As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but rave about how Demon Slayer has seized the spotlight as one of this past decade’s most epic manga series! With its blockbuster anime adaptation sweeping audiences off their feet worldwide, it’s no surprise that Demon Slayer is making waves in the pop culture scene.
The captivating narrative follows Tanjiro and Nezuko Kamado, siblings who find themselves thrust into a centuries-old battle against demonic forces intent on annihilating humanity. Nezuko, their younger sister, has been transformed into a demon, and together they embark on a heartrending journey to restore her humanity.
Demon Slayer can be neatly categorized as a dark fantasy masterpiece, earning accolades for its stunning art style, immersive world-building, and the unparalleled bond between Tanjiro and Nezuko, which serves as the story’s driving force. In short, if you’re not already hooked on Demon Slayer, I can’t recommend it enough!
Even though the “Demon Slayer” manga concluded back in 2020, the anime adaptation is still going strong with the “Infinity Castle” arc being split into three feature-length movies. Despite the series’ storyline reaching its conclusion, fans are eagerly seeking the next captivating read to replace it on their reading list. Here’s a selection of manga recommendations that share similar themes, genres, or tones as “Demon Slayer”. If you’re searching for an exciting new manga series, I strongly recommend giving one of these titles a try; chances are you won’t be disappointed!
10) Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun
A captivating fantasy manga series worth reading is “Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun.” What makes it stand out is its heartwarming illustrations, the tight-knit relationships among the central characters, and the introduction of fascinating supernatural entities. The manga was adapted into an anime in 2020, with a second season following in 2025. “Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun” explores themes such as trauma, grief, learning from past experiences, and the power of friendship.
The story of this manga begins with Nene Yashiro, a teenage girl, attempting to conjure Hanako-kun – a supposed spirit inhabiting the girls’ bathrooms at her school. Motivated by dreams of popularity among boys, she summons what she believes is a female ghost. However, she encounters Hanako instead, who turns out to be the spirit of a young boy that died years ago. Intriguingly, Hanako enlists Nene as his helper, tasking them together to manage various supernatural issues occurring within their school, working to maintain harmony and balance in the hidden realm.
9) Tokyo Ghoul
The popular manga series “Tokyo Ghoul,” known for its gloomy atmosphere and raw artistry, made waves in the mid-2010s. Starting in 2012, it ran for a total of 143 chapters before being followed by a sequel manga called “Tokyo Ghoul:re,” which ended after 179 chapters in 2018. An anime adaptation based on the original manga series premiered in 2014, but many fans found it greatly disappointing due to its significant deviations from the original storyline. The narrative of “Tokyo Ghoul” tackles themes like self-identity, human nature, trauma, and empathy’s significance.
In the anime series Tokyo Ghoul, the main character is Ken Kaneki, a college student. On a date with Rize Kamishiro, he encounters a devastating turn of events as she is revealed to be a Ghoul – a creature resembling a human but needing human flesh for survival. Kaneki miraculously survives, but finds out it’s because of her organs being transplanted into him, granting him Ghoul-like abilities and an appetite for human flesh. Overwhelmed by his transformation and the stigma associated with it, Kaneki is sent to work at Anteiku – a unique coffee shop where Ghouls can live freely without the threat of investigators. At Anteiku, he finds himself caught up in various intrigues, leading him to accept and navigate his new identity.
8) Ajin: Demi-Human
Ajin: Demi-Human, an understated manga series, intertwines horror, supernatural, and action elements. First published in 2012, it ran until 2021, comprising a total of 86 chapters and 17 volumes. In addition to the manga, an anime adaptation emerged in 2016 with two complete seasons. The narrative of Ajin: Demi-Human grapples with themes like immortality, human nature, moral ambiguity, and the exploitation of the weak. This series stands out due to its unrelenting dark storyline that consistently reinforces its thought-provoking ideology, making it a must-read for those who enjoy manga that stimulates deep thinking.
