Best Anime Main Characters of All Time

Anime has given us so many main characters that we just can’t forget. They all have their own cool things about them, interesting stories from their past, and how they grow over time. Let’s look at some of the best anime main characters who have really stuck with fans and made a big mark on the anime world.

When we talk about the best main characters in anime, it’s important to see what makes them special and how they change during their shows. These characters have become famous because their stories are really good and they make us feel things. From Naruto wanting to be the top guy to Saitama looking for someone who can actually fight him, these main characters have had a big impact.

Let’s check out the top 10 coolest anime characters who are the main heroes we’ll always remember.

10. Saitama (One Punch Man)

Saitama from One Punch Man is a unique protagonist due to his overwhelming strength and laid-back demeanor. His search for a worthy opponent and the existential boredom that comes with his unbeatable power offer a fresh and humorous take on the superhero genre. Saitama’s humility and simplicity despite his immense power add to his charm.

Character Info: Saitama achieved unparalleled strength through a rigorous daily training regimen of 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, and a 10km run every single day for three years (though he lost his hair as a side effect). Despite his god-like power, he remains a relatively ordinary person with simple desires. He often misses the thrill of a challenging fight and deals with everyday mundane issues like rent and grocery shopping.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Saitama subverts many common tropes of the superhero genre. His strength isn’t the result of a tragic backstory or a special power, but rather sheer hard work (albeit to an absurd degree). His existential boredom and deadpan reactions to extraordinary events provide a comedic yet thought-provoking perspective on power and heroism. He’s a hero for the sake of being a hero, often going unnoticed despite his world-saving feats.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Saitama’s impact lies in his deconstruction of the overpowered protagonist trope. He has influenced other series by showing that strength doesn’t necessarily equate to complexity or satisfaction. His character has resonated with audiences who enjoy both action and satire, proving that a protagonist can be incredibly strong and still relatable through their everyday struggles and emotional reactions (or lack thereof). One Punch Man‘s popularity has also contributed to the mainstream appeal of webcomic-originated anime.

09. Natsu Dragneel (Fairy Tail)

Natsu Dragneel, the fire-breathing Dragon Slayer from Fairy Tail, embodies the spirit of camaraderie and adventure. His fierce loyalty to his guild, along with his unwavering determination and energetic personality, makes Natsu a standout character. His battles and bonds with fellow guild members highlight the themes of friendship and perseverance.

Character Info: Natsu was raised by the Fire Dragon King Igneel, who taught him Dragon Slayer magic. After Igneel’s disappearance, Natsu joined the Fairy Tail guild, where he found a new family. He is impulsive, often getting into fights, but fiercely protective of his friends. His magic allows him to control and consume fire.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Natsu perfectly embodies the energetic and determined shonen protagonist who values friendship above all else. His unwavering loyalty to his guildmates and his refusal to give up, no matter the odds, are inspiring. His simple yet strong motivations and his growth in power alongside his bonds with his friends make him a classic example of a beloved shonen hero.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Natsu’s impact lies in popularizing the “power of friendship” trope within the shonen genre. Fairy Tail‘s emphasis on guild bonds and overcoming challenges together resonated with many viewers. Natsu’s character, with his straightforward heroism and passionate spirit, has influenced other action-adventure anime that focus on teamwork and unbreakable bonds.

08. Lelouch vi Britannia (Code Geass)

Lelouch vi Britannia from Code Geass is a master strategist and charismatic leader with a tragic backstory. His quest to overthrow an oppressive regime using the power of Geass showcases his intelligence, tactical prowess, and moral complexity. Lelouch’s sacrifice for a better world cements his legacy as a memorable and impactful character.

Character Info: Lelouch is the exiled son of the Emperor of Britannia. Granted the power of Geass (the power of absolute obedience), he takes on the masked identity of Zero to lead a rebellion against the Britannian Empire. He is brilliant, cunning, and willing to make morally ambiguous decisions to achieve his goals.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Lelouch stands out as a morally grey protagonist. His intelligence and strategic mind make his plans and battles captivating. His motivations, driven by a desire to create a better world for his younger sister Nunnally, add depth to his often ruthless actions. His complexity and the sacrifices he makes make him a truly compelling and unforgettable character.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Lelouch’s impact lies in popularizing the intelligent, anti-heroic protagonist in anime. His strategic brilliance and the morally complex nature of his actions have influenced other series featuring protagonists who operate in the grey areas of morality. Code Geass‘s success also highlighted the appeal of anime with intricate political narratives and morally ambiguous characters.

07. Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)

Eren Yeager’s journey in Attack on Titan is marked by his intense desire for freedom and vengeance. Initially motivated by the tragic loss of his mother, Eren’s character evolves significantly, revealing complex motivations and ethical dilemmas. His transformation throughout the series keeps viewers constantly reevaluating their perception of him.

