Top Manga Of 2022: Must-Read Series You Can't Miss!

Hey manga lovers! Are you ready to dive into the best manga that 2022 had to offer? This year was packed with incredible stories, stunning artwork, and characters that captured our hearts. Whether you're a seasoned manga reader or just getting started, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab your favorite snack, get comfy, and let's explore the top manga of 2022 that you absolutely need to check out!

What Makes a Manga Top-Tier?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly chat about what makes a manga truly stand out. It's not just about cool fight scenes or cute characters (though those definitely help!). A top-tier manga usually has a combination of factors that elevate it above the rest.

• Compelling Story: A great manga needs a story that grabs you from the first chapter and keeps you hooked until the very end. Think intricate plots, unexpected twists, and themes that resonate with you on a deeper level. The story should be well-paced, with enough development to keep you invested without dragging on unnecessarily. It's all about finding that perfect balance that keeps you eagerly anticipating the next volume.
• Engaging Characters: Characters are the heart and soul of any manga. You want to root for the heroes, fear the villains, and feel a connection to everyone in between. Well-developed characters have their own unique personalities, motivations, and flaws that make them feel real and relatable. Their growth and development throughout the story should feel natural and earned, making you care about their journey and the challenges they face. A memorable cast of characters can truly make or break a manga.
• Stunning Artwork: While story and characters are crucial, the artwork is what brings the manga to life. Beautifully drawn panels, expressive character designs, and dynamic action sequences can enhance the reading experience and immerse you in the world of the story. The art style should complement the tone and themes of the manga, whether it's a detailed and realistic style for a serious drama or a more whimsical and cartoonish style for a lighthearted comedy. Great artwork can elevate a good manga to a truly unforgettable one.
• Emotional Resonance: The best manga have the power to make you feel something. Whether it's joy, sadness, anger, or excitement, a truly great manga can evoke a wide range of emotions and leave a lasting impact on you long after you've finished reading. It's about connecting with the characters and their struggles, and feeling invested in their journey. A manga that can make you laugh, cry, and think is a manga that's worth remembering.
• Originality and Innovation: In a sea of manga, it takes something truly special to stand out. Originality and innovation can come in many forms, whether it's a unique premise, a fresh take on a familiar genre, or experimental storytelling techniques. A manga that dares to be different and pushes the boundaries of what's possible is always worth paying attention to. It's about creating something new and exciting that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

These factors combined are what make a manga truly exceptional and worth considering among the top manga of any year.

Top Manga of 2022: Our Recommendations

Alright, guys, let's get into the good stuff! Here are some of the best manga of 2022, in no particular order, that you should definitely add to your reading list:

1. "Chainsaw Man" by Tatsuki Fujimoto

"Chainsaw Man" took the manga world by storm with its dark humor, intense action, and unforgettable characters. Denji, a young man burdened with his father's debt, makes a pact with a chainsaw devil to become Chainsaw Man. This series is a wild ride from start to finish, blending horror, comedy, and heart in a way that only Tatsuki Fujimoto can. The unique premise of a chainsaw devil hybrid fighting other devils is already intriguing, but it's the compelling characters and their emotional journeys that truly make this manga shine. Denji's transformation from a desperate and lonely young man to a confident and capable devil hunter is both inspiring and heartbreaking. The supporting cast, including the stoic and mysterious Makima and the quirky and unpredictable Power, add depth and complexity to the story. The action sequences are incredibly dynamic and visually stunning, with Fujimoto's unique art style bringing the chaotic battles to life. But beyond the action and horror, "Chainsaw Man" explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the search for meaning in a cruel and unforgiving world. It's a manga that will make you laugh, cry, and question everything you thought you knew about good and evil. "Chainsaw Man" is a must-read for any manga fan looking for something truly unique and unforgettable. It's a manga that defies genre conventions and delivers a powerful and emotional story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading. If you haven't already, add this to your list ASAP!

