Overview
- The isekai phenomenon is overshadowing other genres, particularly horror manga.
- Hydra delves into the dark implications of desires through sentient copies of individuals.
- Centuria presents a haunting survival story at sea with supernatural encounters.
The manga landscape has been significantly influenced by the surge of the isekai genre, leading to a notable decline in the availability of horror manga. Each year, new isekai titles flood the market, making it challenging to keep up. While a rise in popularity within one genre isn’t inherently negative, the overshadowing of less popular genres like horror raises concerns. Horror manga, already niche, suffers as the focus shifts to isekai themes.
To further refine our selection criteria, we’ve added two vital parameters: first, the manga must be available in English for accessibility to Western readers, and second, it should hold a MyAnimeList score of at least 6.00. This ensures that our list showcases only the best entries. We’ve also included one-shots to provide a wider range of choices. Here is an overview of the top new horror manga for 2024, ranked according to their MyAnimeList scores.
8. Hydra
Living With Murderous Copies Of Me
- Japanese Title: Hydra
- Author(s) : Iyu Kawabata
- Release Date: September 20, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.19
- Type: One-shot
- Available at: Manga Plus
The narrative of Hydra centers around a young girl, Luca, who becomes infected by a unique parasite called Hydra. This parasite manifests clones of her whenever she harbors a strong desire. Unlike typical clones that dissolve quickly, Luca’s manifestations are not only permanent but possess sentience, leading to chilling outcomes.
This one-shot explores themes of desire and acceptance amid horror and violence, prompting readers to contemplate the impact of personal wishes on their environment. Although the tale seems incomplete, hopes remain high for a future serialization that could further develop its rich themes.
7. House Of The Yamauba
A Familiar Horror With An Unsettling Twist
- Japanese Title : Yamanba-tei
- Author(s) : Ichi Yaka
- Release Date: September 14, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.55
- Type: One-shot
- Available at: Manga Plus
The story portrays a young girl who, after misjudging her train stop, finds herself alone at a deserted station. Seeking refuge, she approaches a seemingly kind elderly woman in a nearby house, only to uncover a haunting secret—the woman is a Yokai with malevolent motives. The plot teeters between lighthearted moments and horrifying realizations, creating a unique reading experience that lingers in the mind.
6. Yattara
A Story About A Hell Beast That Plays With Its Food
- Japanese Title : Yattara
- Author(s): Ooyamada
- Release Date: October 8, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.68
- Type : Manga
- Available at: Manga Plus
Yattara introduces readers to a horrifying creature, the Beast of Gluttony, summoned by a desperate man. After devouring its summoner, the beast turns its attention to a neighboring room filled with orphaned children, intending to raise them for a future feast. This absurd yet captivating premise heightens the reader’s intrigue, promising an unforgettable journey into horror.
5. The Urban Legend Files
A Story About A Man Who Reluctantly Attracts Urban Legends
- Japanese Title : Toshi Densetsu-senpai
- Author(s) : Kazuki Hiraoka
- Release Date: November 16, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.89
- Type : Manga
- Available at: Manga Plus
This unconventional narrative follows Kugutsu, a penny-pinching university student with an uncanny ability to attract urban legends like Kappa and Slit-Mouth Woman. As he grapples with his unusual gift, he finds himself entrenched in the university’s Occult Club, balancing horror with elements of comedy and drama. This balance offers a refreshing twist for readers seeking a lighter approach to the genre.
4. Herald
Tiptoeing The Line Between Insanity And Demonic Possession
- Japanese Title: HERALD
- Author(s): Tetora Hayashi
- Release Date: October 31, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.90
- Type: One-shot
- Available at: Manga Plus
Herald revolves around Neil, a young boy grappling with the aftermath of a family tragedy. After their mother’s death, he begins to perceive his brother and father as something monstrous. As he struggles with these visions, the line between reality and madness blurs, pulling readers into a dark psychological narrative filled with suspense and existential dread.
3. MAD
A World Where Madness Is The Only Way To Survive
- Japanese Title: MAD
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.23
- Author(s): Yuusuke Ootori
- Release Date: June 18, 2024
- Type : Manga
- Available at: Manga Plus
In a desolate world ravaged by bloodthirsty aliens, John faces the existential dilemma of survival. As he traverses the horrors left in the wake of alien destruction, the narrative delves into themes of grief, rage, and the human spirit’s resilience. Each page is laden with emotion, immersing readers in a suffocating atmosphere that conveys a profound sense of isolation.
2. Kill
An Ambiguous Horror Story
- Japanese Title: OMORI
- Author(s): OMOCAT (Story), Konoito, Nui (Art)
- Release Date: June 25, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.50
- Type : Manga
- Available at: K Manga
Omori tells the story of Sunny, a boy burdened by the traumatic loss of his sister. As he ventures outside after years of isolation, he is followed by a dark entity only he can see. The series artfully weaves together the past and present, leading readers through an intricate narrative filled with hints about the past’s tragic events, rewarding those who engage deeply with its ambiguity.
1st Century
Vinland Saga With Supernatural Elements
- Japanese Title: Centuria
- Author(s) : Tooru Kuramori
- Release Date: April 8, 2024
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.58
- Type : Manga
- Available at: Manga Plus
Centuria opens with a harrowing tale aboard a slave ship caught in a vicious storm. As the captain resorts to murder to lighten the load of the ship, a supernatural entity emerges from the sea, offering the last two survivors a chilling opportunity to change their fates. The gripping storyline, reminiscent of Vinland Saga, is a testament to the blend of horror and historical elements, making it a must-read for enthusiasts of the genre.
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