A recurring theme is the cyborgs' struggle with their humanity. Unlike later cyberpunk media where cybernetics are voluntary or status symbols, the 00 Cyborgs are victims of forced modification. The series frequently asks: "Are we still human?"
1. Cyborg 009 (1966 Film) The first animated adaptation. Notable for being a loose adaptation and the starting point of the franchise's multimedia expansion.
2. Cyborg 009 (1968 Series) A monochromatic TV series. It established many of the tropes that would define the franchise, though it deviated significantly from the manga's darker tone to suit younger audiences.
3. Cyborg 009 (1979 Series) Perhaps the most iconic adaptation for older fans. Produced by Toei Animation, it featured character designs by veteran animators and a more serious sci-fi tone. It ran for 50 episodes and cemented the visual language of the team. cyborg 009 archive
4. Cyborg 009: Legend of the Super Galaxy (1980 Film) A theatrical release often cited as a high-water mark for the franchise. It featured high-budget animation, a space-opera plot, and remains a fan favorite.
5. Cyborg 009: The Cyborg Soldier (2001 Series) A modern reboot created to honor Ishinomori’s legacy. It adapted specific manga arcs (like the "Underground Empire of Yomi") with high fidelity and introduced the "God’s War" prologue. It is widely regarded as the most accessible entry point for modern audiences.
6. 009 Re:Cyborg (2012 Film) Directed by Kenji Kamiyama (Ghost in the Shell: SAC). This film acted as a hard reboot, reimagining the characters in a post-9/11 geopolitical landscape with 3D CGI animation. It is divisive among purists but praised for its mature themes. A recurring theme is the cyborgs' struggle with
7. Cyborg 009: Call of Justice (2016) A 3D CGI film series (later edited for Netflix) produced by Production I.G and Signal.MD. It explores a new conflict with the "Blessed," a race of superhumans.
| Content Type | Status | Location / Notes | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Original 1964 Manga (B&W) | Complete scanlation | Volumes 1–18 (rare) | | 1979 Film | Remastered | Available via Discotek Media | | 2001 TV Series | Partial restoration | Episodes 1–26 + 4 unaired arcs | | 2012 CGI Short | Lost media? | Only exists in festival circulation | | 2016 Call of Justice | Fully archived | Netflix stream + JP Blu-ray extras | | Ishinomori sketches | High-res available | From the Shotaro Ishinomori Manga Museum |
This archive exists to:
For years, the Cyborg 009 archive was difficult for English-speaking audiences to access fully. However, thanks to publishers like Tokyopop and more recently, CADENCE Books, the series is being preserved in high-quality hardcover editions.
These new archives allow readers to see Ishinomori’s art in its purest form. His style is distinct from the "big eyes" aesthetic of modern anime. It is scratchy, dynamic, and experimental. He uses heavy inks and creative paneling that feels cinematic.