Best Manga Of 2022: Must-Read Japanese Comics

Hey manga lovers! Ready to dive into the amazing world of Japanese comics? In 2022, we saw some incredible stories hit the shelves, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the absolute best manga you should definitely check out. From action-packed adventures to heartwarming tales, there's something for everyone. So, grab your reading glasses, and let's get started!

What Makes a Manga Great?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly talk about what makes a manga truly stand out. It's not just about the cool drawings (though that definitely helps!). A great manga has a compelling story, characters you can root for (or love to hate), and art that brings the whole world to life. Whether it's a thrilling action sequence or a quiet, emotional moment, the best manga knows how to grab your attention and keep you hooked from beginning to end. The blend of creativity, plot development, artistic style, and emotional resonance defines its quality and appeal. Furthermore, a great manga often explores universal themes, such as friendship, perseverance, love, and loss, making it relatable to a diverse audience. It effectively uses visual storytelling to convey complex narratives and emotional nuances that go beyond simple dialogue. World-building is another critical aspect; the best manga create immersive and detailed worlds with their own unique cultures, histories, and rules. This richness adds depth and intrigue, inviting readers to fully invest in the story and its characters. Ultimately, a great manga is one that lingers in your mind long after you've finished reading, prompting reflection and discussion. It leaves a lasting impression through its unique blend of art and storytelling, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Top Manga Picks of 2022

1. "Chainsaw Man"

"Chainsaw Man" absolutely blew up in 2022, and for good reason! This manga is a wild ride from start to finish. The story follows Denji, a young man who merges with a Chainsaw Devil to become Chainsaw Man. Sounds crazy, right? Well, it is! The action is over-the-top, the characters are unforgettable, and the story is surprisingly deep. The story is set in a world where devils are born from human fears, “Chainsaw Man” combines dark humor, gruesome battles, and moments of genuine emotion. Denji’s transformation into Chainsaw Man grants him incredible power, but it also thrusts him into a world of devil hunters and conspiracies. The narrative explores themes of survival, identity, and the cost of power, making it much more than just a series of action sequences. The artwork is dynamic and expressive, perfectly capturing the chaotic energy of the battles and the complex emotions of the characters. Series creator Tatsuki Fujimoto has crafted a world that is both terrifying and fascinating, filled with memorable characters and unexpected twists. Whether you’re a fan of dark fantasy or just looking for something different, “Chainsaw Man” is a must-read manga that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Its blend of intense action, dark humor, and surprisingly poignant moments makes it a standout title in recent years. With its unique premise and compelling execution, it’s no wonder that “Chainsaw Man” has garnered such a large and dedicated fanbase.

2. "Spy x Family"

If you're looking for something a bit more lighthearted but still super engaging, "Spy x Family" is where it's at. This manga tells the story of a spy, a hitwoman, and a telepathic child who form a fake family to carry out a mission. The catch? None of them know each other's secrets! The humor is spot-on, and the characters are incredibly lovable. Tatsuya Endo’s creation presents a delightful mix of espionage, comedy, and heartwarming family dynamics. Loid Forger, a master spy, must create a fake family to get close to a politician, not knowing that his adopted daughter, Anya, is a telepath, and his wife, Yor, is a skilled assassin. This setup leads to hilarious situations and touching moments as they navigate their double lives and try to maintain the facade of a normal family. The charm of “Spy x Family” lies in its characters and their interactions. Anya’s telepathic abilities allow her to know everyone’s secrets, which she uses to hilarious effect, often creating chaos and misunderstandings. Yor’s dual life as an assassin adds a layer of intrigue, as she tries to balance her deadly profession with her role as a loving mother and wife. Loid, despite his serious demeanor, finds himself growing attached to his fake family, blurring the lines between his mission and his personal life. The artwork is clean and expressive, perfectly capturing the humor and emotion of the story. The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, while the quieter moments are filled with warmth and tenderness. With its unique blend of genres and endearing characters, “Spy x Family” is a manga that appeals to a wide audience. Whether you’re a fan of spy stories, family comedies, or just looking for a heartwarming read, this manga is sure to entertain. Its clever premise and charming execution have made it one of the most popular and beloved manga of recent years.

