The Rise of Demon Slayer: A Look at the Best-Selling Manga of All Time
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, created by Koyoharu Gotouge, has made significant waves in the manga industry. Just before the premiere of its highly anticipated anime film, it was reported that the series had achieved remarkable sales, surpassing 220 million copies globally. This achievement ranks Demon Slayer as the sixth best-selling manga series in history. In this article, we will explore the top-selling manga titles, their captivating stories, and the impact they have had on fans worldwide.
The Best-Selling Manga Titles of All Time
One Piece by Eiichiro Oda: 516.6 Million (Official) / 543.6 Million (Projected)
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: One Piece follows the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy, a young boy who dreams of becoming the King of the Pirates. After unknowingly consuming the Gum-Gum Devil Fruit, Luffy gains the ability to stretch his body like rubber but loses the ability to swim. He sets sail on a quest to find the legendary treasure known as "One Piece," gathering a diverse crew of fellow adventurers along the way.One Piece’s sales figures are staggering and continue to grow as new volumes are released. The series has captivated audiences since its debut in 1997, making it a cornerstone of the manga and anime community.
Golgo 13 by Takao Saito: 300 Million
Publisher: LEED Publishing, Shogakukan
Synopsis: Golgo 13 follows the story of Duke Togo, a professional assassin known as Golgo 13. With a reputation for completing impossible missions, he operates in a world of espionage and danger. The series has been running since 1968 and has garnered a dedicated fanbase due to its intricate plots and detailed artwork.The longevity of Golgo 13 is a testament to its engaging storytelling and the depth of its main character, making it a significant title in manga history.
Case Closed (Detective Conan) by Gosho Aoyama: 270 Million
Publisher: Shogakukan
Synopsis: The story centers around Jimmy Kudo, a brilliant high school detective who is transformed into a child after being poisoned. Adopting the name Conan Edogawa, he continues to solve cases while searching for a cure for his condition. The series combines mystery, adventure, and humor, appealing to a wide range of readers.Case Closed has been a staple in the mystery genre of manga since its debut in 1994, and its intriguing cases keep readers coming back for more.
Dragon Ball by Akira Toriyama: 260 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: Dragon Ball follows the journey of Son Goku, a young boy with extraordinary powers. Inspired by a quest for the Dragon Balls, magical orbs that grant wishes, Goku embarks on a series of adventures filled with martial arts, friendship, and epic battles. The series laid the groundwork for many shonen manga that followed and has left an indelible mark on popular culture.Dragon Ball’s influence extends beyond manga and anime, as it has inspired numerous video games, merchandise, and adaptations.
Naruto by Masashi Kishimoto: 250 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: Naruto Uzumaki is a young ninja with dreams of becoming the strongest leader of his village, known as the Hokage. Despite facing numerous challenges and being ostracized for harboring a powerful fox spirit within him, Naruto’s determination and growth throughout the series resonate with readers. The themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery make Naruto a beloved classic.Since its debut in 1999, Naruto has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring sequels, spin-offs, and a dedicated fanbase.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba by Koyoharu Gotouge: 220 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: The story follows Tanjiro Kamado, a young boy who becomes a demon slayer after his family is slaughtered by demons, leaving only his sister Nezuko alive but cursed to become one herself. Tanjiro’s journey is filled with intense battles, emotional struggles, and the quest to find a cure for his sister. The series has captivated audiences with its stunning artwork and heartfelt storytelling.The explosive popularity of Demon Slayer has led to a successful anime adaptation and merchandise, solidifying its place in manga history.
Slam Dunk by Takehiko Inoue: 185 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: Slam Dunk chronicles the story of Hanamichi Sakuragi, a high school delinquent who joins his school’s basketball team to impress a girl. Despite having no prior experience, Hanamichi discovers his passion for the sport and his potential as a player. The series blends humor, sports action, and character development, making it a top title in sports manga.Slam Dunk has not only been a commercial success but has also significantly contributed to the popularity of basketball in Japan.
Kochikame: Tokyo Beat Cops by Osamu Akimoto: 157.2 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: The series follows Ryotsu Kankichi, an unconventional police officer who loves money and often finds himself in hilarious situations. Set in Tokyo, Kochikame is known for its comedic approach to everyday life and crime prevention, making it a unique entry in the manga world.The series has been well-received for its humor and engaging characters, appealing to a broad audience.
Attack on Titan by Hajime Isayama: 140 Million
Publisher: Kodansha
Synopsis: Attack on Titan is set in a world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to giant humanoid creatures known as Titans. Eren Yeager, along with his friends Mikasa and Armin, fights to uncover the truth behind the Titans and to protect humanity. The series is known for its dark themes, complex characters, and intense action.Attack on Titan has garnered critical acclaim and has become a cultural phenomenon, thanks in part to its gripping story and stunning animation in its anime adaptation.
Oishinbo by Tetsu Kariya and Akira Hanasaki: 135 Million
Publisher: Shueisha
Synopsis: Oishinbo explores the world of Japanese cuisine, focusing on the ingredients that form the foundation of Japanese cooking. Through various stories, readers learn about the preparation, presentation, and cultural significance of traditional dishes. The series is as informative as it is entertaining, appealing to food enthusiasts and manga fans alike.Oishinbo has played an essential role in promoting Japanese culinary culture through its engaging narratives.
Conclusion
Manga has evolved into a powerful medium, captivating readers with its diverse stories and characters. The success of titles like Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, One Piece, and Naruto showcases the impact that these narratives have on popular culture. As new series continue to emerge, the manga landscape remains vibrant and full of potential, promising even more incredible stories in the future.
