Are you a KomikPDF lover looking for your next thrilling read? If you’re a fan of monster manga, you’ve come to the right place. With so many incredible stories out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of manga like Monster that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Monster, the iconic manga by Naoki Urasawa, tells the story of a brilliant neurosurgeon who faces a moral dilemma after saving the life of a young boy who later becomes a serial killer. The story is a masterclass in suspense, exploring themes of good vs. evil, the nature of humanity, and the consequences of our actions. If you’re looking for a manga that will keep you guessing until the very end, look no further than Monster.
The manga listed below are all similar to Monster in terms of their dark themes, complex characters, and thought-provoking narratives. They offer a range of genres, from psychological thrillers to horror, and they all feature compelling monsters that will haunt your dreams. So buckle up, KomikPDF lovers, and prepare to be immersed in a world of darkness, danger, and unforgettable stories.
Synopsis: Monster
Dr. Kenzo Tenma is a brilliant neurosurgeon who chooses to save the life of a young boy, Johan Liebert, over the life of the mayor of Düsseldorf. Johan, however, is not an ordinary child. He is a sociopath, an individual incapable of empathy or guilt, who was turned into a monster by a series of traumatic events in his childhood. As Johan grows older, he becomes increasingly dangerous, leaving a trail of death and destruction in his wake. Tenma, tormented by his decision to save Johan, embarks on a long and arduous journey to stop him, facing countless obstacles and confronting his own humanity along the way.
The manga explores themes of morality, responsibility, and the nature of good and evil. It raises questions about the consequences of our choices and the impact they can have on the lives of others. Johan’s character is complex and deeply unsettling, forcing readers to confront the darkness that exists within all of us. Tenma’s journey is filled with suspense, action, and emotional depth, as he struggles to come to terms with the monstrous consequences of his actions.
Death Note
Both Death Note and Monster, popular manga series that delve into the complexities of morality and justice, share striking similarities. Both stories center on brilliant protagonists who, through a series of events, become entangled with an enigmatic antagonist. Light Yagami in Death Note and Kenzo Tenma in Monster, while possessing contrasting motivations, exhibit an unwavering dedication to their cause, leading them down a path with unforeseen consequences. Both protagonists face dilemmas that force them to question their own values and confront the blurred lines between good and evil. The captivating narrative structure, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes create a compelling experience for readers, leaving them pondering the moral implications of their choices and the potential consequences of power.
Synopsis Death Note
Light Yagami, a brilliant but bored high school student, finds a mysterious notebook called the Death Note. The notebook's instructions state that writing a person's name in it will cause their death. At first, Light is skeptical but, after using it to kill a criminal, he becomes obsessed with his new power and decides to use the Death Note to create a new world free of crime, becoming the infamous Kira. He believes that by becoming the god of the new world, he can bring peace and justice, even if it means taking lives.
However, his plan is soon thwarted by the brilliant detective L, who suspects Light as Kira and begins investigating him. The two engage in a cat-and-mouse game, each trying to outsmart the other. L's relentless pursuit forces Light to use increasingly desperate measures to protect his identity and achieve his twisted goals. The story unfolds as the tension rises, testing Light’s resolve and pushing him to the brink of madness.
20th Century Boys
Both 20th Century Boys and Monster are acclaimed manga series with similar themes and elements. Both stories feature a complex and unpredictable plot that delves into the dark side of humanity. They explore the potential for good and evil within individuals and the impact of childhood experiences on their future. The protagonists in both series are driven by a sense of justice and responsibility, but their actions often lead to unforeseen consequences. Both mangas are characterized by strong character development, intricate worldbuilding, and thought-provoking commentary on society and human nature.
Synopsis: 20th Century Boys
20th Century Boys is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Naoki Urasawa. It follows Kenji Endō, a seemingly ordinary man who is suddenly thrust into a global conspiracy involving a mysterious organization known as "Friend." As a child, Kenji and his friends created a "Friend" game, imagining a powerful entity that would one day conquer the world. Now, in the present, their childhood game has become a chilling reality. A series of strange and unsettling events begin to occur, including apocalyptic bombings, mysterious disappearances, and the spread of a deadly virus. Kenji, along with his former friends, must unravel the secrets of "Friend" and stop them from achieving their sinister goals.
