20 Best Reincarnation/ Isekai Manga To Read

The Isekai genre has been getting increasingly popular in the last few years, and for a good reason! Isekai literally means “different world,” and the premise is that someone from our world gets transported to a new world.

What Is Isekai Manga?

Reincarnation manga is a genre of manga that follows the story of a character who has been reborn in a different world. It follows the characters’ journey as they make their way in this new world and discover the secrets of their past life.

It’s a fascinating genre, and many people have been captivated by the stories it tells.

It’s no surprise that many fans of Japanese manga and anime have found this particular type of fantasy story so intriguing. 

From a young boy reborn as a powerful mage to a modern-day female office worker reborn as a princess, there’s something for everyone.

The stories explore themes of fate, destiny, and redemption and offer a fascinating glimpse into how our lives are connected.

Plus, with plenty of action and drama, these stories will keep you hooked!

What’s unique about the Isekai genre compared to other fantasy genres is its use of tropes such as swords and magic, high fantasy, and game-like elements, which give it an interesting twist.

This separates it from typical fantasy fiction, as these clichés frequently lead to a distinct set of characters, themes, worlds, and so on.

As a result, it provides a range of fascinating adventures that readers may follow along with realistic characters and familiar settings.

So today, we are making a list of the 20 best Reincarnation or Isekai manga. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of the genre or are just getting started with Isekai titles, these are must-reads.

Please note we will not feature any reincarnation manhwa.

20. My Next Life As A Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Aug 28, 2017
• Genres: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Romance, Reverse Harem, School, Villainess
• Authors: Hidaka Nami (Art), Yamaguchi Satoru (Story)

The protagonist in this Isekai manga does not realize she has been reincarnated into a new world until she is already a kid.

She then works hard to remember all the details of the game and realizes that no matter her choice, the game always ends with her death.

This series’s original plot focuses on how the main character finds ways to avoid a bad ending. The story succeeds at being humorous without having to add any explicit jokes.

The story flows smoothly from beginning to end, making it worth reading. If you’re looking for a unique Isekai tale with a female lead, pick up Villainess for an amusing and inventive spin on the genre.

This is one of the best reincarnation manga if you want to get started. The story takes place in a game rather than in another world.

19. The Death Mage That Doesn’t Want A Fourth Time

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Jun 24, 2018
• Genres: Action, Drama, Fantasy
• Authors: Densuke (Story), Kojima Takehiro (Art)

Hiroto Amamiya’s first life was taken from him alongside his classmates, ending tragically. An error from God caused Hiroto to receive immense magical power when he was reincarnated for his second life and the same amount of misfortune.

He had to endure it for years until those classmates shot him. Despite this, God still wishes for Hiroto to forgive them, so he tells him that if he utilizes his third life to cool off, then his fourth will be filled with peace.

Vandalieu, formerly known as Hiroto, is thrust into the world of Lamda. He has been reborn as a dark elf-vampire half-breed and possesses immense magic.

God has sealed away his immense magic power, however. Despite this tragedy, Vandalieu is showered with love by his mother, Darcia, and enjoys a peaceful life until it is ripped away from him.

Vandalieu, certain that he no longer requires a fourth life, sets out on an adventure with zombie companions and night ghouls.

18. Magi’s Grandson

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Mar 1, 2016
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Fantasy
• Authors: Yoshioka Tsuyoshi (Story), Shunsuke Ogata (Art)

After the MC’s demise in his old world, he is blessed with a second life in a fantasy universe. His luck follows him as he is taken in by a powerful wizard there.

He is taught the ways of magic and enchantment by both a powerful wizard and an enchantress.

Despite their schooling, due to his sheltered upbringing, he is still oblivious to how this new realm works. To everyone’s surprise (and confusion), he casts some unusual magic that shakes the entire realm.

It can be quite irritating, yet we are just as bewildered as everyone else since we are also uncertain of the power rankings here.

17. Handyman Saitou In Another World

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Oct 12, 2018 – ?
• Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
• Authors: Ichitomo Kazutomo (Story & Art)

The protagonist of this 4-Koma manga is taken to another world, where he keeps his abilities and items.

