Top Manga 2022: Must-Read Japanese Comics
The world of manga is vast and ever-evolving, with incredible stories and artwork emerging constantly. In 2022, several manga titles stood out, captivating readers with their unique narratives, compelling characters, and stunning visuals. If you're looking to dive into the best that manga has to offer, here's a guide to the top manga of 2022 that you absolutely shouldn't miss!
1. "Chainsaw Man" - A Bloody Good Time
"Chainsaw Man" took the manga world by storm, and for good reason! Created by Tatsuki Fujimoto, this series blends dark humor, intense action, and surprisingly heartfelt moments into a package that's both exhilarating and emotionally resonant. The story follows Denji, a young man burdened with his deceased father's debt, who becomes a Devil Hunter after merging with his Chainsaw Devil dog, Pochita. What starts as a simple fight for survival quickly spirals into a complex web of conspiracies, moral ambiguities, and truly unforgettable characters. One of the things that sets "Chainsaw Man" apart is its willingness to subvert expectations. Just when you think you know where the story is going, Fujimoto throws a curveball that leaves you reeling. The action sequences are brutal and beautifully rendered, with dynamic panels that perfectly capture the chaotic energy of Denji's chainsaw-fueled rampage. But beneath the gore and mayhem lies a poignant exploration of trauma, loneliness, and the search for meaning in a cruel world. The characters in "Chainsaw Man" are another major draw. Denji is a deeply flawed protagonist, driven by basic desires and struggling to understand the world around him. His interactions with other Devil Hunters, like the cool and collected Makima and the fiery Power, are both hilarious and heartbreaking. Each character has their own motivations and secrets, adding layers of complexity to the overall narrative.
Why you should read it: If you're a fan of action-packed stories with dark humor and complex characters, "Chainsaw Man" is a must-read. It's a wild ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The manga keeps the readers engaged with its dynamic storytelling and unique characters that are well written and compelling, especially with its stunning visuals. It is a worthy contender for the top manga spot in 2022.
2. "Spy x Family" - A Wholesome Espionage Comedy
On the completely opposite end of the spectrum, we have "Spy x Family," a heartwarming and hilarious series created by Tatsuya Endo. This manga combines the thrill of espionage with the warmth of family dynamics, creating a truly unique and enjoyable reading experience. The story centers around Loid Forger, a master spy who must create a fake family in order to infiltrate an elite private school. He adopts Anya, a telepathic orphan, and marries Yor, a skilled assassin, both of whom are hiding their true identities from him. What ensues is a delightful blend of covert missions, school events, and awkward family moments. "Spy x Family" is a masterclass in comedic timing and character interaction. The contrast between the characters' secret lives and their mundane family routines is endlessly entertaining. Anya's telepathic abilities add another layer of humor, as she often knows more than she lets on, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and near-disasters. But beyond the comedy, "Spy x Family" also has a surprising amount of heart. The Forger family, despite being built on lies and secrets, gradually forms genuine bonds of affection. Loid learns to appreciate the joys of fatherhood, Yor discovers her nurturing side, and Anya finally finds a place where she belongs. The series explores themes of family, trust, and acceptance in a lighthearted and uplifting way.
Why you should read it: If you're looking for a feel-good manga with plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments, "Spy x Family" is the perfect choice. It's a delightful series that will leave you with a smile on your face. With a blend of espionage, comedy, and heartwarming family dynamics, this title offers something for everyone and easily secures its place among the top manga of 2022.
3. "Kaiju No. 8" - Monster Mayhem with a Twist
"Kaiju No. 8," written and illustrated by Naoya Matsumoto, offers a fresh take on the monster-fighting genre. In a world plagued by giant monsters known as Kaiju, Kafka Hibino dreams of joining the Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. However, after a series of setbacks, he finds himself working as a cleaner, disposing of the aftermath of Kaiju battles. But fate has other plans in store for him when he merges with a Kaiju and gains the ability to transform into one himself. The premise of "Kaiju No. 8" is intriguing, blending elements of superhero stories with classic monster movies. Kafka's transformation into a Kaiju gives him incredible power, but it also puts him in a precarious position, as he must hide his true identity from his friends and colleagues. The manga explores themes of ambition, perseverance, and the struggle to overcome one's limitations. Kafka's journey is both inspiring and relatable, as he strives to achieve his dreams despite facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The action sequences in "Kaiju No. 8" are dynamic and visually stunning, with detailed depictions of the Kaiju and their battles. Matsumoto's artwork captures the scale and intensity of the fights, making each encounter feel epic and impactful.
Why you should read it: If you're a fan of monster movies and superhero stories, "Kaiju No. 8" is a must-read. It's an action-packed series with a compelling protagonist and a unique premise that will keep you hooked. The manga is an innovative take on the monster-fighting genre and a compelling story of self-discovery which makes this manga stand out as one of the top manga of 2022.
4. "Oshi no Ko" - A Dark Dive into the Entertainment Industry
"Oshi no Ko," written by Aka Akasaka and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari, offers a dark and unflinching look at the Japanese entertainment industry. The story follows Goro, a gynecologist who is a huge fan of the idol Ai Hoshino. When Ai becomes pregnant and seeks his help, Goro is murdered by a stalker. He is then reincarnated as one of Ai's twin children, Aqua. As Aqua grows up, he becomes determined to uncover the truth behind his mother's death and expose the dark side of the entertainment world. "Oshi no Ko" is a gripping and suspenseful series that explores themes of fame, obsession, and the exploitation of young talent. The manga doesn't shy away from depicting the harsh realities of the industry, including the pressures faced by idols, the manipulation of fans, and the cutthroat competition for success. The characters in "Oshi no Ko" are complex and morally ambiguous. Aqua is driven by a thirst for revenge, but he also struggles with his feelings for his mother and his own identity. The manga raises difficult questions about the price of fame and the sacrifices people are willing to make to achieve their dreams.
Why you should read it: If you're interested in the inner workings of the entertainment industry and enjoy suspenseful, character-driven stories, "Oshi no Ko" is a must-read. It's a thought-provoking series that will stay with you long after you finish reading it. The manga is a unique and compelling perspective on the entertainment industry which makes it another standout title among the top manga of 2022.
5. "Blue Lock" - A Thrilling Football Battle Royale
"Blue Lock," written by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and illustrated by Yusuke Nomura, is a sports manga with a unique twist. The story begins after Japan's disappointing performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. To improve the national team, the Japan Football Union launches a radical experiment called Blue Lock, where 300 talented young strikers are isolated in a training facility and forced to compete against each other. The goal is to create the world's ultimate egoistic striker who will lead Japan to victory. "Blue Lock" is a high-octane and intense series that focuses on the psychological aspects of competition. The characters are constantly pushed to their limits, both physically and mentally, as they strive to outdo each other and survive in the cutthroat environment of Blue Lock. The manga explores themes of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of excellence. The artwork in "Blue Lock" is dynamic and expressive, capturing the intensity of the matches and the emotions of the characters. Nomura's character designs are distinctive and memorable, making it easy to root for your favorite players.
Why you should read it: If you're a fan of sports manga and enjoy stories with high stakes and intense competition, "Blue Lock" is a must-read. It's a thrilling series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With a unique blend of sports action and psychological drama, this manga earns its spot among the top manga of 2022.
Conclusion
2022 was a fantastic year for manga, with a diverse range of titles that captivated readers around the world. Whether you're into action, comedy, suspense, or sports, there's something for everyone on this list. So, grab a copy of these top manga of 2022 and get ready to embark on an unforgettable reading adventure! Happy reading, guys!