The Best Manga Series of All Time

Manga has taken the world by storm, attracting millions with its amazing stories and art. It covers everything from humor to love, from thrilling adventures to solving mysteries. There are many manga series out there, but we’ve picked the very best based on their impact, quality, and the number of fans they have.

Key Takeaways:

  • “One Piece,” with 523.2 million tankōbon volumes in circulation and an average of 4.89 million copies sold per volume, stands out as a top manga series.
  • Hayao Miyazaki’s “Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind” is praised for its post-apocalyptic tale and stunning art.
  • Works like “Grand Blue Dreaming,” “A Silent Voice,” and “20th Century Boys” are highly rated for their quality on reviews sites like MyAnimeList and Anime Planet.
  • Other series like “Fist of the North Star” and “Komi Can’t Communicate” are loved worldwide for their stories and characters.
  • These amazing manga cover a broad spectrum of genres and ideas, meeting the diverse interests of readers.

Grand Blue Dreaming

Grand Blue Dreaming is a top-rated comedy manga set in a college diving club. It started in April 2014, in Good! Afternoon, a seinen manga magazine by Kodansha. Since then, it has gathered a loyal following. The story is set in college, full of unique humor and characters that feel real.

The English version of Grand Blue Dreaming is now online thanks to Kodansha USA and Kodansha Comics. Its popularity grew even more with an anime version. The show, directed by Shinji Takamatsu, ran from July to September in 2018 on MBS.

“Grand Blue Dreaming is a hilarious and enjoyable comedy that I highly recommend to any manga lover.” – Anime Planet

A live-action film of Grand Blue Dreaming hit theaters on August 7, 2020. Tsutomu Hanabusa directed it. The film did a great job of bringing the manga to life, making fans very happy.

It tells the story of Iori Kitahara, a student who moves to an island for school. The manga is all about the wild and fun times he has there. It’s about making friends, partying, and enjoying freedom.

The jokes in Grand Blue Dreaming are smart and filled with wild surprises. The drawings are amazing, especially when it comes to funny faces. This makes reading or watching the series a real pleasure.

It pictures college in a very fun way. The story is all about freedom, friendship, and trying new things. People find it easy to relate to, which makes it a favorite to read over and over.

Like many others, Grand Blue Dreaming faced some problems because of COVID-19. However, for fans, it was a look back at the joys of university life. It was a reminder of what makes friendships so special.

This manga is more than just comedy. It’s about the value of friends and shared experiences in our youth. It’s a call to live fully and embrace the unexpected while we can.

Fist of the North Star

Fist of the North Star is a legendary manga series. It has captured readers with its harsh martial arts and post-apocalyptic world. Created by Tetsuo Hara and writer Buronson, it ran in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1983 to 1988. This covered a grand total of 245 issues.

This manga blends intense action with a compelling story. This winning mix made Fist of the North Star a huge hit. It sold over 100 million copies worldwide, across 27 tankōbon volumes. This makes it one of the top-selling manga series ever.

The manga’s success sparked the making of two anime series. They aired from 1984 to 1988 and had 152 episodes in total. Viz Communications and Gutsoon! Entertainment brought the English-adapted manga to fans. Now, Viz Media is preparing to release hardcover editions in 2020.

The Fist of the North Star world became more than manga and anime. It inspired anime films, a live-action movie, OVAs, video games, and more. This series shaped the cultural landscape, influencing many later shonen works.

Illustrator Tetsuo Hara’s personal struggles helped shape this epic tale. He drew from his love of martial arts for inspiration. The post-apocalyptic setting took cues from ’80s films like Mad Max 2 and Blade Runner, plus the manga Akira. Hara’s unique art, influenced by names like Syd Mead and Frank Frazetta, added another layer of awesome to Fist of the North Star.

Fist of the North Star

The Fist of the North Star’s legacy is still going strong. A new anime series has been announced for 2023. It stands as a classic in the manga world. For fans of martial arts and post-apocalyptic adventures, it’s essential reading.

A Silent Voice

A Silent Voice is a gripping manga that tackles bullying, redemption, and self-acceptance. It follows Shoya Ishida and Shoko Nishimiya, his deaf former classmate. The story is about their journey towards forgiveness and understanding.

The manga ran in Weekly Shōnen Magazine from August 7, 2013, to November 19, 2014. It spanned seven tankōbon volumes and 64 chapters. This rich story touches on deep emotions and personal growth.

Kodansha USA bought the rights to the English version. This allowed readers in North America to enjoy the powerful messages of A Silent Voice.

