Anime That Gave Us a Dark Knight Who Saves the Princess

The idea of a strong, dark-armored knight protecting a royal figure is incredibly popular in anime, consistently drawing viewers in. These characters are often portrayed as complex, sometimes troubled heroes who dedicate themselves to safeguarding a princess or other important woman. The contrast between the royal’s innocence and the knight’s tough, determined personality is a common theme. Whether they’re traditional knights in fantasy settings or modern bodyguards, these characters offer a fresh, darker take on the classic idea of chivalry. Here are fifteen anime series that feature this type of ‘black knight’ character saving the princess.

‘Berserk’ (1997)

Guts, often called the Black Swordsman, is a famous example of a lone warrior in anime. A key part of the story involves his dangerous mission to save Princess Charlotte from a fortified tower after her own father imprisons her. Wielding a huge sword, Guts fights through waves of enemies to protect the princess and his leader, Griffith. His harsh fighting style and grim appearance stand out against the backdrop of this royal rescue. This event is crucial to the story and establishes Guts as a powerful and unforgettable hero.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2007)

As a huge fan, I’ve always been captivated by Lelouch’s story. He takes on this secret identity, Zero, and builds this incredible rebel group, the Black Knights, all because he desperately wants to create a peaceful world for his sister, Nunnally. She’s a princess, but she’s also vulnerable, and he’ll do anything to shield her from the war. What’s really fascinating is watching him juggle being a normal student with leading a revolution. He has this amazing power, Geass, but it comes with a huge weight, and the series really dives into what it means to be a leader, even if you have to make tough, sometimes brutal, choices. It’s a really powerful story about love, sacrifice, and the lengths we go to for family.

‘Sword Art Online’ (2012)

Kirito becomes known as the Black Swordsman because he typically wears black clothes and fights with a black sword. In the Fairy Dance arc, he enters the virtual world of ALfheim Online on a desperate mission to rescue Asuna. Asuna has been captured by the villain Oberon and is held prisoner in a birdcage, forced to act as the Fairy Queen Titania. Kirito battles against overwhelming challenges and scales the massive World Tree to free her from being trapped forever. This storyline showcases his unwavering loyalty and proves he’s a hero who will break the rules of the game to save the woman he loves.

‘Sailor Moon’ (1992–1997)

Tuxedo Mask is Sailor Moon’s main ally and protector, and he’s actually the reincarnation of Prince Endymion. Always dressed in a black tuxedo and cape, he throws red roses and appears during battles to help Sailor Moon and the other Sailor Guardians defeat evil. His timely interventions often create the opportunity they need to win. He became a model for the ‘mysterious savior’ character, inspiring many anime series that followed.

‘The Seven Deadly Sins’ (2014)

Okay, so I just finished watching this, and Meliodas is the main guy – captain of this powerful group called the Seven Deadly Sins, and known as the Dragon Sin of Wrath. He’s basically immortal, and spends his endless life protecting Princess Elizabeth, who asks for his help to save her kingdom. He’s got these really cool, darkness-based powers, but he’s constantly battling his own inner demons – literally! It turns out Meliodas and Elizabeth have this incredibly deep connection, stretching back lifetimes. Honestly, the most striking thing is how relentlessly he throws himself into danger to keep her safe from all sorts of enemies, whether they’re holy knights or actual demons. It’s a really compelling dynamic.

‘Overlord’ (2015)

Ainz Ooal Gown adopts the identity of Momon, a powerful Dark Hero, to explore the new world and move around without drawing unwanted attention. As Momon, clad in black armor and wielding two huge swords, he takes on challenging quests. This allows Ainz to become involved in the kingdom of Re-Estize’s politics and meet Princess Renner during a time of crisis caused by a demonic invasion. By playing the part of a legendary human hero who protects people, Ainz builds a positive public image while secretly working to expand and secure Nazarick’s power.

‘The Rising of the Shield Hero’ (2019)

Naofumi Iwatani is unexpectedly transported to a new world and given the role of the Shield Hero, but he’s quickly rejected and falsely accused of wrongdoing. To survive in a hostile kingdom that despises him, he becomes hardened and determined. He eventually dedicates himself to protecting Princess Melty, saving her life from a plot hatched by her own sister. His strong defenses and magical shield become vital in shielding the princess from dangerous, power-hungry nobles. The story follows Naofumi’s transformation from a despised outcast into a respected and essential protector of the kingdom.

