Best Manga Of 2022: Top Picks You Can't Miss!
Hey manga lovers! Ready to dive into the amazing world of the best manga of 2022? This year was packed with incredible stories, breathtaking art, and characters that stole our hearts. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's explore the top manga that made 2022 an unforgettable year for manga fans!
What Makes a Manga “The Best?”
Before we jump into the list, let's chat about what makes a manga truly stand out. It's not just about cool fight scenes or cute characters, although those definitely help! A top-tier manga usually has a blend of several key elements:
- Compelling Story: Does the plot keep you hooked from beginning to end? Are there twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat? A great story is the backbone of any successful manga.
- Memorable Characters: Do you find yourself emotionally invested in the characters' journeys? Do they feel real and relatable, even if they have superpowers or live in fantastical worlds? Characters that resonate with readers are essential.
- Stunning Art: Is the artwork visually appealing and expressive? Does it enhance the storytelling and bring the world to life? Beautiful and dynamic art can elevate a manga to the next level.
- Originality: Does the manga offer a fresh perspective or unique take on familiar themes? Does it bring something new to the table that sets it apart from the crowd? Originality is always a plus!
- Emotional Impact: Does the manga make you laugh, cry, or feel a range of emotions? Does it leave a lasting impression on you long after you've finished reading? The ability to evoke emotions is a sign of a truly great manga.
These elements, combined with a bit of personal taste, help us determine which manga truly shine. Now, let's get to the list!
Top Manga of 2022
1. "Chainsaw Man" by Tatsuki Fujimoto
"Chainsaw Man" absolutely dominated the manga scene in 2022, and for good reason! Tatsuki Fujimoto's masterpiece is a wild, unpredictable ride that blends horror, action, and dark humor into a truly unique package. The story follows Denji, a young man who merges with his chainsaw devil pet, Pochita, to become the Chainsaw Man. Talk about a crazy premise, right?
The brilliance of "Chainsaw Man" lies in its ability to subvert expectations. Just when you think you know where the story is going, Fujimoto throws a curveball that leaves you reeling. The characters are complex and flawed, and their relationships are messy and often heartbreaking. Denji, in particular, is a fascinating protagonist. He's not your typical hero; he's driven by simple desires and often makes questionable choices, but you can't help but root for him.
The action sequences in "Chainsaw Man" are brutal and visceral, perfectly capturing the chaotic nature of the devil world. But it's not just mindless violence; the action is always in service of the story and character development. And let's not forget the art! Fujimoto's style is gritty and raw, adding to the manga's overall sense of unease and tension.
"Chainsaw Man" isn't for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a manga that will challenge you, surprise you, and leave you thinking long after you've finished reading, this is it. It's a must-read for any manga fan!
2. "Spy x Family" by Tatsuya Endo
If you're looking for something a little lighter and more heartwarming, "Spy x Family" is the perfect choice. Tatsuya Endo's series took the world by storm in 2022, thanks to its charming characters, hilarious situations, and surprisingly touching family dynamics. The story revolves around Loid Forger, a spy who must create a fake family to complete a mission. Little does he know that his adopted daughter, Anya, is a telepath, and his wife, Yor, is a deadly assassin. Talk about a recipe for chaos!
The appeal of "Spy x Family" lies in its perfect blend of comedy, action, and slice-of-life elements. The humor is spot-on, with plenty of visual gags and witty dialogue. But beneath the surface, there's a surprisingly tender story about the meaning of family and the importance of connection. The relationship between Loid, Anya, and Yor is the heart of the series, and watching them navigate their unconventional family life is a joy.
Anya is, without a doubt, the breakout star of "Spy x Family". Her telepathic abilities lead to hilarious misunderstandings and heartwarming moments, and her innocent perspective on the world is endlessly entertaining. Loid and Yor are also compelling characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. As they learn to trust and rely on each other, they create a bond that feels genuine and real.
The art in "Spy x Family" is clean and expressive, perfectly capturing the characters' personalities and emotions. The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, and the comedic moments are enhanced by Endo's dynamic panel layouts. Whether you're a long-time manga fan or new to the genre, "Spy x Family" is a delightful series that will leave you smiling.