“A Silent Voice isn’t just about bullying; it’s also about finding redemption and growing. Characters evolve significantly, and their inner worlds are revealed.”

The story explores Shoya’s journey extensively. It looks at his change from a regretful bully to seeking redemption. This deep dive into Shoya’s character adds layers of intrigue and connection for readers.

Although the manga is moving, it was also made into an anime film released in September 2016. This film brings the story alive and lets viewers experience it in a new way.

“The A Silent Voice anime features stunning music that elevates the emotional effect. It uses creative camera angles to show the story through Shoya’s perspective.”

The anime keeps the manga’s core themes while adding captivating visuals and sounds. Shoko is played by Saori Hayami and Lexi Cowden in the Japanese and English versions. This brings more depth to the characters.

“The manga shows the characters’ pasts and the present situation in more detail than the film. It balances light and serious moments better within the story.”

Reading the A Silent Voice manga reveals more about the characters’ history. This detail enriches the understanding of their relationships and decisions.

The manga skillfully mixes fun and intense moments. This blend makes the story more engaging and the characters more relatable. They are on a path of growth and redemption.

In the end, A Silent Voice shines as a manga that deals with important themes in a touching way. With its compelling story, well-drawn characters, and deep dive into emotions, A Silent Voice stands as a top choice in romance manga.

20th Century Boys

20th Century Boys is a thrilling manga series by Naoki Urasawa that grabs attention with its secretive plot. It’s set in a world where disaster seems close and follows childhood friends. They discover a dark plan led by someone known as “Friend.”

This manga blends mystery with a global crisis to keep readers hooked. Naoki Urasawa is praised for his detailed stories and character growth. These skills make 20th Century Boys one of his standout creations.

20th Century Boys

The series appeared in Big Comic Spirits magazine from 1999 to 2006. It had 249 chapters gathered in 22 volumes. Due to its popularity, a follow-up, 21st Century Boys, was written from 2006 to 2007.

There’s also a movie trilogy based on the manga, directed by Yukihiko Tsutsumi, released in 2008 and 2009. It did extremely well, selling 36 million copies and becoming a top manga series ever.

Many awards, including the Shogakukan Manga Award, Kodansha Manga Award, and Seiun Award, honored 20th Century Boys. These awards highlight its great story and influence on manga.

Even though there’s no anime of 20th Century Boys, it inspired three successful live-action movies. This shows how important and beloved Naoki Urasawa’s art is.

20th Century Boys offers an exciting story, memorable characters, and deep insights. It proves the ability of manga to be thrilling and thought-provoking.

Komi Can’t Communicate

Komi Can’t Communicate is a favorite manga mix of romance and comedy. It tells Shoko Komi’s story, a high schooler who is very shy. She wants to make friends but finds it hard. The manga is filled with messages about friends and learning to accept yourself.

Many readers find Shoko’s social anxiety relatable. She’s trying to overcome her fears and find friends. Being on the autism spectrum, she faces different challenges in making connections.

Shoko struggles to talk but loves writing. This special way of communicating is central to the story. It shows how powerful writing can be in sharing yourself.

The manga is loved for its touching story and great characters. Mixing romance with humor, it keeps readers coming back for more. It’s a joyful experience to read through each chapter.

It’s not just manga, Komi Can’t Communicate is loved in other media too. Its anime version was a hit, with fans all over the globe praising it. The show really brought the manga to vivid life.

The series has won big awards, like the 67th Shogakukan Manga Award in 2022. This shows it’s a standout in storytelling. The recognition is well-deserved.

Thanks to many licensing deals, fans worldwide can enjoy it. Viz Media has North America covered. Other areas licensed it too, showing its global appeal.

With millions of copies out there, it has a strong fan base. People love its relatable stories and funny moments. The manga truly touches many hearts.

If you enjoy romance or comedy, Komi Can’t Communicate is for you. It’s a story about friendship and self-discovery. Reading it is an experience you won’t forget.

Kamisama Kiss

Kamisama Kiss tells the story of Nanami Momozono. She is a high school student with a tough life. Her father’s gambling leaves her in a difficult situation. But, everything changes when she becomes a shrine’s master.

Nanami struggles at first, especially with Tomoe. He’s a divine servant who didn’t want to serve her. But, their relationship evolves. Tomoe becomes her shinshi, making their bond stronger.

“Kamisama Kiss offers a delightful blend of supernatural encounters and heartwarming romance, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.”

The manga has many memorable moments. Nanami kisses Tomoe to save him from danger, surprising both of them. She starts her journey as a god and grows a lot under Tomoe’s guidance as a master.

