The Best Horror Manga That Debuted In 2024

Summary

Isekai genre surge reduces horror manga availability.
Hydra explores the consequences of desires through sentient clones.
Centuria offers a shocking, supernatural twist on survival at sea.

As a lifelong reader of manga and avid fan of the genre, I must say that the new releases of 2024 have truly left me astounded. From the haunting tale of “Omori” to the mind-blowing action of “Centuria”, each story has captivated my attention in a unique and memorable way.

The ambiguous nature of “Omori” reminded me of the intrigue I felt when reading works like “Death Note” or “Erased”. The mystery of what truly happened to Sunny and his friends is slowly unraveled through careful observation, and it’s a challenge that I relish as a reader.

On the other hand, “Centuria” brought me back to my early days of reading “Vinland Saga”, with its historical action and supernatural elements. The story is a testament to the power of sacrifice and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones, making it a must-read for any fan of the genre.

And let’s not forget about “Centuria” – what a rollercoaster of emotions that one was! I couldn’t help but be reminded of the time I read “Berserk” and felt my heart racing as I turned each page. The story of the shipwreck and the Mother of the Sea was truly unforgettable, and I found myself eagerly awaiting each new chapter.

But enough about me, let’s talk about you! Have you read any of these manga yet? If not, I highly recommend giving them a try – just don’t blame me when you stay up all night to finish them! And remember, the only thing scarier than a good horror manga is trying to explain it to someone who hasn’t read it yet. So go ahead and immerse yourself in these stories, and let your imagination run wild!

And on a lighter note, I can’t help but wonder if the Mother of the Sea would consider me worthy of her blessings… I mean, I did stay up all night to finish “Centuria” after all!

As someone who grew up reading a wide variety of genres in manga, I have to admit that the current dominance of isekai series has left me feeling a bit disheartened. With my roots deeply entrenched in the horror genre, seeing its slow decline due to the industry’s relentless pursuit of isekai trends is truly concerning.

Horror, with its ability to evoke fear, suspense, and intrigue, has always been a vital part of the manga world for me. It allowed my imagination to run wild and provided countless hours of entertainment. Now, as I watch the number of horror manga diminish, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the genre that once held such an important place in my life.

I understand that trends come and go, and it is not uncommon for one genre to dominate for a time. However, I believe that the diversity and variety of genres are what make the manga industry so rich and appealing. The decline of horror means fewer opportunities for new artists and writers to explore this intriguing genre, potentially limiting the experiences available to readers like myself who crave something different from the typical isekai adventure.

I hope that the industry will eventually find a way to strike a balance between catering to current trends and preserving the diversity of genres that make manga such an enjoyable medium for so many. In the meantime, I’ll continue to cherish the horror manga from my past and eagerly await any new releases that may still surface in this increasingly crowded isekai landscape.

In my excitement, let me share with you a special criteria I’ve set for this list: (1) The chosen mangas must be available in English to cater to Western readers, and (2) they should have an impressive MyAnimeList Score of 6.00 or higher – anything below that is tough to defend given we’re aiming for the best. To broaden your options, I’ve decided to incorporate One Shots into the mix as well. So without further ado, here are, the top horror manga from 2024, meticulously ranked based on their MyAnimeList scores.

8. Hydra

Living With Murderous Copies Of Me

Japanese Title: Hydra
Author(s): Kawabata, Iyu
Release Date: Sep 20, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 6.19
Type: One-shot
Available at: Manga Plus

Due to a string of unfortunate events, a young girl named Luca encounters an unusual parasite called the Hydra. This parasite has a unique ability: when the host experiences a clear and powerful wish, the Hydra generates an identical duplicate who acts on that desire. Typically, these duplicates last only a few minutes before dissolving, similar to a lump of mud in the rain. However, Luca’s duplicates are exceptional; not only do they maintain their form, but they also exhibit sentience.

As an ardent reader and story enthusiast, I find myself captivated by the tale of “Hydra”. It’s not just about grisly murders or grotesque body transformations; it delves deeper into the impact of desire on our environment and the importance of accepting one’s current circumstances, even when they seem utterly bizarre. I eagerly hope that this compelling narrative will find a fitting manga serialization in the near future, as its storyline feels ripe for further exploration and resolution.

7. House Of The Yamauba

A Familiar Horror With An Unsettling Twist

Japanese Title: Yamanba-tei
Author(s): Yaka, Ichi
Release Date: Sep 14, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 6.55
Type: One-shot
Available at: Manga Plus

In a different phrasing: A reckless young lady accidentally overshoots her train station stop and ends up stranded at an eerie, deserted railroad station under the cover of darkness. Nearby, she spies a solitary house with its interior illuminated. In dire need of aid, she raps on the door. The person who opens is a disconcerting elderly woman. Despite her disturbing visage, this woman exhibits kindness, providing the girl refuge for the night. However, as the girl slips into unconsciousness, she remains oblivious to the chilling reality: the old woman is a Yokai, harboring malicious intentions. The events that follow will take everyone by surprise.