‘Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust’ (2000)

D, a mysterious half-vampire, takes on the job of rescuing Charlotte Elbourne from the vampire Meier Link. Traveling across a ruined world on a mechanical horse, D is a shadowy figure known for his skill with a sword and always wears a wide-brimmed hat and long coat. Charlotte, from a rich family, is being hunted by both bounty hunters and demons. D quietly defeats anyone who threatens her, even though her situation isn’t clear-cut. The film centers on this classic, brooding hero who saves the day while remaining a lone wolf.

‘The Eminence in Shadow’ (2022)

Cid Kagenou enjoys playing the role of a hidden puppet master, operating as the mysterious figure known as Shadow. Disguised in a unique suit, he leads the Shadow Garden organization in battles against the dangerous Cult of Diablos. Shadow frequently steps in to protect princesses Alexia Midgar and Rose Oriana from both political schemes and monster threats. While Cid is often motivated by wanting to appear impressive rather than purely by good intentions, he consistently succeeds in saving the day. The series playfully mocks common fantasy themes while still delivering exciting, action-packed scenes of a dark-clad hero rescuing royalty.

‘Yona of the Dawn’ (2014)

Hak used to be a general of the Wind Tribe and now acts as Princess Yona’s personal bodyguard. Nicknamed the Thunder Beast, he’s easily recognized by his dark blue and black robes and the large guandao he carries. When a rebellion overthrows the king and kills Yona’s father, Hak rescues her and helps her escape the palace. He continues to protect her as she transforms from a naive princess into a skilled fighter. He’s a fiercely loyal and powerful warrior, serving as the exiled princess’s unwavering protector.

‘Chivalry of a Failed Knight’ (2015)

Okay, so I just finished watching this anime, and let me tell you, it’s got everything! It centers around Ikki Kurogane, this seriously underrated mage who everyone looks down on – he’s literally known as the ‘Worst One’. He’s got this amazing, but super dangerous, fighting style called Itto Shura that he uses to take down opponents way stronger than him. Then he meets Stella Vermillion, who’s actually a princess, and they start off as rivals. But things quickly change as Ikki keeps risking his life to protect her from all these attacks. Honestly, watching their relationship develop from competitive to something romantic as he proves himself as her knight was a highlight. It’s a really cool story!

‘Black Clover’ (2017–2021)

Asta is a young boy born without any magical ability, but he doesn’t let that stop him from becoming a Magic Knight, joining the Black Bulls squad. He fights with unique black, rusty swords that allow him to negate magic, and can even transform into a powerful demonic form called Black Asta. Often fighting alongside Noelle Silva, a royal from the Clover Kingdom and fellow Black Bull, Asta consistently supports her, helping her gain control of her incredible magical abilities despite facing rejection from her own family. His unwavering determination and unusual powers make him a remarkable knight, ultimately rescuing the royal figure from hopelessness.

‘How Not to Summon a Demon Lord’ (2018)

Takuma Sakamoto finds himself transported into a game world, taking on the form of Diablo, a mighty Demon Lord. He fully commits to the intimidating role, complete with a striking black costume and horns. When he rescues Shera L. Greenwood, an Elf Princess escaping a forced marriage, Diablo uses his incredible magical power to protect her from anyone who tries to capture or hurt her. The story blends humor and action as this fearsome Demon Lord becomes the princess’s devoted protector.

‘Vampire Knight’ (2008)

I’m totally hooked on this series! It centers around Zero Kiryu, a really cool vampire hunter who also works as a guardian at a school. He’s always wearing this black uniform and honestly, he’s got a serious chip on his shoulder because of what happened to his family. He’s fiercely protective of Yuki Cross, a girl he’s tasked with keeping safe from all the dangerous vampires out there, even though he’s secretly battling his own issues with becoming one himself! Things get really interesting when you find out Yuki is actually a pureblood princess – it throws everything into chaos. Zero’s just this brooding, dedicated guy who won’t hesitate to take down any vampire, even his own kind, to make sure she’s okay.

‘Bleach’ (2004–2012)

Ichigo Kurosaki breaks into the Soul Society, a realm of spirits, determined to save Rukia Kuchiki from being executed. Rukia, who was adopted into a prominent family, is the reason Ichigo first gained his unique powers. During this dangerous mission, Ichigo unlocks his Bankai – a heightened state of power that transforms his spirit weapon into a black sword and gives him a new black outfit. He fights against the strongest warriors in the Soul Society and ignores their rules, all to rescue Rukia from the execution tower. This pivotal story establishes Ichigo as a powerful, black-clad substitute Soul Reaper willing to fight against anyone – even the most powerful beings – to save his friend.

Tell us which of these dark protectors is your favorite in the comments.

2025-12-18 04:46