D.Gray-man

D.Gray-man began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2004, marking the debut of manga artist Katsura Hoshino. The series emerged during a period when dark fantasy and gothic aesthetics were gaining traction in the shonen demographic, blending traditional supernatural tropes with Hoshino’s distinctive, detailed mechanical designs. The narrative follows Allen Walker, an exorcist in a nineteenth-century fictional setting who battles the Akuma, creatures created from human souls by the series' primary antagonist, the Millennium Earl.

The visual design of the series is heavily influenced by Victorian-era fashion and gothic architecture, creating a somber, atmospheric backdrop for the intense combat sequences. Hoshino’s art style evolved significantly over the years, characterized by sharp linework and intricate character designs that emphasize the melancholy nature of the protagonists. Despite experiencing several extended hiatuses due to the author's health, the series maintained a dedicated following and transitioned to Jump Square to accommodate its complex, darker storytelling trajectory.