Top 50 Anime Boys Who Impacted the Genre

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In this piece, we delve into the vibrant tapestry that is the evolution of anime, a realm teeming with extraordinary characters far beyond the scope of conventional Western animation. Over time, certain figures have left an indelible mark on anime culture, and in this write-up, we’re shining the spotlight on some of these trailblazers. Here, you’ll find a compilation of 50 influential male anime characters and boy personas who’ve made their mark on the genre throughout history. Due to the subjective nature of assessing historical impact, the ranking will be presented in random order.

50. Vegeta

Franchise: Dragon Ball

Vegeta, a character straight from Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball manga, made his debut on December 19, 1988 in Weekly Shōnen Jump. His quest was to find the magical Dragon Balls, which could grant immortality. Alongside Goku, Gohan, Bulma, Krillin, and Piccolo, Vegeta is one of the characters who’s seen significant growth throughout the series.

Throughout the series, his persona transitions from being a villain to an anti-hero, ultimately transforming into a hero. He’s a beloved character within the Dragon Ball universe, and his initial clash with Goku is regarded as one of the most memorable fights in both manga and anime history.

49. Zenitsu Agatsuma

Franchise: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

In a more casual and understandable way, we could say: Zenitsu is fearful and believes his dangerous job as a demon hunter means he won’t live long, so he tends to cling to people he meet, asking them to marry him. His low self-confidence makes it hard for him to meet others’ expectations or his own – when faced with challenges or danger, he usually flees, hides, or cries. This often leads Zenitsu to doubt his own victories, even when they are clearly his.

In simpler terms, Zenitsu believes his purpose is to lead a humble existence rather than vanquish demons. Despite his quiet demeanor, Zenitsu values his companions, particularly his deceased mentor Jigoku. A strong sense of responsibility towards him allows Zenitsu to overcome fear when necessary. As time passes, Zenitsu demonstrates growing courage in battles, as evident in his encounters against Kaigaku and Muzan.

48. Ulquiorra Cifer

Franchise: BLEACH

In my previous existence within Hueco Mundo, I, Ulquiorra, ascended to the rank of Vasto Lorde. Yet, despite being among the most formidable Hollows, I found myself isolated due to my unique identity as the solitary white Hollow. My face was concealed behind a mask that deprived me of the ability to perceive through hearing, tasting, or smelling. This mask also prevented me from finding respite, and I walked alone without any companionship. All I felt was emptiness, and my life consisted solely of solitary wandering.

Aizen hires him at an undisclosed moment. Ulquiorra makes his debut alongside Yammy Rialgo, the 10th Espada, upon their entry into the city of Karakura. His goal is to locate Ichigo and gather all the information he can about him.

47. Meliodas

Franchise: The Seven Deadly Sins

In this story, Meliodas plays a central role, serving as both the embodiment of Wrath and the leader of The Seven Deadly Sins group. He’s our primary character, once managing the Boar Hat Tavern too. His divine treasure is the Lostvayne Demon Slicer, and he possesses the magical skill known as Full Counter. Previously, Meliodas held the position of Head of the Ten Commandments, under the alias of Meliodas of Charity, and was a part of the Stigma Alliance. He’s the elder sibling of Zeldris, who represents Piety, and the firstborn son of the Demon King.

46. Shōto Todoroki

Franchise: My Hero Academia

One of the four suggested peers and a classmate of the main characters possesses an extraordinary ability called Half-Cold Half-Hot. This unique power enables him to produce fire on his left side and freeze water on his right side of the body.

To effectively utilize his abilities, he needs to switch between the two aspects: employing only the cold aspect could lead to frostbite, while solely relying on the hot aspect might cause burns. He’s capable of generating towering ice structures from nothing and producing fiery flames, but when he uses both at once, he becomes quite formidable. With practice, he learns to wield both aspects simultaneously.

Although he possesses remarkable skills, he struggles to create intricate forms with the ice he creates. He’s renowned as the most powerful student in his class, demonstrating this during the Sports Festival (even though he came in second, losing to Bakugo). He is the offspring of Endeavor, revered as the second-best hero following All Might.

45. Natsu Dragneel

Franchise: Fairy Tail

Nat Drake, often referred to as “The Salamander,” belongs to the Fairy Tail guild and specializes in fire magic. Unfortunately, he battles motion sickness. His abilities are reminiscent of a long-forgotten Dragon Slayer magic. As a young lad, he was an orphan on a quest to locate his presumed father, a once extinct dragon named Ignir, who had taught Nat the art of fire dragon hunting magic.

He possesses a magical ability that empowers him to combat evil alongside his companions, including some of his erstwhile adversaries who have since allied with him like Sting Youclif or Jellal Fernandez. Spontaneous and combustible in nature, he is depicted as impulsive and always eager for a confrontation.