The story spans decades, intertwining childhood memories with present-day dangers. Kenji and his friends, who now live vastly different lives, must overcome their individual struggles and work together to confront the threat. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a web of deception and betrayal, forcing them to question everything they thought they knew. The manga explores themes of friendship, loss, and the consequences of our actions, while building a complex and suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Erased
Both Erased and Monster are anime that explore the dark side of human nature and the ramifications of choices made in the past. Both series feature protagonists who are haunted by their past and are determined to make things right, even if it means going to extreme lengths. However, the two series differ in their tone and approach. Erased is a more emotional and character-driven story, while Monster is a more suspenseful and psychological thriller. Both series offer thought-provoking explorations of morality and justice, and both ultimately leave viewers with a sense of unease and a desire to contemplate the choices they would make in similar situations.
Synopsis Erased
Satoru Fujinuma is a young manga artist with a peculiar ability: he can travel back in time a few minutes before a dangerous event. He calls this ability "Revival." When a serial killer begins targeting young girls in his hometown, Satoru finds himself transported back to his childhood, 18 years in the past, just before a classmate, Kayo Hinazuki, is murdered. He realizes that this time, the killer has targeted him as well, but he has the chance to save Kayo and stop the murders before they happen.
Now Satoru must navigate the complexities of his childhood, trying to blend in and gain the trust of his classmates while trying to uncover the identity of the killer and protect Kayo from harm. However, as he digs deeper into the past, he uncovers secrets and dark truths about his childhood that he never knew, forcing him to confront his own past and the consequences of his actions.
Pluto
While Pluto, by Naoki Urasawa, is a manga with a distinct space opera aesthetic, its thematic core deeply resonates with Monster, another masterpiece by the same author. Both stories delve into the complexities of human nature, exploring the thin line between good and evil. Pluto, much like Monster, is a gripping narrative that questions the very essence of what it means to be human, dissecting the consequences of actions and the moral ambiguity that comes with making difficult choices. The manga’s exploration of humanity’s capacity for both incredible kindness and profound cruelty mirrors Monster’s deep dive into the psychology of a serial killer and the ripple effects of his actions. Both works feature strong protagonists who grapple with moral dilemmas, questioning their own motives and battling internal conflicts.
Synopsis Pluto
In a world where robots and humans coexist, the legendary detective Gesicht, a robot resembling the great detective Hercule Poirot, investigates a series of murders targeting the seven greatest robots in the world. The victims are all former participants in the "Great Robot Wars" of the past, a conflict that nearly wiped out humanity. As Gesicht digs deeper into the case, he uncovers a dark conspiracy that threatens to reignite the flames of war and plunge the world into chaos.
The story follows Gesicht's investigation as he unravels the motives behind the murders and confronts the mysterious killer, a powerful robot known as Pluto. The pursuit of justice leads Gesicht on a global adventure, where he encounters a cast of intriguing characters, including the brilliant scientist Dr. Tenma and the enigmatic young robot Atom. The fate of humanity hangs in the balance as Gesicht races against time to stop Pluto and prevent a devastating war.
Paranoia Agent
Both Paranoia Agent and Monster are psychological anime series that delve into the dark underbelly of human nature, exploring themes of identity, trauma, and the blurred lines between good and evil. While they tackle these themes in different ways, both series feature compelling characters with complex motivations and explore the impact of their actions on those around them. Paranoia Agent, with its surreal and often unsettling tone, examines the anxieties and fears of modern society, while Monster takes a more grounded approach, focusing on the psychological complexities of a single, seemingly monstrous individual. However, both series ultimately question the very nature of humanity and leave viewers pondering the true meaning of monstrosity.
Synopsis Paranoia Agent
Paranoia Agent is a psychological thriller anime series created by Satoshi Kon. It follows the story of Tsukiko Sagi, a middle-aged, struggling manga artist who is suddenly attacked by a mysterious boy wielding a golden bat. This attack, along with other similar incidents, sparks a wave of fear and panic throughout the city. As Tsukiko becomes caught up in the chaos, she begins to question her own sanity and the reality of the attacks.
The anime delves into the psychology of its characters, exploring themes of paranoia, fear, and the fragility of reality. As the mystery unfolds, viewers are presented with a series of interwoven narratives, each with its own unique perspective on the events. Through its surreal and unsettling visuals, Paranoia Agent challenges viewers to confront their own anxieties and the nature of truth in a world where reality can be easily distorted.
