The Best Pokemon Manga Series, Ranked

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Key Takeaways

  • Pokemon Adventures manga began in 1997 & still continues, inspired by the original games.
  • Pokemon Try Adventure is an underrated spin-off with a focus on Pokemon lore & legendary creatures.
  • Pokemon Adventures: Yellow focuses on battles & includes some of the best chapters of the arc.

As someone who grew up with the beloved characters of Pokemon and spent countless hours battling, trading, and exploring the various regions, I can confidently say that this list is a treasure trove for any dedicated fan. The adventure series, particularly the FireRed and LeafGreen arc, takes me back to the thrilling days when I first embarked on my own Pokemon journey.

Fans of Pokemon may be familiar with the anime and video games, but there’s a vast universe to delve into thanks to numerous Pokemon comics written by different authors and beautifully illustrated by skilled artists. The realm of Pokemon hides many secrets waiting to be uncovered, and some of these tales shed light on events that were never discussed in the games.

As a dedicated Pokémon gamer, I’d say if you’re yearning to delve deeper into this captivating universe, there’s no better way than diving into the Pokémon manga! These stories are tailor-made for fellow trainers who are eager to embark on an exciting new journey.

8. Pokemon Adventures

The Start Of A Long Journey

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Mato, Satoshi Yamamoto
  • First Published: March 1997

The initial “Pokemon” manga was released as far back as 1997 and continues to be published till now. This long-running series chronicles the journeys of Red, the original hero from the “Pokemon” video games, whose tale served as the foundation for Satoshi (Ash) Ketchum’s story in the anime. Over almost three decades, this remarkable 64-volume series has delved into the world of “Pokemon” more deeply than any other serial narrative.

Exploring captivating vintage styles, this tale transports us from Kanto and beyond its boundaries, embarking on an extraordinary voyage of exploration (and a touch of nostalgia for those who began their journey with Gen 1). The realm of Pokemon Adventures is brimming with heartfelt instances, intense clashes, and narratives of bond between humans and Pokemon.

7. Pokemon Try Adventure

One Of The Best Spin-Offs Of The Pokemon Adventures

  • Author: Jun Keijima
  • Artist: Miho Asada
  • First Published: March 2009

Among the less recognized offshoots of the initial “Pokemon Adventures”, this series is penned by Jun Kejima and illustrated by the skillful Miho Asada (known for her work on “Battle Story Megaman” and “Yokai Watch”). The narrative follows the escapades of three youths, chosen by a peculiar figure named Mr. Crow, who are tasked with unraveling Pokemon enigmas and embarking on numerous exciting journeys.

Katsuya, who’s passionately devoted to enhancing his combat skills, Toki, an adept adventurer skilled in survival techniques, and Soto, a dedicated fanatic with a goal to find and capture every single Pokemon – these are our main characters. The narrative is captivating, and the trio harmoniously fits together. This series offers a remarkable journey that deeply explores the mythology of this fictional universe, particularly focusing on the legendary Pokemon.

6. Pokemon Adventures Sword And Shield

A Great Spin-Off, With Modern Artwork

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Satoshi Yamamoto
  • First Published: November 2019

In this captivating narrative, we delve deep into the vibrant region of Galar, a standout among the best. Unlike previous games, it offers extensive insights into the enigma of Dynamaxing. Our story revolves around three intriguing characters: Marvin, Henry, and Casey. Marvin, a newcomer to Galar, crosses paths with Henry, a skilled Pokemon Artifact Technician (also known as Meister), and Casey, a tech-savvy individual investigating the vanishing of her Pokemon squad due to a Dynamax occurrence.

The tale features a multitude of significant characters hailing from the Galar region, such as its champion Lionel, Professor Magnolia, along with every gym leader in the Galar Region. It’s bursting with excitement and stands out as one of the most captivating narratives in the Pokemon universe to date.