44. Tetsuo Shima

Series: Akira
Created By: Katsuhiro Otomo

As a movie enthusiast, I’d rephrase that synopsis as follows: At fifteen, I yearn to lead my biker gang with my companion, Kaneda. Life takes an unexpected turn when I’m captured by the military, who inadvertently awaken colossal psychic abilities within me. The power unleashed sends me spiraling out of control. In a bid for freedom, I release Akira, but at a cost – my body undergoes terrifying transformations as my powers escalate.

The constant growth of its power might cause an explosion capable of destroying the entire planet. At times tormented by anger and suffering, at others pleading and crying, he finds solace only with Kaori. After his “empire” was destroyed, pursued relentlessly by all, he transforms into a grotesque infant, whose uncontrolled energy is ultimately absorbed by Akira in a catastrophic climax.

43. Seita Yokokawa

Franchise: Grave of the Fireflies (Studio Ghibli)

In the movie “Grave of the Fireflies,” Seita Yokokawa and his sister Setsuko are the main characters. He deeply values his family and yearns for their happiness above all else. He frequently reminds his mother to take her medication and goes to great lengths to prevent Setsuko from feeling sad, although this isn’t always feasible during war times.

Instead of informing Setsuko directly about her mother’s death, he had previously told her that her mother was admitted to the Nishinomya hospital. His intention behind this seemed to be to motivate them to relocate from Kobe. At first, his aunt appeared supportive, but over time she grew critical of him and Setsuko. The primary complaint she raised was that he didn’t share his work ethic with her daughter and roommate.

In tough circumstances, she, along with numerous others like the farmer, advocate for everyone pitching in to rebuild Japan as their homeland. Initially, he too contributed, but his school and a steel mill were destroyed by bombs. Ever since, he’s been surviving on his parents’ savings while spending time with his sister and avoiding assisting his aunt. Despite having the ability to help, he chooses not to, as his mother has heart issues, they lack household help, and he assists her in managing their home instead.

42. Astro Boy

Franchise: Astro Boy

A robot modeled after Tobie, Doctor Tenma’s late son, was initially shunned by him. Later sold to a circus, he was discovered by Professor Ochanomizu who nurtured and molded him into a powerful defender of Earth, humanity, and the balance between humans and robots.

A robot constructed in Tobie’s image, the lost son of Doctor Tenma, initially faced rejection from his father. Eventually ending up at a circus, he was found by Professor Ochanomizu who guided him to become a superhero, protecting Earth, humanity, and fostering harmony between humans and robots.

Astro boasts the ability to soar, powered by reactors embedded within his leg mechanisms. His colossal strength is derived from an engine that initially generated 100,000 horsepower but was later upgraded to a staggering 1,000,000 horsepower. He is equipped with a machine gun and possesses the capacity to emit a devastating laser beam from his finger. This destructive power intensifies when he transforms his arm into a formidable laser cannon. Furthermore, he has the unique ability to discharge beams of blinding light from his eyes.

41. Haku

Franchise: Spirited Away (Studio Ghibli)

In essence, Haku serves as Yubaba’s second-in-command and assumes a significant position within the bathhouse. Interestingly, he transforms into the white dragon Ryuu, a river deity. Despite his icy demeanor towards the bathhouse staff, he isn’t well-liked. Rumors suggest that he carries out questionable tasks for Yubaba, which explains why people tend to steer clear of him. However, an unexpected side of Haku emerges as he demonstrates kindness and empathy towards Chihiro.

He naturally puts others before himself, going so far as to jeopardize his own life for their safety. Courage and dedication to justice are evident in all that he does, especially towards the end of the movie. Yet, there were moments of poor judgment when he sought knowledge in the magic arts. As a result, he found himself not only working under Yubaba’s command but also bound to her service.

40. Yhwach

Franchise: Bleach

Yhwach, frequently addressed as “Your Majesty” by his followers, serves as both father of the Quincy clan and Emperor of Wandenreich, carrying the title “A” – “The Almighty.” He is the offspring of the Soul King. Known for his professed affinity towards tranquility, Yhwach detests discord and feels that painful conflicts should come to an end swiftly.

He deeply respects the initial members of the Gotei 13, for they had the power to instill fear within him. Among them, Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stands out as a figure he often referred to as a demon, due to his harsh treatment towards his subordinates, considering them insignificant like waste. Yhwach harbors strong disdain for principles such as justice and honor, which is why he finds the current state of the Gotei 13, in its weaker state after 1000 years of his absence, repugnant.

39. Kishō Arima

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

In the anime Tokyo Ghoul: JACK, Arima stands out as the supreme investigator for the CCG, a living icon, and the most potent among all inspectors. He is easily identified by his glasses, his hair that’s white (or blue during his teenage years), and his generally reserved demeanor.

seldom revealing his feelings, he consistently maintains a courteous demeanor and politely smiles among his coworkers. In the presence of ghouls, Arima exhibits no mercy, swiftly eliminating them without hesitation. His extraordinary power throughout the history of the CCG is unmatched.