She faces many challenges, among them, Himemiko. Tomoe supports and protects her, showing trust in her abilities.

Kamisama Kiss began as a manga in 2008, ending in 2016 with 25 volumes. It then became an anime in the Fall of 2012, with two seasons and several special episodes. The series’ time travel aspect was expanded in the anime, giving fans more insight into the story.

Tomoe’s Emotional Journey

Kamisama Kiss deeply explores Tomoe’s emotions. Ten volumes focus on his past and his feelings. This shines a light on his character, making him more relatable.

The anime delves into the pasts of characters like Mizuki and Tomoe. It shows their life before meeting Nanami. Himemiko and Kotaro’s love story is also highlighted. Both the anime and manga explore this in detail.

In a unique twist, both adaptations present a time traveling plot. This part reveals Tomoe’s love for Nanami. Both mediums handle this storyline well, adding depth to the romance.

Kamisama Kiss is a beloved manga series. It combines supernatural, romance, and character stories beautifully. Its captivating plot and lovable characters have made it a shoujo favorite worldwide.

Publication Year Volumes Anime Adaptation Number of Episodes
2008 – 2016 25 Fall 2012 32 (2 seasons, 2 OVA’s, 5 ODA’s)

Kamisama Kiss

Best-Selling Manga Series

The manga world is full of best-selling series. These stories draw in readers and sell millions of copies. They have become key parts of manga all over the world. Today, let’s look at some of the top-selling manga that have changed the game. They’ve made a big impact on manga as a whole.

One Piece

One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda, is a true giant in the manga scene. This series boasts an incredible 107 volumes and sales nearing 523.2 million. It tells the story of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew on a quest for the legendary treasure, the One Piece. Its rich story, diverse characters, and well-crafted world keep readers hooked. The series sells an average of 4.89 million copies per volume. This proves its widespread and lasting appeal.

Naruto

Naruto is an important part of manga history. It spans 72 volumes and has sold over 250 million copies. The tale of Naruto Uzumaki’s journey to become a great ninja is one of courage and growth. The average sales per volume are about 3.47 million. Fans love it for its characters, stories of friendship, and messages about never giving up.

Attack on Titan

“If we’re born into this world, we can only do what we can, right?” – Eren Yeager

Attack on Titan is a manga everybody’s talking about. It’s sold over 140 million copies worldwide. The story takes place in a world attacked by Titans, giant humanoid creatures. Eren Yeager and his friends vow to uncover the Titans’ mysteries and save humanity. The series is known for its dark themes and deep story. Its popularity shows just how gripping its plot really is.

Manga Series No. of Collected Volumes Approximate Sales Average Sales per Volume
One Piece 107 523.2 million 4.89 million
Naruto 72 250 million 3.47 million
Attack on Titan 140 million

One Punch Man

One Punch Man is a top manga series that flips the superhero genre on its head. Created by ONE and brought to life by Yusuke Murata, it stars Saitama. He’s a hero who can end any fight with one punch. Sounds cool, right? But this makes life boring for him. He’s on the hunt for someone who can give him a real challenge.

This series is loved for its mix of thrilling action and funny moments. With 30 volumes out by March 2024, it keeps fans hooked with exciting stories.

The manga started as a webcomic that was a hit, earning over 7.9 million reads by June 2012. It then became a successful manga, selling over 30 million copies worldwide by April 2020. This made it one of the most popular manga ever.

Saitama’s Legendary Superpowers

“I’m just a guy who’s a hero for fun.” – Saitama

A key point in One Punch Man is how Saitama is so strong, he’s practically invincible. But he deals with his powers in a very laid-back way, making the story fun and interesting. Fans love seeing who he’ll face next.

Saitama’s fights with Garou stand out. Garou is a tough villain who pushes Saitama to his limits. Their battles are both exciting and show off Saitama’s true power.

The anime really added to One Punch Man’s fame. Created by Madhouse, it aired in Japan between October and December 2015. Fans loved how it captured the manga’s spirit and action on screen.

Fan-Favorite Moments

There are epic scenes throughout One Punch Man that fans can’t forget. Like when Genos fights the Deep Sea King, it’s thrilling and intense. Fans talk about it a lot.

Then there’s the fight with Boros, a powerful alien. When Saitama battles Boros, the stage is set for an incredible show of their powers. Readers are left amazed.

The story also introduces memorable characters like Psykos and Suiryu. Psykos has amazing destructive abilities. Suiryu shows off in a martial arts tournament, wowing everyone with his skills.

The series hits a high point with Garou’s big rematch against Bang. It’s a turning point in the story, showing just how intense and powerful One Punch Man can get.

