7 New-Gen Manga to Watch After Jujutsu Kaisen Concludes for Weekly Shonen Jump’s Success

After dominating the manga scene for nearly five years, the highly acclaimed new-gen manga Jujutsu Kaisen is set to conclude, with the final chapter slated for release on September 30, 2024.

During its run, Jujutsu Kaisen captivated readers of Weekly Shonen Jump. It is now crucial for other emerging mangas to rise and ensure the magazine’s continued success.

Titles such as Kagurabachi, Sakamoto Days, and Blue Box show great promise as potential successors to Jujutsu Kaisen. Below is a curated list of seven new-gen mangas poised to take on the mantle in Weekly Shonen Jump.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and are not ranked in any specific order.

Kagurabachi, Sakamoto Days, and 5 Other New-Gen Manga to Keep Weekly Shonen Jump Thriving

1) Kagurabachi

Chihiro in Kagurabachi (Image via Shueisha)

Kagurabachi has been a regular feature in Weekly Shonen Jump since September 2023. Within just a year, it has garnered acclaim from critics and readers alike for its stunning artwork and gripping action sequences. As of July, its popularity eclipsed that of titles like Spy x Family, Dragon Ball Super, and Boruto.

The narrative centers on Chihiro Rokuhira and his quest for vengeance following his father’s murder, incorporating fantasy anime elements to enrich the storyline.

With the conclusion of Jujutsu Kaisen, now is the time for Kagurabachi to seize the opportunity and establish itself as the next leading new-gen manga.

2) Sakamoto Days

Taro and Shin in Sakamoto Days (Image via Shueisha)

Sakamoto Days stands out as one of the most beloved new-gen mangas, even clinching the U-Next Prize in 2021. It expertly balances humor and serious undertones, captivating both readers and critics.

The story follows retired hitman Taro Sakamoto who yearns for a peaceful life with his wife, Aoi, but finds his past catching up with him in unexpected ways.

With an anime adaptation set to premiere in January 2025, Sakamoto Days is well-positioned to rise to the forefront of new-gen mangas.

3) The Elusive Samurai

Hojo Takiyuki in The Elusive Samurai (Image via Shueisha)

The Elusive Samurai draws inspiration from the historical figure Hojo Takiyuki of the Muromachi Period, depicting his fight for justice following his father’s demise while striving to revive the honor of the Hojo Clan.

This manga artfully combines historical narratives with local folklore and supernatural elements. It recently won the 69th Shogakukan Manga Award and received accolades from both critics and fans.

The Elusive Samurai is well-equipped to fill the void left by Jujutsu Kaisen, especially with its growing popularity largely attributed to its ongoing anime adaptation.

4) Blue Box

Taiki and Chinatsu in Blue Box (Image via Shueisha)

Blue Box, serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since April 2021, is regarded by critics as a potential classic within the romance genre, akin to Fruits Basket.

The story follows Taiki Inomata as he navigates his feelings for his upperclassman Chinatsu, interweaving themes of ambition, romance, and the complexities of teenage life as they aspire to become national players while balancing their daily lives.

Blue Box has also recently received an anime adaptation and is gaining popularity. With the finale of Jujutsu Kaisen, this manga has a prime opportunity to claim its spot at the top of Weekly Shonen Jump.

5) RuriDragon

Ruri Aoki in Ruridragon (Image via Shueisha)

RuriDragon has received acclaim for its captivating art and engaging storyline since it began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in June 2022. The plot follows Ruri Aoki as she grapples with her identity as a half-dragon.

Themes of diversity, identity, and social integration are at its core, as Ruri endeavors to lead a normal life despite her unique heritage. Critics have lauded its relaxed narrative style and artistic approach. As Jujutsu Kaisen concludes, RuriDragon is well-positioned to vie for the top tier in Weekly Shonen Jump alongside Kagurabachi, Blue Box, and Sakamoto Days.

6) Kill Blue

Juzo Ogami in Kill Blue (Image via Shueisha)

Many critics draw parallels between Kill Blue and the classic manga Case Closed (Detective Conan). The story revolves around Juzo Ogami, an infamous hitman whose body regresses to that of a 12-year-old after a bee sting.

Now appearing too youthful to continue his work, he enrolls in middle school. The plot thickens as Juzo attempts to juggle his school and work life while seeking a way to revert to his former self.

Kill Blue introduces various themes, and if it maintains its intriguing storyline, it could play a significant role in sustaining Weekly Shonen Jump’s successful legacy.

7) Nue’s Exorcist

Gakuro in Nue's Exorcism (Image via Shueisha) — Gakuro in Nue’s Exorcism (Image via Shueisha)

Nue’s Exorcist, a notable new-age manga in Weekly Shonen Jump, has been well-received by critics and audiences for its stunning artwork and character designs.

The narrative follows Gakuro Yajima, an exorcist who has had the ability to see spirits since childhood. His encounter with Nue instigates a transformative journey in his life.

By intertwining supernatural elements with real-life experiences, Nue’s Exorcist presents an engaging narrative. If it avoids unnecessary fan service, this manga is likely to grow in popularity within Weekly Shonen Jump‘s new-gen line-up.

Final Thoughts

Jujutsu Kaisen has undoubtedly been a significant success in the manga industry and will continue to be popular, especially with its ongoing anime adaptation. However, as it reaches its conclusion, other new-gen mangas must rise to uphold the sales of Weekly Shonen Jump.

With the end of Jujutsu Kaisen, an opportunity arises for other new-gen titles to shine. This list highlights that even in the absence of Jujutsu Kaisen, Shueisha boasts an array of promising new mangas ready to make their mark on the manga scene.