(Note: “eliminates” can be replaced with “takes care of,” “deals with,” or “disposes of” for a more conversational tone)

Often referred to as the Grim Reaper (Shīshījī no Shinigami), his exceptional abilities in both combat and investigations have earned him respect from fellow detectives, such as Kōtaro Amon. Yet, there are numerous individuals who envy Armia’s battle prowess; seasoned inspectors recognize their own limitations when compared to Arima.

38. Asta

Franchise: Black Clover

Asta is a lively and energetic young fellow, boasting an indomitable spirit and unwavering resolve. Since his childhood, he’s been steadfast in his pursuits and unwilling to yield. His tenacity has not gone unnoticed, earning him the attention of Captain Yami and his Black Bull companions. He’s no stranger to criticism and jesting, but he handles it with grace.

Yet, when Asta’s dear ones face an attack, he swiftly and fiercely steps up for their defense. His strong sense of justice drives him, firmly believing that everyone deserves protection – a conviction that motivated his aspiration to become Emperor-Mage. This moral stance extends not just to his allies, but even to his adversaries, as evident when he urges his companions to rescue Mars from the impending dungeon collapse.

37. Guts

Franchise: Berserk

Guts is a multidimensional individual whose character has evolved significantly throughout various life experiences. As a young boy, he was driven by an unwavering desire to gain approval and affection from Gambino, his mentor in the craft of mercenary work, whom he considered like a father (though Gambino did not reciprocate this sentiment). This emotional bond helped him maintain his mental stability amidst growing up amidst warfare and taking his first life at such a tender age.

As Guts first became a part of the Band of the Hawk, he attempted to maintain a certain aloofness towards the others. However, as days turned into weeks and weeks into months, these combatants forged deep connections with one another.

36. Alucard

Franchise: HELLSING

Alucard is believed to be one of the earliest, if not the original, vampires. He’s often seen in an old-fashioned outfit from the 19th century, complete with a striking red coat and hat. His hair is black, long, and he dons a pair of glasses with a yellow tint.

Or, more conversational:

Alucard is thought to be one of the first vampires ever created (or maybe even the very first). He usually dresses in clothing from the 19th century, which includes a distinctive red coat and hat. His hair is black, and he wears glasses with a yellow tint.

Depending on whether he’s removed the seals or not, there’s a transformation in his appearance. He might sport longer hair reaching down to his waist and trade his everlasting coat for a black leather jumpsuit adorned with numerous buttons. This outfit often appears more like a straitjacket than a hero costume.

35. Piccolo

Franchise: Dragon Ball

At a crucial moment, Piccolo is compelled to engage in combat with his longtime adversary, Goku, against an invading Saiyan named Raditz who aims to dominate the world. Despite their combined efforts, defeating this Saiyan comes at a price as Goku sacrifices his life for the victory. On the brink of death, Raditz reveals that two more formidable Saiyans are en route and they’ve learned about the Dragon Balls from one of his scouts, which Piccolo had mentioned earlier.

As a devoted mentor, I find myself taking on the task of training Son Gohan while awaiting the arrival of other Saiyans. Over time, my bond with him deepens as I guide him in his education and combat skills. In the heat of battle against two Saiyan adversaries, I make the ultimate sacrifice to ensure Gohan’s survival, giving up my own life.

34. Kakashi Hatake

Franchise: Naruto

Kakashi Hatake is a high-ranking ninja known as a Jōnin, formerly an ANBU operative, and he served as the leader of Team 7, which includes Sasuke Uchiha, Naruto Uzumaki, and Sakura Haruno. In addition to his leadership role, Kakashi also took on the mantle of the Sixth Hokage. Masashi Kishimoto initially envisioned Kakashi to make an appearance in the second installment of the Naruto manga series, preceding other Team 7 members. He designed Kakashi as a laid-back individual who would be capable of managing the team effectively.

As a cinephile reflecting upon the enigmatic character of Kakashi, I must admit his approach to leadership is often distant and tardiness seems to be an unfortunate habit. However, delving into his past through a captivating side-story, we discover the root cause of his aloofness and perpetual lateness. This stems from a heart-wrenching event where he witnessed the demise of his comrade, Obito Uchiha – a man who bestowed upon him the Sharingan eye and imparted several of his traits, such as his penchant for tardiness.

33. Shōgo Makishima

Franchise: Psycho-Pass

The primary villain of the initial season is a complex character, deeply rooted in humanism and possessing an exceptional understanding of literature. He also boasts a captivating charm that draws people into criminal activities. Despite his heinous crimes, he remains elusive to assessment by a Dominator, being labeled as “criminally asymptomatic.

