Top 20 Manga: Must-Read Recommendations For 2024

Hey manga lovers! Are you looking for some amazing new series to dive into, or maybe you're just trying to figure out what all the hype is about? Well, you've come to the right place! We've compiled a list of the top 20 manga that you absolutely need to check out in 2024. This list is packed with a variety of genres, from action-packed adventures to heartwarming romances and everything in between. So, grab your favorite reading snack, settle in, and let's get started!

1. One Piece

No manga list would be complete without mentioning One Piece. This epic pirate adventure, created by Eiichiro Oda, has been captivating fans worldwide for over two decades. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates as they sail the Grand Line in search of the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, and Luffy's dream of becoming the King of the Pirates.

What makes One Piece so special? For starters, the world-building is phenomenal. Oda has created a vast and intricate world filled with unique islands, diverse cultures, and unforgettable characters. The story is also incredibly engaging, blending action, adventure, comedy, and heartwarming moments seamlessly. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll be on the edge of your seat as the Straw Hats face seemingly insurmountable challenges. The characters are another major draw. Each member of the Straw Hat crew has their own distinct personality, backstory, and dreams, making them feel like real people you can root for. Their bonds of friendship and loyalty are truly inspiring. Beyond the adventure and comedy, One Piece also tackles deeper themes like freedom, justice, and the importance of pursuing your dreams. It's a story that can be enjoyed on multiple levels, making it appealing to a wide range of readers. If you're looking for a long-running series that will keep you entertained for years to come, One Piece is definitely worth checking out. It's a true masterpiece of the manga world.

2. Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin) is a dark fantasy manga written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama. Set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures called Titans, the story follows Eren Yeager, his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman, and their childhood friend Armin Arlert as they join the Scout Regiment to fight against the Titans and uncover the mysteries of their world.

Attack on Titan is known for its intense action, suspenseful plot twists, and thought-provoking themes. The story explores the horrors of war, the nature of humanity, and the price of freedom. The art style is distinctive and impactful, perfectly capturing the brutality and despair of the world. The characters are complex and well-developed, each grappling with their own personal demons and motivations. Eren's journey, in particular, is a rollercoaster of emotions as he struggles with his rage, his desire for revenge, and the burden of his powers. The world-building in Attack on Titan is exceptional. The history of the world, the origins of the Titans, and the secrets hidden within the walls are gradually revealed, keeping readers constantly guessing. The series also features some of the most thrilling and visually stunning fight scenes in manga history. The Scouts' use of vertical maneuvering equipment to combat the Titans is both innovative and exhilarating. If you're looking for a manga that will challenge your perceptions and leave you breathless, Attack on Titan is a must-read.

3. Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba is a fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Koyoharu Gotouge. The story is set in Taisho-era Japan and follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons and his younger sister, Nezuko, is turned into one. Tanjiro embarks on a quest to find a cure for Nezuko and avenge his family, joining the Demon Slayer Corps and battling powerful demons along the way.

Demon Slayer has taken the manga world by storm with its beautiful art style, compelling characters, and thrilling action sequences. Gotouge's art is both elegant and dynamic, perfectly capturing the fluidity of the fight scenes and the emotions of the characters. The story is a classic tale of good versus evil, but it's elevated by its unique setting, its well-developed characters, and its exploration of themes like family, loss, and perseverance. Tanjiro is a deeply empathetic and determined protagonist, and his bond with Nezuko is one of the most heartwarming aspects of the series. The other members of the Demon Slayer Corps, including Zenitsu, Inosuke, and the Hashira, are also memorable and contribute to the rich tapestry of the story. The demons in Demon Slayer are not just mindless monsters; they have their own backstories and motivations, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The fight scenes are fast-paced and visually stunning, with each character's unique breathing techniques adding a layer of strategy and excitement. If you're looking for a manga that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more, Demon Slayer is an excellent choice.

4. My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) is a superhero manga series written and illustrated by Kohei Horikoshi. The story is set in a world where the majority of the population has developed superpowers known as Quirks. It follows Izuku Midoriya, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero like his idol, All Might, the world's greatest hero. Izuku's life changes forever when he inherits All Might's Quirk, One For All, and enrolls in U.A. High School, a prestigious hero academy.

