Yukinobu Tatsu’s Dandadan has taken the manga world by storm, blending sci-fi, horror, comedy, and romance into a uniquely chaotic and captivating series. What began as a quirky story about two high schoolers with opposing beliefs in the supernatural has evolved into a sprawling adventure filled with memorable characters and absolutely bonkers scenarios. 2024 was a particularly explosive year for the series, with the anime adaptation premiering to widespread acclaim and the manga itself reaching new heights of absurdity and creativity. Here are 10 chapters from 2024 that demonstrate why Dandadan is arguably the wildest manga currently being published.
The Beginning of a New World
Chapter 135: She Went and Entered It
The first chapter of Dandadan to be released in 2024, Chapter 135, marked the beginning of the Danmanra arc. In “She Went and Entered It”, Momo falls into the diorama world of Danmanra, a realm full of fantastical landscapes and bizarre creatures. The chapter is a visual feast, with meticulously detailed panels showcasing the strange and wonderful scenery, from ruined castles to fields made of desserts. This chapter sets the stage for a new adventure, promising readers an experience as awe-inspiring as it is unpredictable. The shift into this new world highlights the manga’s ability to continuously reinvent itself.
Chapter 138: Start Game
Dandadan’s action sequences have always been a highlight of the manga, and chapter 138, titled “Start Game,” delivers an exceptionally creative and tense battle. This chapter sees Unji and Momo facing off against the Death Pâtissier boss within the Danmanra world. The fight is a masterclass in combining imaginative concepts with high-octane action, showcasing the series’ signature chaotic energy. The unpredictable nature of the battles keeps readers on edge, while the sheer absurdity of the situation provides endless entertainment.
High Stakes and Emotional Turmoil
Chapter 159: A Confession Amidst Chaos
Chapter 159 marked a significant milestone in Dandadan’s romantic subplot. In this chapter, Okarun finally confesses his feelings for Momo as he is about to ascend from the cursed trunk’s world. This long-awaited moment is executed with heart-rending drama, making it one of the most highly anticipated scenes in the entire series. This chapter underscores the series’ ability to balance its wild and over-the-top action with genuine emotional depth. The confession of love adds another layer to the character’s development and investment, proving that the series is more than just chaotic battles.
Chapter 178: The Power of a God
“The Power of a God” highlights the strength of Seiko Ayase, an experienced medium, in a wild fight against the Minotaur. Partnering with cursed object collectors Payase and Kashimoto, Seiko demonstrates her impressive abilities in a battle that underscores the series’ broader occult world. This chapter serves as a reminder that there are many powerful figures beyond the main characters, adding layers of complexity and intrigue. It also showcases Dandadan’s ability to delve into its supporting characters and the diverse powers they possess.
Absurdity and Spectacle
Chapter 148: A Culinary Clash
In Chapter 148, the absurd nature of Dandadan is on full display. This chapter features a battle against a sentient, malevolent cake, complete with frosting-based attacks. It’s a perfect example of how Dandadan takes seemingly mundane objects and transforms them into formidable foes, showcasing the author’s limitless creativity. This battle highlights the series’ ability to blend horror, comedy, and action seamlessly, creating a truly unique experience.
Chapter 152: The Great Escape
Chapter 152 showcases the chaotic energy that defines Dandadan. This chapter follows the characters as they attempt a daring escape from a bizarre and otherworldly location, involving convoluted plans and absurd obstacles. The sense of urgency and unpredictability makes this chapter a thrilling rollercoaster ride, keeping readers engaged with its sheer audacity. The imaginative solutions the characters come up with, despite being nonsensical, add to the charm of the manga.
Character Growth and Unexpected Twists
Chapter 142: Unlikely Alliances
“Unlikely Alliances” highlights the series’ ability to bring together disparate characters in unexpected ways. This chapter sees the heroes forced to team up with unlikely allies to overcome a seemingly insurmountable challenge. The interactions between these characters, each with their own quirks and agendas, make for a compelling and hilarious chapter. This emphasizes the themes of friendship and cooperation, even when they seem impossible, demonstrating the versatility of Dandadan’s narratives.
Chapter 167: A Blast From the Past
Chapter 167 introduces a plot twist that sends the story in an unexpected direction. This chapter includes a shocking reveal about one of the characters, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to the overall plot. The ability of the series to continually subvert expectations and add new elements keeps the narrative fresh and engaging. The new revelations add depth to the characters and the broader world they inhabit.
Visual Spectacle and Creative Battles
Chapter 171: Spirited Combat
Chapter 171 showcases Dandadan’s incredible visual style. This chapter features a fast-paced and visually stunning battle that highlights the series’ exceptional artwork and dynamic fight choreography. The detailed panels and the creative use of paneling make this chapter a visual treat. The focus on action demonstrates the series’ ability to keep readers engaged with its constant evolution and visually pleasing battles.
Chapter 175: Beyond Reality
Chapter 175 pushes the boundaries of the series even further, with a concept that stretches the imagination. It’s a testament to the creative team’s ability to introduce new concepts and visuals, ensuring that every chapter offers something unique. This chapter solidifies the manga’s position as a series that continuously surprises and delights its audience.
Dandadan’s Rise in Popularity
Dandadan has become a standout series in the shonen manga landscape, lauded for its unique blend of genres, memorable characters, and exceptional artwork. The manga has garnered significant attention, amassing over 5 million copies in circulation by December 2024. The anime adaptation has further propelled the series into the spotlight, reaching top rankings on streaming platforms. The series’ popularity is also reflected in its high view counts on digital platforms, with over 360 million views on Shonen Jump+ by November 2023.
The success of Dandadan lies in its ability to balance absurdity with genuine emotional depth, keeping readers both entertained and invested. The series’ ability to seamlessly blend horror, sci-fi, comedy, and romance makes it a truly unique experience that sets it apart from its contemporaries. With its constantly evolving narrative and imaginative world, Dandadan has cemented its place as one of the most exciting and unpredictable manga series currently running. As the series continues, it will undoubtedly continue to surprise and entertain its ever-growing fanbase.
