Overlord is an ongoing manga adapted from Kugane Maruyama’s light novels, illustrated by Hugin Miyama, with 17+ volumes as of 2026. Ainz Ooal Gown (formerly the salary worker Momonga) is the last player in the MMORPG Yggdrasil when it shuts down — but instead of disconnecting, he is transported into the game world with all his abilities intact. He is now one of the most powerful beings in the world, and must maintain the facade of an all-knowing overlord while actually improvising.
Use the sections below for the full reading order, volume list, and follow-up recommendations.
All Overlord Manga Volumes in Order
Read in publication order from Vol. 1 to the latest.
- Overlord, Vol. 1 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 2 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 3 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 4 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 5 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 6 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 7 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 8 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 9 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 10 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 11 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 12 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 13 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 14 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 15 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 16 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 17 (manga)
- Overlord, Vol. 18 (manga)
Overlord Manga Reading Order
Early Kingdom Arc (Volumes 1–8)
Ainz explores his new world, encounters adventurers, and begins establishing his power base from the Great Tomb of Nazarick. The comedy of Ainz improvising while his loyal NPCs (now sentient) assume he has a brilliant master plan drives early volumes.
Kingdom / Empire Arcs (Volumes 8–17+)
Ainz’s political machinations grow into full geopolitical manipulation. The Massacre at Katze Plains arc delivers a chilling demonstration of Ainz’s power that recontextualizes the series’ moral framework.
Where to Read Overlord Manga
Manga Plus offers free access to the first and latest chapters. Physical volumes are available from the publisher. We recommend buying official volumes to support the creator.
Frequently Asked Questions About Overlord Manga
- What order should I read Overlord? Read the manga in publication order, Vol. 1 to the latest. Some readers prefer the light novels for more detail.
- How many Overlord manga volumes are there? As of 2026, the Overlord manga has 17+ volumes. The series is ongoing.
- Is Overlord manga or light novel better? The light novels are more complete and detailed; the manga condenses some arcs. Both are good; start with the manga for accessibility.