Initially, he’s happy to aid those intending to break the law, with the aim of shielding them from detection by Sybil.

After figuring out the enigma behind the Sibyl system and aiming to dismantle it, he devised a helmet mimicking the Psycho-Pass of a trusted individual, thereby concealing his own. Spreading this helmet throughout the city to stir up rebellion, he departed to target the Ministry of Welfare in an attempt to bring down the system.

Captured by Tsunemori and Kogami, Sybil extends an invitation to Kogami, through one of her emissaries, to become a part of a unique system populated by beings much like himself.

32. Gon Freecss

Franchise: Hunter × Hunter

In the anime “Hunter x Hunter,” Gon Freecss, alongside Killua Zoldyck, serves as the primary protagonist. Born to the legendary Ging Freecss, he was primarily raised by his aunt Mito, whom he regards as his true mother. For a significant period, Mito made him believe that his father had passed away; however, she eventually reveals that he is alive and that she has been granted legal guardianship through court proceedings. Gon’s character shares many traits with the typical hero from action-packed manga, but it is evident that his persona is more sophisticated and complex.

31. Sōsuke Aizen

Franchise: Bleach

Originally serving as captain of the 5th Division in Soul Society, the seemingly composed and tranquil Sōsuke Aizen was actually a figure of great power. Unfortunately, this peaceful facade hid his true nature; he would eventually be revealed as a traitor, alongside Tōsen and Ichimaru. Aizen masterminded the scheme to undermine Soul Society’s authority.

To retrieve the Hōgyoku (Pearl of Destruction) that Kisuke Urahara had secreted within Rukia Kuchiki’s body, he devises a plan to orchestrate her execution, causing turmoil in Seireitei. He then feigns his own death with the aid of his zanpakutō, which has hypnotic abilities, so as to operate covertly.

30. Jet Black

Franchise: Cowboy Bebop

Jet Black, Spike’s comrade and proprietor of the spaceship known as the Bebop, served as a police officer on Ganymede in the past. He had a long tenure with the Inter Solar System Police (ISSP) until a case turned sour when his untrustworthy partner sold him out. This incident led to the loss of Jet’s left arm, which was subsequently replaced with a cybernetic prosthesis. Jet is often seen as the paternal figure within their group, displaying wisdom and maturity among his teammates.

29. Izuku Midoriya

Franchise: My Hero Academia

The primary character in the story is Katsuki Bakugo’s childhood companion, whom he affectionately calls “Katchan.” He was born without Alter and aspires to surpass all other superheroes of his era, just like his role model, the acclaimed All Might who can save lives with a grin. His ambition is to attend Yuei (UA), an esteemed high school known for producing numerous heroes. Despite not having powers, he is determined to become a legendary hero and match his greatest rival, Katsuki Bakugo. Eventually, it will be him that All Might selects as the recipient of his powerful quirk, One For All.

28. Satoru Gojō

Franchise: Jujutsu Kaisen

A magic practitioner, employed at the Tokyo School for Arcane Arts, tutors Itadori, Megumi, and Nobara. He advocates for Yuji’s life to be spared until he has devoured all of Sukuna’s digits, a decision that he manages to persuade his higher-ups to accept. Despite his friendly demeanor towards peers such as students and colleagues, he displays a brusque manner towards superiors.

Regardless of the moniker “The Strongest” he uses, it’s universally acknowledged that he is one of the most perilous individuals existing. This recognition earned him profound respect and admiration from sorcerers across the board, including those belonging to the sister school in Kyoto. His sway within the realm of witchcraft is formidable.

27. Tanjiro Kamado

Franchise: Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Tanjiro naturally exhibits kindness and is often referred to as someone with discerning eyes. He possesses an unyielding spirit, refusing to back down when there’s a goal at stake, such as finding a cure for Nezuko. Despite his own physical strength, he doesn’t shy away from seeking assistance from others when necessary. What stands out is his dedication to safeguarding others, particularly his younger sister.

A notable trait of Tanjiro’s personality is his ability to understand and feel for all beings, even demons, which sometimes caused him to hesitate before delivering a fatal blow. But as he served in the group of Tanjiro warriors, he accumulated experience and grew more strategic and resolute. Due to his bravery and determination to shield the vulnerable, he encounters adversaries with respect and grace, whether they are human or demonic.

26. Roronoa Zoro

Franchise: One Piece

Zoro, a character who exudes seriousness and an icy demeanor, can also appear deep in thought but may overreact at times, as portrayed in the Alabasta Arc. The manga’s creator, Eiichiro Oda, likens him to both sharks and demons. However, Zoro’s responses often have a humorous or exaggerated quality. At sea, he is frequently found either training intensely or taking naps that are usually interrupted rather rudely, waking him up abruptly.

