The Buzz List: 2008's 20 Most Anticipated Manga

2007 was a great year for manga, but there's lots to look forward to in 2008. According to ICV2, we can expect to see 1,731 new volumes of manga releases this year, an 18% increase over 2007. But what are the titles that are generating the most pre-publication buzz?

I'll admit my process here isn't terribly scientific, but based on the previews I've seen at conventions, in magazines and online blogs, here's my top 20 manga worth buying list for 2008. See previews, plot synopses and cover art of the graphic novels, books and magazines that I'm most looking forward to reading in 2008.

Some top picks? Gantz by Hiroya Oku, Slam Dunk by Takehiko Inoue, plus Bat Manga, Black Jack and an array of shojo, shonen and seinen manga, manga-related magazines and books. Check 'em out and see if it gets you marking your calendars or pre-ordering your copies today.

So what's on your 2008 most wanted list? Add your comments below, or in the forums!

Image credit: © Hiroya Oka / Dark Horse