The success of the Weekly Shōnen Jump (WSJ) manga magazine has significantly influenced the anime industry, establishing a legacy that continues to thrive today. Many of the most beloved anime series originated from this publication, gaining immense popularity through their adaptations. Yet, not all adaptations have met fan expectations, resulting in disappointment and criticism from dedicated audiences.
WSJ has consistently been recognized as the best-selling manga magazine of all time, featuring hit series that have redefined modern shōnen. The magazine has produced a diverse array of popular titles that have further gained traction thanks to their anime adaptations. Despite this, some renowned manga have suffered from poor adaptations, failing to do justice to the original stories.
One notable example is the adaptation of a much-celebrated manga that won the Shogakukan Manga Award in 2018. This series captured readers with its gripping mystery and thriller elements, complemented by a distinctive art style. Unfortunately, the anime adaptation produced by CloverWorks, which debuted in 2019, did not resonate well with fans. Although the first season maintained a semblance of fidelity to the source material, the second season released in 2021 deviated significantly from the manga. Many fans expressed their dissatisfaction, leading to ongoing jokes about the series never receiving a proper continuation.
As streaming platforms evolve, there are significant changes in the anime offerings available to viewers. In January 2026, a popular streaming service announced its lineup of upcoming anime series, including the addition of titles such as Black Bullet and Kamigami no Asobi. While some series are being removed, others will remain accessible through platforms like Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Disney+.
Fans of the aforementioned manga can find all its chapters on the official apps of Manga Plus and Shonen Jump, as the story concluded in 2020. The complete series, comprising 20 volumes, is also available on the official Viz Media website, which offers links for purchasing both physical and digital copies.
Despite the mixed success of anime adaptations, the impact of WSJ on the industry cannot be overstated. The magazine’s ability to launch successful series while also facing challenges in adaptation reflects the complexities of translating written narratives into animated formats. As the anime landscape continues to evolve, the legacy of WSJ remains an influential force, shaping the future of storytelling in this vibrant medium.