IMPORTANT: THIS TIME THERE WILL BE NO FIGHTS. YOU WILL SIMPLY VOTE FOR YOUR TOP 6 CHOICES HERE. PLEASE TRY TO USE UP ALL 6 VOTES. THANKS.
THE BRACKET
Revy - Black Lagoon
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Frieren - Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
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Hiruma Yoichi - Eyeshield 21
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Baki Hanma - Baki the Grappler
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Akeno Himejima - High School DxD
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Gintoki - Gintama
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Momo Ayase - Dandadan
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Manji - Blade of the Immortal
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Yuuji Itadori - Jujutsu Kaisen
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Cloud Strife - Final Fantasy
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Canute - Vinland Saga
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Tomoya Okazaki - Clannad
THE BRACKET
Revy - Black Lagoon
Revy, the fearless mercenary from Black Lagoon, is one of the most striking characters in anime, blending brutal violence with deep emotional complexity. At first glance, she comes off as a relentless, no-holds-barred killer with little concern for anything beyond the moment. She’s fast with her guns, sharp with her tongue, and fiercely independent. Revy's traumatic past has shaped her into someone who believes in survival above all else, and she often uses her tough exterior to shield herself from the harsh realities she’s experienced. Her cynicism and volatility make her seem like a person who’s impossible to reach, but as the series progresses, we begin to see the cracks in her armor. The relationships she forms with others, particularly Rock, challenge her view of the world, showing that there’s more to life than just violence and survival.
Despite her belief that she’s beyond redemption, Revy’s character is defined by her constant internal struggle. She’s caught between a desire to stay emotionally distant and a part of her that craves connection, understanding, and even love. Her bond with Rock is one of the most poignant aspects of her character arc, as he becomes the person who challenges her hardened view of the world and helps her confront her vulnerabilities. Revy doesn’t want to be saved, yet her gradual emotional evolution-spurred by the people around her-makes her a character who is constantly evolving. She is a fierce anti-heroine, deeply flawed yet profoundly human, and it’s this complexity that makes her one of the most memorable protagonists in anime.
Despite her belief that she’s beyond redemption, Revy’s character is defined by her constant internal struggle. She’s caught between a desire to stay emotionally distant and a part of her that craves connection, understanding, and even love. Her bond with Rock is one of the most poignant aspects of her character arc, as he becomes the person who challenges her hardened view of the world and helps her confront her vulnerabilities. Revy doesn’t want to be saved, yet her gradual emotional evolution-spurred by the people around her-makes her a character who is constantly evolving. She is a fierce anti-heroine, deeply flawed yet profoundly human, and it’s this complexity that makes her one of the most memorable protagonists in anime.
VS
Frieren - Frieren: Beyond Journey's End
Frieren, the mage from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, represents an exploration of time, memory, and the evolution of relationships. As an immortal who has lived for centuries, she’s spent much of her life focused on magical pursuits and quests, while her human companions grew old and passed away. This immortality makes Frieren somewhat detached from the ordinary life that her friends and companions experienced, and it isn’t until after they’re gone that she starts to understand the true value of the bonds they shared. Initially, Frieren is indifferent to human emotions, viewing them as fleeting and inconsequential. But as she embarks on a new journey with younger companions, she begins to realize the importance of time, the depth of her past relationships, and the emotional connections that she took for granted.
What makes Frieren’s character so compelling is the slow but impactful shift in her perspective. As she learns to cherish the fleeting moments of human life, her growth becomes less about the magic she wields and more about her ability to emotionally connect with others. Her journey isn’t one of grand battles or heroic feats, but rather a quiet reflection on time, loss, and the subtle beauty of relationships. In a world where immortality is seen as a gift, Frieren’s story shows that even endless life comes with its own burdens-especially when it means outliving those you’ve come to care about. Frieren’s emotional journey is one of healing, self-discovery, and a poignant reminder that the people we meet along the way shape our lives in ways we often don’t realize until it’s too late.
What makes Frieren’s character so compelling is the slow but impactful shift in her perspective. As she learns to cherish the fleeting moments of human life, her growth becomes less about the magic she wields and more about her ability to emotionally connect with others. Her journey isn’t one of grand battles or heroic feats, but rather a quiet reflection on time, loss, and the subtle beauty of relationships. In a world where immortality is seen as a gift, Frieren’s story shows that even endless life comes with its own burdens-especially when it means outliving those you’ve come to care about. Frieren’s emotional journey is one of healing, self-discovery, and a poignant reminder that the people we meet along the way shape our lives in ways we often don’t realize until it’s too late.