Similar to Nami, he exhibits a high tolerance for alcohol and seldom appears intoxicated. He struggles with navigation and often clashes with Sanji, the ship’s cook, engaging in frequent arguments, even during combat. Yet, they show mutual respect as fighters. His bond with Nami is strained due to his dislike of her greed and a past incident where she trapped him in Wiskey Peak.

With Nico Robin, the team members exhibit the least flexibility in their behavior. During battles, Zoro maintains a stern demeanor, keeping his attention solely on victory. This fighting style significantly differs from Luffy’s or Usopp’s, as shown when they fought together; their outcome remains undecided.

25. Saitama

Franchise: One-Punch Man

Disenchanted and idle, he once felt life had no appeal; however, after encountering a formidable crustacean, he vowed to transform into a hero. From that moment, he dedicated three years to honing his heroic prowess – running ten kilometers daily, performing one hundred push-ups, one hundred sit-ups, and one hundred squats as part of his routine.

Following an exhaustive training regimen, Saitama observes two significant transformations: he’s grown astonishingly strong, capable of vanquishing foes with a single blow, and has shed every strand of his hair. His signature move is the renowned “One Punch” that can overpower mighty adversaries such as the King of the Seas, Ashura Rhino, the King of the Underworld, and even a colossal meteorite, among others.

24. Shinya Kōgami

Franchise: Psycho-Pass

28-years-old, this individual had been an inspector before, but due to a surge in crime rate during an investigation, he was demoted from his position. When Sasayama, who was carrying out orders under his command and delving into the heart of the investigation, was killed, the Sibyl system deemed it necessary for him to step down as Division 1’s Enforcer, as he became too obsessed with finding the perpetrator.

Throughout the course of the show, it becomes clear that Shogo Makishima bears the indirect blame for Sasayama’s demise. Consequently, he takes all necessary steps to apprehend and subsequently eliminate Makishima.

23. Renji Abarai

Franchise: Bleach

Renji Abarai, who grew up alongside his friend Rukia in their hometown of Rukongai, originally belonged there. Over time, they grew apart due to Rukia being adopted by the distinguished Kuchiki family. Just before Rukia departed for the human world (marking the beginning of Bleach), Renji was advanced to the rank of lieutenant within the Gotei 13’s 6th Division.

Initially, he may not appear overtly affectionate, but deep down, he’s deeply bonded with Rukia. His ultimate ambition lies in outshining Captain Kuchiki. He has progressed through Divisions 11 (under Zaraki Kenpachi) and 5. He maintains close relationships with Zaraki’s group of friends, as well as Momo Hinamori and Kira Izuru, the lieutenants of the 5th and 3rd Divisions respectively.

He boasts a large circle of both acquaintances and friends, among whom are Ichigo. Despite their best efforts, Renji and Ichigo frequently find themselves at odds over trivial matters. Given how Ichigo presented him to his companions as cousins within the anime, many of Ichigo’s peers assume they share that family bond.

In our circle, people often remark on the striking resemblance between us, but that’s where the similarity ends, for we are quite different individuals. During intense battles, though, we find a strange harmony, working effectively as a team against Aizen. Interestingly, Renji and I have a playful rivalry; he enjoys needling me, just as I do him, but that’s another story altogether.

At some stage within Hueco Mundo, Ishida communicates that he resembles Ichigo following a hasty action which came perilously close to claiming their lives. It appears that Renji interprets this statement as a form of flattery.

22. Shin’ichi Kudō / Conan Edogawa

Franchise: Detective Conan

As the story’s main character, I was a teenage detective at my high school, lending a hand to the police in solving complex crimes. In the opening scene, I eavesdropped surreptitiously on a confidential chat between two members of a secret criminal group known as “The Men in Black Organization.” Unfortunately, they caught me and delivered a poison that was meant to end my life, but instead, it miraculously reduced me to the size of an elementary school kid.

Afterward, he decides to reside with Kogoro Mouri and their daughter, Ran Mouri, adopting the alias “Conan Edogawa.

21. Taichi Yagami

Franchise: Digimon

In the animated series Digimon Adventure, this character serves as the head of the DigiDestined group. He’s the primary character in the show, making a return in Digimon Adventure 02. At the start of the story, he’s 10 years old and, like his fellow DigiDestined team members, has three more years ahead in Digimon Adventure 02. Tai is a lively boy with medium height, brown hair, and a spirited appearance. He’s an accomplished football player, demonstrating bravery and assuming the role of a responsible leader.

20. Zaraki Kenpachi

Franchise: Bleach

Kenpachi Zaraki is a towering Shinigami, boasting an unusual and ominous strength that sets him apart. Uniquely among Shinigamis, he was appointed captain of his division without knowing the name of his sword-spirit (Zanpakutō) or graduating from Shinigami school exams. His position was earned through a dramatic event where he killed the previous captain of the Kenpachi Kiganjō division in full view of 200 witnesses.

