Along with horror, sci-fi manga is one of my favorite genres to collect—not just because it transports you to entirely new worlds, but because it often resonates on a deeper level. These stories frequently explore the future while reflecting on the past, which makes them especially compelling.
The world of sci-fi manga is huge and full of variety. You’ll find everything from cyberpunk and futuristic societies to giant robots, alien invasions, telekinesis, advanced tech, and more. Some stories warn about the dangers of technology, while others celebrate its potential. Some are grounded on Earth, while others take you into the far reaches of space. There are also comedic sci-fi manga that put a lighthearted spin on the genre. No matter what you’re into, there’s something here that will pull you in.
Many of these titles are available physically or digitally, and there’s a steady stream of exciting new sci-fi manga releasing every year. I’ll keep this post updated with standout new releases as they drop. That said, here are the best sci-fi manga you need to check out now!
Battle Angel Alita by Yukito Kishiro
Battle Angel Alita by Yukito Kishiro is set in a dystopian future where a cybernetic girl named Alita is discovered in a scrapyard with no memory of her past. As she tries to uncover who she really is, she becomes a bounty hunter — and what follows is a brutal, heartfelt journey about identity, survival, and what it means to be human.
The Deluxe Editions from Kodansha — especially the box set — do this iconic manga justice. You get five hardcover volumes, new translations, full-color pages, short stories, and two stunning prints. The print quality is leagues above the previous English releases, and the box set is one of the best you can own.
Trigun by Yasuhiro Nightow
When it comes to sci-fi classics, one of the most renowned and beloved is Trigun by Yasuhiro Nightow. If you enjoy Trigun, be sure to check out its sequel, Trigun Maximum. I love Trigun, but I love Trigun Maximum even more.
Trigun is set on the desert world of Gunsmoke, where a massive bounty looms over the head of Vash the Stampede. His guns are powerful enough to pierce a planet, which explains why the locals tremble at the mere mention of his name. The reward for his capture or assassination is sixty billion double dollars, and every trigger-happy psycho in existence is out to claim Vash—dead or alive.
Trigun has a nostalgic feel with its Western-inspired vibe and setting, yet it also takes place in a futuristic world, making it truly unique. On top of that, it’s action-packed, full of comedy, and easily one of the most entertaining sci-fi manga I’ve ever read.
You can collect Trigun through the omnibuses or single volumes released by Dark Horse, or the upcoming Trigun Deluxe Editions, also being released by Dark Horse.
Origin by Boichi
Boichi’s series always balance a great sense of humor with emotional moments that draw you deeper into the story. They’re action-packed and feature incredibly detailed, stunning artwork. In Origin, robots with advanced AI exist—but what makes this one stand out is that our main character is an android who wants to understand himself and what it means to be alive. The story offers plenty of emotional and beautiful moments, along with intense action and comedy.
There’s some deeper exploration here—not quite as profound as in a series like Pluto by Naoki Urasawa—but it still delves into themes like “what does it mean to be human,” emotional robots, and self-reflection. It also delivers the intense action and highly detailed artwork fans of Inuyashiki by Hiroya Oku would appreciate. If you’re into either of those series, this one’s definitely worth checking out. It’s fun and entertaining, but it has real depth too.
Origin is one of my must-read new manga releases of 2023. Keep an eye out for its upcoming release from Kodansha!
The Ghost in the Shell by Masamune Shirow
When I think of cyberpunk manga, one of the first series that comes to mind—alongside Akira and Alita—is The Ghost in the Shell by Masamune Shirow. It’s a timeless classic that’s just as impressive today as it was when it first released in 1989, and it remains one of the most influential manga of our time.
The Ghost in the Shell follows the special forces team Section 9, led by our main character, Major Motoko Kusanagi. Together, they work to take down terrorists and cybercriminals, with their main objective being to uncover the mystery behind a hacker known as the Puppeteer. The series explores topics like politics, artificial intelligence, and cyber-crime. It’s action-packed and thrilling, but it also gives you a lot to think about.
One of the most exciting aspects of the series is its world-building. Set in a future where technology is an essential part of daily life, The Ghost in the Shell immerses you in a high-tech, dystopian world that lingers with you long after reading. It’s an absolute must-read for any fan of sci-fi.
You can collect The Ghost in the Shell in English via the Deluxe Editions, which are also available in a Complete Box Set. There’s also the Fully Compiled edition and paperback versions released by Kodansha. Dark Horse previously released a trade paperback and comic book version of the series, though both are currently out of print.
