Best-written anime characters are those who have a touching story, a character development, or an unattainable place in the story. From breathtaking action scenes to heart-wrenching dramas, anime has something for everyone. But what really sets anime apart from other forms of entertainment are the characters. In this blog, we will explore some of the best-written anime characters of all time!
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9. Shinji Ikari
Starting with the protagonist of Neon Genesis Evangelion, we have Shinji Ikari, a high-school boy trying to save the world. Shinji is a complex character with deep-seated psychological issues stemming from his traumatic childhood experiences.
He doesn’t always make the “right” choices, and he doesn’t always act heroically, which makes him a more human and relatable character. Over the course of the series, Shinji experiences significant character growth, which is a hallmark of well-written characters. Overall, Shinji is one of the best-written anime characters, without a doubt.
8. Killua Zoldyck
Moving on, we have Killua Zoldyck from Hunter x Hunter. Killua was initially an emotionless and ruthless assassin, but as the story progresses, his emotional depth and vulnerability are revealed, making him a more relatable character.
Killua comes from a family of skilled assassins, and we explore his upbringing in-depth throughout the series. His backstory not only adds depth to his character but also provides insight into the complex dynamics of the Zoldyck family. With all of the above, Killua is definitely one of the best-written anime characters of all time.
7. Reigen Arataka
Next on, we came up with Reigen Arataka who serves as a mentor to the main character, Kageyama Shigeyo. He is often portrayed as a con artist who takes advantage of Mob’s psychic abilities to make money, but he also has a compassionate side and genuinely cares for Mob’s well-being.
Throughout the series, Reigen undergoes significant character development, particularly in his relationship with Mob. He learns to appreciate Mob’s abilities and becomes a more supportive and caring mentor.
6. Koro Sensei
The #6 on the list is Koro-Sensei from Assassination Classroom. He is a friendly and caring teacher, but he also has a ruthless and dangerous side when it comes to protecting his students.
Koro Sensei’s backstory and motivations are explored in-depth throughout the series, revealing the tragedy of his past and his desire for redemption. His quotes are often memorable and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
5. Thorfinn
Moving on, we have Thorfinn, the main character of Vinland Saga. Thorfinn’s character is shaped by the trauma of losing his father, which is explored in-depth throughout the series. He starts off as a vengeful and bloodthirsty warrior, seeking revenge against the man who killed his father.
However, over time, he begins to question his motives and learns the value of peace and forgiveness. Thorfinn’s character changes in his journey from killing people just for revenge to “I have no enemies” showing he is one of the best-written anime characters.
4. Monkey D. Luffy
The Next one on the list is Luffy, a joyful character and the captain of Straw Hat Pirates. Luffy’s personality is unique, with a mix of humor, determination, and a childlike sense of wonder. He is often portrayed as carefree and silly, but he also has a strong sense of justice and a willingness to do whatever it takes to protect his friends.
The main “power” of Luffy is his ability to gather people around him. He learns from his experiences and becomes a better leader and friend to his crewmates. He is determined, optimistic, and carefree, with an unwavering desire to become the King of the Pirates.
3. Eren Jaeger
Entering the top three, we have Eren Jaeger as #3 on our list. He starts off as a determined but reckless young man seeking revenge against the Titans who killed his mother. He is not just a simple hero or villain, but a character struggling to make sense of a complicated and often brutal world.
Eren’s character is shaped by the trauma he has experienced, both personally and as a member of a society under attack. His trauma is a significant factor in his character development, and it adds depth and complexity to his personality.
2. Light Yagami
Moving Forward, we have Light Yamagi as #2 on our list. He is a brilliant and ambitious high school student who discovers a powerful supernatural tool that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it.
Light’s character is morally complex, with a range of emotions and motivations that make him more relatable. He is not just a simple hero or villain, but a character struggling to justify his actions and beliefs. Light’s character is psychologically complex, with a range of personality traits and mental states that make him more interesting. Light Yagami, is a formidable character who is also one of the best-written characters in anime.
1. Guts
Last, but not the least, we have Guts from Berserk as our #1. He is a mercenary warrior who is haunted by his traumatic childhood and violent past.
Guts’ character is shaped by the trauma he has experienced, both in his childhood and as a soldier. His trauma is a significant factor in his character development, and it adds depth and complexity to his personality.
Overall, Guts is one of the best-written anime characters in anime and manga because of his character development, moral complexity, trauma, relationships, and struggle for identity.
