Neon Genesis Evangelion: The Shinji Ikari Raising Project

In this alternate-universe manga series (released in English by Dark Horse from 2009 to 2018), writer Carl Gustav Horn and artist Osamu Takahashi reimagine the iconic Neon Genesis Evangelion cast in a lighthearted, romantic-comedy setting. The story follows Shinji Ikari as he navigates a more mundane high school life alongside Asuka Langley Soryu, Rei Ayanami, and the rest of the familiar faces—with none of the apocalyptic stakes. Takahashi’s clean, expressive art and Horn’s playful scripting turn the psychological drama of the original into a charming slice-of-life tale, making it a distinctive companion piece for fans curious to see these characters in a gentler world.