BoDoï Comics Unveils 2025 Top Picks: Manga & Graphic Novel Landscape Shifts
Paris, France – December 26, 2023 – In a move keenly awaited by comic enthusiasts worldwide, the French editorial team at BoDoï has released its definitive list of top comics for 2025. This breaking news for the graphic novel world isn’t just about current hits; it’s a roadmap for what’s shaping the future of manga and comics, offering a fascinating glimpse into the tastes of one of Europe’s most respected comic critics. For those following Google News trends and seeking SEO-optimized content, this is a pivotal moment in the comics calendar.
Manga Takes Center Stage: Rémi I.’s Top 10 New Releases
Rémi I.’s selections highlight a vibrant year for new manga releases. Topping the list is “The Invisible Wars” by Marina Lisa Komiya (Sakka), a title already generating significant buzz. Following closely are Akimi Yoshida’s “Lover’s Kiss” (Panini) and Keiko Takemiya’s “The Poem of Wind and Trees” (Naban), demonstrating a continued appreciation for established masters alongside emerging talent. The inclusion of Osamu Yamamoto’s “When I’m Gone” (The Black Lizard) and Rie Aruga’s “Shelter of Love” (Akata) signals a growing demand for emotionally resonant and character-driven narratives. Rounding out the top ten are Shôtter Ishnonomi’s “A,” Inuhiko Doronoda’s “Let’s take a walk in space” (Glénat), Paru Itagaki’s “Sanda” (Ki-oon), Masaki Shindo’s “Ruridragon” (Glénat), and Koukou Aida’s “Swingin’ Dragon & Tiger Boogie” (Mangetsu).
Evergreen Insight: The consistent presence of titles from Sakka, Panini, and Naban underscores their reliability in sourcing and publishing high-quality manga. For aspiring manga readers, these publishers are excellent starting points for exploring the genre. The trend towards emotionally complex stories, as seen with Aruga’s and Yamamoto’s inclusions, reflects a broader shift in storytelling preferences across all media.
Timeless Classics Reimagined: BoDoï’s Top 5 Reissues
BoDoï’s recognition of reissues is equally noteworthy. Osamu Tezuka’s “Princess Sapphire” (Delcourt/Tonkam) leads the pack, a testament to the enduring legacy of the “God of Manga.” Keiji Nakazawa’s harrowing “Barefoot Gen” (The Tripode), a powerful anti-war statement, remains profoundly relevant. The inclusion of Q-Hayashida’s “Dorohedoro” (Soleil) speaks to the growing popularity of darker, more unconventional manga. Kamome Shirahama’s “Sorcerers’ Workshop” (Pika) – a grimoire edition – and Haruka Kawachi’s “Flowers of the Past” (Naban) further demonstrate the value of revisiting and preserving classic works.
Evergreen Insight: Reissues aren’t simply about nostalgia; they’re about accessibility. Bringing these foundational works to new audiences ensures the continuation of the comics tradition. For collectors, these editions often represent valuable additions to their libraries. The enduring power of “Barefoot Gen” serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of historical memory and the devastating consequences of conflict.
Anne-Claire Norot’s Curated Selection: A Different Perspective
Anne-Claire Norot’s top 10 offers a complementary perspective, showcasing a blend of established and emerging artists. Taiyô Matsumoto’s “Tokyo these days #3” (Kana) and Keigo Shinzo’s “Hirayasumi #7” (Le Lézard Noir) demonstrate a continued appreciation for slice-of-life narratives. Yi Yang’s “Comet club” (Here and There) and Kaoru Mori’s “Bride Stories #15” (Ki-oon) highlight the diversity of storytelling styles within the manga landscape. Tadao Tsuge’s “Night Games (1979-1985)” (Cornelius) and Shintaro Kago’s “Amnésie de Ranpo #1” (IMHO) represent a more experimental and avant-garde approach. Kei Toume’s “Mahoromi: architectural chronicle of space and time #1” (The Black Lizard), Waki Yamato’s “Asaki Yumemishi : le dit du Genji #2” (Panini), and Moto Hagio’s “Fragments of Hope” (Akata) complete the list.
Evergreen Insight: Norot’s list emphasizes the importance of artistic vision and stylistic innovation. The inclusion of titles like “Night Games” and “Amnésie de Ranpo” demonstrates a willingness to embrace challenging and unconventional works. For readers seeking something beyond the mainstream, these selections offer a wealth of discovery.
BoDoï’s 2025 rankings aren’t just a list of comics; they’re a cultural barometer, reflecting the evolving tastes and preferences of a discerning audience. This information is invaluable for publishers, retailers, and, most importantly, readers eager to navigate the ever-expanding world of manga and graphic novels. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of the comics industry and in-depth analysis of these groundbreaking titles.
