Best Manga Of 2022: Our Top 10 Picks
Hey manga lovers! Ready to dive into the amazing world of the best manga of 2022? We've compiled a list of the top titles that had us hooked from the very first page. Whether you're into heart-pounding action, tear-jerking romance, or mind-bending mysteries, there's something here for everyone. So grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let's explore the must-read manga that defined 2022!
1. Chainsaw Man
Alright, let's kick things off with a total banger: Chainsaw Man. If you haven't heard of it, where have you been?! This series took the manga world by storm, and for good reason. Chainsaw Man follows the story of Denji, a young man burdened with his dead father's debt. After being betrayed and killed, he merges with his Chainsaw Devil dog, Pochita, and is resurrected as the Chainsaw Man. The premise alone is enough to grab your attention, but it's the execution that makes this manga truly shine.
The artwork is stunning, blending detailed character designs with dynamic action sequences. The fight scenes are brutal and visceral, perfectly capturing the chaotic nature of Denji's powers. But Chainsaw Man isn't just about the action. It also delves into deeper themes of identity, trauma, and the search for meaning in a cruel world. Denji's journey is one of self-discovery, as he struggles to understand his place in the world and what it truly means to be human. What makes Chainsaw Man so compelling is its ability to balance its dark and gritty elements with moments of humor and heart. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own unique quirks and motivations. From the stoic and mysterious Makima to the fiery and unpredictable Power, the supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the story. The interactions between these characters are often hilarious, but they can also be surprisingly poignant, adding emotional weight to the narrative. The world-building in Chainsaw Man is also top-notch. The manga creates a believable and immersive world filled with devils, devil hunters, and ordinary people just trying to survive. The rules of this world are well-defined, and the power system is both creative and consistent. This allows for a wide range of exciting battles and scenarios, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. One of the most striking aspects of Chainsaw Man is its willingness to subvert expectations. The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, and the characters are not always who they seem. This keeps readers guessing and prevents the manga from falling into predictable tropes. The ending, in particular, is sure to leave a lasting impression, challenging readers to question their own assumptions and beliefs. Whether you're a seasoned manga reader or new to the genre, Chainsaw Man is a must-read. Its unique blend of action, horror, and humor makes it a truly unforgettable experience. So grab a copy and prepare to be blown away by the chainsaw-wielding madness!
2. Spy Γ Family
Next up, we have Spy Γ Family, a heartwarming and hilarious manga that captured the hearts of readers worldwide. This series tells the story of Twilight, a master spy who must create a fake family in order to complete his mission. He adopts Anya, a telepathic orphan, and marries Yor, a skilled assassin. What they don't know is that each of them is hiding their true identity from the others. Talk about a recipe for chaos!
Spy Γ Family is a masterclass in comedic timing and character interaction. The humor is lighthearted and wholesome, making it a great read for all ages. But beneath the surface, there are also deeper themes of family, trust, and acceptance. Each character brings their own unique perspective to the family dynamic, creating a heartwarming and relatable story. The artwork in Spy Γ Family is clean and expressive, perfectly capturing the emotions of the characters. The character designs are also memorable and distinct, making it easy to tell everyone apart. The manga's setting is a stylish and vibrant world inspired by Cold War-era Europe. This adds a touch of sophistication to the story, while also providing a backdrop for the spy antics to unfold. One of the most charming aspects of Spy Γ Family is the relationship between Twilight and Anya. Despite being a master spy, Twilight is completely out of his element when it comes to parenting. Anya, with her telepathic abilities, often knows more than she lets on, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and heartwarming moments. The bond between them grows stronger as the series progresses, showcasing the power of family, even when it's built on a foundation of lies. Yor's character is also a standout. She is a skilled assassin, but she is also kind and caring, especially towards Anya. Her attempts to be a good wife and mother, while also maintaining her secret identity, are often hilarious and endearing. The dynamic between Twilight and Yor is also a highlight of the series. They are both attracted to each other, but they are also wary of revealing their true selves. This creates a fun and engaging romantic subplot that keeps readers invested in their relationship. Spy Γ Family is more than just a comedy; it's a story about the importance of connection and the lengths we go to protect the ones we love. It's a feel-good manga that will leave you smiling from ear to ear. So if you're looking for a heartwarming and hilarious read, be sure to check out Spy Γ Family!
3. Kaiju No. 8
Get ready for some monster mayhem with Kaiju No. 8! 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 unfortunate events, he gains the ability to transform into a Kaiju himself. Now, he must balance his newfound powers with his desire to protect humanity.