VS
Hiruma Yoichi - Eyeshield 21
Hiruma Yoichi is the chaotic, cunning, and unforgettable captain of the Deimon Devil Bats in Eyeshield 21. On the outside, he’s a wild, intimidating figure, always operating on the edge of legality and morality. His methods are unorthodox-he's known for using psychological warfare, fear tactics, and clever manipulation to get the best out of his team and crush his opponents. But beneath this chaotic and often ruthless exterior lies a character who’s deeply committed to his team’s success. Hiruma’s true brilliance lies in his strategic mind; he’s a genius when it comes to outsmarting his adversaries and making the impossible seem possible. His drive to win, while sometimes extreme, is always fueled by his sense of loyalty and desire to see his team succeed, no matter the cost.
While Hiruma can be seen as a villainous figure due to his aggressive tactics and willingness to do whatever it takes to win, his character is far more layered. Despite his tough and often intimidating persona, Hiruma is not a heartless individual. He has a strong sense of responsibility toward his teammates and is fiercely protective of them, even if he expresses it in unconventional ways. His leadership skills are unparalleled, and his ability to inspire fear and loyalty in equal measure is a testament to his complexity. Hiruma doesn’t follow the usual tropes of the "cool" or "heroic" captain-he’s flawed, sometimes morally dubious, but his dedication to his team and his ability to lead them through any challenge make him an essential and deeply compelling character in Eyeshield 21.
While Hiruma can be seen as a villainous figure due to his aggressive tactics and willingness to do whatever it takes to win, his character is far more layered. Despite his tough and often intimidating persona, Hiruma is not a heartless individual. He has a strong sense of responsibility toward his teammates and is fiercely protective of them, even if he expresses it in unconventional ways. His leadership skills are unparalleled, and his ability to inspire fear and loyalty in equal measure is a testament to his complexity. Hiruma doesn’t follow the usual tropes of the "cool" or "heroic" captain-he’s flawed, sometimes morally dubious, but his dedication to his team and his ability to lead them through any challenge make him an essential and deeply compelling character in Eyeshield 21.
VS
Baki Hanma - Baki the Grappler
Baki Hanma, the protagonist of Baki the Grappler, is an embodiment of raw strength, relentless ambition, and emotional complexity. Born into the shadow of his legendary father, Yujiro Hanma, the world’s most powerful fighter, Baki’s entire life revolves around the desire to surpass him. His training is brutal, his fights are intense, and his resolve is unwavering, but what truly sets Baki apart is the emotional weight of his quest. His journey isn’t just about becoming the strongest fighter-it’s about proving himself worthy of his father’s approval, and in doing so, confronting the unresolved issues within himself. As Baki fights his way through powerful foes, his character evolves from a determined young fighter to someone who begins to understand that strength is not just physical-it’s emotional and psychological as well.
Baki’s intense pursuit of power comes with a cost. His relationships with friends and family are often strained by his singular focus on surpassing his father. His emotional growth is slow, and his struggles with his own identity and purpose are at the core of his character arc. Throughout the series, Baki faces physical and emotional challenges that force him to reckon with his deeper insecurities and desires. What makes Baki so intriguing is that he’s not just a mindless fighter-his battles are a reflection of his internal turmoil. His character becomes more than just a quest for power; it’s a search for meaning, for self-worth, and for the emotional connection he so desperately needs, even if he doesn’t know how to reach it.
Baki’s intense pursuit of power comes with a cost. His relationships with friends and family are often strained by his singular focus on surpassing his father. His emotional growth is slow, and his struggles with his own identity and purpose are at the core of his character arc. Throughout the series, Baki faces physical and emotional challenges that force him to reckon with his deeper insecurities and desires. What makes Baki so intriguing is that he’s not just a mindless fighter-his battles are a reflection of his internal turmoil. His character becomes more than just a quest for power; it’s a search for meaning, for self-worth, and for the emotional connection he so desperately needs, even if he doesn’t know how to reach it.
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Akeno Himejima - High School DxD
Akeno Himejima from High School DxD is a character who blends seduction, strength, and deep emotional complexity in ways that few anime characters can match. As the Vice-President of the Occult Research Club and a powerful devil, Akeno has the ability to strike fear into her enemies while captivating those around her with her beauty and charm. Her outwardly confident and flirtatious nature hides a darker, more vulnerable side that stems from a tragic past. Akeno’s relationship with her father, a fallen angel who abandoned her, is a key part of her emotional journey. This internal conflict between her devil heritage and her unresolved feelings about her father make her a fascinating character to watch.
