Anime Characters: Anime is a medium of storytelling that transcends the boundaries of traditional animation. It is an art form that combines stunning visuals, intricate plots, and well-developed characters that have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Anime characters are often portrayed with depth and complexity, making them relatable and endearing to audiences.
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As the popularity of anime has grown, so too has the fanbase of its most beloved characters. From iconic heroes and heroines to enigmatic villains, these characters have become cultural icons and continue to resonate with fans of all ages.
Top 26 Popular Anime Characters Of All Time
Here are the top 26 anime characters of all time, as chosen by fans and critics alike. Each character has left an indelible mark on the medium, and their stories continue to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
- Son Goku (Dragon Ball Z)
Goku, the main protagonist of the Dragon Ball Z series, is one of the most recognizable anime characters of all time. He has been defending Earth against various evil forces for over 32 years, and his popularity has made him a brand ambassador for the Tokyo Olympics 2020. Goku’s character is known for his loyalty, dedication, and good-hearted nature, making him a favorite among fans.
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- Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
Monkey D. Luffy, the main character of One Piece, is a powerful and loyal pirate who dreams of becoming the Pirate King. His carefree attitude and trademark smile have made him beloved by fans worldwide. Luffy is willing to do anything for his friends and protect those who need help, making him a perfect leading protagonist for the show.
- Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
Naruto Uzumaki is the main protagonist of the Naruto series, which is considered one of the best shonen anime to watch. Naruto’s inspiring dialogues and never-give-up attitude have earned him a massive fan base.
The show’s mixture of action, comedy, and tragedy keeps fans coming back for more. Despite having a tough childhood, Naruto’s determination to become a Hokage has earned him the love and respect of his friends and comrades.
- Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)
Eren Yeager, the protagonist, and antagonist of Attack on Titan, is a fearless anti-hero who will do anything to protect his people. Fans have witnessed his character development from a naive child to a person full of anger and vengeance, showcasing various aspects of his personality.
Eren’s intelligence and power, coupled with his readiness to kill for the sake of his people, have made him one of the most unforgettable anime characters.
- Light Yagami (Death Note)
Light Yagami, one of the best anti-heroes in thriller anime history, is a genius who wants to rid the world of evil people. While his intelligence and brilliant strategies have made him a fan favorite, his obsession with killing bad people has made him a dangerous character. After becoming Kira, Light’s twisted ways of seeking justice have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
- Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach)
Ichigo Kurosaki, the main protagonist of the Bleach series, is intelligent, loyal, and determined to protect the world. His powers as a Quincy human, hollow, and Shinigami make him one of the most potent anime characters. Ichigo’s unique personality has attracted fans worldwide, making him one of the most popular characters in the Big Three of Anime, along with Naruto and One Piece.
- Lelouch Lamperouge (Code Geass)
Lelouch Lamperouge, the main protagonist of Code Geass, is a charismatic and intelligent character who can implant commands in a person’s mind by looking into their eyes. His ability to execute ideas with high precision and quick thinking has made him a fan favorite. Lelouch’s character has been captivating Japanese audiences since the show’s premiere in 2006.
- Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer)
Demon Slayer, also known as Kimetsu no Yaiba in Japanese, is a critically acclaimed anime that has taken the world by storm. Tanjiro Kamado is the main protagonist of the series. He is an incredibly kind and caring person who goes to great lengths to protect his loved ones, even if it means risking his own life.
After a tragic event in which his family was attacked by demons, Tanjiro sets out on a journey to become a demon slayer and avenge his family. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters who help him on his quest, including his sister Nezuko, who has been turned into a demon.
Tanjiro is an incredibly skilled fighter and possesses the unique ability to smell things that others cannot. This ability has helped him greatly in battle, allowing him to anticipate his opponents’ moves and react quickly.
- Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Fullmetal Alchemist is a classic anime series that has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Edward Elric is the main protagonist of the series. He is a brilliant alchemist with a passion for discovering the truth behind the mysterious substance known as “Philosopher’s Stone.”
Edward is a complex character who has gone through many trials and tribulations throughout the series. He is fiercely determined and never gives up, no matter how difficult the situation may be. His unwavering dedication to his family and friends is one of his most admirable traits.
In addition to his intelligence and determination, Edward is an incredibly skilled fighter. He has the ability to transmute objects into different forms, which he often uses in combat. His signature weapon is a blade that he has fashioned from his own automail arm.
- Ash Ketchum (Pokemon)
Ash Ketchum is one of the most iconic anime characters of all time. He is the main protagonist of the Pokemon series and has been on countless adventures with his trusty companion Pikachu.
