Superpowers and Abilities

How much can stories featuring superpowers and supernatural abilities be classified as science fiction? I’m still pondering this, but typically, if the source of these powers is explained through scientific or technological means, they are often categorized under science fiction. Many manga feature protagonists with special abilities that drive the narrative and lead to thrilling escapades.

Examples include:

One-Punch Man (Wanpanman): This tale follows Saitama, a hero capable of defeating any foe with a single strike.

My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia): Set in a world where individuals are born with unique abilities called “Quirks,” the story chronicles the protagonist's journey to harness his powers and become a hero.

World Trigger (Warudo Toriga): This narrative revolves around a group known as “Border,” which combats otherworldly creatures using a technology called “Trigger” that grants them special abilities.

Dystopia and Alternate Worlds

Dystopia, particularly when intertwined with advanced technology, is often referred to as Cyberpunk. It presents a grim, oppressive society, commonly portrayed in futuristic narratives where civilization has crumbled under authoritarian rule or various calamities. Such stories illustrate worlds where personal freedoms are curtailed and societal control is maintained through fear.

While these dystopian realms are fictional, they can still be analyzed as science fiction, as there is no definitive proof of their existence. These narratives often feature altered historical, geographical, and social landscapes alongside fantastical elements.

Notable examples:

Pluto (Pur?t?): A dystopian tale inspired by Asimov’s “Robot Series,” it investigates a series of enigmatic murders in a world where humans and robots coexist.

Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin): This story unfolds in a realm besieged by gigantic creatures, forcing humanity to reside within fortified cities.

Battle Royale (Batoru Rowaiaru): Set in a bleak future, it revolves around a deadly competition orchestrated by a totalitarian regime, where students must fight for survival.

Alternate History and Parallel Universes

Alternate history depicts fictional timelines diverging from actual events. These narratives explore how history might have unfolded differently due to pivotal decisions.

Parallel universes present alternative realities stemming from different choices or events, showcasing variations in history, geography, and social structures.

Key titles include:

Fullmetal Alchemist (Hagane no Renkinjutsushi): Set in a world where alchemy reigns, it follows the Elric brothers as they navigate an alternate universe.

Re:Life in Another World (Re:Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu): This story follows Subaru Natsuki, who finds himself reborn in a parallel realm where time resets upon death.

Space Travel

Narratives centered around space travel often involve astronauts embarking on grand missions and explorations. They utilize technological elements like spaceships and interstellar communication, reflecting humanity’s innate desire to explore and understand the cosmos.

Examples include:

Planetes (Puranetesu): Following a group of “Space Debris Collectors,” this story delves into the challenges of space travel and its implications for humanity.

Astra Lost in Space (Kanata no Asutora): A group of students on an interplanetary camping trip finds themselves lost in an unfamiliar world, facing numerous challenges along the way.

Time Travel

Time travel narratives often involve characters attempting to alter the past or shape the future. These themes provide a fresh perspective on time, allowing characters to confront their past choices and the potential consequences of their actions.

Noteworthy titles:

Steins;Gate (Shutainzu G?to): A beloved series that navigates the complexities of time travel and alternate timelines through the journey of Rintarou Okabe.

Orange (Orenji): This narrative follows high school students striving to prevent a friend’s tragic fate, prompted by a letter from the future.

The Girl Who Leapt Through Time (Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo): The protagonist, Makoto, discovers her ability to travel back in time, striving to rectify her past mistakes.

Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Manga frequently explores themes of technological advancements that grant characters unique abilities, prompting reflections on identity, societal roles, and ethical considerations.

Key examples:

Biomega (Baiomega): Set in a dystopian future, it examines the ramifications of genetic manipulation and the struggles of humanity amid these changes.

Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin): This series incorporates genetic engineering, as humans can transform into titanic creatures due to a special serum.

Tokyo Ghoul (T?ky? G?ru): Set in a world where individuals can morph into flesh-eating beings due to genetic mutations.

Additionally, the presence of metallic limbs is prevalent in sci-fi manga. Characters often possess mechanical or cybernetic limbs that enhance their capabilities, playing significant roles in action sequences and adventures.

One of the most striking portrayals of this is in Fullmetal Alchemist, where the protagonist Edward uses automails, prosthetic limbs that integrate with the body’s systems.

Martial Arts and Battles

Many science fiction manga showcase martial arts and combat as central themes. These narratives highlight epic confrontations between characters endowed with extraordinary powers and unique weapons.

Notable titles:

Battle Angel Alita (Gunnm): Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it features battles between cyborg warriors led by the skilled fighter, Alita.

Terra Formars (Tera Fomazu): This series explores humanity's fight for survival on Mars, where genetically altered insects challenge human existence.

Virtual Reality and Games

Virtual reality has become a prominent theme in science fiction, with characters embarking on thrilling journeys within digital realms or games. These stories often blur the lines between reality and the virtual world, providing readers with immersive experiences.

Examples include:

Sword Art Online (Sodo Ato Onrain): Characters find themselves trapped in a virtual MMORPG, battling for survival while cut off from the real world.

Accel World (Akuseru W?rudo): Set in a near-future landscape, it follows Haruyuki Arita as he navigates a game that enhances his mental capabilities.

Robots and Artificial Intelligence

Robots and AI frequently appear in manga, showcasing their emotional and intellectual interactions with humans. These narratives delve into the complexities of human-robot relationships and the ethical dilemmas they present.

Key titles include:

Ghost in the Shell (K?kaku Kid?tai): Set in a future where humans can merge with AI, it follows Major Motoko Kusanagi as she investigates crimes while exploring the essence of humanity.

Chobits (Chobittsu): This story revolves around a university student and his relationship with Chi, a personal assistant robot with advanced AI, examining the emotional connections that develop between humans and machines.