Best Manga Of 2022: Must-Read Titles
Hey manga fans! 2022 was a fantastic year for manga, with a ton of new series popping up and some long-running favorites delivering some epic chapters. Choosing the "best" is always tough because everyone has different tastes, but I've put together a list of some of the top manga of 2022 that you absolutely should not miss. Whether you're into action-packed shonen, heartwarming shojo, or something in between, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and let's dive into the world of amazing manga that defined 2022! This list isn't just about popularity; it's about quality storytelling, captivating art, and those series that really stuck with us throughout the year. We'll look at the ones that had everyone talking, the hidden gems that deserve more love, and the series that truly pushed the boundaries of the medium. We'll be looking at ongoing series that delivered peak content, as well as new releases that made a huge splash. Keep in mind that "best" is subjective, but I've tried to include a variety of genres and styles to give you a well-rounded selection. Also, this isn't just a list of what was released in 2022. It's about what was relevant and amazing in 2022. Some series started before then, but had their most impactful moments or reached a high point of quality that year. So, without further ado, let's get into it!
Top Action and Adventure Manga
Chainsaw Man
Okay, guys, let's kick things off with a bang! Chainsaw Man absolutely dominated the manga scene in 2022, and for good reason. The second part of the manga series began in 2022, continuing the wild adventures of Denji and the Public Safety Devil Hunters. This series is an absolute rollercoaster, mixing ultra-violence with dark humor and surprisingly touching character moments. The art is fantastic, the action sequences are incredibly dynamic, and the story is just plain weird and captivating. Chainsaw Man's popularity exploded, and you will understand why. Denji, the main character, is a total underdog, and watching him claw his way through a world filled with devils and other bizarre creatures is endlessly entertaining. The world-building is top-notch. The author does a great job of creating a unique and memorable setting. The supporting characters are also brilliantly written. Every single character has their own personality and flaws, making them feel real and relatable, even the devil hunters. The story is unpredictable, and it'll keep you guessing at every turn, which is one of the biggest reasons it was among the top manga of 2022. Chainsaw Man doesn't shy away from being dark and gory. The art style is bold and expressive, and it perfectly captures the frenetic energy of the battles and the often-absurd situations the characters find themselves in. If you're a fan of action, horror, and a bit of comedy, this is the manga for you. If you somehow missed out on this in 2022, now's the time to catch up, because the ride is just getting started. It really is one of the best action mangas out there right now, and the hype is definitely real.
Spy x Family
Next up, we have Spy x Family, which continued to charm readers and viewers alike. This series is a masterclass in blending action, comedy, and heartwarming family dynamics. The premise is simple: a spy has to create a fake family to complete a mission. This includes adopting a telepathic daughter and marrying an assassin. The result? Pure, hilarious chaos. The story follows the Forger family – Loid, the spy; Yor, the assassin; and Anya, the telepathic daughter – as they navigate their fake lives while trying to maintain the facade of a normal family. It's a comedy, but it has plenty of heart. The humor is well-executed, relying on situational comedy and the absurdity of the characters' secret lives. The characters are all incredibly well-developed and lovable. Loid's seriousness, Yor's clumsiness, and Anya's mischievousness all work together to create a dynamic that's both funny and touching. The action is fantastic, the humor is spot-on, and the characters are endearing. It's a perfect blend of genres and styles that is a must-read, making it one of the top mangas of 2022. The art style is clean and expressive, and the panel layouts are easy to follow, making it a visual treat. If you're looking for a manga that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer all at once, look no further than Spy x Family. It's a heartwarming story about family, even if that family is built on lies.
One Piece
How could we forget the One Piece? This is one of the most popular manga of all time, and it remained strong in 2022. The Wano Country Arc reached its climax, delivering some of the most epic and emotional moments in the series' long history. It's an adventure story about pirates, and this series has consistently delivered. It's known for its long, winding story arcs, and the Wano arc was no different. This arc sees the Straw Hat Pirates fighting against the tyrannical Kaido and his forces. The battles are intense, the stakes are high, and the emotional payoff is huge. The author is a master of creating a vast and detailed world, and the art style, with its exaggerated features and dynamic action sequences, is instantly recognizable. One Piece is a long-running series, so getting into it can feel daunting, but the Wano arc is a great place to start. While there are a lot of chapters, you get invested in the characters and their struggles. The series has become one of the most beloved manga of all time because of its strong story. The story is full of heart, humor, and adventure. It's an essential read for anyone who loves epic stories and unforgettable characters. If you've been putting off reading One Piece, 2022 was the year to jump in. The Wano arc provides a fantastic and self-contained experience that will get you hooked.