3. "Kaiju No. 8" by Naoya Matsumoto
"Kaiju No. 8" is a thrilling and action-packed manga that offers a fresh take on the kaiju genre. Naoya Matsumoto's series follows Kafka Hibino, a man who dreams of joining the Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force but is stuck cleaning up after the battles. However, his life takes a dramatic turn when he merges with a kaiju, gaining the ability to transform into a powerful monster himself.
The strength of "Kaiju No. 8" lies in its compelling protagonist and its unique blend of action, humor, and suspense. Kafka is a relatable character who has been chasing his dream for years, only to be repeatedly rejected. His determination and resilience make him a compelling hero, and his transformation into a kaiju adds a fascinating layer to his character.
The action sequences in "Kaiju No. 8" are dynamic and intense, with Matsumoto's art bringing the kaiju battles to life. But the series also has a sense of humor, with plenty of comedic moments that lighten the mood. And as Kafka struggles to control his kaiju powers and keep his identity a secret, the story builds a sense of suspense that keeps you hooked.
"Kaiju No. 8" is a must-read for fans of the kaiju genre, but it also has appeal for anyone who enjoys action-packed stories with compelling characters and a touch of humor. It's a series that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
4. "Oshi no Ko" by Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari
"Oshi no Ko" is a unique and captivating manga that explores the dark side of the entertainment industry. Written by Aka Akasaka and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari, the series follows Goro, a doctor who is reborn as the son of his favorite idol, Ai Hoshino. As he grows up in the world of entertainment, he uncovers the secrets and struggles that lie beneath the surface of the idol industry.
The brilliance of "Oshi no Ko" lies in its willingness to tackle difficult and often taboo subjects. The series explores themes of exploitation, manipulation, and the pressure to maintain a perfect image. But it also celebrates the passion and dedication of those who work in the entertainment industry.
The characters in "Oshi no Ko" are complex and well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets. Goro, as he navigates his new life as Ai's son, is a compelling protagonist who is determined to protect her and uncover the truth about her past. Ai is a captivating and enigmatic character, whose bright smile hides a deep sadness.
The art in "Oshi no Ko" is stunning, with Yokoyari's expressive character designs and dynamic panel layouts bringing the story to life. The series is visually striking and emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the entertainment industry or who enjoys complex and thought-provoking stories.
5. "Do not say mystery" by Yumi Tamura
"Do not say mystery" is an intriguing and thought-provoking manga that blends mystery, social commentary, and character-driven storytelling. Yumi Tamura's series follows Totomaru Kugino, a college student with a knack for solving mysteries, who finds himself embroiled in a series of complex and often dangerous cases.
The appeal of "Do not say mystery" lies in its clever plotting and its exploration of social issues. The mysteries are intricate and well-crafted, requiring Totomaru to use his sharp intellect and observation skills to unravel the truth. But the series also delves into issues such as social inequality, police corruption, and the treatment of marginalized communities.
Totomaru is a unique and compelling protagonist, with his calm demeanor and his ability to see the world from a different perspective. He's not a typical detective, but his intelligence and empathy make him a formidable investigator. The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own secrets and motivations.
The art in "Do not say mystery" is detailed and expressive, with Tamura's character designs conveying a wide range of emotions. The series is visually engaging and intellectually stimulating, making it a must-read for fans of mystery and social commentary.
Honorable Mentions
- "Blue Lock" by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura
- "My Dress-Up Darling" by Shinichi Fukuda
- "Komi Can't Communicate" by Tomohito Oda
- "Mieruko-chan" by Tomoki Izumi
- "Undead Unluck" by Yoshifumi Tozuka
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks! My picks for the best manga of 2022. It was an incredible year for the medium, with so many amazing stories and talented creators pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Whether you're a fan of action, comedy, drama, or mystery, there was something for everyone in 2022.
What were your favorite manga of the year? Let me know in the comments below! And be sure to check out these amazing series if you haven't already. Happy reading, guys!