My Hero Academia is a modern take on the superhero genre, blending classic superhero tropes with shonen manga elements. The series is known for its dynamic characters, its exciting action sequences, and its heartwarming story about friendship, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. Izuku Midoriya is a relatable and inspiring protagonist, and his journey from Quirkless underdog to aspiring hero is both compelling and emotional. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each character having their own unique Quirk, personality, and backstory. The teachers and students of U.A. High School form a vibrant and diverse community, and their interactions are one of the highlights of the series. The villains in My Hero Academia are also well-developed, with complex motivations and compelling backstories. The series explores the themes of heroism, justice, and the responsibility that comes with power. The fight scenes are visually stunning, with Horikoshi's dynamic art style perfectly capturing the energy and intensity of the battles. If you're a fan of superhero stories or shonen manga, My Hero Academia is a must-read.

5. Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen is a dark fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Gege Akutami. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes a Jujutsu Sorcerer after swallowing a cursed object, a finger belonging to the powerful Curse Sukuna. Yuji enrolls in Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School under the guidance of his teacher, Satoru Gojo, and joins forces with his classmates to exorcise Curses and protect humanity.

Jujutsu Kaisen is a thrilling and action-packed series that blends elements of horror, comedy, and supernatural action. Akutami's art style is dynamic and expressive, perfectly capturing the intensity of the battles and the emotions of the characters. The story is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Yuji Itadori is a likeable and determined protagonist, and his relationships with his classmates, Megumi Fushiguro and Nobara Kugisaki, are one of the highlights of the series. Satoru Gojo, the strongest Jujutsu Sorcerer, is a charismatic and enigmatic character who adds a touch of humor and mystery to the story. The Curses in Jujutsu Kaisen are terrifying and formidable opponents, and the battles against them are both visually stunning and strategically complex. The series explores themes of sacrifice, responsibility, and the balance between good and evil. If you're looking for a manga that will keep you entertained with its action, humor, and dark fantasy elements, Jujutsu Kaisen is an excellent choice.

6-20: More Manga to Explore

Okay, guys, we've covered the top 5 in detail, but there's SO much more amazing manga out there! Here's a quick rundown of 15 more titles you should definitely check out:

6. Berserk: A dark fantasy epic known for its incredible art and mature themes.
7. Vinland Saga: A historical adventure set in the Viking Age, filled with action and compelling characters.
8. Hunter x Hunter: A classic shonen manga with a unique power system and a captivating storyline.
9. Fullmetal Alchemist: A steampunk fantasy with a touching story about brotherhood and redemption.
10. Tokyo Ghoul: A dark fantasy thriller about a college student who becomes a ghoul.
11. One-Punch Man: A superhero parody with over-the-top action and hilarious moments.
12. Naruto: Another classic shonen manga about a ninja's journey to become Hokage.
13. Bleach: A supernatural action series about a teenager who becomes a Soul Reaper.
14. Death Note: A psychological thriller about a high school student who finds a notebook that can kill people.
15. Fruits Basket: A heartwarming and emotional story about a girl who discovers the Sohma family's secret.
16. Your Lie in April: A beautiful and tragic romance about a pianist who rediscovers his love for music.
17. A Silent Voice: A poignant story about redemption and forgiveness, dealing with themes of bullying and disability.
18. Blue Period: An inspiring story about a high school student who discovers his passion for art.
19. Chainsaw Man: A dark and action-packed series with a unique and bizarre premise.
20. SPY x FAMILY: A comedy spy thriller about a family with hidden identities.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Our list of the top 20 manga you need to read in 2024. Whether you're a seasoned manga reader or just getting started, there's something on this list for everyone. Remember, this is just a starting point, and there are countless other amazing manga series out there waiting to be discovered. So, dive in, explore, and find your next favorite series! Happy reading!

I hope this list helps you on your manga journey. Let us know in the comments which manga you're most excited to read!