Overall, One Punch Man mixes action with a good dose of humor for a unique manga experience. Its engaging plots, awesome characters, and exciting moments have made it a favorite for manga lovers worldwide.

Anime Adaptation Number of Episodes/OVAs
One Punch Man 24 episodes / 12 OVAs

One Punch Man

*Note: The image depicts Saitama, the protagonist of One Punch Man, embodying the essence of the series through his superhero outfit and serious expression.*

Made in Abyss

Made in Abyss is a manga series loved by many. It takes readers on a thrilling journey into a fantasy world. Fans praise its deep story and beautiful artwork, placing it high in manga rankings.

The manga started in 2012 and is still going strong. There are nine books in English. This version adds a lot to the series’ world and lore, drawn by Akihito Tsukushi.

The anime came out in 2017 with thirteen episodes. It won hearts with its stunning animation and a soundtrack that draws you in. Many view it as one of the best animes in the last ten years.

“Made in Abyss is a masterpiece, combining adventure and fantasy in a way that keeps readers enthralled from start to finish.” – Anime Expo

Those who loved the anime dove into the manga for more story. The manga goes deeper, letting fans enjoy every detail at their own pace. This makes the adventure even more special.

There are twelve volumes in the Made in Abyss series. They have been thrilling fans for over ten years. Plus, there are movies recapping Season 1.

Season Episodes Total Runtime
Season 1 13 312 minutes

The latest movie, Dawn of the Deep Soul, brings new, exciting story. It’s something both manga and anime fans love. The adventure continues from where the anime’s second season ended.

Season 2 is called The Golden City of the Scorching Sun. It started in July 2022. Fans can’t wait to see more of the Abyss and its secrets.

  • Made in Abyss can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu, allowing fans to enjoy the series from the comfort of their own homes.
  • The Made in Abyss movies, including Journey’s Dawn, Wandering Twilight, and Dawn of the Deep Soul, are also available for streaming on Hulu for an immersive movie-watching experience.

Made in Abyss is a top pick for fans of adventure, fantasy, and mystery. Its fan base shows how much people love it. This series proves its lasting value and appeal.

Monogatari Series

The Monogatari series mixes action, mystery, and romance well. It tells the story of Koyomi Araragi, a school student caught in supernatural events.

Its unique style and complex stories have made it a fan favorite. The series includes Bakemonogatari, Nisemonogatari, and Kizumonogatari. Each part brings fresh and captivating tales with strong characters.

This manga shines in how it tells stories. It leans heavily on deep talks rather than common drama. This makes the characters feel real as they deal with life’s troubles.

It’s not your usual anime. The series uses humor and unique elements to stand out. It makes fans laugh and think in new ways.

Perfect for high schoolers, this series tackles big topics in a fun way. It’s beloved for its rich storylines and character growth.

Fans love debating the best characters and storylines. It’s clear many readers deeply care about the series.

The Monogatari series is praised for its creativity and art. It challenges the norm, making viewers think and feel deeply. This makes it a top choice for many manga fans.

The series started as novels filled with long conversations and insights. As it grew, it became manga and anime. These tell the story in new but faithful ways.

The visuals are open to interpretation, especially for male characters. The anime adds fun details, like Koyomi’s ahoge, making it lively and expressive.

The anime does change some things from the books. This freshens up the story for fans. It offers a new twist to keep readers interested.

In Kizumonogatari, the action is more on the screen than in words. Less talking, more showing gives a powerful and fast-paced feel. Viewers love this visual feast.

Monogatari Series Adaptations Differences/Features
Novel – Extended conversations and narration commentary
Manga – Incorporates elements from novels and animated versions
Anime – Takes liberties in altering certain elements from the source material
– Embraces visual gags and unique visual style
– Cut content and changes to original source material
Film – Action scenes and background information left out
– Less narrator commentary, more visual storytelling

The Monogatari series adapts well and keeps its heart. Fans love it for the mix of action, mystery, and love. It’s a top pick for anyone who loves manga.

Monogatari Series

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, a manga by Hayao Miyazaki, takes place after the world is nearly destroyed. This epic story covers more than 1100 pages and is marked by stunning art and deep themes.

Miyazaki spent ten years, from 1982 to 1994, creating Nausicaä’s world. The anime movie came out in 1984, before the manga was done. It helped Ghibli Studio start, making Nausicaä very important in anime.

The artwork is inspired by Moebius and European comics, making it different from other manga. The tale mixes American sci-fi, European stories, and Japanese culture beautifully.