Character Info: Eren witnessed the horrific death of his mother at the hands of the Titans, fueling his burning desire to eradicate them. He joins the Survey Corps, the branch of the military that fights Titans outside the walls. As the series progresses, Eren gains the power of the Titans himself, leading to a complex and often morally challenging path.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Eren’s character arc is one of the most compelling in recent anime history. His initial straightforward desire for revenge evolves into something far more complex and controversial. His internal struggles, his shifting motivations, and the way he forces the audience to question their own sense of justice make him a deeply engaging and thought-provoking protagonist.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Eren’s impact lies in the portrayal of a protagonist who undergoes a radical and morally ambiguous transformation. Attack on Titan‘s immense popularity and Eren’s complex journey have influenced other series to explore darker themes and protagonists who aren’t necessarily purely heroic. His story highlights the consequences of hatred and the difficulty of achieving true peace.

06. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)

Edward Elric, the Fullmetal Alchemist, is a deeply complex character. His quest to restore his brother Alphonse’s body, lost in a failed alchemical experiment, drives much of the plot. Edward’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and emotional depth, combined with his flaws and vulnerabilities, make him a relatable and compelling protagonist.

Character Info: Edward is a prodigious alchemist who lost his right arm and left leg during a failed human transmutation attempt, which also trapped his younger brother Alphonse’s soul in a suit of armor. He becomes a State Alchemist to gain access to resources that might help them restore their bodies. Despite his young age, he is highly intelligent, skilled in alchemy and martial arts, and fiercely protective of Alphonse. He also grapples with the consequences of their past actions and the ethical implications of alchemy.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Edward is a compelling protagonist because of his blend of intelligence, determination, and vulnerability. He is not perfect; he is often stubborn, prideful, and carries the weight of his past mistakes. His unwavering love for his brother and his commitment to rectifying their wrongdoings make him deeply relatable and sympathetic. His journey is not just about physical restoration but also about emotional and moral growth.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Edward’s impact lies in the portrayal of a flawed yet heroic protagonist driven by a clear and personal goal. Fullmetal Alchemist‘s balanced storytelling, combining action, adventure, humor, and serious themes, along with Edward’s compelling character arc, has made it a widely acclaimed and influential anime. He set a high standard for protagonists who are both strong and emotionally resonant.

05. Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach)

Ichigo Kurosaki from Bleach is a relatable protagonist due to his balance of normal teenage life and supernatural responsibilities. As a Substitute Soul Reaper, Ichigo’s courage, sense of justice, and growth in strength and character make him an enduring favorite. His protective nature towards his friends and family adds depth to his heroism.

Character Info: Ichigo starts as a seemingly ordinary high school student with the ability to see ghosts. His life changes when he encounters a Soul Reaper named Rukia Kuchiki, who grants him her powers. As a Substitute Soul Reaper, Ichigo is thrust into the world of Soul Reapers and Hollows, fighting to protect the living and the dead. He is often brooding but possesses a strong sense of justice and loyalty.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Ichigo’s relatability comes from his initial reluctance to embrace his supernatural duties while still stepping up when needed to protect others. His growth in power is paralleled by his emotional development and his deepening connections with his friends and family. His inner conflicts and his struggle to balance his ordinary life with his Soul Reaper responsibilities make him a compelling protagonist.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Ichigo’s impact lies in popularizing the “reluctant hero” archetype within the shonen genre. Bleach‘s stylish action sequences and Ichigo’s iconic design and weapon (Zangetsu) have also been influential. His journey from an ordinary teenager to a powerful protector resonated with many viewers and contributed to the popularity of anime with a blend of supernatural action and high school settings.

04. Light Yagami (Death Note)

Light Yagami from Death Note is one of the most fascinating and controversial main characters in anime. His transformation from a high-achieving student to a power-hungry manipulator after acquiring the Death Note showcases a riveting character study. Light’s strategic mind and moral ambiguity make him a captivating anti-hero.

Character Info: Light is a brilliant but bored high school student who discovers the Death Note, a notebook that allows him to kill anyone by writing their name. Initially believing he is using the notebook to rid the world of criminals and create a better society, Light’s actions become increasingly ruthless and his ego grows, leading him down a dark path.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Light is a compelling protagonist because he is essentially an anti-hero. His intelligence and meticulous planning make his confrontations with L captivating. His descent from a student with a twisted sense of justice to a power-mad killer provides a fascinating and disturbing character study. He challenges the audience to question morality and the nature of justice.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Light’s impact lies in the popularization of the intelligent, morally ambiguous protagonist and the psychological thriller genre in anime. Death Note‘s success and Light’s complex character have influenced other series that explore darker themes and feature protagonists with questionable motives. His intellectual battles with L are considered a highlight in anime storytelling.

03. Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)

Naruto Uzumaki, the titular character of the Naruto series, is an iconic figure in the anime world. Starting as a mischievous, ostracized orphan with dreams of becoming the Hokage, Naruto’s journey is one of perseverance, growth, and unyielding optimism. His development from a lonely child to a beloved leader is inspiring, showcasing themes of friendship, hard work, and resilience.