What makes Akeno stand out is how she balances her playful, seductive demeanor with moments of incredible emotional depth. She’s often seen as the “mysterious” and “dangerous” character in High School DxD, but beneath her confident facade is a woman dealing with abandonment, guilt, and the pain of her upbringing. Her relationship with Issei, the series’ protagonist, is one of the key aspects of her character arc. While she’s initially portrayed as someone who enjoys teasing and manipulating others, Akeno’s softer side emerges as she starts to trust and bond with Issei. Her growth from a character defined by her painful past to someone capable of vulnerability and love is one of the most compelling aspects of High School DxD.
What makes Akeno stand out is how she balances her playful, seductive demeanor with moments of incredible emotional depth. She’s often seen as the “mysterious” and “dangerous” character in High School DxD, but beneath her confident facade is a woman dealing with abandonment, guilt, and the pain of her upbringing. Her relationship with Issei, the series’ protagonist, is one of the key aspects of her character arc. While she’s initially portrayed as someone who enjoys teasing and manipulating others, Akeno’s softer side emerges as she starts to trust and bond with Issei. Her growth from a character defined by her painful past to someone capable of vulnerability and love is one of the most compelling aspects of High School DxD.
VS
Gintoki - Gintama
Gintoki Sakata, the silver-haired protagonist of Gintama, is the epitome of an unconventional hero. He’s lazy, sarcastic, and often more interested in enjoying his favorite sweets than taking on his responsibilities as a samurai. But beneath his carefree attitude lies a man who’s deeply affected by the world around him, a man who’s endured personal loss, war, and countless hardships. Gintoki’s character is a perfect blend of comedy and tragedy, and it’s this unique combination that makes him so relatable and memorable. He may seem like a slacker on the surface, but his moments of heroism-whether through his unwavering loyalty to his friends or his commitment to his ideals-show that he is, in fact, one of the most noble characters in anime.
What makes Gintoki stand out is his ability to juggle the absurdity of his world with deeply serious themes of loss, friendship, and personal growth. His disinterest in authority and constant rebellion against the system makes him a symbol of freedom and individuality. But what truly makes him a standout character is his complexity-he’s not just a lazy, selfish figure; he’s someone who’s deeply affected by the events around him and is constantly struggling to find meaning in a chaotic world. Gintoki is a character who represents both the humor and the heart of Gintama, and his journey is about coming to terms with the past while trying to find a better future.
What makes Gintoki stand out is his ability to juggle the absurdity of his world with deeply serious themes of loss, friendship, and personal growth. His disinterest in authority and constant rebellion against the system makes him a symbol of freedom and individuality. But what truly makes him a standout character is his complexity-he’s not just a lazy, selfish figure; he’s someone who’s deeply affected by the events around him and is constantly struggling to find meaning in a chaotic world. Gintoki is a character who represents both the humor and the heart of Gintama, and his journey is about coming to terms with the past while trying to find a better future.
VS
Momo Ayase - Dandadan
Momo Ayase from Dandadan is one of the most dynamic characters in the series, blending strength, vulnerability, and a quirky sense of humor. As a high school girl who gets caught up in the strange world of aliens, spirits, and supernatural forces, Momo is more than just a bystander-she’s a fierce and capable protagonist in her own right. Her quick-witted personality and tendency to charge headfirst into dangerous situations make her both endearing and badass. Momo’s strength comes not only from her ability to fight but also from her determination to protect the people she cares about. Her relationship with her best friend, Okarun, is one of the highlights of the series, as their dynamic often serves as both comic relief and a foundation for emotional growth.
Momo’s character development is one of the most satisfying parts of Dandadan. While she starts as a relatively ordinary girl caught up in extraordinary circumstances, her bravery and growth as a person are central to her arc. Despite the bizarre and often dangerous supernatural events that surround her, Momo remains grounded and continues to push forward, relying on her wits and strength to overcome whatever challenges come her way. Her journey is about self-discovery, overcoming fears, and learning to navigate a world that’s as strange as it is terrifying. Momo’s blend of strength and vulnerability makes her a character to root for, and her arc is a testament to her resilience and determination.
