The world of manga is exploding with record-breaking sales and unforgettable stories this year. From intense sports dramas to magical battles and spy comedies, these series have dominated the scene, capturing the hearts of millions. If you’re looking for thrilling action, heartwarming moments, and incredible artistry, these top manga hits are for you. Let’s dive into the best of the best and see why they’ve been selling millions of copies!
1. My Hero Academia (2016)
With its 10th anniversary just around the corner, My Hero Academia is going out with a bang! Having sold over 1.26 million copies this year, this powerhouse series is one of the most beloved and best-selling manga worldwide. As the final war between the heroes and villains nears its climactic conclusion, fans are on the edge of their seats. This could be the final year of Midoriya’s journey, and it’s been an incredible ride.
For those unfamiliar, My Hero Academia follows Izuku Midoriya, a young boy born without superpowers in a world where almost everyone has a quirk. After a chance encounter with Japan’s number one hero, All Might, Midoriya is chosen to inherit All Might’s legendary power, One For All. From there, he embarks on a thrilling quest to become the world’s greatest hero, facing impossible odds and inspiring fans around the globe.
As we approach the end of this iconic series, now is the perfect time to catch up and witness the epic showdown that’s been years in the making.
2. Mashle: Magic and Muscles (2020)
One of the biggest surprises of the year, Mashle: Magic and Muscles has taken the anime and manga world by storm. With 1.27 million copies sold, the story of Mash Burnedead has become a massive hit, thanks to its blend of hilarious action and fantastic world-building. Set in a world where magic dictates everything, Mash is a young man born without any magical abilities—but what he lacks in magic, he makes up for with sheer physical strength.
The anime adaptation, with its catchy opening song “Bling-Bang-Bang-Born” by Creepy Nuts, only helped boost the manga’s popularity, leading to an explosion in digital sales. Season 2 was a huge success, and with Season 3 on the way, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Mash’s journey to become the Divine Visionary while hiding his lack of magic from the world.
If you love absurd humor and over-the-top battles, Mashle is a must-read.
3. Kingdom (2006)
The epic saga of Kingdom continues its reign as one of the most successful and long-running manga series of all time. With 1.6 million copies sold this year alone, Yasuhisa Hara’s historical masterpiece shows no signs of slowing down. The series, set during the Warring States period of China, follows the journey of Ei Sei, the king of Qin, and Shin, a peasant-turned-soldier, as they aim to unify China through war, politics, and diplomacy.
Currently in its Hango Campaign Arc, Kingdom delivers intense battle scenes, intricate political strategies, and a fascinating depiction of ancient history. The series is nearing its 100th volume, with Hara confirming he plans to end the story at that milestone.
For fans of historical drama and warfare, Kingdom remains an unmissable series that continues to dominate both the manga world and readers’ hearts.
4. Spy x Family (2019)
One of the biggest hits of the year, Spy x Family has had a remarkable year with the release of the Spy x Family: Code White movie and the end of Season 2 in December 2023. Selling 1.6 million copies, this action-packed comedy has captivated fans of all ages. The announcement of a game, SPYXANYA: Operation Memories, and more content on the way only solidifies its place as one of the most popular franchises today.
The story follows Twilight, a top-secret spy, who must adopt a fake family to complete a critical mission. Unbeknownst to him, his adopted daughter, Anya, is a telepath, and his wife, Yor, is a deadly assassin. Together, they navigate their secret lives while hilariously pretending to be a normal family. Full of laughs, heartwarming moments, and thrilling action, Spy x Family is a hit with everyone—from kids to adults.
If you haven’t yet experienced this masterpiece, it’s time to jump in and join the fun.
5. Haikyuu!! (2012)
Haikyuu!! is making a massive comeback with 1.86 million copies sold this year, thanks to the release of its highly anticipated theatrical movie. The volleyball series that captured the hearts of sports fans is back in the spotlight, with a new movie chronicling the final arcs of the beloved manga. Fans had been waiting for more than four years, and the wait was worth it.
For those new to the series, Haikyuu!! follows Shoyo Hinata, a passionate and determined volleyball player who dreams of reaching the national stage. Despite his short stature, Hinata pushes himself to the limit, training alongside his former rival-turned-teammate Kageyama, as they aim to lead Karasuno High School back to its former glory.
With a second part of the movie on the way, Haikyuu!! is set to continue its dominance, delighting both new and old fans alike.