He prefers this new life to the dull routine of his past life, and the bonus is the thrilling adventures he experiences. 

This particular series is a 4-koma manga, with each chapter being of a shorter length.

Not only are the jokes very humorous, but they also manage to convey much information in just a few frames—something that other gag manga usually lack.

16. Goodbye Dragon Life, Hello Human Life

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Dec 22, 2015
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Harem, Shounen, Supernatural
• Authors: Kurono (Art), NAGASHIMA Hiroaki (Author)

The protagonist of this series is no ordinary human; he’s an ancient dragon. He has been reincarnated not in another world but in the human realm.

He still remembers his past life, which makes the story quite intriguing. However, the execution leaves something to be desired.

The characters are static and lack complexity, and the plot moves along at a slow rate. On a positive note, the artwork is beautiful and well-done.

15. How NOT To Summon A Demon Lord

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Jun 24, 2015 – ?
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Romance, Ecchi
• Authors: Murasaki Yukiya (Story), Fukuda Naoto (Art)

At the beginning of this journey, our main character is summoned to serve as a familiar for two quarreling adventurers.

During the summoning procedure, something goes awry, and the positions of master and servant are switched. Now he is the demon lord of these two adventurers.

The plot is exciting, with unexpected plot twists as well as some intense battle scenes.

The protagonist enters a world strikingly similar to the game he had previously played in his world.

Thus, when he was summoned, not only did his appearance change, but all of his game items also came with him.

The world-building is a bit similar to the overlord. How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord is one of the best reincarnation manga.

14. Yakuza Reincarnation

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Jul 19, 2019
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Gender Bender, Isekai, Seinen
• Authors: Natsuhara Takeshi (Story), Miyashita Hiroki (Story & Art)

After a successful career in the underworld, a former yakuza member meets his demise due to a trap of his own making.

Unfortunately, his downfall was due to his trap. He was reborn as a princess in another world. But he still exhibits the same old yakuza behavior that disregards human life.

The main character is the main selling point of this manga, and it also gives insight into how the yakuza operates.

It features an enchanting realm full of thrilling battles.

13. The Man Picked Up By The Gods

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Nov 29, 2017
• Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai, Shounen, Slice of Life
• Authors: Roy (Story), Ranran (Art)

Ryouma Takuma spent 39 years in a boring, difficult life until the gods granted him reincarnation into a world with magic.

As an avid gamer, he loves his new life; however, will it be that simple?

It’s your standard Isekai manga in which the main character is transported to another world full of sorcery.

Yet this manga takes an original approach to every element and succeeds in doing so.

It’s a light-hearted reincarnation manga with an overpowered main character that can be enjoyed by those who seek something tranquil.

This is one of the best reincarnation manga out there because the main character always wanted to be reborn. When he is finally reincarnated, his wish is granted.

12. Parallel World Pharmacy

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Nov 19, 2016 – ?
• Authors: Takano Sei (Art), Takayama Liz (Story)

When his beloved sister died from her untreatable illness, he devoted the rest of his life to creating new medicines.

Unfortunately, he worked himself too hard and died at the age of 31. In this reincarnation manga, he is reborn as a 10-year-old in medieval Europe.

Due to his excellent medical knowledge, he is appointed as an assistant to a royal court pharmacist.

As the story progresses, we see the main character working hard, not wanting others to meet the same fate as his sister.

Despite not having an outstanding protagonist or plotline, it is still enjoyable to read.

The narrative has lovely moments, such as using magic to create medicines and other useful items.

This manga is quite engaging; it won’t be seen as a masterpiece, yet it will be enjoyed by anyone who likes medical practice or wants something fun to read.

It has some enjoyable moments where magic is used most effectively, and medicines are made.

11. Multi-Mind Mayhem

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: May 8, 2015
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
• Authors: Honoji (Art), Takami Ryousen (Story)

Oda Sadatoshi is a skilled military leader known for his unconventional battle tactics. At the same time, Oka Masaharu is an otaku hailing from a modern world full of advanced technology and science.

They both get reincarnated as Balud Cornelius, a young noble in a world filled with magic.

