Best Selling Manga of 2021: What Were the Top Titles?

In 2021, the world of manga saw some incredible releases, capturing the hearts of fans globally. Bestselling titles reflected a mix of genres, ranging from action-packed adventures to heartwarming slice-of-life stories. This article delves into the best-selling manga of 2021, examining their plots, popularity, and what made them resonate with readers.

Top Best Selling Manga in 2021

The top-selling manga series of 2021 included several well-known titles alongside surprising new hits. Here are the key players:

1. Jujutsu Kaisen

Jujutsu Kaisen, created by Gege Akutami, dominated sales charts in 2021 with over 30 million copies sold. The series follows Yuji Itadori, a high school student who becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of cursed spirits and sorcerers.

Plot Summary

The story begins when Yuji consumes a cursed object—a finger belonging to Sukuna, a powerful curse. By doing so, he gains immense power but also attracts the attention of malevolent forces. As he joins the Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical School, he learns to harness his newfound abilities while battling formidable opponents.

Why It’s Popular

Readers appreciate Jujutsu Kaisen for its dynamic characters, intricate plotlines, and stunning artwork. The anime adaptation has also significantly boosted its popularity, drawing in viewers who later picked up the manga.

2. Tokyo Revengers

Tokyo Revengers, authored by Ken Wakui, achieved remarkable success in 2021 with approximately 25 million copies sold. This series combines elements of action, romance, and time travel.

Plot Summary

The protagonist, Takemichi Hanagaki, discovers that he can travel back in time to his middle school days. When he learns about the tragic death of his ex-girlfriend, he resolves to change the future and save her by infiltrating a notorious gang.

Reasons for Its Success

Tokyo Revengers captivated audiences with its unique premise and emotional depth. Fans relate to Takemichi's struggles and desire for redemption, making it a compelling read for many.

3. My Hero Academia

Kohei Horikoshi's My Hero Academia continued to thrive in 2021, selling over 20 million copies. The series has maintained a loyal fan base due to its inspirational themes and character development.

Plot Overview

Set in a world where most people possess superpowers, the narrative follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without powers who dreams of becoming a hero. He is granted the chance to enroll in a prestigious hero academy and strive to embody his ideals.

What Makes It Stand Out

The blend of heroism, personal growth, and vibrant action scenes keeps readers engaged. The series effectively explores moral dilemmas and the journey to becoming a true hero.

Emerging Trends in Manga Sales

The success of these best-selling titles indicates several trends within the manga industry in 2021:

Diverse Genres Gaining Traction

Manga that incorporates a variety of genres is increasingly popular. Readers are drawn to stories that blend action with romance, humor, or fantasy elements. This diversity allows for a broader appeal, attracting various demographics.

Strong Anime Adaptations Drive Sales

Many best-selling manga titles in 2021 had corresponding anime adaptations that renewed interest in their source material. For example, Jujutsu Kaisen and Tokyo Revengers both experienced significant boosts in sales following their anime premiers. Fans often seek out the original manga after watching the adaptation.

Conclusion: The Future of Best-Selling Manga

The best-selling manga of 2021 demonstrates a vibrant industry adapting to changing consumer interests. With ongoing developments in storytelling, diverse genres, and impactful anime adaptations, the manga landscape will continue to evolve. As new titles emerge and existing series grow, fans can look forward to even more engaging stories in the years to come.

By exploring the best-selling manga of 2021, readers gain insight into not only what captured the public's imagination but also the trends shaping future releases. Whether it's through emotional story arcs or thrilling battles, manga remains a powerful medium for storytelling.