20th Century Boys by Naoki Urasawa
20th Century Boys has a little bit of everything I love—from doomsday cults to giant robots—so I had a feeling I’d enjoy it, but I didn’t realize just how much. Years later, after completing it, it’s still one of my all-time favorite manga. While it’s a sci-fi story with out-of-this-world elements, it feels incredibly real and relatable thanks to its characters.
I’ve always been drawn to stories centered around a group of friends working together to unravel a mystery—like It—but the success of these stories really depends on the dynamics and personalities of the characters. That being said, if you’re a fan of movies like It or The Goonies, you’ll most likely love 20th Century Boys because it features an incredible cast.
Since the story follows an adult cast who experienced something unbelievable as children, there are a lot of flashbacks throughout the series. You’ll move through multiple timelines over the course of the story. When done poorly, jumping between timelines can be confusing—but Naoki Urasawa structures 20th Century Boys in a way that not only makes it easy to follow, but also heightens the tension and impact.
If you love twists and turns, a compelling mystery, or stories about ordinary people doing extraordinary things, 20th Century Boys is one you’ll want to check out. You can collect the series via the singles or the 20th Century Boys Perfect Editions.
Gantz by Hiroya Oku
Gantz by Hiroya Oku is not only one of my favorite sci-fi manga—it’s also one of my favorites that leans heavily into horror. It’s an action-packed, unforgettable series filled with suspense, mystery, and surprisingly, a lot of heart. With its over-the-top violence, high-stakes battles, and incredible alien designs, Gantz delivers everything you’d want from a sci-fi action manga. But beyond the spectacle, it’s the emotional weight and the way it handles human nature that makes it stand out.
While many assume Gantz is just blood, gore, and chaos, there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface. It explores what people do when they’re truly faced with life-or-death situations—especially those who never expected to die in the first place. Characters like Kato, who holds onto his morals and sense of duty, contrast sharply with others who treat the missions like a game, showing how different people react under pressure. You’ll meet all kinds of characters, and the series takes a deep, sometimes brutal, look at what it means to be human.
Visually, Gantz is a cinematic experience. The panels are so immersive, they feel like movie stills—you can practically hear the explosions and gunfire. Hiroya Oku’s love of film shines through, paying homage to some of his favorite movies while building a unique world full of action, emotion, and philosophical weight. If you want a more in-depth and spoiler-free review, be sure to check out my full Gantz breakdown on YouTube below.
Takopi’s Original Sin by Taizan 5
Takopi’s Original Sin is a drama-sci-fi manga by Taizan 5 that’s skyrocketed in popularity lately—and I couldn’t be happier about it. It’s easily one of my favorite new series to release in a long time. I thought Goodnight Punpun by Inio Asano was a tough read (and don’t get me wrong, it definitely is), but there’s something about how compact Takopi’s Original Sin is, and the topics it tackles, that makes it hit just as hard—if not harder. While Punpun takes its time over multiple volumes, Takopi punches you in the gut from the start and keeps going for all two volumes.
Both stories are incredibly difficult to get through, but they’re also some of the most impactful manga I’ve ever read. What makes Takopi’s Original Sin stand out, though, is how it blends heavy themes with a sci-fi twist. Takopi is an octopus-like alien from Happy Planet—a place where everyone is always kind and cheerful—who meets a girl named Shizuka and quickly learns that Earth is a lot more complicated. Through his time with her, he starts to understand emotions like sadness, anger, and regret, and learns what it really means to care for someone. It’s dark, emotional, and unforgettable. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you can read it now on Manga Plus or grab the official Viz release in 2023.
Blame! by Tsutomu Nihei
Tsutomu Nihei is a master of crafting futuristic, otherworldly sci-fi worlds, as seen in Knights of Sidonia, Abara, Biomega, and more. He’s one of the best sci-fi manga creators out there, and no matter which of his works you pick up, you’re in for a unique and incredible experience—but Blame! is hands-down my favorite. The story follows Killy as he journeys through a sprawling superstructure far beyond human comprehension in search of the elusive Net Terminal Gene. Along the way, he encounters both allies and dangerous enemies like the Safeguard and the Silicon Life, but I won’t spoil any more than that for newcomers.
