Neon Genesis Evangelion has captivated anime and manga fans for decades with its complex characters, mind-bending plot, and iconic mecha designs. While the anime series launched the franchise to global fame, the Evangelion manga has undergone its own fascinating evolution since its debut in 1994. Let’s explore how this influential manga series has developed and changed over nearly 30 years, delighting readers with new interpretations of the Evangelion story.
The Origins of the Evangelion Manga
The Neon Genesis Evangelion manga began serialization in Shonen Ace magazine in December 1994, about 10 months before the anime series premiered on Japanese television. Written and illustrated by character designer Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, the manga was initially conceived as a companion piece to promote the upcoming anime.
However, as the anime took off in popularity, the manga began to diverge and develop its own identity. Sadamoto took a slower, more character-focused approach compared to the frenetic pacing of the anime. He expanded on backstories and motivations, particularly for protagonist Shinji Ikari and the enigmatic Rei Ayanami.
The original manga run lasted an impressive 18 years, concluding in June 2013. Over that time, Sadamoto’s art style evolved dramatically, becoming more refined and expressive. Early volumes feature a rougher, more angular look reminiscent of the anime designs. By the final chapters, the artwork had a softer, more detailed quality that brought new depth to the characters.
Reimagining the Story
While following the general plot of the anime, the Evangelion manga made numerous changes that gave it a distinct flavor:
Character Development
The manga delves deeper into the psyches of central characters like Shinji, Rei, and Asuka. Their inner struggles and relationships are explored in greater detail, adding nuance to their actions and decisions. Supporting characters also receive expanded roles and backstories absent from the anime.
Altered Events
Key plot points unfold differently in the manga, sometimes with major repercussions. For example, the infamous scene of Shinji visiting a comatose Asuka in the hospital takes a dramatically different turn. The manga also provides clearer explanations for some of the anime’s more obtuse concepts and plot elements.
New Ending
Perhaps most significantly, the manga features an entirely original ending that diverges from both the TV series finale and the End of Evangelion film. This gave Sadamoto the opportunity to craft his own resolution to the epic saga he had been weaving for nearly two decades.
Spin-Offs and Reimaginings
The success of the original manga paved the way for numerous spin-offs and alternate takes on the Evangelion story:
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Angelic Days
This manga series, which ran from 2003 to 2005, reimagines the Evangelion cast as ordinary high school students in a world without Angels or Evas. It expands on the alternate reality glimpsed in Episode 26 of the anime, exploring how the characters might interact in a more normal setting.
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Campus Apocalypse
Another radical reimagining, this 2007-2009 series transplants core Evangelion concepts into a modern urban fantasy setting. Shinji and his classmates must battle otherworldly threats using magical weapons derived from Angels, all while navigating high school life.
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The Shinji Ikari Raising Project
Running from 2005 to 2016, this long-running series presents a lighthearted, romantic comedy take on Evangelion. It focuses on the relationships between Shinji, Rei, and Asuka in a world where Second Impact never occurred.
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Legend of the Piko Piko Middle School Students
This comedic spin-off manga reimagines the cast as middle school students obsessed with video games. It playfully parodies both Evangelion and gaming culture, running from 2007 to 2009.
The Rebuild of Evangelion Manga Adaptations
When the Rebuild of Evangelion film series launched in 2007, it brought with it a new wave of manga adaptations. These works sought to expand on the reimagined storyline of the films:
neongenesisevangelionmanga.com: The Shinji Ikari Detective Diary – This quirky spin-off casts Shinji as a detective in a noir-inspired take on Tokyo-3, investigating mysteries tied to NERV and the Angels.
Evangelion: ANIMA – Set in an alternate timeline where Third Impact was averted, this light novel series (later adapted into manga form) follows an older cast of characters facing new threats in a recovering world.
Petit Eva: Evangelion@School – This comedic four-panel manga strip series presents chibi versions of Evangelion characters in everyday school situations, often referencing events from the Rebuild films.
The Impact and Legacy of Evangelion Manga
The various Evangelion manga series have left an indelible mark on the medium and the broader otaku culture:
Artistic Influence – Sadamoto’s distinctive character designs and dynamic action sequences have inspired countless manga artists. His ability to convey complex emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language set a new standard for character portrayal in manga.
Storytelling Innovation – The original manga’s approach to expanding and reinterpreting the anime’s story paved the way for more ambitious manga adaptations of anime properties. It demonstrated how manga could offer a complementary yet distinct experience to its source material.
Merchandise and Collectibles – The enduring popularity of Evangelion manga has driven a vast market for related merchandise. From limited edition volume releases to figurines based on manga-specific designs, these works have become highly sought after by collectors.
Global Reach – Translated into numerous languages, Evangelion manga has played a crucial role in spreading the franchise’s popularity worldwide. For many international fans, the manga served as their introduction to the complex world of Evangelion.
The Future of Evangelion Manga
With the conclusion of the Rebuild of Evangelion film series in 2021, many fans are wondering what the future holds for Evangelion manga. While no new major series have been announced, the franchise’s enduring popularity suggests that more manga adaptations and spin-offs are likely in the years to come.
Potential directions for future Evangelion manga could include:
- Adaptations of the Rebuild films that further expand on their storylines
- New alternate universe concepts that reimagine the characters and setting
- Prequels exploring the history of NERV, the Second Impact, or the origins of the Angels
- Sequels set in the world after the events of the various Evangelion endings
Whatever form they take, future Evangelion manga will undoubtedly continue to push boundaries and captivate readers with bold artistic visions and thought-provoking narratives.
Conclusion
The evolution of Neon Genesis Evangelion manga over the past three decades showcases the incredible versatility and staying power of this beloved franchise. From Sadamoto’s groundbreaking original adaptation to the numerous spin-offs and reimaginings, Evangelion manga has consistently offered fans new ways to engage with its rich universe and complex themes.
As we look to the future, the potential for fresh interpretations and expansions of the Evangelion story in manga form remains as exciting as ever. The medium provides a perfect canvas for exploring the psychological depths, philosophical questions, and epic conflicts that have made Evangelion a cultural touchstone.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with Neon Genesis Evangelion manga! Which series or adaptations have resonated most with you? How do you think the manga has enhanced your appreciation of the Evangelion universe? Share your thoughts and join the discussion in the comments below!