In the anime titled “Ajin: Demi-Human“, we follow the life of Kei Nagai, a typical high school student whose world is turned upside down by an unexpected revelation: Kei is in fact one of the Ajin, beings that appear human but possess extraordinary abilities such as rapid healing and creation of Invisible Black Matter. This powerful substance can be utilized to create entities called Black Ghosts. As an Ajin, Kei becomes a wanted fugitive due to widespread fear and hatred towards Ajin by the general population. He is saved by Sato, another Ajin with questionable motives for dealing with humanity. Now, Kei must decide whether to accept his new identity or defend those who wish him harm.
7) D. Gray-man
The manga titled “D. Gray-man,” though not as widely recognized, focuses on themes of the supernatural, particularly demons and exorcists. This story unfolds in a world designed to evoke gothic atmospheres, enhancing its dark undertones. Debuting in 2004, the manga continues today with intermittent chapter releases due to the author’s health concerns; approximately 255 chapters are currently accessible.
A television series based on “D. Gray-man” premiered in 2006, and a sequel anime titled “D. Gray-man Hallow” started airing in 2016.
The storyline of D. Gray-man unfolds during the 19th century, focusing on Allen Walker, a young man who chooses to enlist with the Black Order, a group of exorcists committed to battling an escalating legion of demons. Equipped with sacred items known as Innocence, these exorcists are tasked with holding back the armies of the Millennium Earl, a being who resurrects the deceased to spawn new demons. Allen becomes embroiled in a struggle to uncover the Heart, a potent artifact that will shape the outcome of the religious conflict in which humanity is embroiled.
6) Fullmetal Alchemist
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but rave about my all-time favorite manga, “Fullmetal Alchemist.” This masterpiece showcases one of the most profound sibling relationships within the genre that’s been etched in my heart ever since its debut in 2001, gracing the pages of Monthly Shonen Gangan. The series concluded after 108 captivating chapters in 2010. Two anime adaptations were born from this timeless tale – “Fullmetal Alchemist” (2004) and “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood” (2009).
Delving deep into complex themes like redemption, family values, loss, political intrigue, and the perils of excessive ambition, this series left an indelible mark on dark fantasy shonen manga. Today, it’s increasingly recognized as a modern classic that continues to inspire new generations of fans.
In Fullmetal Alchemist, the protagonists are siblings Edward and Alphonse Elric. After a perilous alchemy experiment aimed at resurrecting their deceased mother, the brothers suffer severe consequences: Alphonse’s body disintegrates and his soul resides in an armor suit, while Ed loses several limbs. Grieved and determined, they leave their hometown to pursue state-authorized alchemy status in the capital. Their objective is to acquire the knowledge needed to restore their lost bodies, though this quest intertwines with the enigmatic mystery of the Philosopher’s Stone – a mythical artifact capable of healing them if found.
5) The Promised Neverland
The comic series, titled “The Promised Neverland,” strongly emphasizes the significance of camaraderie and makeshift families amidst a world where children are treated inhumanely, akin to livestock. Debuting in 2016 within the Weekly Shonen Jump, it concluded after publishing 181 chapters across 20 volumes. A television adaptation based on the manga storyline was introduced in 2019, however, the second season veered significantly from the original narrative and has been criticized by many fans as a less accurate portrayal. However, the manga continues to be cherished for its compelling themes such as hope, faith in others, coping with loss, and the price of freedom that are vividly depicted throughout its narrative.
In a secretive orphanage, our main characters Emma, Ray, and Norman, the brightest and oldest among them, look after the younger ones. But when they uncover that this sanctuary is actually a farm providing children to be harvested for demonic consumption, their protective duties become a challenge. With the daunting revelation and the constant threat of being sold, they urgently seek a means to flee the orphanage and start anew in a world beyond the farms.
4) Soul Eater
The manga series, titled Soul Eater, is an engrossing blend of supernatural and dark fantasy that showcases a considerable amount of emotional depth. Debuting in 2003, it ran for ten years, reaching a total of 113 chapters before its conclusion in 2013. Soon after, the series was adapted into an anime that premiered in 2008. Despite aligning with the manga’s storyline initially, the anime eventually took a unique direction, deviating from the original author’s intended plot and offering a different ending compared to the written series.