In the Bounts arc, Maki Ichinose was a shinigami belonging to the Eleventh Division. Mistaking Kenpachi for a fellow shinigami instead of their captain, he chose self-imposed exile. Interestingly, Kenpachi is fondly called “Keni” by his Vice-Captain Yachiru, who stands out as the only one capable of communicating with him in a normal manner.

In his youth, he was exceptionally strong, a fact evident from the thousands of lives he took and his victory over Yachiru Unohana, a formidable adversary who would later transform into Retsu Unohana, a noble captain of the 4th Division.

19. InuYasha

Franchise: InuYasha

The central figure of the tale is Inu-Yasha. This unique character is a half-breed being, or hanyô, with an outward human form that’s approximately fifteen years old, but he possesses demonic characteristics as well. He can be quick-tempered, impolite, offensive, arrogant, aggressive, and somewhat crude, yet he has moments of kindness and generosity, even if he’s not always conscious of it. What he despises most is defeat and endangers his companions.

His unique ability allows him to heal from injuries and showcase extraordinary strength when transformed as an Inu-Yasha. Yet, with every new moon, he assumes human form, forfeiting his supernatural abilities. He carries Tessaiga, a sword imbued with magic, whose name symbolizes the crushing force of steel.

18. Nate River / Near

Franchise: Death Note

Among the contenders to take over from L, there’s one who stands out. He spent his childhood at “Wammy’s House,” a specialized orphanage for exceptionally talented children. Known for his composed and strategic nature, he shares numerous traits with L. However, what sets him apart is his fondness for playing with toys intended for children, which unfortunately made him the target of ridicule during his time at the orphanage.

He’s the individual, working alongside Mello, who uncovers proof and shows that Light is indeed Kira. His true name is Nathaniel River.

17. Krilin

Franchise: Dragon Ball

Krillin, being human, initially made his appearance in Dragonball. Together with Goku, he underwent training under Master Roshi. Over time, they developed a strong friendship. Among the Z warriors, Krillin is particularly powerful. He participated in battles against Vegeta and Nappa, and even successfully eliminated several Saibaimen.

Accompanied by Son Gohan, he journeyed to Planet Namek where they battled against Frieza’s minions, the Ginue Command and Frieza himself. Unfortunately, Krilin fell at the hands of Frieza, triggering Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan. However, his return was later required.

16. L

Franchise: Death Note

The enigmatic figure L, who is often referred to as Light’s arch-nemesis, is renowned as the world’s greatest detective, despite his true identity remaining a mystery. He is currently delving into the Kira case. Using the aliases Ryûzaki and Hideki Ryuga, his real name is initially unknown for the first 12 volumes of the manga. However, it is unveiled as L Lawliet in the 13th volume. His unique personality, a blend of eccentricity and brilliance, sets him apart.

15. Sasuke Uchiha

Franchise: Naruto

Sasuke Uchiha hails from the Uchiha lineage and is known for his stern demeanor. He boasts exceptional skill in ninja arts, particularly the fire technique. Driven by a desire to surpass his elder brother Itachi, who massacred other Uchiha members, Sasuke aims to build up his strength. Once he achieves this goal, he intends to depart the village for training under Orochimaru, an unrelenting ninja with ambitions to control all ninjutsu worldwide and secure immortality.

14. Byakuya Kuchiki

Franchise: Bleach

I’ve always admired Byakuya Kuchiki, the elder brother figure to Rukia who commands the 6th Division within the Gotei 13. Married to Hisana, Rukia’s sister, he honored her final wish by taking her into his esteemed household as an adopted daughter. Yet, despite their familial bond, his affections towards Rukia were rarely displayed. Ever composed, arrogant, and confident in his abilities, Byakuya exudes a sense of unwavering self-assuredness.

Despite maintaining an unflappable demeanor upon hearing Rukia’s execution sentence, Ichibei Kuchiki, one of the most prominent Gotei 13 captains in Soul Society, harbors profound distress and finds himself at a loss for action. As head of the Kuchiki clan, his influence is far-reaching, making him well-known to all. His proficiency with bakudo and hado techniques is so exceptional that he can perform them without reciting the required incantations.

He encounters difficulties involving not just Yachiru, the lieutenant of the 11th division, but also Ichigo as well.

13. Eren Yeager

Franchise: Attack on Titan

In the captivating world of my favorite manga, I find myself deeply connected to the protagonist, Eren. He’s not just a character; he’s a whirlwind of impulsiveness, idealism, determination, and raw violence that sweeps me off my feet. A traumatic event as a child, witnessing his mother being devoured by a Titan, has fueled his lifelong dream to eradicate them completely.