Ash is a kind and optimistic person who is always eager to explore new places and meet new people. He has an unshakeable love for Pokemon and dreams of becoming a Pokemon Master.
Throughout the series, Ash has faced many challenges and obstacles, but he never gives up. His determination and perseverance have inspired fans all over the world.
In addition to his positive attitude, Ash is also an incredibly skilled Pokemon trainer. He has a deep understanding of the unique strengths and weaknesses of each Pokemon and is always coming up with new strategies to win battles.
- Levi Ackerman (Attack On Titan)
Levi Ackerman is one of the most popular characters in the hit anime series Attack on Titan. He is a skilled soldier and the leader of the Survey Corps’ Special Operations Squad.
Levi is known for his no-nonsense attitude and his unwavering dedication to protecting humanity from the Titans. He is an incredibly skilled fighter and has taken down countless Titans throughout the series.
In addition to his fighting skills, Levi is also a very complex character. He has a tragic backstory that has shaped who he is today, and he struggles with feelings of guilt and regret. Despite this, he remains a loyal and dedicated soldier who will do whatever it takes to protect humanity.
- Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Jujutsu Kaisen is an anime series that has gained an enormous following in a relatively short period of time, and one of its most beloved characters is Gojo Satoru. As the mentor of the show’s main protagonist, Yuji Itadori, Gojo is a powerful sorcerer with a relaxed demeanor and incredible abilities.
Gojo’s exceptional power is one of his most recognizable traits. He possesses the ability to manipulate cursed energy, allowing him to control space and time at will. He can create powerful barriers to keep his enemies at bay and effortlessly dodge attacks with his incredible speed.
Despite his formidable abilities, Gojo is known for his laid-back and nonchalant attitude. He often speaks in a playful and sarcastic manner, even in the midst of dangerous situations. This, coupled with his striking appearance and signature blindfold, has made him a fan favorite among Jujutsu Kaisen fans.
- Jotaro Kujo (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)
In the anime series Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, Jotaro Kujo takes on the role of the main character. He is a high school student who learns that he has a powerful Stand, a manifestation of his fighting spirit that gives him incredible abilities. Jotaro is widely recognized for his stoic personality and his unyielding determination to protect his loved ones.
- Yusuke Urameshi (Yu Yu Hakusho)
Yusuke Urameshi is the main protagonist of the anime series Yu Yu Hakusho. He is a delinquent with a heart of gold who undergoes a journey of self-discovery throughout the series. Yusuke is known for his tough exterior and his love for fighting.
The character’s personality resonates with the audience, as he is someone who learns the importance of friendship, loyalty, and the value of human life. Fans admire Yusuke’s unwavering determination and his willingness to go to great lengths to protect those he loves.
- Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Gon Freecss is the main character in the anime series Hunter x Hunter. He is a young boy with a strong sense of justice and a desire to become a Hunter, just like his father. Gon is known for his positive attitude and his kindness towards others.
Throughout the series, Gon faces many challenges and hardships, but he always manages to overcome them with his determination and perseverance. Fans love Gon for his character development, as he grows and matures throughout the series.
- Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Spike Spiegel is the main character in the anime series Cowboy Bebop. He is a former member of a criminal organization who becomes a bounty hunter. Spike is known for his cool and laid-back attitude, as well as his exceptional fighting skills.
Fans love Spike for his complex character, as he has a troubled past that is slowly revealed throughout the series. Spike’s interactions with the other characters on the show, particularly his partner Jet, make for some of the most memorable moments in the series.
- Saitama (One Punch Man)
Saitama is the main character in the anime series One Punch Man. He is a hero for fun who has become so powerful that he can defeat any opponent with just one punch. Saitama is known for his deadpan expression and his lack of enthusiasm for hero work.
Despite his incredible strength, Saitama is a humble and relatable character who just wants to find a worthy opponent to fight. Fans love Saitama for his unique take on the superhero genre and his hilarious interactions with the other characters in the series.
- Gintoki Sakata (Gintama)
Gintoki Sakata is the main character in the anime series Gintama. He is a former samurai who now works as a freelancer, taking on odd jobs for a living. Gintoki is known for his sense of humor and his laid-back attitude, as well as his exceptional sword-fighting skills.
Fans love Gintoki for his sarcastic wit and his ability to find humor in even the darkest situations. Despite his carefree nature, Gintoki has a deep sense of loyalty towards his friends and will do anything to protect them.