One of the reasons I love Blame! so much is Nihei’s art. His use of scale and perspective is unmatched—every panel feels massive, from towering architectural backdrops to the way characters are framed against them. Whether it’s Killy and Cibo suspended in the air or Killy crossing a lone bridge, you can feel the sheer size of the world they’re navigating. His designs reinforce the dystopian, futuristic setting perfectly, with outfits and weapons like the Gravitational Beam Emitter that feel both believable and striking. The Silicon Life, in particular, have designs that are both marvelous and horrifying—often reminiscent of H.R. Giger’s biomechanical style, which is high praise.
What keeps me coming back to Blame! is its deeply immersive world. Plenty of sci-fi manga have solid world-building, but few pull you in quite like this one. If you’re interested, keep an eye out for NOiSE—the prequel to Blame!. Want to hear more? You can read my full thoughts or watch my in-depth review of Blame! on YouTube below!
Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction by Inio Asano
Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction by Inio Asano—also known for Goodnight Punpun and Solanin—is a standout on this list because it’s not just one of my favorite sci-fi manga, but also one of my favorite comedy and slice-of-life series. Asano blends those genres seamlessly, and this is easily one of my all-time favorites from him. Set in Tokyo, the story begins with an alien mothership hovering ominously in the sky, creating tension among the population. Some want peace. Others want war. And as always, Asano uses this backdrop to explore how people react to fear and uncertainty.
At the heart of the story are high schoolers Kadode Koyama and Ouran Nakagawa, along with their close group of friends, doing their best to live a normal life despite the looming presence above. The sci-fi elements never overshadow the human aspect—instead, they heighten it. This is as much a coming-of-age story as it is a critique of society, and the deeper you go, the more you realize the real threat might not be the invaders in the sky, but humanity itself.
Asano’s work always features strong social commentary and complex characters, and Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction is no exception. What sets it apart from his other series is how it leans into sci-fi themes while still delivering the emotional and introspective storytelling he’s known for. For more, check out my full Inio Asano manga guide.
Akira by Katsuhiro Otomo
Akira by Katsuhiro Otomo is a series that probably needs no introduction. It’s a classic that still holds up today and has only grown in popularity since its release in the ’80s. Not only is it one of the greatest sci-fi and cyberpunk manga of all time, but its influence has shaped the manga and anime industries—and even global pop culture. Set in a dystopian Tokyo ravaged by a thermonuclear attack, Akira follows biker gangs, corrupt elites, and government experiments gone wrong, all centered around the awakening of devastating supernatural powers. With its dark themes and groundbreaking vision, it remains one of the most iconic works in post-apocalyptic fiction.
If you’ve only seen the anime film and haven’t read the manga, you’re missing out. The manga dives deeper, offering much more story and world-building than the film could fit. It’s a fascinating read, especially knowing the story was written in the ’80s but set in 2019—offering a unique perspective on how one creator envisioned our future. Akira is ahead of its time in every way, and it’s easily one of the best stories I’ve ever read. I highly recommend picking it up through the Akira 35th Anniversary Box Set, which includes the beautiful hardcover editions—my favorite manga box set to date.
Dandadan by Yukinobu Tatsu
Dandadan by Yukinobu Tatsu is quite the trip—and if it feels a little familiar in tone, that’s because Tatsu was an assistant to two legendary creators: Tatsuki Fujimoto (Chainsaw Man, Fire Punch) and Yuji Kaku (Hell’s Paradise, Ayashimon). Both have recommended Dandadan, and it’s easy to see why.
The story kicks off when Momo Ayase rescues Ken Takakura from bullies. Hoping to connect, Ken brings up the occult—his favorite topic. Ayase shuts it down, saying she believes in ghosts but not aliens. Ironically, Ken believes in aliens but not ghosts. To settle the debate, they each visit a local hotspot—Ayase heads to an alien site, Ken to a haunted one—and they both discover they were wrong… and also right. Ghosts and aliens both exist. That’s when things get truly wild.
What makes Dandadan shine is its perfect mix of heart, chaos, and charm. It’s laugh-out-loud funny and had me constantly thinking, “What the hell am I reading?”—but in the best way. From aliens obsessed with bananas to a spirit called Turbo Granny (yes, really), it’s absurd and over-the-top in all the right ways. But beneath the wackiness is a lovable, fast-paced story that keeps you coming back.
By blending sci-fi and supernatural elements into one cohesive, unpredictable world, Dandadan has quickly become one of the best new shonen manga out right now.
Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou by Hitoshi Ashinano
Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou by Hitoshi Ashinano is a deeply underrated slice-of-life sci-fi manga that deserves way more attention. It finally got an official English release from Seven Seas in a beautiful Deluxe Edition format. Set in a quiet, post-apocalyptic world, the story follows Alpha Hatsuseno, an android who runs a small café just outside Yokohama. Left in charge by the owner, she goes about her peaceful daily life, meeting new people and quietly observing the world around her. Though technically sci-fi, the setting feels grounded and rural, with a calm, unhurried pace that makes the future feel surprisingly human and familiar.
What makes Yokohama Kaidashi Kikou so special is its bittersweet yet gentle tone. While many post-apocalyptic stories focus on chaos, destruction, or survival, this one offers a quiet acceptance of the end. Humanity isn’t fighting—it’s simply living. Told through the eyes of Alpha, who doesn’t age, we witness the slow passage of time and the beauty of impermanence. It’s reflective, emotional, and uniquely calming. The themes of transience and connection make it a truly refreshing and meditative read—one that stays with you long after you’ve put it down.
Psyren by Toshiaki Iwashiro
Psyren by Toshiaki Iwashiro is a sci-fi supernatural shonen series that remains surprisingly underrated. It follows high schooler Ageha Yoshina, who gets pulled into the mysterious world of Psyren while trying to save his classmate, Sakurako Amamiya. What starts as a rescue mission quickly turns into a deadly survival game, as Ageha and his friends are forced to fight monstrous enemies known as the “Taboo.” The deeper they get, the more layered and unpredictable the story becomes, filled with twists and high-stakes tension.
What makes Psyren shine is its sharp pacing and constant suspense. Every volume ends with a cliffhanger, making it hard to stop reading. While it features the intense battles and strong character moments you’d expect from a great shonen, it avoids the common pitfalls—no drawn-out training arcs or filler slowing things down. It’s often compared to Gantz due to the survival game setup, but beyond that, they take very different approaches. If you’re looking for a fast-moving, mystery-driven shonen with a sci-fi twist, Psyren is a must-read. You can read it on the Viz app or collect the full 16-volume set physically.
Hinamatsuri by Masao Ohtake
Hinamatsuri by Masao Ohtake is a comedy sci-fi series about a Yakuza member named Nitta, whose carefree bachelor life is turned upside down when a middle school girl with telekinetic powers—Hina—suddenly appears and moves in with him. The setup is chaotic in the best way: Nitta, used to his own rules, is forced to take on a parental role while navigating Hina’s unpredictable and occasionally destructive abilities. The result is a story full of hilarious moments, but it’s also surprisingly heartwarming as their bond grows and Nitta learns to adjust his life around this strange new responsibility.
One of Hinamatsuri’s biggest strengths is its cast and the relationships that develop between them. While the story follows a main group, it also gives individual characters their own arcs, letting you watch them grow both together and apart. The manga balances humor and emotion really well, with a strong sense of found family that makes you care about every character. It’s also episodic in structure, leaning into slice-of-life storytelling, but with just enough sci-fi chaos—thanks to Hina and others like her—to keep things fresh. If you enjoy dry humor, quirky character dynamics, and Yakuza life turned on its head, Hinamatsuri is a great read.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko
You can’t have a best sci-fi manga list without including Gundam—especially Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin, one of the greatest mecha manga of all time. While the original anime kicked off Gundam’s iconic Universal Century timeline, the manga adaptation by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko came later and offers a deeper, more refined take on the story. It’s not just a retelling—it’s an enhanced, more mature version that expands on the original material with added depth and stunning artwork. If you’re curious about where it fits in the broader Gundam universe, be sure to check out our simple guide to Gundam timelines.
The manga adds valuable context and backstory to key events and characters, making it a rewarding read even for longtime fans. While there are a few changes from the anime, they serve to enrich the narrative rather than distract from it. The artwork alone is worth experiencing—Yasuhiko’s illustrations breathe new life into the world of Gundam, and his portrayal of iconic characters like Char Aznable makes this version stand out. If you’re new to Gundam or a mecha fan looking for a starting point, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin is the perfect place to begin. For the best reading experience, go with the hardcover editions—they’re beautifully made.
