I’m thrilled about the upcoming AnimeJapan 2025 announcements. In past years, titles that topped the “must-adapt” charts often achieved major anime success—so the potential candidates this year spark a lot of excitement for me. We’ll know the results in mid-March, and until then, I’m diving into possible front-runners. Previously, I covered romance/comedy and fantasy/historical contenders. This time, I’m focusing on the Supernatural, Horror & Dark Themes category to see which manga might soon be on our screens.
Spoiler Warning: This article discusses story details from various manga.
Paradise District 極楽街
- Author & Background: Created by Yuto Sano, known for weaving dark fantasy and suspense. His distinct storytelling style shines in magazine Jump SQ.
- Serialization: Two volumes released and ongoing (as of February 2025) in Jump SQ.
- Genre: Horror suspense with a retro, Taisho-era flair.
- Story in Detail:
Set in early 20th-century Japan, “Paradise District” focuses on a pleasure quarter plagued by strange rumors of disappearances. Koichi Usami, a former policeman now turned detective, infiltrates this mysterious district to trace the root of these vanishings—otherworldly beings that feed on humanity’s darkest desires. Amid smoky bars and hidden passages, Koichi witnesses grotesque horrors and uncovers unsettling truths lurking beneath the district’s neon glow. - Focal Point & Buzz:
Fans praise the series’ fusion of historical atmosphere, horror, and noir-style mystery. The compelling plot twists and chilling visuals have garnered strong support among horror aficionados.
Teacher! We’ll Destroy the World 先生！ 僕たちが世界を滅ぼします。
- Author & Background: Created by Kina Kobayashi, celebrated for an adorable art style often contrasted by dark, dramatic storylines.
- Serialization: Two volumes out, ongoing in Manga UP!
- Genre: Dark fantasy set in a seemingly typical school environment.
- Story in Detail:
A special class of students secretly wields the power to bring the world to ruin. Their teacher, Aya Jinno, becomes aware of these abilities and resolves to thwart any catastrophe stemming from the teenagers’ trauma or loneliness. Despite their menacing gifts, the students yearn for guidance and connection. Aya’s struggle to protect her students—and perhaps save them from themselves—forms the emotional core of this riveting narrative. - Focal Point & Buzz:
Social media has buzzed about its stark contrast between cute character designs and a grim, psychologically intense plot. The blend of fantasy action and raw human drama keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Nue’s Exorcist 鵺の陰陽師
- Author & Background: Kouta Kawae, a rising star recognized for dynamic battle and Japanese folklore settings. He debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump after winning a one-shot award.
- Serialization: Two volumes made available, ongoing in Weekly Shonen Jump.
- Genre: Action-heavy, Japanese-style fantasy focusing on mythological creatures.
- Story in Detail:
Amid Japan’s Heian period, monstrous shapeshifters known as nue threaten the capital. The young onmyoji (yin-yang master) Kyoga Hamuro unwittingly forges a pact with a legendary nue, borrowing its power at the cost of his very soul. Facing a parade of fearsome yokai, Kyoga wrestles with whether to continue wielding this demonic strength or break free from the curse. - Focal Point & Buzz:
Bold character designs, expansive fight sequences, and classic Shonen Jump themes of determination make this manga a standout. The growing fanbase anticipates dramatic showdowns worthy of an anime adaptation.
A Cat-girl Passing the Days ねこむすめ道草日記
- Author & Background: Ike, known for infusing humor in tales featuring supernatural creatures. He has published works in COMIC Ryu.
- Serialization: With 24 volumes and counting (as of February 2025), it runs long-term in COMIC Ryu WEB.
- Genre: Lighthearted slice-of-life with yokai influences.
- Story in Detail:
The half-cat, half-human yokai girl known simply as “Neko-Musume” navigates daily life among humans and fellow creatures. While it’s often playful and comedic, the story delves into deeper themes like folklore, human fear, and acceptance of the unknown. Through chance encounters and amusing interludes, she faces various mishaps—ranging from chasing laser pointers to encountering fearsome legends. - Focal Point & Buzz:
Fans love the laid-back pacing, with occasional serious arcs highlighting the tension between humans and yokai. Its longevity in publication underscores a loyal readership who find comfort in the mix of whimsy and subtle introspection.
Mr. Vamp is a Vampire 万府先生は吸血鬼
- Author & Background: Dorothy Togeo, acclaimed for blending horror and comedy into cohesive narratives. Published in Morning Two magazine.
- Serialization: Two volumes in circulation, currently ongoing.
- Genre: Vampire comedy set in a high school environment.
- Story in Detail:
Mr. Manpu, a centuries-old vampire working undercover as a school nurse, struggles with his thirst for blood. Teenage cuts and nosebleeds trigger comically intense reactions, though nobody around him seems to suspect his true nature—except one fellow teacher, who stumbles upon his secret and ends up sharing his life at close quarters. The manga deftly balances comedic moments with a dash of tension as Mr. Manpu fights his impulses. - Focal Point & Buzz:
Its comedic take on a secret vampire’s day-to-day travails resonates with readers who appreciate humorous, slice-of-life horror. Occasional serious turns and fun vampire lore keep fans thoroughly engaged.
Phantom Busters ファントムバスターズ
- Author & Background: Neoshoko, an artist gifted at illustrating high-powered action scenes and grotesque apparitions. Featured in Jump SQ.
- Serialization: Two volumes released, ongoing in Jump SQ.
- Genre: Occult action with global paranormal threats.
- Story in Detail:
A special task force known as “Phantom Busters” hunts dangerous spirits around the world. Young recruit Riku Beniki joins the squad and quickly confronts menacing entities alongside a diverse cast of senior hunters. As the group delves deeper into ghostly battlegrounds, they uncover a larger conspiracy linking the origins of these apparitions to a secret that could change the world. - Focal Point & Buzz:
The heart-pounding fight scenes and layered mysteries give “Phantom Busters” serious momentum. Traditional jump-style action spiced with horror elements appeals both to battle manga enthusiasts and fans of the occult.
I See You, Aizawa-san! 見えてますよ！愛沢さん
- Author & Background: Dorothy Togeo (same pen name as “Mr. Vamp is a Vampire,” though each series stands alone). Known for comedic horror.
- Serialization: Three volumes so far, ongoing in Comic Valkyrie Web.
- Genre: High school horror-comedy featuring ghostly encounters.
- Story in Detail:
High schooler Mio Aizawa can see spirits, a curse that constantly tests her nerves. She does her best to hide this from classmates, but inexplicable phenomena keep pulling her in. On top of it all, she’s surprisingly friendly to ghosts—advising them on unfinished business or simply offering a calming presence. Despite comedic interludes and hints of romance, genuine horror sequences occasionally surface, adding tension to Mio’s daily life. - Focal Point & Buzz:
The interplay between bigger-than-life paranormal scares and lighthearted humor makes this title standout. Merchandising collaborations and spin-off items attest to the series’ growing popularity.
Truth be told, I love seeing how each manga uniquely tackles supernatural themes—from haunting suspense in “Paradise District” to the zany vampire antics in “Mr. Vamp is a Vampire.” My adrenaline spikes at the mere idea of these stories receiving their own animated adaptations. I can’t wait to see how studios might capture those chilling, otherworldly moments in motion.
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