Fairy Tail redefined the shonen landscape with its lovable characters, intricate world-building, and jaw-dropping battles. Though often criticized for its repetitive focus on the ‘power of friendship,’ it remains a fan-favorite, captivating readers with its emotional depth and straightforward storytelling. Watching Natsu and his allies rise against formidable foes felt like an adrenaline-charged joyride we never wanted to end.
But what happens when you’ve devoured every chapter and your Fairy Tail appetite remains unsatisfied? We’ve compiled a list of manga you should dive into next. These series offer what Fairy Tail fans crave, from deep world-building to complex power dynamics.
From Ninjas to Pirates: A Shonen Odyssey
Naruto: A Tale of Unbreakable Bonds
“Masashi Kishimoto is one of the most renowned mangaka of all time,”
and Naruto is why. Even with its few stumbling blocks, Naruto offers an emotional roller-coaster complete with intricate world-building. The chakra system used in the series is one of the most well-conceived, making it a must-read for any Fairy Tail fan seeking a legendary story.
Bleach: Unraveling the Mystery of Soul Society
“Watching Ichigo transform from a fledgling Shinigami into a Bankai wielder is a blast.”
While Bleach has faced its share of criticism for its sometimes confusing power-ups and redundant storylines, it has its moments of brilliance. If you’re eagerly awaiting how Bleach’s final arc, The Thousand-Year Blood War, will conclude, you’re not alone. Fans are hopeful that the adaptation will offer an ending that the manga deserved.
My Hero Academia: The New Age of Heroes
“It’s amazing how a storyline about superheroes is somehow relevant in the creative medium of anime.”
From All Might to Deku, My Hero Academia deals with the hero-villain dynamic in a way that feels fresh, making it another great pick for Fairy Tail enthusiasts.
— Out Of Context Manga (@MangaContexts) July 11, 2023
Classic Manga That Keeps Giving
Fullmetal Alchemist: The Alchemy of Storytelling
“Alchemy is easily one of the best power systems in manga history, being clear, concise, and extremely cool to boot.”
If you loved the magic system in Fairy Tail, Edward and Alphonse’s journey in Fullmetal Alchemist offers a deeper, darker take on supernatural abilities.
Demon Slayer: The Anime Sensation You Need to Read
“the manga is excellent in its own right.”
Demon Slayer has a satisfying conclusion in its manga form. If your patience runs thin waiting for new episodes, picking up the manga is a decision you won’t regret.
Dragon Ball: The Legend Never Fades
“A legendary shonen manga that needs no introduction,”
Dragon Ball remains a timeless classic. The story of Goku and Vegeta’s adventures has transitioned from a simple tale to an epic saga. It’s hard not to admire Akira Toriyama’s knack for keeping Dragon Ball pertinent and awe-inspiring decades after its debut.
The Epic Journey of One Piece
“It’s a testament to Eiichiro Oda’s brilliant storytelling that fans have gotten even more invested in the narrative.”
Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates bring a sense of camaraderie and exploration that Fairy Tail aficionados will find both familiar and exhilarating.
The Final Word
From the lands of Konoha to the Grand Line, these manga offer a rich tapestry of stories that provide something for every Fairy Tail fan. So why not pick up one—or all seven—of these titles? Your next shonen obsession is just a page-turn away.