Overview
- A-1 Pictures has established a strong reputation for adapting action-oriented series, particularly evident in their work with “Solo Leveling.”
- Potential adaptations, such as “The Breaker”and “SSS-Class Revival Hunter,”promise engaging and dynamic plots.
- Titles like “The Knight Only Lives Today”and “Pick Me Up”introduce innovative action themes ripe for new anime adaptations.
A-1 Pictures, with a portfolio exceeding 100 anime titles across various genres, stands out prominently in the action genre. Their successful adaptations, including renowned series like “Fairy Tail”and “Sword Art Online,”highlight their proficiency in bringing thrilling narratives to life.
The adaptation of “Solo Leveling”is particularly notable—it ranks among A-1 Pictures’ most accomplished projects. Given this success, it seems only logical for the studio to pursue further adaptations of action-packed Manhwa. Below is a selection of compelling Manhwa candidates for future adaptations, focusing exclusively on works yet to receive an official anime treatment; thus, titles like “Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint,”currently in production by Aniplex, are excluded.
7. The Knight Only Lives Today
War, Die, and Repeat
- Korean Title: Oneul-man Saneun Gisa
- First Published: May 17, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.13
Introducing the newest title on our list, “The Knight Only Lives Today,”released in 2024. This gripping story follows Encrid, a soldier caught in a time loop, destined to repeat his battlefield demise. Instead of succumbing to despair, Encrid seizes this grim reality to hone his swordsmanship skills, transforming tragedy into opportunity.
The narrative bears resemblance to the 2004 light novel “All You Need Is Kill,”which inspired a manga and a film adaptation titled “Edge of Tomorrow.”However, what distinguishes this Manhwa is its portrayal of Encrid’s plight, drawing readers deeper into his desperation and determination.
6. Pick Me Up
Transported to a Deadly Game World
- Korean Title: Pick Me Up!
- First Published: Dec 28, 2022
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.26
“Pick Me Up!”introduces readers to an exhilarating online action-adventure game. The main character, Han Seojin, finds himself unexpected transported into the game as a newly minted 1-Star hero named Han Yslat during a high-stakes event. Thrust into a perilous universe brimming with monstrous foes, he must navigate through challenges to survive.
This premise echoes themes from “Sword Art Online,”though with unique twists that set it apart, providing a fresh take on the genre.
5. SSS-Class Revival Hunter
Copying His Way to the Top
- Korean Title: SSS-geup Jugeoya Saneun Hunter
- First Published: Dec 31, 2020
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.29
The tale of “SSS-Class Revival Hunter”revolves around Confucius Kim, an F-Class hunter lacking the strength to ascend the tower’s first floor. When on the brink of despair, he receives a unique skill that allows him to copy his enemies’ abilities at the cost of his own life.
This remarkable power enables him to reset time upon death, facilitating his rise through the ranks and transforming him into an SSS-Class Hunter.
4. The Breaker
An Old-School Martial Arts Story
- Korean Title: The Breaker
- First Published: Jun 1, 2007
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.39
As one of the early works in the Manhwa genre, “The Breaker”retains a nostalgic black-and-white style before evolving into the vibrant webtoons popular today. Its rich blend of action and emotion positions it as a prime candidate for adaptation.
3. Return of the Blossoming Blade
The Return of a Forgotten Hero
- Korean Title: Hwasan Gwihwan
- First Published: Mar 23, 2021
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.50
“Return of the Blossoming Blade”narrates the story of Cheongmyeong, a legendary figure from the Mount Hua Sect, who perishes while defeating the leader of the Demon Cult. A century later, he reincarnates as a beggar in a world that has forgotten his legacy.
His journey back to greatness, including the revitalization of the Mount Hua Sect, promises thrilling developments and spectacular martial arts battles.
2. Eleceed
An Awakened Being and His Cat
- Korean Title: Eleceed
- First Published: Oct 2, 2018
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.54
“Eleceed”explores a universe where select individuals awaken to superpowers while concealing their identities among regular humans. One prominent figure is Kayden, a powerful being who transforms into a cat to evade imminent danger.
He finds an unsuspecting ally in Jiwoo, a cat enthusiast who unwittingly plays a pivotal role in his life, leading to an adventure filled with unexpected twists.
1. The Legend of the Northern Blade
The Story of Betrayal and Vengeance
- Korean Title: Bukgeom Jeongi
- First Published: Dec 31, 2019
- MyAnimeList Score: 8.55
The narrative of “The Legend of the Northern Blade”follows Jin Mu-Won, heir to the Northern Heavenly Sect, who witnesses his father’s betrayal and murder. Held captive in a life of humiliation, he secretly learns the sacred martial techniques of his lineage, biding his time to reclaim his family’s honor.
Each title in this collection delivers a distinct flavor of action, blending genres from intense drama to comedic elements, ensuring broad appeal. The potential for any of these Manhwa to achieve the same monumental success as “Solo Leveling”is evident, and A-1 Pictures’ adaptation of any would be highly anticipated.