Nausicaä is a mix of fantasy and a story about war, taking readers to a world that feels like World War II. The main character, Nausicaä, is like a savior, who can talk to spirits thanks to her powers. She cares deeply for nature.

The comic is not just a sci-fi adventure. It deeply thinks about nature, people, and the planet. Miyazaki’s thoughts on life and green living shine through in Nausicaä and his other work, like Princess Mononoke.

The story is vast, with detailed characters and talks about war and politics. You get to see the world grow and face tough choices with characters, Kushana and Kurotowa.

The art brings Nausicaä’s world to life with detail in every corner. It’s highly praised, but some say the art looks like another artist, Osama Tezuka.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind is a must for those who love detailed stories with deep thoughts. It blends fantasy, sci-fi, and big questions, and it’s loved by fans and critics. This series shapes the world of manga and anime.

Detailed Worldbuilding and Compelling Characters

Distinctive Features Manga Adaptation Film Adaptation
Over 1100 pages of epic storytelling Delves deeper into character development and story arcs Expands on the portrayal of different factions
Combines fantasy and science fiction elements Highlights Nausicaä’s internal conflict and character growth Explores the complexities and horrors of war
Sprawling worldbuilding beyond the constraints of a weekly serial schedule Showcases nuanced moral dilemmas of characters like Kushana and Kurotowa Offers unique character dynamics and storylines for male protagonists
Beautifully illustrated with intricate details Art style influenced by Moebius and bande dessinée albums Critique: Certain characters resemble the style of Osama Tezuka

Conclusion

Manga is loved all around the world for its amazing stories and art. We talked about the top manga series ever in this article. They cover many themes, from love stories to mysteries.

“Attack on Titan” is famous for its great story and ending. “A Silent Voice” also got a lot of love for how it ended. Fans were thrilled with “Naruto” and “Fullmetal Alchemist” due to their satisfying endings.

“Fruits Basket” and “Monster” are known for their exceptional endings. They show how great manga storytelling can be. These series are still praised for being creative and captivating.

Whether you know a lot or a little about manga, these top series are worth reading. They will take you to amazing worlds and stories. Enjoy the unique art and captivating plots manga has to offer.

FAQ

What are some of the best manga series of all time?

Grand Blue Dreaming, Fist of the North Star, and A Silent Voice are some top picks. Others include 20th Century Boys, Komi Can’t Communicate, and One Punch Man. You will also find Made in Abyss, Kamisama Kiss, the Monogatari Series, and Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind.

What is Grand Blue Dreaming about?

Grand Blue Dreaming is about a college diving club. Its story is both funny and deep. You’ll enjoy its unique setting and great humor.

What makes Fist of the North Star a legendary manga series?

Fist of the North Star stands out with its intense fighting and world. Kenshiro, the main character, fights in a post-apocalyptic world. Its influence on other manga has been huge.

What themes does A Silent Voice explore?

A Silent Voice deals with bullying and redemption. It follows Shoya and Shoko as they learn to forgive and accept themselves.

What is the plot of 20th Century Boys?

20th Century Boys is a thrilling mystery manga. Childhood friends discover a dangerous world plot. It mixes politics, mystery, and a worldwide crisis.

What is Komi Can’t Communicate about?

Komi Can’t Communicate is a warm romance manga. Shoko Komi tries to overcome her shyness to make friends. It’s about acceptance and the value of friendship.

What is the premise of Kamisama Kiss?

Kamisama Kiss is about a girl who becomes a deity. Nanami faces the challenges of her new divine duty. It has romance and a unique supernatural story.

What are some of the best-selling manga series?

One Piece, Naruto, and Attack on Titan are among the best-sellers. Their rich stories and characters have gripped readers worldwide.

What is the premise of One Punch Man?

One Punch Man turns the superhero genre on its head. Saitama is a hero who defeats foes with ease. The manga is a mix of action and humor.

What is Made in Abyss about?

Made in Abyss is a captivating adventure manga. It tells the tale of a town near a treacherous Abyss. Explorers find incredible creatures and uncover dark truths.

What is the Monogatari series known for?

The Monogatari series is famous for its mix of action, mystery, and romance. It follows Koyomi Araragi’s encounters with the supernatural. The series shines with its unique look and complex stories.

What makes Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind a must-read?

Nausicaä offers a post-apocalyptic tale with war and environmental themes. It is a masterwork by Hayao Miyazaki. Fans praise its beauty and deep messages.

Where can I find the best manga series to read?

Look in online platforms, bookstores, and libraries for great manga. Places like MyAnimeList and Anime Planet offer manga recommendations. They’re based on what the community loves.

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