Themes such as insanity, the potential perils of accumulating power, questions about morality on a grand scale, and the strength of enduring relationships are all thoughtfully addressed within Soul Eater.
In the narrative of “Soul Eater,” we find ourselves in a universe where certain individuals transform into weapons, and those known as “Meisters” control these weapons. Our protagonist, Maka Albarn, is one such Meister, partnered with Soul Evans. Together, they aspire to become a Death Scythe, legendary tools aiding the Grim Reaper. To achieve this dream, they enroll at the Death Weapon Meister Academy to hone their teamwork skills and improve in combat. The plot unfolds as Maka and Soul face challenges, engage in battles, and forge alliances with fellow students, aiming to grow stronger. Meanwhile, an age-old evil begins to awaken from slumber.
3) Blue Exorcist
The animated series, Blue Exorcist, delves into a world filled with supernatural elements, including demons, familial bonds, and the eternal battle between good and evil. Debuting in 2009 as a manga serialization in Shueisha’s Jump Square magazine, it continues to captivate audiences up until 2025. The series was also transformed into an anime show, airing its first episode in 2014 with four seasons to date. Blue Exorcist tackles mature themes such as inheritance, self-discovery, identity, defiance of fate, and the strength found in teamwork. Perfect for readers who appreciate nuanced character dynamics and intricate action sequences.
The storyline of Blue Exorcist revolves around siblings Rin and Yukio Okumura, who were brought up by skilled exorcist Shiro Fujimoto. Tragically, their foster father is slain by the Demon King, leading Rin to discover that he’s actually Satan’s son, with hidden demonic powers contained within his sword. Driven by a thirst for vengeance and a desire for justice, Rin enrolls at True Cross Academy to learn exorcism techniques, aiming to become strong enough to vanquish Satan permanently and eliminate the evil influence he holds over the world.
2) Dandadan
Dandadan” is a popular supernatural manga that gained significant attention within its community, thanks in part to its well-received anime adaptation. The series debuted in 2021 and continues to be published, accumulating more than 200 chapters by 2025. The animated version premiered in 2024 and received positive reviews, followed by a second season in the summer of 2025.
“Dandadan” delves into themes like friendship, discovery, faith’s power, and the value of courage. It offers an enthralling mix of intense action sequences interspersed with comedic moments, making for an engaging and enjoyable read.
In the series named “Dandadan,” the narrative revolves around Momo and Okarun, high school students with contrasting convictions about the supernatural. While Momo is a firm believer in ghosts, Okarun swears by aliens. Following a serendipitous meeting, they form an unexpected alliance, determined to test each other’s theories for validity. This venture leads Okarun to be taken over by a potent spirit, granting him its powers, and Momo to be kidnapped by aliens, awakening her psychic abilities within her. United, the duo transforms into a team, banding together to combat supernatural perils that endanger humanity.
1) Dororo
Dororo” is a captivating narrative that explores the recurring themes of retribution and violence amidst a backdrop of war. Originally published as a manga in 1967, it is the oldest series on this list. It was previously adapted into an anime in 1969; however, the 2019 Dororo anime reimagined the storyline for contemporary viewers. The series delves into themes such as morality, humanity, healing from past wounds, and fostering authentic relationships. Set in feudal Japan, “Dororo” uses its setting and atmosphere to emphasize the significance and weight of its protagonist’s journey and aspirations.
In my observation, the narrative of “Dororo” unfolds around the samurai named Hyakkimaru. As a young boy, his father bartered away Hyakkimaru’s bodily parts to demons for power and wealth, leaving him with mechanical replacements. Driven by a quest to reclaim what was taken from him, Hyakkimaru embarks on a journey across the land, confronting the demons who stole his body parts and gradually restoring himself. Along this perilous path, he encounters the resourceful thief Dororo, who joins him in his travels. They forge an alliance as they face various demons and supernatural threats, leaning on each other amidst a world that’s grim and brutal.
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2025-09-13 22:43