Character Info: Naruto grew up as an orphan in the Hidden Leaf Village, carrying the burden of the Nine-Tailed Fox sealed within him, which led to him being ostracized by the villagers. Despite this, he is determined to gain their recognition by becoming the Hokage, the leader of the village. He is initially clumsy and a prankster but possesses immense potential and an unwavering spirit.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Naruto’s journey from an outcast to a respected hero is incredibly inspiring. His unwavering optimism, his dedication to his friends, and his refusal to give up on his dreams resonate deeply with audiences. His growth throughout the series, both in power and maturity, is a central theme that makes him a beloved protagonist.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Naruto is one of the most influential anime protagonists of all time. His story embodies many core shonen themes and has inspired countless other series. Naruto‘s global popularity helped to further mainstream anime worldwide, and Naruto’s character has become a symbol of perseverance and the power of believing in oneself.

02. Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)

Monkey D. Luffy from One Piece is a character driven by his dream to become the Pirate King. Luffy’s unwavering determination, loyalty to his friends, and infectious enthusiasm make him a standout protagonist. His adventures on the Grand Line with his diverse crew offer a blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments, making him a beloved character worldwide.

Character Info: Luffy gained the properties of rubber after accidentally eating the Human-Human Fruit, Model: Nika. He is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and is on a quest to find the legendary treasure “One Piece” to become the King of the Pirates. He is carefree, often silly, but fiercely loyal to his crew and possesses an unshakeable belief in their dreams.

Why He is a Great Anime Main Character: Luffy’s infectious optimism, his unwavering commitment to his friends, and his sheer determination to achieve his dream make him an incredibly engaging protagonist. His unique personality and the way he inspires those around him contribute to his enduring popularity. He embodies the spirit of adventure and the importance of camaraderie.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Luffy is one of the most iconic and influential anime protagonists globally, leading one of the most successful manga and anime franchises of all time. His character has influenced countless other adventure-oriented anime and manga. His unwavering belief in his nakama (crew/friends) has also solidified the importance of friendship as a central theme in many shonen series.

01. Goku (Dragon Ball Series)

Goku, the Saiyan hero of the Dragon Ball series, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and the never-ending pursuit of self-improvement. His cheerful demeanor, coupled with his intense training and battles to protect Earth, has made Goku a legendary figure in anime. His ability to form bonds with allies and even former enemies highlights his influential personality. Many consider him the quintessential anime protagonist.

Character Info: Goku, whose Saiyan name is Kakarot, was sent to Earth as an infant. Raised by his adoptive grandfather Gohan, he grew up with a pure heart and incredible martial arts talent. Throughout the Dragon Ball saga, Goku constantly pushes his limits, achieving new levels of power to face increasingly stronger foes. While sometimes appearing naive, especially in social situations, his determination and unwavering commitment to protecting his friends and the innocent are central to his character. His love for fighting stems from a desire to test his strength and improve, rather than malice.

Why He is Considered the Best Anime Main Character of All Time: Goku’s impact as a protagonist is immense. He embodies key shonen tropes like never giving up, the power of friendship (though sometimes in his own way through fighting and training), and constantly striving to be better. However, what sets him apart is his inherent good nature and his ability to inspire those around him, even his enemies, to become better. His simple desire to become stronger for the sake of protecting others, coupled with his forgiving nature, resonates with audiences. Goku isn’t just about overwhelming power; he’s about the journey of self-improvement and the positive influence one person can have on the world. Many argue that he laid the foundation for numerous shonen protagonists who followed, making him a foundational figure.

How Much Impact the Character Has Given in the Anime World: Goku’s impact on the anime world is undeniable and far-reaching.

• Shonen Archetype: He is considered the blueprint for many subsequent shonen protagonists. His core traits – determination, a strong sense of justice (albeit sometimes simple), a love for fighting and self-improvement, and a degree of naivety – are echoed in countless main characters that followed, such as Naruto, Luffy, and Ichigo.
• Global Popularity of Anime: Dragon Ball, with Goku at its forefront, played a significant role in popularizing anime globally, especially in the West. His iconic look, transformations (like Super Saiyan), and catchphrases are instantly recognizable worldwide.
• Influence on Creators: Many anime and manga creators cite Dragon Ball and Goku as a major inspiration for their work. Eiichiro Oda (One Piece) and Masashi Kishimoto (Naruto) are among those who have acknowledged Goku’s influence on their storytelling and character development.
• Lasting Cultural Icon: Goku has transcended the anime sphere, becoming a recognizable figure in broader popular culture, referenced in music, television, and sports. His image has appeared in major events, demonstrating his widespread recognition.
• Evolution of Action Sequences: Dragon Ball‘s dynamic and over-the-top action sequences, often centered around Goku’s battles, set a new standard for fight choreography in anime, influencing countless action-oriented series.

Conclusion

Each of these characters brings something special to the anime world, whether it’s really deep ideas, always being positive, or just being funny. We connect with what they go through, the hard times and the wins, which is why they’re some of the best main characters in anime history. No matter how they change, who they care about, or just how they are, these characters keep inspiring us and making us enjoy anime all over the world.

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