The best isekai manga by a Japanese otaku
Nowadays, the “isekai” genre has become a major category. However, with the increase in the number of works, there’s a significant disparity in quality.
I personally enjoy the “overpowered protagonist” trope, but it’s also true that there are quite a few works that offer a substantial read.
Therefore, I thought of creating a list that only includes the cream of the crop.
Please note that this article was written by a male, so there might be a lack of familiarity with content aimed at females.
Please forgive any awkwardness in the English, as it was written by a Japanese otaku.
Isekai where the protagonist excels in non-combat skills
Isekai where the protagonist is strong but faces hardships
- Uncle from Another World (Isekai Ojisan, Ojisan in Another World)
- Drifters
- The Rising of the Shield Hero
- Saga of Tanya the Evil
Isekai where the protagonist has an overpowered ability
Isekai where the protagonist excels in non-combat skills
A Witch’s Printing Office (Mahoutsukai no Insatsujo)
Check the review on ComicAddict
The story revolves around a protagonist who, despite being weak in combat, struggles to organize a comic convention in another world. Those who have attended such conventions might find many relatable jokes. The story leans more towards a peaceful and heartwarming narrative. The artwork is detailed and appealing to both males and females. With 6 volumes, the series is complete, so you can binge-read without waiting for the next release.
Exterminator (Kujonin)
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The story is about a man who, even after being transported to another world, makes borax balls to exterminate sewer rats. Given that the protagonist is a middle-aged man, the manga might appeal more to an older audience. The plot is relatively laid-back, with few intense or brutal scenes. While it might not be the most gripping read, it’s perfect for relaxation after a long day.
Isekai Izakaya “Nobu” (Otherworldly Izakaya “Nobu”)
Check the review on ComicAddict
A manga where people from another world are introduced to delicious dishes, leading them to exclaim, “Earth’s cuisine is amazing!” Since it primarily features Japanese food, it’s uncertain how much international fans would enjoy it. There are quite a few isekai manga where Earth’s cuisine is introduced to another world’s inhabitants, but this particular work stands out for its consistent quality and entertainment value. It’s a delightful read that offers a peculiar sense of superiority as an Earthling.
Parallel World Pharmacy (Isekai Yakkyoku)
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The story of a pharmaceutical researcher who, after dying from overwork, reincarnates in another world and manages a pharmacy. The content has been reviewed by a licensed pharmacist, as mentioned in the afterword. The manga uses a lot of technical terms, which, even if unfamiliar to some, add a cool factor. It’s an isekai manga where the protagonist shines using modern Earth’s advanced medical knowledge, making it a satisfying read.
Isekai where the protagonist is strong but faces hardships
Uncle from Another World (Isekai Ojisan, Ojisan in Another World)
Check the review on ComicAddict
A unique isekai where, despite reincarnating in another world, the protagonist has an unattractive face and faces challenges. The main story unfolds as flashbacks after the protagonist returns from the other world. It might be more enjoyable for those who have read typical isekai works beforehand. It was adapted into an anime in the summer of 2022 and was well-received.
Drifters
Check the review on ComicAddict
A work by the renowned Kouta Hirano, known for “Hellsing.” Historical figures from various eras are reincarnated in another world and engage in warfare, siding either with humans or monsters. It’s a dreamlike setting where Toyohisa Shimazu, Nobunaga Oda, and Nasu no Yoichi battle against Joan of Arc. Thanks to the author’s character development and plot progression, it’s surprisingly engaging. It was adapted into an anime in 2016, and the 7th volume was finally released in August 2023. Given that “Hellsing” took about 10 years for its 10 volumes, fans should patiently await the next release, much like waiting for Christmas.
The Rising of the Shield Hero (Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari)
Check the review on ComicAddict
A popular work that was also adapted into an anime. The manga version is well-crafted and enjoyable to read. It’s a unique isekai where the protagonist starts from a disadvantaged position, facing prejudice. As the story progresses, readers will find satisfaction in the protagonist’s revenge. A common issue with isekai series is that they tend to lose direction as they progress, but this work skillfully avoids that pitfall and reaches a climax.
Saga of Tanya the Evil (Youjo Senki)
A popular title that was adapted into both an anime and a movie. The anime version, featuring the voice of Aoi Yuuki, was particularly impressive. The manga version is also of high quality, with detailed artwork. The meticulous illustrations, especially during battle scenes, make readers examine each panel closely. Tanya’s psychopathic expressions are brilliantly captured in the manga, making it a must-read. The manga artist, Chika Tojo, primarily works on light novel adaptations and does a commendable job.
Isekai where the protagonist possesses overpowered abilities
Chillin’ in My 30s after Getting Fired from the Demon King’s Army (Kaiko sareta Ankoku Heishi (30-dai) no Slow na Second Life)
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This isekai features a protagonist who was originally from another world, without reincarnating from Earth. It was posted on the “Let’s Become a Novelist” platform from 2018 to 2020. It’s a popular work that has also been adapted into an anime. The overall quality of the manga is high, with a good balance of eroticism and comedy. The story progresses with a gentle atmosphere, making it a perfect read to relax after a tiring day. When reading isekai, many readers aren’t necessarily looking for intricate settings. This work, with its light eroticism and refreshing elements, perfectly fits the bill.
