遊☆戯☆王 Yu-Gi-Oh!

Serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump from 1996 to 2004, Yu-Gi-Oh! is the original manga that launched a global phenomenon, blending ancient Egyptian mysticism with high-stakes card battles. Created by Kazuki Takahashi, the series follows a shy boy who solves an ancient puzzle, unleashing a darker alter ego that challenges opponents in games of shadow and consequence. Its 38 collected volumes established the core lore and dueling mechanics that would later inspire the iconic trading card game and anime, making it a foundational pillar of 2000s pop culture.