Best Manga Set In Magic Schools, Ranked

Key Takeaways

School life & fantasy genres in manga are popular due to relatability & creative freedom for magical stories.
Unique manga like “Mashle” defy expectations with humor & muscle-oriented protagonists.
“Witch Hat Atelier” offers a unique portrayal of witches as artists with sketchbooks & pens for magic.

As a connoisseur of manga with a penchant for the fantastical and the humorous, I must say that these three titles have caught my fancy like a fish caught in a magical net!

Manga often focuses on the theme of school life because it provides numerous components for storytelling. The environment allows for creating a varied group of characters, while school activities can serve as useful plot twists. Additionally, many manga readers are teenagers who attend school themselves, making these narratives and their heroes familiar to their primary audience.

As a gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the allure of the fantasy genre in media. Its versatility and the boundless creativity it encourages make it a go-to choice for many creators. Among these masters of storytelling are manga authors and artists who weave enchanting tales about dreams, transformation, and personal growth within the framework of magical schools. The magic lies in their ability to blend the familiar with the extraordinary, creating a world that draws you in completely. It’s no wonder these stories have captured our hearts!

9 Little Witch Academia

A Lighthearted Story About A Young Girl Chasing Her Dreams

MyAnimeList Score: 7.34
Published: 2016 to 2018
Genres/Themes: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, School
Author: You Yoshinari
Illustrator: Sato Keisuke

In the enchanting world of ‘Little Witch Academia’, practitioners employ their magical abilities primarily to aid and amuse others. Upon witnessing the mesmerizing show by the witch Shiny Chariot, Atsuko develops an intense desire to become a witch herself. Her dream becomes a reality when she gains admission to Luna Nova, the prestigious institution for witches. However, her predicament lies in her inability to perform magic. Now, Atsuko must demonstrate her potential as a witch.

In this delightful tale, a multitude of charming personalities take center stage. Atsuko embodies the perfect blend of qualities for a manga heroine – her spirit is vibrant, her resolve unwavering, and her heart compassionate. Despite finding herself in precarious situations, she consistently prioritizes her friends’ well-being and stands firm on what she deems just. Given that this isn’t your typical action manga, the obstacles are tackled through imaginative and witty resolutions.

8 Villainess Level 99: I May Be The Hidden Boss But I’m Not The Demon Lord

Being Overpowered Isn’t That Great, And She Knows Why

MyAnimeList Score: 7.40
Published: 2020 to Present
Genres/Themes: Fantasy, Romance, Isekai, School, Villainess
Author: Satori Tanabata
Illustrator: Nokomi

In the realm of Valschein, a person’s magical abilities are determined by their hair color and shade. Yumiella Dolkness was born with jet-black hair, suggesting strong dark-type magic, which instills terror in others. At five years old, she recalls past memories from her life in Japan and discovers that she is in a world similar to an Otome game, where she is destined to be the secret boss. To steer clear of this predetermined role, she chooses to live inconspicuously.

As a manga enthusiast, I must admit that there’s no shortage of reincarnation-themed stories, particularly in Otome games. However, Villainess Level 99 offers a refreshing twist – the protagonist isn’t your typical heroine yearning for love. Instead, she’s Yumiella, a character who couldn’t care less about the usual drama as long as she can live a comfortable life. Interestingly, this manga veers away from the romance-centric plots we often see, instead focusing on Yumiella navigating her overpowered status among ordinary folks who are wary of her.

7 Mashle: Magic And Muscles

When The Solution To A Problem Isn’t Magic, It’s Muscles

MyAnimeList Score: 7.62
Published: 2020 to 2023
Genres/Themes: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Gag Humor, Parody, School
Author: Hajime Koumoto
Illustrator: Hajime Koumoto

Manga about magic schools often share common themes, but Mashle stands out with an engaging premise. Unlike most characters, Mash lives in the forest with his father honing his strength, but when his peaceful existence is endangered, he’s forced to act. In order to be acknowledged, Mash decides to leverage his physical power to alter society.

Primarily, Mashle is a humorous manga that playfully satirizes series like Black Clover and Wistoria. Unlike other stories, where the main character has secret powers, this one showcases the protagonist overcoming challenges with sheer determination. The most entertaining moments come when Mashle performs feats that seem impossible in reality, such as blocking magic with bare hands or kicking so rapidly he can fly.

6 Wistoria: Wand And Sword

An Underdog Story With Some Surprising Twists

MyAnimeList Score: 7.79
Published: 2020 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, School
Author: Fujino Omori
Illustrator: Toshi Aoi

As a gamer named Will, I’m a student at Regarden Magical Academy, striving to ascend to the Upper Academy, where my cherished friend Elfaria dwells. The challenge? I lack the magical prowess that seems to flow effortlessly for others. Instead, I find myself subjected to sneers and taunts from my peers.

