Kikaider


Kikaider is a manga series written and illustrated by Shotaro Ishinomori. A two-season tokusatsu series titled Android Kikaider was produced by Toei Company and Ishimori Productions in early 1970s. A 18-episode anime series based on the manga was created by Radix in early 2000s. The tokusatsu series from 1972 is especially popular in Hawaii.
The anime series aired in the United States on Cartoon Network’s Adult Swim Action in 2003. The complete DVD series was available with English subtitles through JN Productions.

Publication

The manga series was serialized in Bessatsu Shōnen Sunday from 1972 to 1974, with its chapters collected into 6 tankōbon volumes.
A remake of the original manga called Kikaider: Code 02 showing more detailed illustrations compared to the simple design of the original manga was released with a total of 7 tankōbon volumes published by Kadokawa Shoten. The story was written and illustrated by Meimu. The manga was licensed by CMX Manga for the English version.
Another remake created by Meimu is Inazuman vs. Kikaider. The manga serves as an alternate sequel to Kikaider: Code 02. The manga was based on Inazuman chapter "The Boy with the Guitar" and mainly follows Inazuman's story.

Volumes

;Original series

Adaptations

Tokusatsu

Anime

Superhero safety

In the past, the Super Giant movie series and shows like Moonlight Mask became controversial when younger viewers began imitating the stunts performed. The original Android Kikaider series was one of the first tokusatsu superhero TV shows to add safety bumpers at the end of each episode, warning viewers not to imitate the stunts performed by its superhero.