The Promised Neverland
While seemingly different on the surface, both The Promised Neverland and Monster delve into themes of human nature and morality, ultimately posing the question: what defines a monster? Both narratives feature children who are forced to confront the darkness of the world, challenging their naive innocence and forcing them to make difficult choices. The Promised Neverland focuses on children escaping a farm where they are raised as livestock, while Monster follows a surgeon who faces the consequences of saving a young boy who becomes a serial killer. Both stories highlight the blurred lines between good and evil, forcing readers to question the true nature of humanity.
Synopsis of The Promised Neverland
The Promised Neverland is a Japanese dark fantasy manga series written by Kaiu Shirai and illustrated by Posuka Demizu. The story follows a group of orphans living in a seemingly idyllic orphanage called Grace Field House. Under the care of their "mother", Isabella, they enjoy a carefree life with plenty of food and games. However, their world is shattered when they discover the horrifying truth: they are being raised as livestock for demons who feast on human flesh. The main characters, Emma, Norman, and Ray, must escape their idyllic prison and find a way to survive in the dangerous world outside.
The three orphans, with their exceptional intelligence and cunning, devise a plan to escape. They must outsmart Isabella and the demons, overcoming obstacles and facing difficult choices along the way. As they journey, they encounter other humans, some helpful, some hostile, and discover a world far more complex than they ever imagined. The Promised Neverland is a thrilling tale of survival, friendship, and the lengths to which one will go to protect those they love.
Tokyo Ghoul
While both Tokyo Ghoul and Monster are set in different worlds, they share a fascinating thematic connection. Both stories explore the complex nature of humanity and the blurry line between good and evil. The protagonists, Ken Kaneki from Tokyo Ghoul and Tenma from Monster, are forced to confront their own morality as they navigate a world filled with danger and violence. Both series delve into the psychological complexities of their characters, forcing them to make difficult choices that shape their destinies.
Synopsis of Tokyo Ghoul
Tokyo Ghoul is a dark fantasy manga series that follows the story of Ken Kaneki, a college student who is attacked by a ghoul, a creature that feeds on human flesh. After the attack, Kaneki is transformed into a half-ghoul himself, forced to live a dangerous double life. He struggles to adapt to his new existence while hiding his true nature from those around him, particularly his close friend Rize Kamishiro. As Kaneki navigates the complex world of ghouls and humans, he is confronted with moral dilemmas and the harsh realities of a society where the lines between good and evil are blurred.
In the midst of this chaos, Kaneki finds himself drawn into the conflict between the CCG (Commission of Counter Ghoul), a government organization dedicated to exterminating ghouls, and various ghoul factions. He becomes entangled in a web of conspiracies and power struggles, facing difficult choices that will shape his destiny and the fate of both humans and ghouls. The series delves into themes of identity, survival, and the nature of humanity, exploring the psychological and emotional turmoil of a young man caught between two worlds.
Attack on Titan
While on the surface, Attack on Titan and Monster appear to be drastically different stories, they share a surprising amount of thematic depth and narrative complexity. Both explore the dark side of humanity, forcing their protagonists to confront the brutal realities of war and the ethical dilemmas it presents. Attack on Titan features Eren Yeager, a young man consumed by his desire for revenge against the monstrous Titans who destroyed his world, while Monster centers on Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a brilliant neurosurgeon haunted by the consequences of his past actions. Both narratives question the nature of good and evil, exploring the potential for darkness within even the most well-intentioned individuals. Ultimately, both Attack on Titan and Monster offer profound reflections on the human condition and the choices we make in the face of adversity.
Synopsis Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan is a post-apocalyptic dark fantasy manga series set in a world where humanity lives within three concentric walls to protect themselves from gigantic humanoid creatures known as Titans. Eren Yeager, the main protagonist, vows to exterminate all Titans after witnessing the gruesome death of his mother at the hands of the Colossal Titan, a 60-meter-tall Titan that breaches the outermost wall. Eren enlists in the Survey Corps, an elite military unit tasked with battling the Titans outside the walls, along with his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman and his childhood friend Armin Arlert.
The series delves into the mysteries surrounding the Titans, their origins, and the true nature of the world beyond the walls. It explores themes of survival, sacrifice, war, and the complex nature of humanity. As the characters confront increasingly dangerous threats and unravel the secrets of their past, they must grapple with difficult choices and the consequences of their actions. Attack on Titan is a thrilling and emotionally resonant story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
Billy Bat
Both Billy Bat and Monster are manga series that explore the dark side of humanity. They delve into themes of identity, morality, and the consequences of our actions. Both series feature complex and morally ambiguous characters, as well as a captivating blend of historical fiction and psychological thriller elements. While Billy Bat focuses on the rise of Nazism in 1930s Germany, Monster follows the journey of a brilliant neurosurgeon haunted by a past mistake. Both stories raise questions about the nature of good and evil, the power of the human mind, and the enduring impact of our decisions.