Underdog tales have long held an appeal, but series like “My Hero Academia” demonstrate their potential for entertainment. “Wistoria: Wand and Sword,” on the other hand, presents a grittier perspective on overcoming hardship, giving its character Will the chance to display courage and determination. The narrative is heightened by the discrimination and prejudice faced by those without magical abilities.

5 Blue Exorcist

A Teenager Struggles To Cope With The Demonic Side Of His Family

MyAnimeList Score: 7.87
Published: 2009 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Fantasy, Supernatural, Mythology, School
Author: Kazue Katou
Illustrator: Kazue Katou

In a universe where two realms of existence coexist harmoniously, it falls upon the shoulders of exorcists to vanquish malevolent spirits and protect humanity. I, born as the offspring of Satan, the deity of demons, find myself compelled to walk the path of an exorcist following the tragic demise of my foster father. To continue my education and hone my skills, I enroll at the cram school affiliated with True Cross Academy – a prestigious institution dedicated to nurturing budding exorcists. However, to maintain my status as a student, I must conceal the truth about my heritage.

Blue Exorcist initially resembles numerous other manga set in fantasy schools, but its narrative excels by giving each character their own significant moments. This series skillfully demonstrates the characters’ growth while also exploring aspects of the world beyond the school. It offers a captivating tale of maturation, filled with thrilling action and memorable climaxes.

4 Soul Eater

The Adventures Of Meisters And Living Weapons

MyAnimeList Score: 8.09
Published: 2003 to 2013
Genres/Themes: Action, Comedy, Fantasy
Author: Atsushi Ookubo
Illustrator: Atsushi Ookubo

The story unfolds at the Death Weapon Meister Academy, an institution established by Death for the education of meisters and their demonic weapons. Maka Albarn, a student at DWMA, aspires to be a distinguished meister, much like her mother, alongside her partner Soul Eater. To achieve this, they must provide Soul with 99 wicked human souls and one witch soul. Once accomplished, he transforms into a Death Weapon, eligible to team up with Death himself.

Soul Eater” is particularly recognized for its distinctive art design and original concept. A multitude of characters give depth to the narrative by highlighting their unique personalities and combat techniques. The educational institution backdrop aids in establishing the world, as even minor characters demonstrate their abilities.

3 The Eminence In Shadow

An Isekai Manga That’s Unlike Any Other

Published: 2018 to Present
Genres/Themes: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Isekai, Reincarnation
Author: Daisuke Aizawa
Illustrator: Anri Sakano

“The Mastermind in Shadows

The humor in this manga lies in the ambiguity between what Cid perceives as genuine and what actually is mere coincidence. Despite being surrounded by numerous disputes, which aligns with his Shadow identity, he is essentially just a pawn in an intricate game of roleplay. This unexpected twist adds an amusing layer to the story that wouldn’t otherwise be there.

2 Welcome To Demon School! Iruma-kun

One Unfortunate Boy’s New Life As A Demon

MyAnimeList Score: 8.33
Published: 2017 to Present
Genres/Themes: Comedy, Fantasy, Isekai, Mythology
Author: Osamu Nishi
Illustrator: Osamu Nishi

In many manga stories, main characters often encounter unusual scenarios, but Iruma Suzuki’s predicament stands out as extraordinary. He is tricked into becoming Sullivan’s grandson through adoption, an unusual turn of events considering that he was initially sold by his own parents. To avoid being devoured, he attends Babyls, a school specifically designed for demons, where he must disguise his human identity.

Instead of being naturally gifted like numerous contemporary manga heroes, Iruma lacks such innate abilities. He starts off as a weak character, and much of his success is due to chance and connections. However, this aspect is what makes the manga appealing to many readers. The author skillfully portrays Iruma’s progression and growth through exciting escapades.

1 Witch Hat Atelier

An Award-Winning Manga About Young Witches

MyAnimeList Score: 8.64
Published: 2016 to Present
Genres/Themes: Fantasy
Author: Kamome Shirahama
Illustrator: Kamome Shirahama

In this manga, workspaces for artists and inventors are referred to as ateliers. Here, witches function more like artists or innovators rather than the typical image of spellcasters. The main character, Coco, has long been captivated by magic, but a turn of events leaves her without a home. A roaming witch then extends an invitation for her to learn under his tutelage as his apprentice.

Witch Hat Atelier is a captivating manga series that showcases witches in an exceptionally original manner. Instead of traditional tools like wands and spellbooks, these witches use sketchbooks and pens to cast their magic. By drawing specific symbols, they can summon their powers. But don’t be fooled by the artistic setting – this narrative delves deep into darker themes that enrich its intriguing plot.

2024-10-25 19:35