Slice of life manga typically exude a cozy and light-hearted ambiance, often associated with the iyashikei subgenre, known for its comforting and soothing narratives. The popularity of slice of life manga stems from its ability to provide solace and relaxation, making it a beloved genre for many readers.
While most slice of life manga tend to focus on heartwarming stories, some venture into deeper and darker themes. These narratives maintain the essence of everyday life but intricately explore mature and unsettling subjects. Here are some of the top dark-themed slice of life manga, ranked based on their MyAnimeList scores.
8 School-Live! (MAL Score: 8.07)
Offering Support Amidst Despair
- Created by Norimitsu Kaihou and illustrated by Sadoru Chiba
- Serialized in Manga Time Kirara Forward
- Consists of 12 volumes
The story follows Yuki Takeya and her companions Kurumi, Yuri, and Miki, members of the School Living Club at Megurigaoka Private High School. Yuki, deluded into thinking they lead an ideal school life, is unaware that they are actually surviving in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Her detachment from reality poses a challenge to her friends striving to preserve her illusion.
School-Live! uniquely blends elements of slice of life with horror, juxtaposing typical school activities with the grim backdrop of a zombie-infested setting. This stark duality creates a truly exceptional narrative experience.
7 Twin Spica (MAL Score: 8.15)
Navigating Dreams Through Tragedy
- Penned and illustrated by Kou Yaginuma
- Originally featured in Monthly Comic Flapper
- Spans across 16 volumes
Asumi Kamogawa, fueled by her aspiration to become an astronaut, persists in pursuing her spacefaring dreams despite the tragic aftermath of the Lion rocket's calamitous launch in Yuigahama. Despite facing skepticism due to her stature, Asumi remains resolute in her ambition, guided by the enigmatic Mr. Lion.
Twin Spica narrates a sci-fi tale of a young girl's odyssey through astronaut training. While the storyline is at times uplifting, it equally delves into the hardships and afflictions that shape the characters' lives.
6 Solanin (MAL Score: 8.22)
Embracing Life's Uncertainties
- Crafted by Inio Asano, both in writing and illustration
- Serialized in Weekly Young Sunday
- Comprises 2 volumes
Meiko and Taneda, a young couple stuck in uninspiring jobs, embark on a journey of self-discovery. While Taneda dreams of rock stardom, Meiko takes a leap by resigning from her job, setting the couple on an uncertain path.
Solanin unfolds as a poignant coming-of-age account, following young adults grappling with life's uncertainties. Amidst mundane moments, a tragic event reshapes their perspectives on living authentically.