At first sight, he may not seem extraordinary, but he’s more than just skilled in hand-to-hand combat and possessing an iron will. His strength lies within his indomitable spirit.

12. Tōshirō Hitsugaya

Franchise: Bleach

10th Division Captain Toshiriro Hitsugaya may look like an 11-year-old, but his youth belies his rank and experience. He’s been a shinigami for just five years, yet he stands out as a remarkable prodigy within Soul Society. His strong bond with Lieutenant Hinamori of the 5th Division is notable.

In the anime, he encounters Karin, who is Ichigo’s younger sister. His sword, or spiritual weapon, specializes in water and ice elements, similar to Rukia’s. Its released form is called “Hyōrinmaru”. Despite this, it’s the strongest sword of its kind, yet its full power, known as bankai, remains incomplete. He can only temporarily surpass it for a certain duration.

As per Arrancar Number 11 Shawlong Qufang, he’s not old enough yet to fully control his Bankai. In his battle against Luppi, Hitsugaya will mention that he could repair the situation if there’s water available nearby.

11. Ken Kaneki

Franchise: Tokyo Ghoul

In the anime series “Tokyo Ghoul” and its sequel “Tokyo Ghoul:re”, Ken Kaneki is the central character. Initially, he’s a first-year student at Kamii University, majoring in Japanese literature, leading a fairly ordinary life. However, his life takes an unexpected turn after receiving Rize Kamishiro’s organs and RC pouch, making him a half-ghoul with one artificial eye.

Initially, he began working part-time at Anteiku, which was where Toka Kirishima was employed, who would later become his spouse. Over time, he grew accustomed to living as a ghoul and ultimately earned the nickname Eye-Patch.

10. Master Roshi

Franchise: Dragon Ball

In simpler terms, Master Roshi is a character from the Dragon Ball comic books. He’s one of the early trainers of the protagonist, Son Goku. Goku and Bulma initially encounter Master Roshi at the start of the series. Known as the founder of the Turtle School, he’s also the creator of the powerful Kamehameha energy wave. Though his role in the story may seem basic, it lays the groundwork for significant changes.

In the beginning of their shared journey, Goku encountered his closest companion, Krillin, as Krillin sought to learn martial arts from Master Roshi. In the very first tournament showcased in the series, Master Roshi disguised himself as Jackie Chun to evaluate and challenge both Goku’s and Krillin’s advancements in their training.

9. Porco Rosso

Franchise: Porco Rosso (Studio Ghibli)

Marco Pagot, or more famously known as Porco Rosso, was once a valiant fighter pilot during World War I for the Italian Air Force. Subsequently, he chose to step down and now makes a living as a bounty hunter. Interestingly, he possesses the head of a pig, which serves as a symbol of his political beliefs rather than a curse. Marco enjoys relaxation immensely, thus he often unwinds by listening to the radio while lounging in his deck chair and smoking a French Gitane cigar.

Despite regularly putting himself in peril by pursuing hijackers, he advises Fio against embarking on risky escapades. He exudes self-assurance and appears to favor male tasks over female ones when it comes to working on his plane. However, this perspective shifts when Fio showcases her abilities. He then encourages her to prioritize her safety. Consequently, he urges Fio to avoid working night shifts. Marco contrasts significantly with Curtis, but they share a common trait: they both exhibit their flying prowess.

He circles Hotel Adriano to exhibit his flying abilities to Gina, yet in the confrontation with Curtis, he fails to display his full prowess. As a bounty hunter and adversary of plane hijackers, he leaves some of the stolen money behind so the hijackers can fix their aircraft. Anticipating the strategies of the air pirates, he catches up with them before they had anticipated.

8. Ash Ketchum

Franchise: Pokémon 

In simple terms, there’s a ten-year-old kid named Ash residing in the town of Pallet. His heart’s desire is to be recognized as the greatest Pokémon trainer globally, titled the “Pokémon Master.” Professor Oak, a renowned figure in Pallet Town, extends an invitation for children old enough to embark on an adventure to receive a starter Pokémon. The options given are between Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle.

On “selection” day, Ash oversleeps and reaches the lab late, after everyone else. Even though he picked Squirtle initially, he got an Electric-type Pikachu instead, as Professor Oak had set one aside. Despite a challenging beginning, Ash and Pikachu eventually forge a strong bond of friendship.

7. Light Yagami

Franchise: Death Note

The protagonist in this narrative, named Light, is an exceptionally bright high school student who views the current society as rotten and twisted. One fateful day, he stumbles upon the Death Note, left behind by a deity known as Ryuk. Inspired, he decides to employ it to eliminate every criminal, adopting the moniker Kira. His ambition is to establish a crime-free paradise, where he can rule supremely, like a divine figure. However, his mental stability and human qualities gradually change throughout the storyline.

