Demon Slayer, which began its serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2016, has demonstrated a remarkable journey in the competitive landscape of manga publishing. The magazine operates under a rigorous system where the order of series is heavily influenced by reader feedback and editorial evaluations. This means that the position of a series can give fans insight into its popularity and overall standing.
Though specific results of reader surveys are typically not disclosed, fans closely observe the placement of series within the magazine. Series closer to the front cover are often regarded as performing well, while those towards the back may be at risk of cancellation.
Data gathered from the Japan’s Media Arts Database (MADB Lab) indicates that even prior to the release of its anime adaptation in 2019, Demon Slayer was already climbing the rankings. Following the success of the anime, it consistently maintained a position among the top three titles in the magazine, affirming its status as a flagship series.
Notably, by 2017, just a year into its serialization, Demon Slayer had established itself in a strong mid-tier position amidst heavy competition from established titles such as One Piece, Haikyu!!, My Hero Academia, and The Promised Neverland. This achievement highlights its initial appeal even before any audiovisual adaptation, showcasing its potential to resonate with fans.
In a landscape packed with formidable series, Demon Slayer’s rise illustrates its strong narrative and artistic execution, which not only captured the attention of readers but effectively translated into broader success through its anime adaptation. This trajectory offers hope for emerging manga creators, demonstrating that a compelling story can find its audience and thrive even in a competitive environment.