For fans of American comics and graphic novels, the market has seen the emergence of two major factions: Western comics, especially those published by the giants DC Comics and Marvel Comics, and the vast world of Japanese manga. While manga can be considered the Japanese version of comics, it is also a unique art form that has been equally valued for decades. However, in recent years, manga has clearly surpassed comics, both in sales and cultural relevance.

Even in the West, where comics have been a staple of pop culture for decades, manga has consistently outsold American comics. Despite the rise of action figures and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), comics have failed to compete in several important ways, from common perception to price. Every consumer has their own preferences, and there is no single answer as to how manga won the battle against comics, but it is undeniable that manga did certain things better.

Shonen action series are the pillar of manga's successalthough there is room for other genres such as drama in “Oshi no Ko” and traditional fantasy in “Frieren: Beyond Journey's End”. The manga has enjoyed notable success in the West in recent years, with titles such as “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” “Jujutsu Kaisen” and “My Hero Academia” regularly appearing on bestseller lists. According to Publishers Weekly, manga sales accounted for nearly 45% of all comics sold in 2022, surpassing even children's comics.

The popularity of anime has been a key factor in the rise of manga. In 2021, comic book sales reached a record US$2.075 billion, with manga accounting for US$1.47 billion of that figure. Comparatively, individual comic book sales figures were significantly lower. This shows that manga has become a more popular and accessible option.

In practical terms, manga won largely due to its cost-effectiveness and availability. Manga volumes are typically between 160 and 180 pages and cost around US$$10, a great value for any consumer, especially when compared to individual comics that have fewer pages and are similarly priced. Furthermore, manga are available in conventional bookstores, which gives them much greater visibility and a less “geek” image.

Another important factor is the barrier to entry. Manga presents more linear and less complex stories compared to the intricate universes of comics, which can be overwhelming for new readers. The manga's plots are easy to follow, making it easy for new readers to dive into this world without worrying about decades of continuity and reboots.

The more diverse content of manga also plays a crucial role. While comics have tried to diversify their genres and audiences, manga offers a much wider variety of stories that appeal to a more diverse audience. From action and adventure to romance and comedy, manga has something for everyone, broadening its appeal and reader base.

In conclusion, manga has managed to surpass Western comics not only in accessibility and price, but also in diversity of content and availability in more accessible locations. This phenomenon allowed manga to become the industry giant it is today, gaining ground in a market traditionally dominated by comics.

Source: Comic Book Resources