Both must work together to ensure that Balud achieves greatness.

10. I Am A Villager, What About It?

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Jan 7, 2017
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
• Authors: Sabamu (Art), Shiraishi, Arata (Story)

The protagonist of the manga meets a tragic demise due to a driver on their cell phone.

As he passes away, he laments that his life has been cut short and that he is still a virgin.

Instead of meeting his demise, he is given another opportunity to live in a different world.

When he reaches there, though, he finds himself unable to move because now he has been reborn as a sword.

Initially, this turn of events seemed positive to him.

The magic sword waits patiently for a master, almost resigned to never being wielded, when a young lady with cat ears arrives one day.

After almost a lifetime of waiting, a young woman with cat ears appears, unlikely to be the master who could unlock his full potential.

Despite this, the two embark on an unexpected journey together.

09. Re: Monster

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Mar 27, 2014
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Mature, Mystery, Seinen
• Authors: Kobayakawa Haruyoshi (Art), Kanekiru Kogitsune (Story)

The protagonist of Re: Monster is reborn as a goblin, which is the least powerful creature in this RPG game-like universe.

However, he is blessed with special abilities that other goblins don’t possess.

Although this gives him an edge, his relative lack of strength still puts him at a disadvantage.

Despite this disablity, he forms friendships on his journey and grows stronger with each challenge that comes his way, gradually gaining more supporters along the way.

08. Eighth Son, I Don’t Think So!

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Apr 19, 2015
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Isekai, Romance, Shounen
• Authors: Kusumoto Hiroki (Art), Y.A (Story)

One evening, a regular working guy went to bed but woke up in a child’s body instead.

This change was even more perplexing by his transition into a world unlike modern Japan—one where kings and queens were commonplace, like in medieval times.

It took him two years to become accustomed to living there, but fortunately, he was reincarnated as the son of an aristocratic family, which made his life much simpler.

They aren’t the richest noble family, but they have enough to properly raise a young child, giving him a proper education.

He remains alert and aware, no matter how luxurious his new life is. His world is filled with swords, sorcery, and threats that he does not comprehend. 

Could this boy become a hero in this strange land? What amazing feats will he achieve?

07. So I’m A Spider, So What?

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Dec 22, 2015 
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
• Authors: Kakashi Asahiro (Art), Baba Okina (Story)

The protagonist of our story has been reincarnated as a monster spider, which is an exciting twist.

What’s unique is that she can choose what species to evolve into.

This begs the question: how will they survive in this new world where spiders are weaker, and monsters lurk?

Despite having many skills, she is not overly powerful, so she often uses her wits instead of pushing through the plot.

Kumo Desu ga, Nanika? is a story about an average teenager who gets reincarnated as a spider.

At first glance, you might think this is a light-hearted manga, but it has plenty of action.

Look no further if you’re looking for a similar manga with an OP female lead.

Kumoko’s story is the one you’ve been searching for, except with the twist of her reincarnation as a spider.

06. Ascendance Of A Bookworm

• Volumes: 7
• Chapters: 47
• Status: Finished
• Published: Oct 30, 2015 – Jul 2, 2018
• Genre: Fantasy
• Authors: Suzuka (Art), Kazuki Miya (Story)

This manga is a must-read for those who can afford it. It stands out from the rest with its delightful characters and heartwarming plot.

The protagonist is a college girl who was obsessed with books in her previous life. Upon her death, she finds herself in a world of shockingly low literacy.

She cannot even purchase one in this fantasy world due to its low literacy rate.

Even more devastatingly, she cannot buy books; instead, she takes up librarianship and writes her own book.

This reincarnation manga has a female protagonist rather than the typical overpowered male character.

The selling point of this relaxing manga is its unique story, which follows a bookworm.

If you’re looking for a reincarnation-style story with a slice-of-life twist, this one should be immediately added to your list.

05. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: May 2, 2014
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Ecchi, Fantasy, Mature, Romance, Seinen
• Authors: Fujikawa, Yuka (Art), Rifujin na Magonote (Story)

Rudy, the offspring of renowned explorers, is able to wield formidable magic despite his tender age.