2. "Kaiju No. 8" by Naoya Matsumoto

In a world plagued by giant monsters, Kafka Hibino dreams of joining the Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force. After a chance encounter with a mysterious creature, he gains the ability to transform into a Kaiju himself. This action-packed series combines thrilling monster battles with a heartfelt story about pursuing your dreams, no matter your age. The manga is praised for its dynamic action sequences and relatable characters. The premise of a protagonist who can transform into a Kaiju is not entirely new, but "Kaiju No. 8" puts a fresh spin on the concept by focusing on the emotional and personal struggles of Kafka. He is not a typical superhero, but a flawed and relatable character who is trying to find his place in a world that fears and hates Kaiju. The artwork is top-notch, with detailed and expressive character designs and incredibly rendered Kaiju. The action sequences are fast-paced and exciting, with Matsumoto's unique art style bringing the battles to life. But beyond the action, "Kaiju No. 8" also explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and the importance of believing in yourself. Kafka's relationships with his fellow Defense Force members are heartwarming and inspiring, and their shared struggles and triumphs make them feel like a real family. The manga also touches on issues of social prejudice and the fear of the unknown, as Kafka grapples with his identity as a Kaiju and the challenges he faces in a world that sees him as a monster. "Kaiju No. 8" is a must-read for fans of action, adventure, and monster stories. It's a manga that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also touching your heart with its relatable characters and inspiring themes.

3. "SPY x FAMILY" by Tatsuya Endo

"SPY x FAMILY" is a delightful blend of action, comedy, and heartwarming family moments. A spy known as Twilight must create a fake family to complete his mission. He adopts Anya, a telepath, and marries Yor, an assassin. Unbeknownst to each other, they all have secret identities. The humor in this series is top-notch, with plenty of running gags and situational comedy that will have you laughing out loud. But beyond the laughs, "SPY x FAMILY" also has a lot of heart. The bond between Loid, Anya, and Yor is genuinely touching, and their attempts to navigate their unconventional family dynamic are both hilarious and heartwarming. Anya's telepathic abilities add another layer of complexity to the story, as she tries to keep her family's secrets safe while also using her powers to help them in her own way. The action sequences are also well-done, with Loid and Yor showcasing their impressive skills in espionage and assassination. The artwork is clean and expressive, with detailed character designs and dynamic action panels. "SPY x FAMILY" is a must-read for anyone looking for a manga that will make them laugh, cry, and feel good all at the same time. It's a perfect blend of action, comedy, and family drama that will appeal to readers of all ages. The series has also been adapted into a highly successful anime adaptation. This manga is easily one of the top manga to come out in recent years.

4. "Blue Lock" by Muneyuki Kaneshiro (story) and Yusuke Nomura (art)

For sports manga fans, "Blue Lock" is a must-read. Japan's soccer team suffered a crushing defeat in the 2018 World Cup, leading the Japanese Football Union to create Blue Lock, a training program designed to create the world's greatest egoist striker. The premise is unique and compelling, turning the typical sports manga tropes on their head. Instead of focusing on teamwork and camaraderie, "Blue Lock" emphasizes individual skill and the ruthless pursuit of personal glory. The characters are all highly competitive and driven, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The artwork is dynamic and expressive, capturing the intensity and energy of the soccer matches. The story is full of twists and turns, with unexpected alliances and betrayals that keep you on the edge of your seat. "Blue Lock" is not just a sports manga; it's a psychological thriller that explores the dark side of ambition and the lengths people will go to achieve their dreams. The manga also delves into the psychology of competition and the importance of self-belief. The training exercises in Blue Lock are designed to push the players to their limits and force them to confront their own insecurities and doubts. The series is a must-read for anyone who enjoys sports manga with a dark and edgy twist. This manga is truly one of the best manga of our time.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! These are just a few of the top manga that 2022 had to offer. With so many amazing series to choose from, there's never been a better time to be a manga fan. So go ahead, dive into these incredible stories, and discover your new favorite manga! Happy reading!