10 Best Action Manga, Ranked

In the expansive realm of manga, where genres range from romance to tales of reincarnation and beyond, one category consistently captures the imaginations of readers — action. Its compelling characters and intricately detailed fight scenes make it an all-time favorite among enthusiasts worldwide. The appeal of this genre transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, making it one of the best choices for readers from different parts of the globe.

10 Best Shonen Jump Manga, Ranked
Related
10 Best Shonen Jump Manga, Ranked
Looking for the very best in Shonen manga? Look no further!

Action manga offers a diverse array of narratives that cater to every taste, whether it's adrenaline-pumping adventures or the mastery of martial powers. As we embark on a journey through the pages of the best action manga, we delve into the worlds where protagonists face formidable challenges, and each panel is a canvas painted with the kinetic energy of intense battles.

10 One Punch-Man

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 8.74

One Punch Man
Release Date
October 4, 2015
Author
Yusuke Murata
Artist
Yusuke Murata
Genre
Animation , Action
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read One-Punch Man?

  • Comedic Take On The Superhero Genre
  • Intense Action Scenes With Detailed Art

One Punch Man emerges as a standout action manga, lauded for its unique take on the superhero genre. The brilliance lies in Saitama, the protagonist, who can defeat any opponent with a single punch. This premise allows for a deconstruction of traditional superhero tropes, offering both exhilarating battles and clever humor. The manga showcases stunning art, particularly in the detailed depiction of dynamic action sequences.

However, one potential drawback lies in the predictability of Saitama's victories. The constant assurance of his triumphs, while integral to the comedic aspect, might diminish some of the suspense typically associated with action manga. Despite this, One Punch Man remains a refreshing and entertaining read, subverting expectations in a genre known for its intense and prolonged battles.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

June 14, 2012

Ongoing

198

Viz, Amazon

9 Chainsaw Man

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 8.74

Chainsaw Man
Release Date
December 19, 2022
Author
Tatsuki Fujimoto
Artist
Tatsuki Fujimoto
Genre
Animation , Drama
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Chainsaw Man?

  • Intense And Gory Battle Scenes
  • Simple Characters Yet Engaging And Entertaining

Chainsaw Man stands as a compelling yet intense action manga, offering a gripping narrative that might not be for everyone due to its considerable gore and exploration of sensitive topics like psychological manipulation. The protagonist, Denji, though seemingly simple-minded, emerges as a standout character praised for his development and the revelation of his haunting past.

The manga's pacing, occasionally slow, builds tension effectively, leading to abrupt and exhilarating action sequences. With plot twists and betrayals, Chainsaw Man delivers a rollercoaster of emotions, making it a must-read for those who appreciate a blend of intense action, nuanced character development, and a narrative that fearlessly delves into darker themes.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

December 3, 2018

Ongoing

150

Viz, Amazon

8 Land Of The Lustrous

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 8.96

Land Of The Lustrous
Release Date
November 22, 2022
Genre
Manga
Author
Haruko Ichikawa
Artist
Haruko Ichikawa
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Land Of The Lustrous?

  • Beautiful Art With Smooth, Long Lines
  • Slow Burn Action For Fans Of Foreshadowing And Plot Twists

Land of the Lustrous surprises readers with its adorable and breathtakingart style, lulling them into a false sense of tranquility before escalating into a slow-burning horror story. Reminiscing Attack on Titan, the manga establishes foreshadowing and significant elements early on, creating a captivating narrative.

Collage showcasing upcoming anime, Tower of God, Konosuba, Bucchigiri, and Solo Leveling
Related
15 Most Anticipated Anime Releases For 2024
From the return of Bleach TYBW to Solo Leveling, here are some of the most awaited anime that will be released in 2024.