Kaiju No. 8 is a thrilling action manga with a unique twist. The concept of a protagonist who can transform into a monster is not new, but Kaiju No. 8 puts a fresh spin on it. Kafka's struggle to control his powers and keep his identity a secret adds a layer of tension to the story. The artwork in Kaiju No. 8 is dynamic and detailed, especially when it comes to the Kaiju designs. Each monster is unique and terrifying, adding to the sense of danger and excitement. The fight scenes are also well-choreographed, showcasing the power and skill of both the humans and the Kaiju. One of the things that makes Kaiju No. 8 so appealing is its sense of humor. Despite the serious subject matter, the manga is full of comedic moments, often stemming from Kafka's awkwardness and his attempts to hide his powers. This helps to lighten the mood and makes the story more enjoyable. The supporting characters in Kaiju No. 8 are also well-developed and add depth to the story. From Kafka's childhood friend, Mina Ashiro, to the stoic and capable Vice-Captain, each character has their own unique motivations and goals. The relationships between these characters are complex and engaging, adding emotional weight to the narrative. Kaiju No. 8 is a manga that knows how to balance action, humor, and heart. It's a thrilling ride from start to finish, and it's sure to leave you wanting more. So if you're a fan of monster movies or superhero stories, be sure to check out Kaiju No. 8!
4. One Piece
Is One Piece still ongoing? Yes! And it was awesome in 2022 too! Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Pirates continue their epic quest for the One Piece, the legendary treasure of the Pirate King. Along the way, they encounter new allies, face powerful enemies, and uncover the secrets of the world.
One Piece is a manga that needs no introduction. It's one of the most popular and influential manga of all time, and it continues to captivate readers with its sprawling story and unforgettable characters. The world-building in One Piece is second to none. The world is vast and diverse, with each island having its own unique culture, history, and inhabitants. The level of detail is astounding, and it's clear that Oda has put a lot of thought into creating this world. The characters in One Piece are also some of the most memorable and beloved in manga. From the lovable goofball Luffy to the stoic swordsman Zoro, each member of the Straw Hat Pirates has their own unique personality and backstory. The relationships between these characters are the heart of the series, and it's impossible not to get invested in their journey. The story of One Piece is epic in scope, spanning hundreds of chapters and multiple arcs. The plot is full of twists and turns, and it's constantly evolving, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The themes of friendship, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams are central to the series, and they resonate with readers of all ages. If you're new to manga, One Piece is a great place to start. It's a long and rewarding journey, and it's sure to leave a lasting impression. So set sail with the Straw Hat Pirates and discover the world of One Piece!
5. Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen remains a powerhouse! Yuji Itadori, a high school student, swallows a cursed object to protect his friends. He becomes the host of Ryomen Sukuna, a powerful curse, and is forced to join Jujutsu High to learn how to control his powers and exorcise curses.
Jujutsu Kaisen is a dark and action-packed manga with a unique take on the supernatural. The concept of curses and jujutsu sorcerers is fascinating, and the power system is well-defined and creative. The artwork in Jujutsu Kaisen is dynamic and stylish, especially during the fight scenes. The character designs are also memorable and distinct, making it easy to tell everyone apart. One of the things that makes Jujutsu Kaisen so appealing is its sense of humor. Despite the dark subject matter, the manga is full of comedic moments, often stemming from the characters' interactions and their quirky personalities. This helps to lighten the mood and makes the story more enjoyable. The supporting characters in Jujutsu Kaisen are also well-developed and add depth to the story. From the stoic and capable Gojo Satoru to the kind and supportive Megumi Fushiguro, each character has their own unique motivations and goals. The relationships between these characters are complex and engaging, adding emotional weight to the narrative. Jujutsu Kaisen is a manga that knows how to balance action, humor, and horror. It's a thrilling ride from start to finish, and it's sure to leave you wanting more. So if you're a fan of supernatural stories or action manga, be sure to check out Jujutsu Kaisen!
6 - 10: Honorable Mentions
- My Hero Academia: Still going strong with its superhero action!
- Berserk: Kentaro Miura's masterpiece continues to inspire.
- Demon Slayer: A classic that remains popular.
- Attack on Titan: Though it ended, its impact is still felt.
- Vinland Saga: A historical epic with stunning artwork.
So there you have it, guys! Our top manga picks for 2022. What were your favorite manga of the year? Let us know in the comments below! Happy reading!