3. "Kaiju No. 8"

"Kaiju No. 8" brings a fresh twist to the monster-fighting genre. In a world where Japan is constantly under attack by giant monsters (kaiju), Kafka Hibino dreams of joining the Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. After a series of unexpected events, he gains the ability to transform into a kaiju himself! This manga is full of action, suspense, and some really cool monster designs. The narrative revolves around Kafka Hibino, a sanitation worker who once dreamed of joining the Defense Force to fight kaiju but failed the entrance exam multiple times. After a bizarre incident, he gains the ability to transform into a powerful kaiju, designated Kaiju No. 8. Now, he must balance his newfound powers with his desire to protect humanity, all while keeping his identity a secret. The artwork is dynamic and detailed, bringing the monstrous kaiju and intense battles to life. Naoya Matsumoto’s design of the kaiju is particularly impressive, blending horror and spectacle in equal measure. The action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, with plenty of explosions and monster mayhem. The story also explores themes of ambition, perseverance, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Kafka’s journey is relatable, as he grapples with his own insecurities and strives to achieve his dreams despite the odds. The supporting characters are also well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories. From his childhood friend Mina Ashiro, who has become a celebrated Defense Force captain, to the quirky and dedicated members of his unit, each character adds depth and complexity to the story. The manga effectively balances action with humor and heart, creating a compelling and entertaining read. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the kaiju genre or new to the world of manga, “Kaiju No. 8” is a must-read title that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.

4. "Blue Lock"

For sports manga fans, "Blue Lock" is a game-changer. This series turns the typical soccer story on its head. Instead of focusing on teamwork, it's all about individual ego and skill. Japan's soccer team needs to win, and the "Blue Lock" project is designed to create the ultimate striker. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high. The story follows Yoichi Isagi, a high school soccer player who is invited to participate in the Blue Lock program. This radical training regimen is designed to cultivate the world’s best striker by pitting players against each other in a high-stakes competition. The manga challenges the traditional values of teamwork and sportsmanship, emphasizing individual ego and skill as the keys to success. The artwork is dynamic and expressive, capturing the intensity of the soccer matches and the emotions of the players. The character designs are distinct and memorable, each player with their own unique style and personality. Muneyuki Kaneshiro’s writing is sharp and engaging, exploring themes of ambition, rivalry, and the pursuit of excellence. The manga delves into the psychological aspects of competition, showing how the players push themselves to their limits in order to achieve their goals. “Blue Lock” is a refreshing and exciting take on the sports manga genre, offering a unique perspective on the world of soccer. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just looking for a compelling story, this manga is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. Its intense competition, memorable characters, and dynamic artwork make it a standout title in recent years.

5. "My Dress-Up Darling"

"My Dress-Up Darling" is a heartwarming and charming story about finding your passion and connecting with others. Wakana Gojo, a high school student who dreams of becoming a hina doll craftsman, befriends Marin Kitagawa, a popular girl who loves cosplay. Together, they embark on a journey of creating amazing costumes and discovering themselves. The series revolves around Wakana Gojo, a reclusive high school student who is passionate about making traditional hina dolls. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Marin Kitagawa, a vibrant and outgoing girl who loves cosplay. Marin discovers Wakana’s sewing skills and enlists his help in creating her elaborate costumes. As they work together, they form a close bond and help each other overcome their insecurities. The artwork is beautiful and detailed, capturing the intricate designs of the costumes and the emotions of the characters. Shinichi Fukuda’s character designs are particularly appealing, with Marin’s expressive eyes and Wakana’s shy demeanor. The story explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the pursuit of one’s passions. The manga is filled with heartwarming moments as Wakana and Marin learn from each other and grow as individuals. The manga celebrates creativity and self-expression, encouraging readers to embrace their passions and be true to themselves. Whether you’re a fan of slice-of-life stories, romance, or cosplay, “My Dress-Up Darling” is a must-read manga that will warm your heart and leave you feeling inspired.

Honorable Mentions

• "Ranking of Kings": A sweet story about a deaf prince trying to prove himself.
• "Komi Can't Communicate": A charming comedy about a girl with social anxiety.
• "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba": Still going strong with its amazing action and emotional story.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! My top manga picks for 2022. These series offer a mix of action, humor, heart, and incredible art. Whether you're a seasoned manga reader or just starting out, there's something here for everyone. Happy reading, and let me know what your favorite manga of 2022 were!