The manga industry continues to expand, with new titles emerging each year that deserve attention. While mainstream series often dominate discussions, a wealth of lesser-known works offers unique narratives and artistic styles. As readers seek fresh content, several standout titles from 2025 have gained traction among enthusiasts but remain largely under the radar. Here are ten notable manga worth exploring before they gain widespread popularity.
The Plain Salary Man Turned Out to Be a Hero
Published by Shueisha and available on Manga Plus, this series offers a humorous twist on the isekai genre. The protagonist, Keita Sato, embodies the overworked corporate employee stereotype. Seeking relief from his mundane life, he unwittingly becomes a hero by venturing into dungeons with only a baseball bat. Unlike traditional isekai heroes, Keita prioritizes keeping his adventures a secret and protecting his family over seeking fame or treasure. This charming narrative provides a light-hearted escape for readers.
The Nito Exorcists
Another Shueisha publication, The Nito Exorcists, draws inspiration from popular titles like Jujutsu Kaisen. The series introduces Gotsuji, a powerful exorcist, and his quest for revenge against the evil spirit that killed his mentor. Accompanied by his mentor’s sister, Uruka, the story delves into themes of loss and companionship. The combination of stylized art and intense action sequences makes this title a compelling read.
Gokurakugai
Yet another title from Shueisha, Gokurakugai captivates with its stunning artwork by Yuto Sano. The story revolves around Alma and Tao Saotome, who operate a Troubleshooter agency in a unique setting where humans coexist with beast-men. Facing off against macabre villains created from corpses, the narrative successfully blends classic shonen elements with original creativity. Despite its potential, the series suffers from an irregular release schedule, limiting its audience engagement.
The Bugle Call: Song of War
This dark fantasy series takes a different approach to the battle genre by focusing on large-scale warfare. The protagonist, Luca, utilizes his unique power to guide troops with sound, navigating the harsh realities of a mercenary life. The combination of military strategy and dark themes sets The Bugle Call apart, presenting readers with a mature take on typical shonen tropes.
Taro Miyao Becomes a Cat Parent?!
In a delightful twist, Taro Miyao Becomes a Cat Parent?! offers a heartwarming narrative featuring a Machiavellian protagonist who unexpectedly adopts a cat. This series showcases Taro’s gradual transformation as he interacts with his new pet, Nicolo, and the quirky characters around him. The juxtaposition of Taro’s cold demeanor with the warmth of his new companionship creates a touching story that resonates with many readers.
Ghost Fixers
Set in the fictional Mikurigaoka New Town, Ghost Fixers follows Hifumi Kagome and Moka Kirarazaka, who handle supernatural occurrences following a disaster known as Fafrotskies. This manga successfully merges horror, science fiction, and shonen action, making it a strong contender for a future anime adaptation. The engaging plot and unique setting enhance its appeal among manga fans.
Drama Queen
Despite its popularity, Drama Queen deserves a mention for its originality and controversial themes. The story explores the dynamics between aliens and humans in a futuristic Japan, delving into social commentary and personal loss. The protagonist’s journey of revenge against aliens blends dark humor with poignant moments, prompting readers to reflect on societal issues.
Destroy All Humans. They Can’t Be Regenerated.
For fans of nostalgia, this manga brings back memories of classic card games. Set in the late 1990s, it follows high schoolers Hajime Kanou and Emi Sawatari, who bond over their shared passion for a popular card game, Magic: The Gathering. The romantic undertones woven into the narrative add depth, appealing to both gaming enthusiasts and casual readers.
Kunigei – Okuni University Art Department Film Program
This title offers a rare glimpse into the struggles of young adults pursuing their dreams in the arts. Following Daisuke Tagami, a film student, the story explores themes of ambition and societal expectations. Kunigei presents a realistic portrayal of artistic aspirations, making it a notable addition to the manga landscape.
Versus
Rounding out the list is Versus, a high-stakes fantasy that pits humanity against overwhelming demonic forces. The collaboration between One, known for One-Punch Man, and artist Kyotaro Azuma results in an exhilarating narrative filled with action and intrigue. This series, despite its current availability on the K Manga app, showcases the potential for widespread appeal and acclaim.
As the manga landscape continues to grow, these ten titles stand out for their creativity and storytelling. Readers eager to explore beyond mainstream offerings will find these hidden gems offer engaging narratives and unique artistic styles. Recommendations of these series could soon lead to bragging rights among friends as they gain traction in the wider community.