Pluto by Naoki Urasawa & Osamu Tezuka
Pluto is Naoki Urasawa’s take on Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy arc “The Greatest Robot on Earth,” and it’s easily one of my favorite sci-fi manga to date. In the postscripts of the volumes, I learned that Macoto Tezuka—son of the legendary “Father of Manga,” Osamu Tezuka—initially declined Urasawa’s proposal. But after meeting with him, he agreed, with one condition: Urasawa had to create something completely new and go toe to toe with his father’s legacy. That challenge set the stage for one of the most respectful yet inventive reinterpretations of a classic manga.
The collaboration—at least in spirit—between Tezuka’s foundational work and Urasawa’s masterful storytelling is a perfect match. Urasawa, known for Monster and 20th Century Boys, brings his signature suspense and depth to Astro Boy, turning it into a layered mystery where the world’s most advanced robots are being hunted and destroyed by an unknown killer. Rather than focusing on Atom (Astro Boy), the story follows Gesicht, a robotic detective investigating the murders. Through him, Urasawa explores complex themes around humanity, identity, and emotion—drawing powerful parallels between humans and robots.
The heart of Pluto lies in its exploration of what happens when the line between human and machine disappears. As Gesicht navigates a post-war world shaped by trauma, discrimination, and political tension, we see both human and robotic characters grappling with fear, grief, and even hatred. Urasawa honors Tezuka’s vision while pushing the story into darker, more mature territory—making it a compelling read for fans of the original and newcomers alike. With its emotional depth, thrilling narrative, and some of the most striking art in sci-fi manga, Pluto is a must-read that redefines what a retelling can be.
For more, check out the full guide to Naoki Urasawa’s manga.
Gintama by Hideaki Sorachi
Few series have made me laugh as hard as Gintama by Hideaki Sorachi. While Grand Blue comes close in comedy manga, Gintama is easily the funniest manga I’ve ever read—and my favorite shonen series to date. It’s set in a wildly creative version of the Edo period where aliens known as the Amanto have taken over, blending historical and sci-fi elements into a world that’s both absurd and endlessly entertaining. What really sets it apart, though, is its incredible cast of characters and the way their stories unfold. The episodic structure keeps things fresh, with Gintoki and the Odd Jobs crew taking on all sorts of bizarre requests, yet there’s still an overarching story that ties everything together beautifully.
While Gintama is best known for its comedy, calling it “just a comedy” would be selling it short. Hideaki Sorachi’s sense of humor is a huge part of its appeal, but the series also knows when to get serious—and when it does, it hits hard. Gintoki may come off as a lovable slacker, but he’s also one of the coolest and most complex shonen protagonists out there. Gintama is full of laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt character development, and exciting action. Unfortunately, only 23 of the 77 volumes were released in English, but here’s hoping we’ll get a full translation someday—it absolutely deserves it.
Assassination Classroom by Yusei Matsui
Assassination Classroom is a one-of-a-kind shonen sci-fi manga that offers a surprisingly thoughtful critique of the education system. The story follows Class 3-E, a group of so-called misfits tasked with an unusual mission: to assassinate their alien-like teacher, Korosensei, who destroyed part of the moon and threatens to do the same to Earth. Despite his bizarre appearance and incredible powers—like moving at Mach 20 and regenerating—Korosensei proves to be an extraordinary teacher. He tailors his approach to each student, helping them grow not just as assassins, but as individuals. He even mentors an AI student, treating each member of the class with care, respect, and a sharp understanding of their unique potential.
What makes Assassination Classroom so compelling is the emotional tension at its core. Korosensei is a threat, but he’s also the best teacher these students have ever had. As the series progresses, the students grow to love and respect him, all while training to kill him. It’s a story full of heart, humor, and surprisingly deep lessons—not just about learning, but about growth, identity, and connection. Even with such a large cast, every character is given space to shine, making the class dynamic feel rich and rewarding. It’s one of my all-time favorite shonen manga, and while it’s gained a dedicated fanbase, it still feels underrated compared to other big names in the genre.
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. by Shuuichi Asou
The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. is a school-based comedy sci-fi manga that had me hooked right away. Kusuo Saiki, the main character, is one of the most overpowered protagonists in manga—he has a long list of psychic abilities, from telepathy to teleportation. But instead of using them for glory or chaos, he just wants to live a normal life and keep his powers hidden from his classmates. That contrast is where much of the humor shines. His deadpan reactions, the absurd situations he gets roped into, and his constant attempts to stay under the radar make this series both hilarious and surprisingly charming.
