14 Anime Battles Featuring Non-Binary Warriors as MVPs

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Anime is now featuring more characters who don’t fit traditional gender roles, and these characters are often powerful fighters. They frequently have special skills that shake up the usual power structures in their worlds. This collection showcases some of the most exciting battles where these characters – whether heroes or villains – demonstrated their strength, smarts, or courage, proving they could be the most important players on the battlefield.

‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ (2018–Present)

Rimuru Tempest confronts a desperate Orc army, a conflict rooted in differing beliefs and magical abilities. Using his unique skill, Rimuru doesn’t just defeat the Orc Lord, but also purifies him of his past wrongdoings by absorbing his attacks. This fight demonstrates Rimuru’s compassionate leadership, showing how he transforms foes into friends through empathy. Ultimately, this victory establishes the Jura Tempest Federation as a significant force in this fantastical world.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Inside a shadowy cathedral, Crona battles Maka Albarn while controlled by the witch Medusa and the power of Black Blood. Crona, wielding the demon sword Ragnarok, unleashes wild and destructive attacks on Maka. Eventually, Maka connects with the frightened child hidden within Crona’s turmoil using their shared soul energy. The fight doesn’t end with a defeat, but with a powerful emotional connection.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Yamato battles Kaido on top of the Skull Dome, showcasing incredible strength and Haki. Declaring themself as Oden, Yamato uses the power of a legendary wolf fruit to exchange powerful attacks with the Emperor of the Sea. This fight is crucial, weakening Kaido while Luffy prepares for the ultimate showdown. Yamato is determined to liberate Wano Country from a long period of oppression.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Hange Zoë bravely led an attack against the colossal Titans at the walls, hoping to create a window for their allies to escape. With incredible skill, they used Thunder Spears to destroy several massive Titans, sacrificing themselves to allow the remaining scouts to reach the flying boat and escape the devastating destruction. Hange’s selfless act perfectly embodies the spirit of the Survey Corps and their dedication to humanity’s future.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Neferpitou and Kite meet in a thick forest, where Neferpitou wants to see how strong they’ve become with their Nen abilities. Neferpitou immediately shows an intimidating presence, making it clear they are far more powerful than Kite. Kite then makes a selfless choice, giving his life so Gon and Killua can get away. This unseen battle proves Neferpitou is a major danger throughout the rest of the story.

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009–2010)

Deep underground, Colonel Roy Mustang fights Envy in a fiery battle. Envy transforms into a massive green creature, but Mustang’s powerful fire alchemy proves too strong. He relentlessly burns Envy down, shrinking the enemy until they are small and defenseless. This fight shows how damaging revenge can be and reveals the weak core of the sin of jealousy.

‘Land of the Lustrous’ (2017)

After receiving new, stronger arms and legs, Phosphophyllite bravely fights off the Lunarians. Moving faster than ever before, Phos quickly defeats the cloud hunters, saving the other gems from capture. This battle represents a huge change for Phos, who goes from being a hesitant bystander to a powerful warrior. It’s a turning point where Phos begins to lose their naiveté and undergoes a significant physical change.

‘Naruto’ (2002–2007)

It was awful watching Orochimaru fight the Third Hokage. He trapped Hiruzen in a barrier and then, unbelievably, summoned the First and Second Hokages – as reanimated corpses! – just to mess with his old teacher. It was a brutal, psychological attack. Hiruzen was forced to use a forbidden jutsu, the Reaper Death Seal, and even though he managed to sever Orochimaru’s arms, it came at a terrible cost. The fight ended with Orochimaru retreating, saving the village, but tragically, it took the Third Hokage’s life. It was a bittersweet victory, honestly, and I still remember how heartbroken everyone was.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Bon Clay bravely stayed behind at Impel Down to distract Warden Magellan, allowing the other prisoners to escape through the Gates of Justice. Using his Devil Fruit power, he transformed into the warden and gave the order to open the gates. This incredibly selfless act meant certain death for the already weakened Bon Clay, as he faced a powerful enemy who wielded poison. His sacrifice is remembered as one of the most moving demonstrations of friendship in the series.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–Present)

During the Shibuya Incident, Uraume quickly froze many sorcerers using a technique called Frost Calm. This powerful, ancient curse user easily stopped both Choso and Yuji Itadori, clearing a path for Sukuna. Uraume’s ice control is so accurate they can break someone’s limbs without instantly killing them. This show of strength proves Uraume is a devoted and formidable ally to the King of Curses.

‘Tiger & Bunny’ (2011)

I was absolutely captivated watching Fire Emblem in this incredible stadium battle! Seeing them go up against all those powerful androids was intense. Our hero really shone, using some amazing fire-based attacks to keep everyone safe and hold the line. And you know, Nathan Seymour? I always thought of him as a bit of a showman, but he really proved his strength and toughness in that fight. It just goes to show, Fire Emblem is a true veteran who can take on anything.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam 00’ (2007–2009)

Tieria Erde fights for Celestial Being, piloting the powerful Virtue Gundam against the armies of the world’s strongest nations. He uses the GN Bazooka to destroy large groups of enemy mobile suits with a single shot. When the situation is dire, Tieria unveils the hidden Nadleeh Gundam, shutting down the enemy’s systems. This battle showcases Tieria’s skill as a pilot and the incredible power of the Gundams he commands.

‘Darwin’s Game’ (2020)

Sui, along with the spirit of her late brother Souta, engages in a strategic fight against the Florist in a city environment. They can switch who controls their body, letting them use water to both defend and launch freezing attacks. This allows them to quickly immobilize the Florist’s armor with ice while staying agile, a fighting style that surprises their seasoned opponent.

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ (2019–Present)

When giant magical beasts attacked during the Walter Park crisis, Opera intervened to protect the students. Instead of using spectacular magic, Opera relied on skillful, close-quarters combat to defeat the monsters, executing each move with precision to overwhelm and embarrass them. This fight showcased the reason even powerful demons fear Opera.

Tell us which of these powerful warriors is your favorite in the comments.

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2025-12-03 19:49