5. Pokemon Adventures Sun And Moon

Colorful, Filled With Drama, And Great Plot Twists

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Satoshi Yamamoto
  • First Published: November 2016

In this unique storyline of the Alola Arc in Pokémon Adventure, we follow two main characters: a courier who’s hard-up for cash, and a pharmacist skilled at concocting medicines using poison-type Pokémon. Known as Sun and Moon respectively, they find themselves in an extraordinary situation filled with chaos. The narrative unfolds as the Legendary Tapus experience a violent upheaval, Ultra Beasts invade, and a secretive conspiracy lurks behind Sun’s decision to embark on a Pokémon journey.

During this period, Yamamoto’s art attained its zenith, characterized by stunning storylines, vibrant character development, and breathtaking battle sequences. However, some enthusiasts are not particularly drawn to the Alola region. It is still recommended for those eager to delve into the origins of Ultra Beasts.

4. The Best of Pokemon Adventures: Yellow

One Of The Best Editions Of The Original Adventure Series

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Mato
  • First Published: December 2006

A mysterious boy named Yellow reaches Pallet town to meet Professor Oak, catch his favorite Pokemon (Pikachu), and track down the best trainer of all time: Red. Though this particular anthology picks up some of the best chapters from the Pokemon Adventures Yellow Arc, it is not the full story. But, to compensate for that, it has a selection of the most fantastical stories and epic battles.

In his quest to locate Red, Yellow will encounter the notorious (and now mentally unstable) Elite Four. These individuals aim to topple the existing global system and create their own Pokemon paradise instead. Our young trainer must prevent this at all costs, even if it involves defeating the strongest trainers in Kanto. This specific version was translated by VIZ Media and is widely regarded as one of the best English translations of the original manga currently available, thanks to its high-quality translation and meticulous attention to detail.

3. The Best of Pokemon Adventures: Red

A Faithful Translation Plus Great Art Cover In This Beautiful Anthology

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Mato
  • First Published: October 2006

This particular version of the “Pokemon Adventures” comic book collects the initial three volumes from the first storyline (Red, Green, Blue Arc) and features some of the finest chapters. Published by VIZ Media, this edition prioritizes accurate translation. It’s highly praised as one of the best releases in the “Pokemon Adventure” series. The internal illustrations are stunning, and it boasts unique front and back cover designs.

The narrative delves into the early stages of Red’s quest to attain the title of Pokémon Master in the Kanto region, recounting many of his thrilling escapades. Key events such as his meeting with Articuno, the fierce battles within the Pokémon League, and the grand ceremony that crowned him the New Champion are all part of this account.

2. Pokemon Adventures: Gold & Silver

One Of The Greatest Pokemon Adventures

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Satoshi Yamamoto
  • First Published: September 2012

As an ardent fan, I’m thrilled to embark on a fresh adventure in the English version of “Pokémon Adventures,” where a new trainer named Gold sets off on his journey through the Johto region. For those of us who joined the Pokémon world during the second generation, this is an emotional rollercoaster, filled with nostalgic references to the events of Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal games.

While there are similarities to the Pokemon games, this story takes a unique twist, following Gamefreak’s RPG format but with some distinctive elements. In this version, Professor Elm assigns Gold the mission of retrieving a stolen Totodile. As the narrative unfolds, we delve deeper into Silver’s background. Interestingly, the Neo Team Rocket, led by Pryce, the Gym Leader from Mahogany Town, also enters the scene, adding an intriguing layer to the plot.

1. Pokemon Adventures: FireRed and LeafGreen

The Very Best, Better Than Any One

  • Author: Hidenori Kusaka
  • Artist: Satoshi Yamamoto
  • First Published: February 2004

Continuing the storyline from the Kanto Adventures Series, there’s a fresh adventure featuring Blue, Yellow, and Red, as they pursue Team Rocket to prevent them from seizing Deoxys. To achieve this goal, they will be joined by new Pokémon companions, along with an unexpected ally – Mewtwo.

This series serves as a heartfelt tribute for every Pokemon enthusiast, and it’s highly recommended for those who have experienced the 2004 remastered editions of the original Pokemon games. The artwork in this series is vibrant, intricate, and adapted to contemporary aesthetics, while still maintaining the traditional charm of the initial release.

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2024-12-11 07:34