As I delved into the captivating tale of “House of the Yurei,” it was the unique tone that immediately caught my eye, or should I say, heart? This isn’t your typical horror story; instead, it maintains a playful, almost whimsical vibe, even during its most chilling scenes. It’s as if the story is dancing on the edge of fear and laughter, keeping readers off-balance yet utterly captivated. The end result is an unforgettable reading experience that lingers long after the final page, leaving one with a sense of unease, curiosity, and awe.

6. Yattara

A Story About A Hell Beast That Plays With Its Food

Japanese Title: Yattara
Author(s): Ooyamada
Release Date: Oct 8, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 6.68
Type: Manga
Available at: Manga Plus

In the bustling rhythm of city life, an individual residing in a humble abode performs a fateful ritual, unleashing a monstrous entity known as Yattara, the embodiment of Gluttony. This insatiable creature craves not just any sustenance but savors human flesh above all else. Consuming the summoner, Yattara then turns his attention to the neighboring apartment, where he discovers his most delectable delicacy – innocent children. Seeking a novel taste to tantalize his palate, he decides to rear these orphaned youngsters as his own culinary garden. After all, nothing compares to the flavor of homegrown produce.

Yattara‘s premise for a horror tale is undeniably one of the most peculiar, possibly even the most unusual. The concept revolves around an insatiable monster from the depths of hell adopting orphaned children, only to feast on them once they’ve grown stronger and more flavorful. This eccentric plot twist gives the story a unique charm that will leave readers craving for more.

5. The Urban Legend Files

A Story About A Man Who Reluctantly Attracts Urban Legends

Japanese Title: Toshi Densetsu-senpai
Author(s): Hiraoka, Kazuki
Release Date: Nov 16, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 6.89
Type: Manga
Available at: Manga Plus

As a seasoned paranormal researcher with decades of experience under my belt, I have encountered countless unexplained phenomena and supernatural entities. However, nothing quite compares to the extraordinary tale of Kugutsu, a young man whose life is inexplicably intertwined with the world of Yokai.

Having spent most of my career debunking myths and legends, I must admit that Kugutsu’s ability to attract these mysterious beings caught me off guard. From a Kappa by the river to the Slit-Mouth Woman on a seemingly ordinary street, these encounters were not only unnerving but also intriguing.

What sets Kugutsu apart from others is his willingness to embrace the unknown and make use of his unique gift. His participation in the Occult Club at university, where he serves as the official yokai magnet, showcases a level of bravery that I rarely come across in my line of work.

In conclusion, Kugutsu’s story is a fascinating reminder of the unpredictable nature of the supernatural world and the courage it takes to delve into it. His life serves as an inspiration for those who seek to understand the unknown, proving that even the most ordinary individuals can have extraordinary encounters with the paranormal.

In contrast to other entries on this list, “The Urban Legend Files” stands out as it’s not primarily a horror story with doses of drama and humor. Instead, it can be described as a blend of drama and comedy, interspersed with some chilling horror elements. For those seeking a relaxed horror experience that brings both laughter and shivers, “The Urban Legend Files” is the ideal choice.

4. Herald

Tiptoeing The Line Between Insanity And Demonic Possession

Japanese Title: HERALD
Author(s): Hayashi, Tetora
Release Date: Oct 31, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 6.90
Type: One-shot
Available at: Manga Plus

Previously, Ian playfully warned Neil, “If you encounter malevolent spirits, don’t engage them in conversation. To these entities, a dialogue is an invitation for them to act freely on you and those around you.” However, Neil didn’t give it much thought until the tragic car accident that took their mother’s life. Since then, Neil has observed a significant transformation in Ian, as well as their father, whose faces now bear an unsettling resemblance to grotesque demons. Could they be demons masquerading as family? This question lingers in Neil’s mind. One thing is certain, Neil remains silent.

Title “Herald” introduces a simple narrative: A young boy, Neil, experiences demonic apparitions following a heartrending event. However, hidden beneath this straightforwardness is a complex web of unresolved questions. Is it Neil’s mind that’s malfunctioning, or are these visions mere hallucinations? Or could his family genuinely be under the influence of demons? This brief tale immerses readers in Neil’s fear, compelling them to ponder what is genuine and what is illusory.

3. MAD

A World Where Madness Is The Only Way To Survive

Japanese Title: MAD
MyAnimeList Score: 7.23
Author(s): Ootori, Yuusuke
Release Date: Jun 18, 2024
Type: Manga
Available at: Manga Plus

As a survivor of the bloodthirsty alien invasion that decimated Earth and left me alone among the ruins, I found myself wandering aimlessly through the desolate wasteland, searching for any sign of hope in this new dystopian world. Every day, I grappled with the question of whether to fight on in the name of vengeance or surrender to the reality that my loved ones were gone and there seemed to be no reason left to carry on.