If you’re into series like Hinamatsuri or Mob Psycho 100, Saiki K. will feel right at home. It’s fast-paced without ever feeling rushed, since the plot unfolds in the randomness of everyday life—which means anything can happen, and often does. That unpredictability is a huge part of its appeal. It’s a feel-good, laugh-out-loud manga that never fails to lift my mood and has definitely earned a special place in my heart. While we’re still waiting on an English print release, the anime adaptation is excellent and currently one of the best anime streaming on Netflix.
Planetes by Makoto Yukimura
Planetes is a sci-fi space manga by Makoto Yukimura, best known for creating Vinland Saga. It was his debut series and remains a standout in the genre. Originally released in English by Tokyopop in 2003, it was later re-released in a beautifully updated omnibus format by Dark Horse. If you’re curious about the differences between the editions, I recently compared them on my YouTube channel. Set in the 2070s, Planetes takes place in a future where interplanetary travel is possible—but with that advancement comes a new issue: dangerous space debris. The story follows Hachimaki and his crewmates, who work as space-garbage collectors, dealing with both the physical dangers of their job and the emotional weight of life in space.
What makes Planetes special is how grounded it is—this is hard sci-fi that follows the rules of our world, yet still feels awe-inspiring. There’s nothing fantastical about the technology or setting, but the scale of space and the introspective journeys of the characters make it feel surreal in its own right. It’s a character-driven story at its core, with deeply human themes and some of the best development I’ve seen in sci-fi manga. While it may not have the explosive action or flashy battles found in other series, Planetes doesn’t need them—its quiet depth, emotional weight, and thoughtful storytelling make it a must-read, especially if you’re looking for something more contemplative and slice-of-life in tone.
Melancholia by Douman Seiman
Douman Seiman is well known for The Voynich Hotel, one of my favorite ecchi manga, but he also wrote and illustrated one of my favorite sci-fi manga as well—Melancholia. Much like The Voynich Hotel, Melancholia is made up of short stories, and while it may seem confusing at first, everything begins to feel more cohesive by the end. With its atypical art style and dark tone, it’s one of the most unique titles on this list.
Melancholia is a bizarre story that blends supernatural and sci-fi elements—similar to Dandadan—so if you’re a fan of those genres, it weaves them together well. That said, since this is a collection of short stories, the chapters feel more self-contained—at least at first glance.
Each story follows different characters and explores a wide range of themes, from apocalyptic events and talking cats to aliens. It’s a wild ride, to say the least. It’s also chock-full of black humor, which I really enjoy, though the humor is definitely an acquired taste. As its name suggests, Melancholia has a somber tone—but it’s also surprisingly funny and genuinely enjoyable.
Rebuild World by Kirihito Ayamura & Nafuse
Rebuild World is an action sci-fi manga set in a world that was once technologically advanced—until a catastrophic collapse changed everything. It’s one of the best new sci-fi manga to come out in quite some time.
The story follows Akira, a boy from Slumtown, which borders the dangerous wastelands. Determined to escape his harsh surroundings and build a better life, he becomes a hunter, venturing into the ruins of the Old World in search of valuable relics. These ruins, however, are filled with peril. During one of his expeditions, he encounters a mysterious entity named Alpha, who offers him his first hunting commission. He signs a contract with her, and she begins guiding him on missions—but her true intentions remain unclear.
Beyond the action-packed survival premise, Rebuild World stands out for its compelling characters and immersive world-building. What really sets it apart, though, is the art. The panels are highly detailed, clean, and visually stunning—some of the best I’ve seen in a recent release. With its strong visuals, thrilling plot, and futuristic setting, Rebuild World is a must-read for fans of survival stories and advanced tech.
Bokurano: Ours by Mohiro Kitoh
BBokurano is a mecha sci-fi manga about a group of kids who wander into a seaside cave and meet a man named Kokopelli. He tells them they’ll be playing a “game” where they pilot a giant mecha to protect humanity from alien invaders. But the truth behind this game is far more sinister. Each time an alien appears, one kid is chosen to pilot the mecha, making each mission a character-focused story. Unlike most mecha series with a single protagonist, Bokurano features 15 different pilots, each with their own background, personality, motivations, and moral compass. Some want to save others and be a hero—others don’t value human life at all.
