Wheelchair basketball, a central theme in Real, isn’t something you come across frequently in manga. Given its niche nature within the sports genre, locating manga similar to Real can be tricky due to the specificity and rarity of that theme.
Nevertheless, there are several manga that share a focus on the various challenges individuals face and emphasize the resilience of people overcoming obstacles, whether those challenges are found in sports or in the broader spectrum of life. Now, let’s dive in!
10. Space Brothers
Space Brothers follows two brothers, Mutta and Hibito, who aspire to become astronauts. Their journey becomes more compelling when Mutta, the older brother, loses his job and decides to chase his childhood dream. Meanwhile, Hibito, fueled by his passion for space, diligently works his way into the training program.
- Hart, Christopher (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 07/07/2015 (Publication Date) - Drawing with Christopher Hart (Publisher)
- Shinjuku Press (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 128 Pages - 05/02/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Yoai, Yoai (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 144 Pages - 08/24/2021 (Publication Date) - Rock Point (Publisher)
Both Space Brothers and Real center around the experiences of young men pursuing their dreams and the obstacles they face in their quest to achieve them.
09. Bakuman
Another recommendation similar to Real is Bakuman. While the former delves into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities as they navigate society, the latter follows a different yet equally compelling path.
In Bakuman, Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi, high school students, aim to become manga creators. The narrative intertwines their ventures through the competitive manga landscape, depicting the hurdles, rivalries, and their relentless pursuit of getting an anime adaptation.
Additionally, it offers readers insights into the behind-the-scenes aspects of manga creation, pitching, and serialization, making it a captivating exploration of the manga-making industry.
08. Blue Giant
Readers of Real will also find much to enjoy in Blue Giant. This poignant drama emphasizes young adults flourishing through the pursuit of their aspirations. Furthermore, both mangas share similar artistic styles, and readers will appreciate the consistent quality maintained throughout.
The protagonist, Dai Miyamoto, is a saxophone player with grand ambitions. The story chronicles his struggles, victories, and interactions with fellow musicians as he ardently follows his love for jazz.
07. March Comes in Like a Lion
March Comes in Like a Lion narrates the life of Rei Kiriyama, a young shogi player navigating the highs and lows of life. He grapples with feelings of isolation, strives for happiness, and learns the essence of friendship. This manga resonates with Real because both feature characters enduring struggles while uncovering their true selves.
Moreover, the art and emotional depth in both mangas allow readers to genuinely experience what the characters endure. They extend beyond mere sports narratives; they explore life and the myriad ways individuals cope with it.
06. Hikaru’s Go
Hikaru Shindo is an everyday middle school student who discovers an old Go board inhabited by the spirit of Fujiwara-no-Sai, a Go master from the past. This serendipitous encounter ignites Hikaru’s journey into the realm of Go, where strategy intertwines with intuition.
At their core, Hikaru’s Go and Real resonate deeply as they both examine the transformative journeys of characters grappling with challenges, seeking growth, and striving for mastery.
- Banno, Eri (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 384 Pages - 02/01/2020 (Publication Date) - Japan Times (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- ToWin, Explore (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 463 Pages - 10/18/2024 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
05. Ping Pong
Ping Pong is an unconventional take on sports manga, offering a distinctively artistic portrayal of table tennis. Its standout feature lies in its exploration of the intricate and deep relationships among its characters.
The story predominantly follows two talented table tennis players, Smile and Peco, who navigate the competitive landscape of the sport. It delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, personal development, and the journey of self-discovery.
While Ping Pong showcases the intensity of table tennis, Real emphasizes the resilience displayed both on and off the court, capturing the essence of individual struggles in the quest for excellence.
04. Vagabond
Crafted by the same genius behind Slam Dunk, Vagabond is a historical epic inspired by the life of Miyamoto Musashi, one of Japan’s most legendary swordsmen.
We follow Shinmen Takezo, who later becomes the renowned Miyamoto Musashi. The narrative traces his evolution from a hotheaded youth into a legendary swordsman pursuing a deeper understanding of life through mastery of the sword.
So, what connects Vagabond and Real? Both delve into themes of personal growth and the quest for meaning in life. Whether it’s about swords and samurai in Vagabond, or facing life’s challenges in Real, both explore the journey toward understanding and mastering oneself.
03. A Silent Voice
A Silent Voice subtly but powerfully resonates within both the anime and manga realms. Authored by Yoshitoki Ōima, this narrative unflinchingly explores the intricacies of human relationships, communication, and redemption. I still remember the profound emotions evoked the first time I engaged with this story; it has the capacity to elicit tears from nearly anyone, highlighting its deeply impactful nature.
The manga introduces us to Shoya Ishida, a former bully on a quest for redemption. The plot unfolds as he reconnects with Shoko Nishimiya, the girl he once tormented, who is deaf.
Even though A Silent Voice lacks basketball, it stands out with its distinct approach, providing insights into the struggles faced by individuals with disabilities, allowing readers to empathize with their challenges.
02. The Climber
If you’re captivated by characters confronting significant psychological hurdles, The Climber should be your next choice.
Mori Buntarou’s path to reaching new heights begins when he transfers to a new high school. Despite his introverted demeanor, his classmates encourage him to attempt a daring climb up the school building. Unhindered by safety gear, Mori ascends with resolve until he encounters a daunting overhang.
The thrill of reaching the peak ignites a newfound passion for rock climbing. This experience broadens his perspective, introducing him to new goals and challenges as he embarks on a journey of training and adventure.
Both Real and The Climber beautifully illustrate how a passion for sports can serve as an escape, providing refuge from the deep-seated loneliness rooted in their circumstances.
01. Slam Dunk
Slam Dunk stands as a classic in the sports manga genre and is also one of the best-selling manga series in Japan. It played a pivotal role in boosting basketball’s popularity across the nation. Additionally, this series was created by Takehiko Inoue, who is also behind Real.
The narrative follows Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent with a penchant for brawling. His life takes an unexpected turn when he joins the basketball team to win over a girl. Despite his initial indifference to the sport, Hanamichi discovers a genuine love for basketball and embarks on a challenging path of self-improvement.
Similar to Real, Slam Dunk transcends the basketball court to explore the characters’ personal growth and challenges. Both mangas delve into the transformative nature of sports, showcasing how individuals confront and overcome their personal obstacles, making it one of the closest matches to Real.