Top 10 Manga Titles Every New Otaku Should Start With

Starting your manga journey can be overwhelming—there are thousands of series across so many genres. But don’t worry! Whether you’re just getting into manga or looking for a collection to start your digital library, this list has you covered. These aren’t just popular titles—they’re stories that have left a deep impression on fans around the world (myself included). Here's what makes them worth your time.

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1. Naruto

At first glance, Naruto might seem like a typical action-packed shonen, but it’s so much more than flashy jutsus and ninja fights. The story of Naruto Uzumaki, a boy rejected by his village but determined to become the Hokage (the strongest ninja), is incredibly inspiring. I still remember how I rooted for him through every battle and heartache. His journey from lonely outsider to beloved hero makes you feel like you’ve grown up alongside him.

It’s the perfect manga for new readers because it introduces many common anime tropes—rivalries, epic training arcs, and redemption—but delivers them with real emotion. If you’ve ever felt like an underdog, Naruto’s story will hit home. Plus, it’s a massive series, which is great if you want something to binge and get fully immersed in.

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2. Fullmetal Alchemist

Fullmetal Alchemist is one of those rare stories that balances world-building, action, humor, and emotional depth effortlessly. It follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who break the laws of alchemy in a desperate attempt to bring their mother back to life—and pay a heavy price. I was drawn in immediately by the concept and the bond between the brothers. Their loyalty to each other is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.

What makes FMA special is how mature it feels without being overwhelming. It tackles themes like sacrifice, morality, and the consequences of playing god, but still leaves room for funny moments and character growth. If you’re looking for something that hits your heart and makes you think, this is the perfect place to start.

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3. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

I started Demon Slayer during a weekend when I just needed something new, and I was instantly hooked. It’s a beautiful mix of traditional Japanese culture and supernatural action, centered around a kind-hearted boy, Tanjiro, whose entire family is slaughtered by demons—except for his sister, who’s turned into one. His devotion to protecting and curing her is what fuels the entire series.

What I love most is how every demon has a backstory. You’re not just watching epic sword fights—you’re feeling something for the enemy, too. The art is stunning, the pacing is sharp, and the emotional moments sneak up on you. For new otakus, this is one of the most visually satisfying and emotionally rich stories to start with.

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4. Attack on Titan

I’ll be honest—I almost dropped Attack on Titan after the first few chapters because it felt a bit too intense. But I’m so glad I stuck with it. This series is a rollercoaster of mystery, horror, and political drama, all set in a world where humans live behind giant walls to protect themselves from man-eating Titans. It’s dark, but that darkness has purpose.

As the story unfolds, you begin to question everything—from the origin of Titans to the real enemy. Every character has depth, and the plot twists are some of the best in modern manga. It’s a great starting point if you’re looking for something more mature and thought-provoking, with high-stakes storytelling and a gritty, dystopian tone.

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5. Death Note

Death Note is one of the first manga I ever read—and it blew my mind. Imagine having the power to kill anyone just by writing their name in a notebook. That’s the premise behind this intense cat-and-mouse game between a genius student named Light Yagami and an eccentric detective named L. It’s gripping from the very first chapter.

This manga doesn’t rely on action scenes or flashy powers—it’s all about strategy, psychology, and moral dilemmas. I remember being torn between rooting for Light and being terrified of what he was becoming. If you enjoy deep, suspenseful plots that challenge your sense of right and wrong, Death Note is the perfect entry point.

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6. One Piece

Starting One Piece feels like setting sail on the biggest adventure of your life—and that’s exactly what it is. At first, I was intimidated by the sheer size of the series, but once I met Luffy and his quirky pirate crew, I never looked back. Every arc feels like a new world with new characters, challenges, and unforgettable moments.

What makes this manga special is its ability to mix goofy humor with deep emotional resonance. You’ll laugh out loud, then unexpectedly cry a few pages later. It’s a story about chasing dreams, forming unbreakable bonds, and fighting for what’s right. If you want a long-running series that feels like home, this is it.

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7. My Hero Academia

This was the first manga that made me feel like a kid again. My Hero Academia is set in a world where nearly everyone has superpowers (called Quirks), and it follows a powerless boy, Deku, who dreams of becoming a hero. It’s both a love letter to superhero culture and a fresh take on the genre.

The story is fast-paced, the character development is strong, and it’s impossible not to get attached to the students of U.A. High. Watching Deku grow from a timid fanboy into a courageous hero is inspiring. If you love the idea of training arcs, rivalries, and epic “plus ultra” moments, this one’s a no-brainer.

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8. Your Lie in April

I wasn’t ready for how much Your Lie in April would affect me emotionally. It’s a beautiful story about a piano prodigy, Kousei, who loses the ability to hear music after his mother’s death—until he meets a free-spirited violinist who changes everything. This manga is full of light, color, and quiet heartbreak.

What I love is how it uses music as a metaphor for healing and expression. It’s not action-packed, but it’s deeply moving, especially if you’ve ever experienced grief, love, or artistic passion. If you want a break from intense battles and crave something gentle and powerful, this is the one to read.

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9. Tokyo Ghoul

Tokyo Ghoul is one of the darkest but most intriguing manga I’ve ever read. It follows Kaneki, a college student who accidentally gets turned into a half-ghoul and is forced to live in a world where he doesn’t fully belong. It’s violent, yes, but it’s also beautifully tragic.

There’s something haunting about watching Kaneki wrestle with his humanity. The art style reflects the tone—gritty, raw, emotional. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re into stories that explore identity, loneliness, and transformation, it’s unforgettable. A great pick for mature readers who want something deeper.

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10. One Punch Man

If you're looking for fun, One Punch Man is the perfect starter manga. It follows Saitama, a hero so powerful he defeats all his enemies with a single punch—and he’s bored out of his mind because of it. The concept is hilarious and refreshing, especially if you're used to the typical “struggle to win” trope.

But beyond the comedy, One Punch Man has amazing fight scenes, clever writing, and even some surprisingly deep moments. It’s perfect for new otakus who want something light, fast-paced, and entertaining with stunning artwork and a lovable, deadpan hero.

✨ Final Thoughts: Your Manga Journey Starts Now

No matter which title you start with, each of these series has something unique to offer—and the beauty of digital reading is that you can try them all at your own pace. We upload new collections regularly, and you can even request a specific manga if it’s not in the shop yet!

Start building your collection today and experience stories that will stick with you long after the last page.