Momo’s character development is one of the most satisfying parts of Dandadan. While she starts as a relatively ordinary girl caught up in extraordinary circumstances, her bravery and growth as a person are central to her arc. Despite the bizarre and often dangerous supernatural events that surround her, Momo remains grounded and continues to push forward, relying on her wits and strength to overcome whatever challenges come her way. Her journey is about self-discovery, overcoming fears, and learning to navigate a world that’s as strange as it is terrifying. Momo’s blend of strength and vulnerability makes her a character to root for, and her arc is a testament to her resilience and determination.
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Manji - Blade of the Immortal
Manji, the immortal swordsman from Blade of the Immortal, is a character shaped by guilt, revenge, and the quest for redemption. Cursed with immortality after slaying hundreds of men, Manji is a man who has lived far beyond the natural span of a human life. His curse has made him numb to death and filled him with a sense of emptiness. Initially, he takes on a cynical, detached attitude toward life, viewing his immortality as a burden rather than a gift. However, as his journey progresses, he becomes entangled in a quest to protect Rin, a young woman seeking revenge for the murder of her parents. Manji’s relationship with Rin becomes the catalyst for his emotional growth, as he starts to confront his own past and his need for redemption.
What makes Manji so compelling is his internal struggle with the burden of immortality and the guilt he carries for his violent past. He’s not a typical hero-he’s a flawed, reluctant protector who is driven by a deep need for atonement. His immortality, which once seemed like a curse, becomes a tool for him to seek redemption by helping others. Manji’s growth is slow, and his emotional development is deeply intertwined with his desire to protect Rin and confront the mistakes of his past. His character arc is one of redemption, forgiveness, and the heavy toll that immortality can take on a person’s soul.
What makes Manji so compelling is his internal struggle with the burden of immortality and the guilt he carries for his violent past. He’s not a typical hero-he’s a flawed, reluctant protector who is driven by a deep need for atonement. His immortality, which once seemed like a curse, becomes a tool for him to seek redemption by helping others. Manji’s growth is slow, and his emotional development is deeply intertwined with his desire to protect Rin and confront the mistakes of his past. His character arc is one of redemption, forgiveness, and the heavy toll that immortality can take on a person’s soul.
VS
Yuuji Itadori - Jujutsu Kaisen
Yuji Itadori is the charismatic and emotionally driven protagonist of Jujutsu Kaisen. His journey begins with a deep sense of responsibility after he swallows a cursed object to save his friends, unintentionally becoming the vessel for the powerful curse, Sukuna. Yuji’s strength, both physical and emotional, is what makes him stand out as a protagonist. Despite his immense power and the curse within him, Yuji constantly grapples with the moral complexities of his world. He doesn't want to become a monster, but he’s willing to make difficult decisions to protect the people he cares about. What makes Yuji so compelling is how he balances his own humanity with the darkness that threatens to consume him, a constant battle between good and evil that defines his journey.
Yuji’s character is built around themes of selflessness, sacrifice, and the search for meaning in a world filled with curses and death. He’s not the typical "chosen one" type of hero-he struggles with his decisions, questions the systems around him, and questions the value of life itself. His internal conflict is a central part of his character, and it’s through this struggle that he begins to understand the true weight of the world he lives in. What sets Yuji apart from other protagonists is his willingness to take on impossible burdens for the sake of others, even at the cost of his own happiness and well-being. His growth is marked by a deeper understanding of life and death, and he becomes a character who is constantly evolving as he faces unimaginable challenges.
Yuji’s character is built around themes of selflessness, sacrifice, and the search for meaning in a world filled with curses and death. He’s not the typical "chosen one" type of hero-he struggles with his decisions, questions the systems around him, and questions the value of life itself. His internal conflict is a central part of his character, and it’s through this struggle that he begins to understand the true weight of the world he lives in. What sets Yuji apart from other protagonists is his willingness to take on impossible burdens for the sake of others, even at the cost of his own happiness and well-being. His growth is marked by a deeper understanding of life and death, and he becomes a character who is constantly evolving as he faces unimaginable challenges.
VS
Cloud Strife - Final Fantasy
Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy VII is one of the most iconic characters in video game history, and his journey is one of emotional depth and personal discovery. Initially introduced as a mercenary with a mysterious past, Cloud’s journey is one of self-realization and grappling with his true identity. Over the course of the game, Cloud learns that his memories have been manipulated and that he has been living a lie. His struggles with his own identity, guilt, and feelings of inadequacy make him a highly relatable character. Cloud is a hero, but he is flawed, haunted by his past, and unsure of his place in the world. It’s this internal conflict that makes Cloud so compelling-he’s not a perfect hero, but one who must overcome his own limitations and insecurities to save the world.
