. With the massive success of the manga and the large number of fans who were hopeful about the original anime, a reboot of the Tokyo Ghoul series would be a huge hit that anime studios should capitalize on.

3 Yuri!!! On Ice

Anime Series by MAPPA; Original Anime by Sayo Yamamoto and Mitsurou Kubo

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Yuri!!! On Ice - Season 1
Release Date
October 6, 2016
Network
tv asahi
Series
Yuri on Ice
Episodes
12

Yuri!!! On Ice was a groundbreaking and diverse sports anime that captivated audiences worldwide, but despite its massive success, fans have been left waiting for more. A movie called Yuri!!! On Ice: Ice Adolescence was originally planned, but its production was mysteriously halted, leaving the franchise in a devastating limbo.

Considering its impact and dedicated fanbase, Yuri!!! On Ice deserves a continuation. Whether through a second season or a proper movie release, bringing back this beloved series would be a huge win for anime fans. Especially with the rise of both sports anime like Blue Lock and boy's love (BL) anime like Heaven's Official Blessing, now is the perfect time for Yuri!!! On Ice to make a comeback.

2 Ouran High School Host Club

Anime Series by Bones; Based on the Manga by Bisco Hatori

Ouran High School Host Club

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Ouran High School Host Club
Release Date
2006 - 2006
Directors
Takuya Igarashi

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming
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This classic shoujo anime is still one of the most beloved romantic comedies in anime history. However, despite its popularity, the anime never received a proper continuation after its successful first season. Since it only adapted a portion of the manga, there is still plenty of material left for a second season or a full remake.

With the resurgence of romantic comedy anime, there has never been a better time to bring back Ouran High School Host Club.

With the resurgence of romantic comedy anime, there has never been a better time to bring back Ouran High School Host Club. A modern adaptation would introduce new audiences to the series’ hilarious and heartwarming story while giving longtime fans the continuation they’ve always wanted.

1 Yona of the Dawn

Anime Series by Pierrot; Based on the Manga by Mizuho Kusanagi

Yona of the Dawn (2014)
Yona of the Dawn

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Unlike many anime series that deserve a comeback, Yona of the Dawn was actually adapted quite faithfully, until it just stopped. The manga continues well beyond where the anime left off, with rich character development and epic storytelling that fans never got to see animated.

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Yona of the Dawn is a groundbreaking shojo anime that defies conventions through its action-packed narrative, political intrigue, and powerful heroine

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With so much great material left, Yona of the Dawn absolutely deserves a second season. The series offers a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and strong female empowerment, making it an ideal candidate for a revival in today’s anime landscape.