However, despite the manga's unique charm, some fans express a preference for the anime adaptation due to its enhanced character development. While the manga leaves some character-related questions unanswered, its unique blend of action, science fiction, and psychological horror remains enthralling. Perfect for enthusiasts of slow-burn stories that meticulously build the world and characters, Land of the Lustrous defies expectations, delivering a nuanced and thought-provoking experience rather than relying on fast-paced action.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

October 25, 2012

Ongoing

105

Book Walker, Amazon, MAL

7 Kingdom

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.00

Kingdom
Release Date
January 26, 2006
Genre
Historical , Epic
Author
Yasuhisa Hara
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Kingdom?

  • Epic War Saga With Intense Battle Scenes
  • Great CHaracter Growth And Development

Kingdom is an outstanding manga, perfect for fans of war epics and political intricacies. It navigates in-depth national politics and diplomacy, portraying the journey of a protagonist aspiring to become the greatest general in all of China. The manga's true brilliance lies in its characters, offering a compelling narrative that showcases their growth and development over the years.

The art is a standout, featuring clean and detailedillustrations essential for the story's grand scale. While some readers may find certain story arcs, particularly the extensive battles, divisive, others appreciate the intricate unfolding of events. The ongoing nature of the series, marked by cliffhangers, leaves readers eagerly awaiting the next chapter.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

January 26, 2006

Ongoing

781

Amazon

6 Fullmetal Alchemist

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.03

Fullmetal Alchemist
Release Date
July 12, 2001
Genre
Manga , Fantasy
Author
Hiromu Arakawa
Artist
Hiromu Arakawa
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Fullmetal Alchemist?

  • Great Worldbuilding Going On More Details Than The Anime
  • Immersive Character Expressions, Especially Ones Showing Despair, Sadness And Anger

Fullmetal Alchemist, a stellar action manga, surpasses its anime adaptations, notably the divergent original. While both anime versions offer unique storylines, the manga remains the definitive source for a deeper understanding of the Elric brothers' journey.

Arakawa's exceptional world-building, coupled with impactful battle scenes and a slightly more cocky portrayal of Edward Elric, distinguishes the manga. For enthusiasts of action, the manga provides an immersive experience, delving into complex themes and character development. Reading the manga is paramount for those seeking a comprehensive exploration of the captivating world and narrative intricacies crafted by Arakawa.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

July 12, 2001

Completed

116

MAL, VIZ, Book Walker

5 Vinland Saga

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.06

Vinland Saga
Release Date
October 14, 2013
Genre
Manga
Author
Makoto Yukimura
Artist
Makoto Yukimura
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Vinland Saga?

  • Beautifully Illustrated Art
  • More Thorough Exploration Of Characters And Plot Compared To The Anime

Vinland Saga is a captivating manga that seamlessly blends themes of revenge, war, love, and compassion. Its multifaceted story appeals to fans of Vikings, war epics, and character development alike. Set in a harsh world where childhood innocence is quickly lost, the manga's pacing is expertly crafted, offering a perfect balance between action and introspection.

Collage featuring Vinland Saga, AOT, and Overlord
Related
15 Best War Anime, Ranked
If you are looking for a great war story or gripping tale of a hero's journey, look no further. These are the best war anime of all time.

The standout feature is the artwork, particularly the characters' facial expressions, adding depth to the story's emotional resonance. However, some fans are divided on the manga's trajectory. While it starts strong with action, the shift in the protagonist's journey to find himself may feel forced on some readers due to the imposition of pacifism. This has led to varied opinions on the overall ranking of Vinland Saga.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

April 13, 2005

Ongoing

207

Amazon, Kodansha

4 One Piece

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.22

One Piece
Release Date
July 22, 1997
Genre
Manga , Action , Fantasy
Author
Eiichiro Oda
Artist
Eiichiro Oda
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read One Piece?

  • Meticulous Worldbuilding With Relatable And Charming Characters
  • Each Character, Protagonist Or Antagonist, Have Their Own Goals, Aspirations, And Desires

One Piece is an outstanding action manga that showcases dynamic fights, inventive world-building, and multifaceted characters. The creator, Oda, has a remarkable ability to create exhilarating battles and showcase raw emotions. His skill in illustrating various expressions, especially crying scenes, sets him apart from the rest, as he captures genuine emotions rather than conventional beauty.