What truly elevates Cloud as a character is his emotional growth throughout the story. His relationships with the other members of AVALANCHE, especially his evolving bond with Tifa and Aerith, are central to his development. Through these connections, Cloud learns what it truly means to trust others, to love, and to confront his own weaknesses. His journey is as much about his emotional growth as it is about the external battles he faces. By the end of Final Fantasy VII, Cloud has come to terms with his past, accepted who he is, and grown into a true leader, making him a standout character not just in the game, but in the wider world of storytelling.
What truly elevates Cloud as a character is his emotional growth throughout the story. His relationships with the other members of AVALANCHE, especially his evolving bond with Tifa and Aerith, are central to his development. Through these connections, Cloud learns what it truly means to trust others, to love, and to confront his own weaknesses. His journey is as much about his emotional growth as it is about the external battles he faces. By the end of Final Fantasy VII, Cloud has come to terms with his past, accepted who he is, and grown into a true leader, making him a standout character not just in the game, but in the wider world of storytelling.
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Canute - Vinland Saga
Canute, from Vinland Saga, undergoes one of the most dramatic and transformative character arcs in anime. Initially introduced as a weak and seemingly passive prince, Canute’s evolution into a strong and decisive leader is a testament to the power of personal growth and inner strength. At the beginning, he’s sheltered and manipulated by those around him, but as he witnesses the brutality of the world, he begins to understand that in order to achieve his goals, he must take control of his own fate. Canute’s development is tied to his growing sense of purpose and his desire to build a better world, even if it means becoming something he once despised.
What makes Canute’s arc so compelling is how his transformation is driven by his evolving worldview. He starts as a figurehead, dependent on others, but slowly grows into a powerful and strategic leader who takes charge of his own destiny. This shift from a naïve prince to a ruthless ruler is both shocking and believable, as we see Canute struggle with the moral and psychological cost of his decisions. His evolution is a fascinating exploration of power, leadership, and the complexities of human nature. By the end of his arc, Canute is no longer the frightened prince he once was, but a man who’s ready to carve his own path in the world, regardless of the consequences.
What makes Canute’s arc so compelling is how his transformation is driven by his evolving worldview. He starts as a figurehead, dependent on others, but slowly grows into a powerful and strategic leader who takes charge of his own destiny. This shift from a naïve prince to a ruthless ruler is both shocking and believable, as we see Canute struggle with the moral and psychological cost of his decisions. His evolution is a fascinating exploration of power, leadership, and the complexities of human nature. By the end of his arc, Canute is no longer the frightened prince he once was, but a man who’s ready to carve his own path in the world, regardless of the consequences.
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Tomoya Okazaki - Clannad
Tomoya Okazaki from Clannad starts as a cynical, apathetic high school student who’s disillusioned with life due to the emotional scars left by his family and personal experiences. Initially, he’s more interested in skipping school and getting by than actually engaging with the world around him. However, his interactions with Nagisa and the other girls in the series force him to confront his apathy and slowly open up to the possibilities of love, family, and connection. Tomoya’s journey is about personal growth, as he learns to take responsibility for his actions and recognize the impact he has on the lives of others.
What makes Tomoya’s character so relatable is how grounded his struggles are. His emotional growth isn’t about overcoming grand obstacles but learning to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal responsibility. Over the course of Clannad, Tomoya learns to become a better person, not just for himself but for those around him. His transformation is marked by his relationships with the people he cares about—particularly his deepening bond with Nagisa, which eventually leads to him becoming a loving husband and father. Tomoya’s journey is a poignant reminder that even in the face of hardship and disillusionment, it’s possible to find meaning and purpose in the people you love.
What makes Tomoya’s character so relatable is how grounded his struggles are. His emotional growth isn’t about overcoming grand obstacles but learning to navigate the complexities of relationships and personal responsibility. Over the course of Clannad, Tomoya learns to become a better person, not just for himself but for those around him. His transformation is marked by his relationships with the people he cares about—particularly his deepening bond with Nagisa, which eventually leads to him becoming a loving husband and father. Tomoya’s journey is a poignant reminder that even in the face of hardship and disillusionment, it’s possible to find meaning and purpose in the people you love.