The situation these kids are thrown into makes Bokurano an emotionally brutal read. Any time children are piloting mechs, you know things are going to get heavy—and this series pulls no punches. It reminds me of Darling in the Franxx, Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (one of the top mecha anime on Netflix), and classic Gundam series in general, but Bokurano is easily one of the most heart-wrenching mecha stories I’ve ever experienced. It’s right up there with Neon Genesis Evangelion in terms of tone and the eerie design of the enemies. If you enjoy dark mecha manga that explore both the physical toll and deep psychological effects of piloting, Bokurano: Ours is absolutely worth reading.
Neon Genesis Evangelion by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto
Neon Genesis Evangelion is based on the original anime that aired in 1995 and is written and illustrated by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, the anime’s character designer. While the manga is an adaptation of the anime, it actually began serialization in 1994 due to production delays with the show. Years later, in 2012, Viz re-released the manga in a new omnibus format for English readers.
There are several key differences between the manga and its source material—most notably the endings. The manga also delves deeper into certain events and gives more development and backstory to some characters. So if parts of the anime left you confused, the manga may help connect the dots. Even if you’ve already seen the anime, the manga offers a fresh experience that’s well worth your time thanks to these variations.
Neon Genesis Evangelion follows NERV, a paramilitary research organization, and its EVA pilots, who battle mysterious, powerful entities known as Angels. Set in a richly imagined post-apocalyptic world full of secrets and layered lore, the story is both gripping and thought-provoking. It constantly keeps you guessing, with mind-bending twists and an atmosphere thick with mystery.
Not only is Evangelion one of the best mecha manga ever released, but it also stands out for its deep psychological exploration of its characters. It dives into themes of individuality, trauma, and the concept of instrumentality, while also weaving in philosophical and religious undertones. It’s a truly unique experience—unlike any other mecha series I’ve read.
Parasyte by Hitoshi Iwaaki
Parasyte by Hitoshi Iwaaki follows Shinichi Izumi, your average high school student—until his life changes forever when an alien creature known as a Parasite invades his body. Somehow, Shinichi manages to stop it from taking over completely, confining it to his right hand. The result is Migi, a murderous alien now sharing control of Shinichi’s body.
With his hand no longer his own, Shinichi is forced to confront a terrifying new reality. Others infected by Parasites weren’t as lucky—their minds overtaken, their bodies now grotesque hosts that allow these alien beings to blend into human society unnoticed. Shinichi is the only one who knows their secret, and it’s up to him to warn humanity of the threat that hides in plain sight.
Released over 30 years ago, Parasyte remains a highly influential sci-fi horror manga and a true classic of the genre. It’s widely regarded as one of the best seinen and horror manga ever released, thanks to its chilling alien designs and some of the most unsettling body horror in manga. You can collect Parasyte in English through the Full Color Editions or the original singles from Kodansha. Not sure which version to get? Check out my comparison of the editions below!
Eden: It’s an Endless World! by Hiroki Endo
Eden: It’s an Endless World! by Hiroki Endo—also known for All Rounder Meguru—is one of my favorite survival and sci-fi manga of all time. With its cyberpunk tone, gritty violence, and dark themes, it leans more toward the category of series like Akira. Despite being one of the best sci-fi manga ever released, it remains highly underrated. One likely reason is its scarcity—the original singles published by Dark Horse are now out of print and have become expensive to collect. Still, there’s hope that Eden may receive the deluxe treatment, similar to Hellsing and Berserk.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future, the story begins in the aftermath of a virus that hardens the skin and dissolves internal organs. Those who survive are either severely crippled or rely on cybernetic enhancements—if they can afford them. In the wake of this collapse, a paramilitary group called Propater has overthrown the UN and established a new world order. At the center of the story is Elijah, a young man searching for his lost mother, who travels across South America with an AI-powered combat robot. Along the way, he crosses paths with a group of resistance fighters, each adding depth and nuance to the narrative.
Eden is set in a cold, harsh world where the worst aspects of humanity are often on full display. And yet, moments of warmth and connection still shine through, making the emotional highs hit just as hard as the lows. It’s a brutal, unflinching read that thrives on realism, and that realism is what makes it feel so believable. But above all, it’s the vision and execution of this bleak, intricately built world that makes Eden: It’s an Endless World! so unforgettable.
Whether you’re new to the genre or looking to expand your collection, these titles are some of the best sci-fi manga out there—and with new series releasing all the time, there’s always something new to discover.
Want more manga recommendations? Check out my most recommended manga! Interested in buying any of these series but are new to manga collecting, check out our favorite manga sites and bookstores!