Synopsis Billy Bat
Billy Bat is a manga series created by Naoki Urasawa, known for his works like Monster and 20th Century Boys. It tells the story of Billy Bat, a struggling manga artist in 1960s Japan who gets involved in a series of strange and mysterious events. One day, he discovers a manuscript that appears to be the first draft of a superhero comic. It features a character named "Billy Bat," a masked hero with a strange resemblance to Billy himself. As he digs deeper into the mystery, he encounters a cast of colorful characters, including a former gangster turned businessman, a beautiful and mysterious woman, and a conspiracy theorist with a passion for American culture.
The story soon takes a darker turn as Billy realizes that the manuscript holds a deeper significance than he initially thought. It appears to be connected to a real-life conspiracy involving the CIA, the Cold War, and even the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Billy's life is turned upside down as he becomes entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and danger, forcing him to confront the truth about himself, his work, and the world around him.
Perfect Blue
Both Perfect Blue and Monster explore the dark and disturbing underbelly of the human psyche, delving into the complexities of identity and the blurring lines between reality and illusion. Both anime delve into themes of obsession, manipulation, and the destructive nature of unchecked desire. While Perfect Blue examines the psychological torment of a young pop idol struggling to maintain her sanity amidst a stalker’s obsession, Monster focuses on a brilliant neurosurgeon haunted by a past surgical error that creates a monstrous entity. Both stories ultimately question the nature of good and evil, suggesting that the line between them can be incredibly thin.
Synopsis Perfect Blue
Mima Kirigoe is a popular pop idol who decides to retire from the music industry and pursue a career as an actress. However, her decision is met with resistance from her fans, who are unable to let go of their beloved idol. Mima begins to receive disturbing messages and threatening phone calls, as well as experiencing strange hallucinations. As her mental state deteriorates, she becomes increasingly convinced that someone is trying to sabotage her career and life.
Mima's real-life struggles are mirrored in a fictional television drama she is starring in, where she plays a character who is stalked and harassed by a fan. The lines between reality and fiction begin to blur as Mima's stalker becomes more aggressive, culminating in a terrifying climax that forces her to confront the darkest parts of herself and the true nature of her obsession with her fans.
Black Butler
Both Black Butler and Monster are dark fantasy manga series that explore themes of morality, corruption, and the nature of good and evil. Both series feature compelling characters with complex motivations, often caught in the middle of a power struggle between opposing forces. In Black Butler, Ciel Phantomhive makes a pact with the demon Sebastian Michaelis to avenge his parents’ death, while in Monster, Dr. Kenzo Tenma faces a morally ambiguous choice that leads him to confront a monster he created. Despite their different settings and genres, both series share a similar focus on the consequences of power and the struggles of characters grappling with their own internal demons.
Synopsis Black Butler
Black Butler, also known as Kuroshitsuji, is a dark fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Yana Toboso. The story follows Ciel Phantomhive, a young Earl who makes a pact with Sebastian Michaelis, a demon who serves as his butler. After his parents are murdered by a cult, Ciel vows revenge and contracts with Sebastian to help him achieve his goals. Sebastian is bound by the contract to serve Ciel's every whim, and in return, Ciel will give him his soul.
The story unfolds as Ciel and Sebastian investigate various crimes and conspiracies, with Sebastian using his supernatural abilities to protect Ciel and solve mysteries. The series delves into themes of revenge, loyalty, and the nature of good and evil. It features a diverse cast of characters, including other demons, noble families, and members of the royal court.
Ghost in the Shell
Both Ghost in the Shell and Monster, despite their vastly different settings and aesthetics, delve into similar thematic territory. Both explore the nature of consciousness and identity, asking complex questions about what makes us human. In Ghost in the Shell, Major Motoko Kusanagi grapples with her own artificiality and the blurry line between machine and human, while in Monster, Dr. Kenzo Tenma confronts the ethical implications of his actions and the consequences of blurring the lines between good and evil. Both series showcase compelling characters driven by a profound sense of moral ambiguity, questioning the very nature of humanity and the choices we make.
