Originally released in 2011, Puella Magi Madoka Magica was a brilliant deconstruction of the magical girl anime genre, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide. The series has since expanded into sequels and an ongoing movie franchise. Meanwhile, key creative figures behind the show, including director Akiyuki Shinbo—also known for The SoulTaker—are reportedly exploring new projects, hinting at future creative endeavors beyond Madoka Magica.

Recently, Akiyuki Shinbo revealed that he’d like to adapt a long-running manga, possibly as a two-cour or year-long broadcast. He also named several manga he’d like to adapt one day. These titles, though relatively obscure in the West, were beloved by Japanese children in the 1960s and 1970s: Android Kikaider by Shotaro Ishinomori, Guerrilla High – Gakuen Taikutsu Otoko by Go Nagai, and Babel II by Mitsuteru Yokoyama.

Android Kikaider: A Cybernetic Classic

Guerrilla High: The Forgotten Rebel Manga

Of the three titles Shinbo mentioned, Android Kikaider is likely the most well-known internationally. Originally published from 1972 to 1974, this series was created by Shotaro Ishinomori, the creative genius behind Kamen Rider and Super Sentai. It was adapted into a live-action superhero show that aired outside Japan and later into a 13-episode anime, Android Kikaider: The Animation, which ran on Adult Swim from 2000 to 2001. The story follows a transforming, guitar-playing android who struggles with his desire to become human.

Guerrilla High – Gakuen Taikutsu Otoko was originally published in 1970, a wild era for manga. The story follows rebellious students as they fight against a corrupt school system—and each other—laying the groundwork for many school battle manga that followed. Despite its influence, the series was never adapted into an anime. However, its creator, Go Nagai, is best known for legendary anime hits like Devilman and Mazinger Z.

Babel II: An Underrated Sci-Fi Pioneer

Shinbo’s Future: Reinventing the Past?

Babel II is a classic manga by Mitsuteru Yokoyama (also the creator of Giant Robo and Gigantor) that ran from 1971 to 1973. It follows Koichi, a teenager who discovers he is the heir to an extraterrestrial force, granting him control over three powerful servants, including a giant robot. The series was adapted into a 1973 anime, a 1992 OVA, and a 2001 anime reboot. It influenced later mecha and psychic-powered anime, cementing its legacy in sci-fi storytelling.

While director Akiyuki Shinbo’s plans remain uncertain, his interest in classic manga adaptations highlights his ongoing ion for innovative storytelling. Just as Madoka Magica redefined the magical girl genre, his take on these older titles could introduce them to a new generation. Whether he pursues one of these projects or explores a different path, his influence on the anime industry continues to be one to watch.