But then, as if by a stroke of luck, we stumbled upon a group of fellow survivors who claimed to have found a way to combat these relentless invaders. My heart raced with anticipation as I considered the possibility that our lives might finally have purpose once again. I could feel the fire burning within me, a flame ignited by the prospect of reclaiming our planet and restoring justice.

However, I couldn’t shake off the doubt that had festered in my mind for so long. Would we be able to overcome these seemingly unstoppable aliens? Could we truly make a difference when it felt like we were the last remnants of humanity left on Earth? But I knew deep down that giving up was not an option; I owed it to those who had been taken from me to keep fighting, to honor their memory and the life we once shared.

With renewed determination, I joined the group and prepared for whatever challenges lay ahead. The road would be long and fraught with danger, but I knew that together, we could forge a new path forward and reclaim our world from these alien invaders.

As a survivor of the catastrophic event that wiped out most of humanity, I can tell you that the world has never felt so desolate and eerily quiet. The once bustling cities are now ghost towns, the streets empty and silent. Every page of this comic book seems to echo with the oppressive silence, making me feel like I’m suffocating in a sea of dread and despair.

The few snippets of dialogue that do appear feel hollow and distant, as if there are hardly any people left to communicate with. The backgrounds are flat and unassuming, offering no respite from the bleakness. It’s hard not to feel a sense of grief and rage when faced with such devastation.

It takes only a few pages for the comic book to immerse me in this emotion, drowning me in the sadness and despair that is now the new normal. I can’t help but wonder if there will ever be hope again, or if we are all doomed to wander aimlessly through this desolate wasteland, forever haunted by the memories of what once was.

2. Omori

An Ambiguous Horror Story

Japanese Title: OMORI
Author(s): OMOCAT (Story), Konoito, Nui (Art)
Release Date: Jun 25, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 7.50
Type: Manga
Available at: K Manga

For the past four years, I’ve found myself secluded, a solitary figure confined to my room, shunning all but familial company. A spectral entity, a tormentor only I can perceive, has haunted me since an inexplicable event. Today, however, a familiar face from the past, Kel, beckons me with an invitation to socialize. As I step out into the world, everything appears unchanged, but the atmosphere feels altered. Each footstep echoes through time, transporting me back to the day my beloved sister succumbed to the abyss of darkness. That was the day our friendship circle began to disintegrate. It isn’t long before I recognize that the ominous presence I’ve been evading is still lurking nearby.

The tale of Omori might be challenging to decipher at moments. With its enigmatic main character, recurring shifts between the past and present, and characters reluctant to disclose the truth behind events, this series embodies ambiguity. However, as readers delve deeper into the narrative, they’ll gradually pick up on hints—puzzle pieces that uncover the tragic incidents of the past. This type of story is immensely satisfying for those who invest their full focus.

1. Centuria

Vinland Saga With Supernatural Elements

Japanese Title: Centuria
Author(s): Kuramori, Tooru
Release Date: Apr 8, 2024
MyAnimeList Score: 7.58
Type: Manga
Available at: Manga Plus

A ship transporting 101 enslaved people encounters a devastating storm at sea. To lighten the vessel, the captain orders the crew to murder the captives and throw their bodies overboard. After 99 lives are taken, only a young boy and a pregnant woman remain. Just as the slave trader was about to slay them with his bloodied sword, an eerie calm washed over the sea. Suddenly, tentacles of various sizes emerged from every corner of the ship. Then, a strange figure appeared, resembling a human but made of intertwined tentacles, rising from the depths and standing behind the last two enslaved individuals, causing the slave traders to freeze in fear.

In one version, it’s stated: “One must be my offering,” it is said. “One will perish while another shall prosper, gaining immense power.” However, the woman refuses to let the boy meet his demise. Instead, she grabs a knife, cuts her own abdomen open, and delivers her child. Before the boy can even utter a word, she places her newborn in his arms and leaps from the ship. By doing so, the woman fulfilled the sacrifice, and the Sea’s Mother bestowed upon the boy immense strength, swiftness, resilience, and the lives of the 100 slaves that were cruelly murdered on that very night.

As a passionate manga enthusiast, I’d describe Centuria as being akin to Vinland Saga with a twist of the supernatural. Comparing it to Vinland Saga is undeniably flattering, but it barely scratches the surface of how breathtakingly shocking, mind-blowing, and unbelievable this manga truly is. If you’re a fan of horror manga or simply appreciate quality manga in general, I wholeheartedly recommend delving into the pages of Centuria.

2025-01-02 19:06