The series stands out for its perfect blend of action, humor, and emotional depth while exploring themes of friendship and pursuing dreams. Oda's mastery of storytelling is evident in character growth, moral dilemmas, and unexpected twists. Despite its extensive run, One Piece remains a cultural phenomenon, a testament to Oda's storytelling, making it a definitive masterpiece in the realm of action manga.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

July 22, 1997

Ongoing

1102

Viz

3 Vagabond

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.25

Vagabond
Release Date
March 23, 1999
Genre
Martial Arts , Historical , Manga
Author
Takehiko Inoue
Artist
Takehiko Inoue
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Vagabond?

  • Realistic Protagonist With Great Character Development
  • Breathtaking Art And Flawless Battle Scenes

Vagabond stands as a masterpiece in the realm of action manga, distinguished not only by its exceptional storytelling but also by its awe-inspiring artistry. Takehiko Inoue's creation is renowned for possessing some of the best and most beautiful artwork in the medium. The battle scenes are nothing short of stunning, with meticulous attention to detail that brings every clash to life.

What sets Vagabond apart, however, is its rich character development. Each character, with their own unique story, background, and desires, contributes to the complex narrative. There's no clear distinction between hero and villain, leaving readers in constant contemplation after each intense fight — questioning the morality of the outcomes. The hiatus that has befallen the manga has left fans eagerly anticipating its return, fueled by rumors promising a much-deserved finale.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

September 3, 1998

Hiatus

327

Viz

2 Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.30

JoJo's Bizarre Adventures
Release Date
October 6, 2012
Author
Hirohiko Araki
Artist
Hirohiko Araki
Genre
Manga , Fantasy
See at AmazonSee at Walmart

Why Should You Read Jojo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run?

  • Amazing Art With Much Attention To Detail And Character Designs
  • Well Written And Engaging Characters

Jojo's Bizarre AdventurePart 7: Steel Ball Run stands out as the favorite among many fans within the Jojo universe hailed for its excellence in art, characters, and storytelling. Set in an alternate dimension, the manga is celebrated for its gripping action and adventure, featuring some of the series' most exhilarating and emotionally charged battle scenes.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Every Main JoJo Ranked Featured Image
Related
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Every Main JoJo Ranked
Each JoJo is completely unique and interesting in their own way. But not all of them are created equally. Here's every main JoJo, ranked.

Hirohiko Araki's artistry reaches new heights in this part, captivating readers with its dynamic style and attention to detail. Despite its widespread acclaim, the manga still lacks, however, an official English translation, leaving fans to seek out Japanese or Spanish versions.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

January 19, 2004

Completed

96

(Japanese) Amazon

1 Berserk

My Anime List (MAL) Score - 9.47

Berserk
Release Date
September 27, 1996
Genre
Manga , Fantasy
Author
Kentaro Miura
Artist
Kentaro Miura
See at Amazon

Why Should You Read Berserk?

  • An Epic Dark Fantasy Tale With Plot Twists And Betrayals
  • Eerie And Gritty Realism

Berserk is undoubtedly the pinnacle of action and Seinen's manga. Its unparalleled narrative intensity and exceptional artwork by the late mangaka Kentaro Miura have captivated readers for years. Despite the sudden death of Miura, his storytelling legacy continues through the recent continuation of the manga, reigniting hope in the hearts of the fans eagerly anticipating the resolution of Guts' epic journey.

This manga's impact extends beyond its visceral action, exploring profound themes and delivering a gritty, maturenarrative that transcends typical genre boundaries. The emotional investment in Guts and the intricate world he inhabits has solidified Berserk's status as not just a manga but a cultural phenomenon. The enduring legacy of Miura's storytelling prowess is showcased through the emotional attachment of the readers to Guts and the intricate world he exists in.

Release Date

Status

Chapters

Where To Read

August 25, 1989

Ongoing

373

Darkhorse, Amazon,

NEXT: Best Anime With Finished Manga, Ranked

You Might Also Like