- Ken Kaneki (Tokyo Ghoul)
Ken Kaneki is the main character in the anime series Tokyo Ghoul. He is a college student who becomes a half-ghoul after a life-threatening encounter with one. Ken is known for his internal struggles as he tries to come to terms with his new identity and his thirst for human flesh.
Throughout the series, Ken faces many challenges as he tries to protect his loved ones and find a place in a world that doesn’t accept him. Fans love Ken for his complex character and his journey of self-discovery.
- Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Gon Freecss is the main protagonist of the anime series Hunter x Hunter. Gon is a kind-hearted and determined character who sets out on a journey to become a Hunter like his father. He possesses incredible strength and endurance and is willing to put his life on the line for his friends.
Gon’s unique ability is called “Nen,” which allows him to use his life force to perform incredible feats, such as enhancing his physical abilities, manipulating objects with his mind, and more. His optimistic and adventurous personality has made him a beloved character among fans of the series.
- Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
Monkey D. Luffy is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and the main protagonist of the anime series One Piece. Luffy possesses a unique ability called “Gomu Gomu no Mi,” which gives him the ability to stretch and contort his body like rubber. He is an energetic and carefree character who will stop at nothing to achieve his dream of becoming the Pirate King.
Luffy’s unbreakable will and loyalty to his friends have earned him a massive following among anime fans. His never-give-up attitude, infectious laughter, and his ability to overcome even the most impossible obstacles make him one of the most endearing characters in the anime world.
- Yusuke Urameshi (Yu Yu Hakusho)
Yusuke Urameshi is the main protagonist of the classic anime series Yu Yu Hakusho. He starts off as a delinquent who ends up sacrificing his life to save a child from being hit by a car. After passing a series of tests, Yusuke becomes a spirit detective who investigates supernatural cases in the human world.
Yusuke’s rough exterior hides a heart of gold, and his determination and courage make him a formidable opponent. He possesses the ability to use his “Spirit Energy” to perform incredible feats, such as firing energy blasts and enhancing his physical abilities. His character development throughout the series has made him a favorite among anime fans.
- Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Gon Freecss is the main protagonist of the anime series Hunter x Hunter. Gon is a kind-hearted and determined character who sets out on a journey to become a Hunter like his father. He possesses incredible strength and endurance and is willing to put his life on the line for his friends.
Gon’s unique ability is called “Nen,” which allows him to use his life force to perform incredible feats, such as enhancing his physical abilities, manipulating objects with his mind, and more. His optimistic and adventurous personality has made him a beloved character among fans of the series.
- Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)
Monkey D. Luffy is the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates and the main protagonist of the anime series One Piece. Luffy possesses a unique ability called “Gomu Gomu no Mi,” which gives him the ability to stretch and contort his body like rubber. He is an energetic and carefree character who will stop at nothing to achieve his dream of becoming the Pirate King.
Luffy’s unbreakable will and loyalty to his friends have earned him a massive following among anime fans. His never-give-up attitude, infectious laughter, and his ability to overcome even the most impossible obstacles make him one of the most endearing characters in the anime world.
- Yusuke Urameshi (Yu Yu Hakusho)
Yusuke Urameshi is the main protagonist of the classic anime series Yu Yu Hakusho. He starts off as a delinquent who ends up sacrificing his life to save a child from being hit by a car. After passing a series of tests, Yusuke becomes a spirit detective who investigates supernatural cases in the human world.
Yusuke’s rough exterior hides a heart of gold, and his determination and courage make him a formidable opponent. He possesses the ability to use his “Spirit Energy” to perform incredible feats, such as firing energy blasts and enhancing his physical abilities. His character development throughout the series has made him a favorite among anime fans.
- Shoyo Hinata (Haikyuu!!)
Shoyo Hinata is the main protagonist of the sports anime series Haikyuu!!. Hinata is a short but talented volleyball player who aspires to become the best. He enrolls in Karasuno High School, a school with a once-legendary volleyball team, to achieve his goal.
Hinata’s unwavering optimism, determination, and dedication to his sport have won him the admiration of his teammates and opponents alike. His “never say die” attitude and his ability to learn from his mistakes have made him a compelling character to follow throughout the series.
- Kagome Higurashi (Inuyasha)
Kagome Higurashi is the main protagonist of the anime series Inuyasha. Kagome is a high school student who is transported to the Sengoku period of Japan, where she meets the half-demon Inuyasha. Together, they embark on a journey to collect the shards of the Shikon Jewel, which has the power to grant wishes.
Kagome’s kind and caring nature, as well as her intelligence and resourcefulness, have made her a beloved character among fans of the series. Her ability to see the good in people and her willingness to stand up for what’s right make her a strong and relatable protagonist.