Synopsis Ghost in the Shell
Ghost in the Shell is a cyberpunk manga series created by Masamune Shirow. It follows the adventures of Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg officer in the Public Security Section 9, a special task force that combats cybercrime and terrorism. In a future where technology has advanced to the point where humans can seamlessly integrate with machines, Major Kusanagi is tasked with investigating a mysterious hacker who calls themselves "The Puppet Master."
As she investigates, Major Kusanagi begins to question her own identity and the nature of consciousness. The series explores themes of humanity, technology, identity, and the nature of the soul. The manga's intricate world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes have made it a landmark work in the cyberpunk genre, influencing numerous other works in film, television, and video games.
Gantz
While seemingly disparate in setting and tone, both Gantz and Monster delve into the profound darkness of the human condition, exploring the psychological complexities of good and evil. Both mangas feature protagonists forced into a fight against seemingly invincible, monstrous entities, but the true horror lies in the characters themselves. Gantz, with its sci-fi action, explores the brutal realities of survival and the descent into savagery when faced with overwhelming odds. Monster, rooted in a chilling psychological thriller, examines the morality of choices and the consequences of playing God. Both series delve into the ambiguity of human nature, leaving readers questioning the lines between hero and villain, ultimately prompting reflection on the nature of our own darkness.
Synopsis Gantz
Gantz is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Hiroya Oku. It follows the story of a group of recently deceased people who are resurrected and forced to participate in a deadly game. The game involves hunting down and killing aliens that have infiltrated Earth. Players are given advanced weaponry and suits that enhance their abilities, but they are also given a strict set of rules and a limited time to complete their missions. If they fail, they are eliminated and their souls are sent back to the afterlife.
As the game progresses, the players learn more about the origins and purpose of Gantz, and the true nature of the aliens they are fighting. They also develop relationships with each other, forming alliances and rivalries as they struggle to survive in this dangerous and unpredictable game. Gantz is a dark and violent manga series that explores themes of survival, morality, and the nature of humanity.
Berserk
Both Berserk and Monster are dark fantasy manga that explore the complexities of human nature and the darkness that lurks within it. Both series feature morally ambiguous characters who are forced to confront the consequences of their actions and the horrors of the world around them. Berserk focuses on Guts, a lone warrior haunted by his past and fighting against the forces of darkness, while Monster follows the story of Dr. Tenma, a skilled neurosurgeon who is forced to confront the monster he created. Both series are known for their graphic violence, mature themes, and complex characters that leave a lasting impact on readers.
Synopsis Berserk
Berserk is a dark fantasy manga series created by Kentaro Miura, following the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary known as the Black Swordsman. Guts is a brutal and skilled warrior haunted by his past and his desire for revenge against the God Hand, a group of demonic entities who control the fate of mankind. Guts is aided by Puck, a small, mischievous elf, and Casca, his former lover and fellow mercenary.
The story revolves around Guts's struggle for survival in a world filled with demons, monsters, and human cruelty. The series explores themes of violence, revenge, betrayal, and the struggle for hope in a dark and unforgiving world. Berserk is known for its graphic violence, complex characters, and intricate world-building, making it one of the most influential manga series of all time.
Akira
Both Akira and Monster are renowned manga series that explore complex themes of societal anxieties and the dark consequences of scientific advancements. Akira, set in a dystopian future, depicts the struggle of a young man who discovers his extraordinary abilities amidst the chaos and corruption of a powerful government. Monster, on the other hand, follows a brilliant neurosurgeon who grapples with the ethical implications of his work after saving a young boy who later becomes a dangerous serial killer. While Akira focuses on the impact of technology and the potential for human destruction, Monster delves into the nature of good and evil, questioning whether humanity can truly be saved. Both narratives explore the fragility of human nature and the consequences of unchecked power.
Synopsis of Akira
Set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo, Akira tells the story of Shotaro Kaneda, a biker gang leader, and his friend Tetsuo Shima. Their lives are forever changed after Tetsuo is caught in a devastating motorcycle accident, which triggers the awakening of latent psychic powers within him. This powerful ability draws the attention of the authorities, who are trying to control Tetsuo and his potential for destruction.
As Tetsuo's powers grow, he becomes increasingly unstable and dangerous. The government, led by the mysterious Colonel, attempts to contain him, but their efforts only serve to fuel Tetsuo's rage and unleash a catastrophic event that threatens to obliterate Tokyo. Kaneda, aware of the potential for global destruction, races against time to stop Tetsuo and his uncontrollable powers before they consume him and the world.