6. Monkey D. Luffy

Franchise: One Piece

Monkey D. Luffy, also known as “Straw Hat”, serves as the captain in his pursuit of the title, the Pirate King. To achieve this dream, he ventures out to sea and assembles a team that will help him locate the mystical island of Raftel and uncover the fabled treasure known as One Piece.

Unassuming and unfettered by worries, he consistently remains faithful, frequently standing up for the people he cares about. He consumed the devil’s fruit known as Gomu Gomu, which granted him the ability to manipulate rubber, a power he employs in crafting diverse combat methods. His bounty stands at 1,500,000,000 Berries.

5. Edward Elric

Franchise: Fullmetal Alchemist

From a young age, brothers Edward (Ed) and Alphonse Elric (Al) exhibit a strong interest in alchemy. However, their father, Hohenheim, has deserted the family, which leaves Edward with a deep-seated hatred for him. In their early years, the brothers would sift through their father’s books, gradually absorbing the fundamentals of alchemy. Tragedy strikes when their mother becomes ill and eventually succumbs to her condition.

When they were eleven years old, having learned under their instructor (Izumi Curtis), Ed and Al attempted an illegal practice known as human transmutation to bring back their mother. This act is strictly forbidden in the realm of alchemy, being considered the gravest sin. Unfortunately, this attempt was unsuccessful. As a result, Ed lost his left leg while Al suffered total body loss. To save Al’s life, Ed enclosed his soul within armor using a seal made from his own blood. However, this act required him to forfeit his right arm as well.

Ever since then, the two siblings have been on a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone, a mystical artifact that enables them to locate their missing kin without adhering to the law of equal trade. Ed’s limbs were substituted with mechanical prostheses skillfully crafted by their longtime friend, Winry Rockbell.

4. Naruto Uzumaki

Franchise: Naruto

In the world of the show, Naruto is a young ninja hailing from the village of Konoha. He carries within him the nine-tailed fox demon, a beast that had previously wreaked havoc on the village. Due to this, he is shunned by the other villagers. However, his dream is to one day ascend to the position of Hokage, the village leader, in order to earn the admiration and respect of the people living there.

Through an optimistic and resolute demeanor, he successfully forms friendships with numerous villagers ninjas throughout the series, notably Sasuke Uchiha, whom he regards both as a brother and a rival. Over time, he earns the acceptance of the village residents, eventually becoming their hero after shielding them from harm. Ultimately, he achieves his goal by assuming the role of the Seventh Hokage.

3. Ichigo Kurosaki

Franchise: Bleach

In the anime Bleach, Ichigo Kurosaki serves as the central character. He possesses a Fullbring ability and assumes the role of a substitute Shinigami, eventually transforming into the guardian of Zangetsu, manifested through his Zanpakuto (known as Bankai). The spiritual energy that shapes this guard resembles the color of his Getsugatensho when it’s in its Bankai form.

2. Son Goku

Franchise: Dragon Ball

In seclusion high up in the mountains, away from urban life, he discovers a four-star orb, famously called the Dragon Ball, left by his late grandfather Son Gohan. This valuable artifact serves as a cherished keepsake for him. He then forms an acquaintanceship with a young girl named Bulma.

In unison, they set out on a voyage to search for the seven Dragon Balls. Once assembled, these magical orbs would summon Shenron, a dragon that grants wishes. Along the way, he makes new companions who join him in his travels. As Goku matures, he protects Earth and the entire universe from evil forces.

1. Spike Spiegel

Franchise: Cowboy Bebop

27-year-old Mars native Spike Spiegel is a bounty hunter, with June 26, 2044 being his birthdate. Standing tall and lean, he embodies the influences of actor Yūsaku Matsuda in terms of both his captivating physique and reserved demeanor. Additionally, like Bruce Lee, Spike employs the martial art Jeet Kune Do for combat.

This individual boasts a unique eye color – one brown and the other red, with the artificial one being paler than its natural counterpart. Typically, you’ll find him dressed in a striking blue tuxedo, complemented by a bright yellow shirt and boots reminiscent of Lupine III’s style. It’s worth noting that he was once part of the Red Dragons, an infamous criminal organization.

He sports two distinctive eyes – one brown and the other red, with his artificial eye being paler than the natural one. You can often spot him in a stylish blue tuxedo, complete with a sunny yellow shirt and boots resembling Lupine III’s iconic footwear. It is important to mention that he used to belong to the Red Dragons, a notorious criminal organization.

In disguise as deceased, he companions with Julia; however, his scheme unravels, leading Spike to transform into a bounty hunter alongside ex-cop Jet Black. His quest for his beloved ensues, but to locate her, he must confront Vicious – a once friendly figure who has now turned into his sworn adversary.

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2025-06-06 22:50