Even before he was able to learn how to read, he managed to cast a spell successfully. 

His parents are proud, yet those around him are frightened, believing that his powers can become uncontrollable and destructive.

However, his magical talents stem from his being reincarnated.

In his previous life, he was mistreated by those close to him, including family members.

He had never known love in his prior life, which caused him to lose all hope. One day, he was struck and killed by a careless truck driver.

After reincarnation in a world of magic, he vowed to himself that he would be better than his past life.

He now has caring parents and the possibility of joy; will this new life be more fulfilling than the one before?

Leaving behind his boring and harsh life, the main character promised himself he wouldn’t be the same pathetic person he was in his past life.

Mushoku Tensei made the “reborn” concept more popular through its work.

In our opinion, one of the best reincarnation manga that takes place in a magical world

04. Overlord

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Nov 26, 2014
• Genres: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Supernatural
• Authors: Miyama, Fugin (Art), Maruyama, Kugane (Story)

When a virtual game is about to be shut down, our main character arrives to witness the game’s final moments; however, he gets stuck in this virtual world.

Our protagonist for Overlord is not your typical Isekai hero; he’s a bad guy.

Trapped in the virtual world before it gets shut down, he already has powerful henchmen and a lack of empathy for humans. He goes so far as to experiment on them and obliterate entire species without pause.

The world-building is fantastic. Albedo, though a side character, is the most likable character in the series.

This is an interesting read if you have not encountered this series before.

Since the manga takes a different approach, this makes it one of the best reincarnation manga.

03. The Rising Of The Shield Hero

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Feb 5, 2014
• Genres: Action, Adventure, Cooking, Drama, Fantasy, Harem, Isekai, Romance, Shounen
• Authors: Aiya Kyu (Art), Aneko Yusagi (Story)

In The Rising of the Shield Hero, the fantasy world is presented with a global issue, and their royalty turns to “the heroes” for help—but only three of them are wanted.

While the other three heroes are praised, our protagonist is disregarded and treated as an outcast.

The Rising of the Shield Hero typifies humanity’s propensity for selfishness and power.

As the abandoned hero, he dwells in obscurity, his situation far removed from their glory.

This illustrates how people can quickly discard those they deem useless and even take drastic measures to make them suffer.

This reincarnation manga combines action, drama, and a dark fantasy world well.

02. Re:ZERO – Starting Life in Another World

• Volumes: 2
• Chapters: 11
• Status: Finished
• Published: Jun 27, 2014 – Feb 27, 2015
• Genres: Drama, Fantasy, Suspense, Psychological, Time Travel
• Authors: Matsuse Daichi (Art), Nagatsuki Tappei (Story)

The plot of Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu uses two tropes: Isekai and time loops.

This series was initially a light novel, which has since been adapted into a manga, providing more time to focus on the plot.

The protagonist is transported to a fantasy world where he believes he is the hero; however, this belief is quickly dispelled after his death within a few chapters.

He turns out to have an extraordinary power—the capacity to reset time and preserve memories—which causes him to be killed repeatedly.

To put it lightly, this series seems to have a unique storyline that explores how the protagonist creates new paths to avoid a bad ending.

Subaru has multiple lives, but the series does not feature a multi-reincarnation concept.

01. That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime

• Volumes: Unknown
• Chapters: Unknown
• Status: Publishing
• Published: Mar 26, 2015
• Genres: Award Winning, Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy, Shounen
• Authors: Kawakami Taiki (Art), Fuse (Story)

The main character in “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” differs from most Isekai protagonists in that they are neither humans nor especially powerful. 

The main character starts as a slime that cannot even see until they become friends with a dragon and are granted immense power.

This is what makes the series so enjoyable. Even though the main character becomes powerful soon enough, they have also felt the depths of powerlessness

They are neither pompous nor unintelligent; they can make sound judgments and are not afraid to get their hands dirty if needed.

One of the most remarkable Isekai manga, “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” features a remarkably overpowered protagonist.

Moreover, the idea of reincarnation is masterfully conveyed by the authors. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is one of the best reincarnation manga.