5 Anime Remakes That Completely Outclass the Originals

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It’s hard for remakes to live up to beloved anime, and they often don’t measure up to the original. But sometimes, a remake can actually be better. This usually happens when the remake stays closer to the original story, or when it improves on things in a meaningful way. Better timing and modern animation technology can also help, giving the new version a visual boost. (In fact, many classic anime could probably look even better with updated animation, even if they don’t necessarily need remakes.)

Remakes rarely outperform the originals, but when they do, it’s a real treat. Whether it’s a more accurate adaptation of a beloved anime or a reimagining with stunning new graphics and a stronger narrative, these examples show that revisiting a story can be incredibly rewarding – as long as there’s a compelling reason to do so.

5) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

The first anime adaptation of Fullmetal Alchemist, which originally aired in 2003, isn’t currently available to stream, but it made a significant impact. Its initial episodes are particularly strong, with a darker and more engaging introduction to the Elric brothers compared to the start of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. However, because the manga wasn’t complete when the original series was made, it eventually deviates from the author’s intended story. This results in a less cohesive middle and ending than Brotherhood, which closely follows the manga. The original series has some plot holes and dramatic turns that feel forced, and its conclusion isn’t as satisfying. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, on the other hand, consistently improves as it goes, ultimately surpassing the earlier adaptation in quality.

4) Fruits Basket (2019)

I remember really enjoying the original Fruits Basket anime, it was a classic for a reason. But looking back, the 2001 series just didn’t cover enough of the story from Natsuki Takaya’s manga. It also feels a bit old now – the animation and how quickly the story moved weren’t as strong as what’s expected today, especially when you compare it to the 2019 version. The new Fruits Basket anime is beautiful to watch, and it really delivers on the emotional moments and dramatic tension in a way the earlier series sometimes missed. Like many remakes, it’s a definite improvement, even though the original wasn’t bad. Ultimately, the 2019 Fruits Basket deserves the praise it gets; it tells a much more complete and satisfying story.

3) Dororo (2019)

The 1969 anime Dororo was a remarkably dark and innovative series for its time, and remains a worthwhile watch for anime fans. However, the 2019 remake is probably a better fit for today’s audiences. It boasts significantly improved animation and overall production quality, which is natural considering its more recent release and the advancements in the anime industry. The remake also excels at delivering emotional impact and offers more complex, well-developed characters.

2) Hunter x Hunter (2011)

Both versions of Hunter x Hunter are good, but the 2011 series is generally considered better. It fully adapts more of the original manga, unlike the 1999 version which stops at the Greed Island arc. The 2011 series also has improved animation and a complete ending, making it a standout adaptation. While the original is still enjoyable, particularly for dedicated fans, the 2011 version is the one most people consider a classic, and it’s the best place to start if you’re new to the series.

1) Hellsing Ultimate

The original Hellsing anime has become a fan favorite, but like the first Fullmetal Alchemist series, it deviates from the manga’s storyline. While the 2001 anime is still fun to watch, Hellsing Ultimate from 2006 is a much closer and better adaptation of Kouta Hirano’s original work. Because of this, it’s generally considered the superior version, and with good reason. Both series are enjoyable in their own ways, but when compared directly, Hellsing Ultimate consistently proves to be the stronger choice. It has a faster pace, more impressive action sequences, and doesn’t hold back on the series’ darker and more violent themes.

Which anime reboot do you think is better than the original? Share your thoughts and discuss it in the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-03-18 03:40