Standout Shonen Manga
Jujutsu Kaisen
Jujutsu Kaisen continues to be a powerhouse in the shonen world. This series combines intense action with a dark and supernatural setting. The story follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes involved in the world of curses and jujutsu sorcerers. The action is fast-paced and visually stunning. The fights are creative and well-choreographed. The characters are memorable and well-developed, each with their own unique motivations and abilities. The series is known for its incredible art. The author's use of dynamic panel layouts and detailed character designs make every page a visual treat. Jujutsu Kaisen is a must-read for fans of action and supernatural stories. If you haven't checked it out yet, definitely give it a try. It's a series that really comes into its own and expands its scope throughout its run. The story is complex and engaging, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. It's one of the best shonen manga out there right now.
My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia is still delivering some of the best superhero action in manga. In 2022, the series continued its intense final arc, with the heroes facing off against the villains in a desperate battle for the future. The story is all about a world where people have superpowers, and Izuku Midoriya, who was born without any, dreams of becoming a hero. This manga perfectly balances action and character development. The battles are exciting and well-choreographed, and the relationships between the characters are genuinely moving. The art style is clean and expressive, and the character designs are instantly recognizable. The series explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the struggle to do what is right. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a superhero story with depth and heart. My Hero Academia has a huge cast of characters, and it does a great job of giving each of them their moment to shine. If you are into superhero tales, this is the top manga of 2022.
Must-Read Slice of Life and Romance Manga
Komi Can't Communicate
Komi Can't Communicate is a heartwarming series. The story is about Shoko Komi, a high school student who has social anxiety and struggles to communicate. The premise might sound simple, but the manga is full of charm and humor. The manga is about Komi's journey to make 100 friends. The characters are all incredibly likeable and well-developed. The humor is gentle and relatable, and the story is full of heartwarming moments. The art style is clean and expressive, and it perfectly captures the characters' emotions. Komi Can't Communicate is the perfect manga to read when you need a dose of positivity and feel-good vibes. It is a fantastic manga. The story is full of humor, and it has a lot of heart, which makes it feel incredibly human. If you're looking for a slice-of-life manga that will make you smile, this is the one.
Call of the Night
Call of the Night is a unique and intriguing romance manga. The story follows Kou Yamori, a middle school student who struggles with insomnia and decides to become a vampire. It is not like other romance mangas. The premise is fascinating and the art style is stunning. The story blends romance, supernatural elements, and a coming-of-age story. The characters are compelling, and the art style is visually striking. The author’s use of lighting and shadows creates a perfect atmosphere. Call of the Night is a must-read for fans of romance and supernatural stories. If you're looking for a romance manga that is a bit different, then look no further. This series stands out for its unique blend of genres and its beautiful art. It's a great read that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.
Honorable Mentions and Hidden Gems
Dandadan
Dandadan is a wild and wacky manga that blends action, comedy, and the supernatural. The story follows a boy who believes in aliens and a girl who believes in ghosts. They team up to fight off both, and the result is a non-stop thrill ride. This manga is incredibly entertaining. The action is dynamic, the humor is on point, and the art style is unique. Dandadan is a must-read for anyone who is looking for something different and refreshing.
Blue Lock
Blue Lock is a sports manga. The story is about a group of high school soccer players who are chosen to compete in a rigorous training program. The goal is to create the world's best striker. The series is known for its intense action and its exploration of the competitive spirit. The art style is dynamic, and the characters are well-developed. If you're a fan of sports manga, this is a must-read.
Kaiju No. 8
Kaiju No. 8 is a fantastic manga. The story follows Kafka Hibino, who works a job cleaning up after kaiju attacks. He dreams of joining the Defense Force. The art is stunning, and the action is intense. Kaiju No. 8 is a must-read for fans of monster battles and action.
Conclusion
So there you have it, guys! These are just a few of the top manga of 2022. It was an amazing year for manga. There were tons of great series that kept us entertained. Whether you're a long-time manga reader or just getting started, I hope this list gives you some new series to check out. Happy reading, and here's to another year of awesome manga! Remember, this is just a starting point. There are countless other amazing manga out there, so don't be afraid to explore and find your own favorites. The world of manga is vast and diverse, and there's something for everyone. So, go out there and discover some new stories and characters that will captivate you. Enjoy the journey, and happy reading!