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
Power - Chainsaw Man
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Sena Kobayakawa - Eyeshield 21
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Mao Mao - The Apothecary Diaries
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Oguri Cap - Cinderella Gray
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Kurta Kurapika - Hunter x Hunter
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Mori Buntarou - Climber
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Kakashi Hatake - Naruto
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Mugen - Samurai Champloo
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Andy - Undead Unluck
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Brunhilde - Record of Ragnarok
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Loid Forger - Spy x Family
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Tatsumi Oga - Beelzebub
THE BRACKET
Power - Chainsaw Man
Power is a chaotic, bloodthirsty devil with a wild personality, but it’s exactly that unpredictable nature that makes her one of the most memorable characters in Chainsaw Man. Her raw impulsiveness, comedic timing, and surprising emotional depth breathe life into every panel she’s in. Her dynamic with Denji strikes a perfect balance of absurd humor and subtle emotional growth, particularly when she starts to form genuine bonds, defying her devil nature. Power’s presence elevates the story with her explosive personality, adding both levity and unexpected tenderness.
As a character, Power's development is deeply satisfying. Beneath her violent antics and egotism is a wounded being who learns to trust, care, and even love. Her arc resonates because it captures the tragedy and fragility behind her bravado, making her death all the more gut-wrenching. Power embodies both chaos and heart, a rare blend that turns her into more than just comic relief—she becomes a tragic hero in her own right, and a definitive standout in a series full of compelling figures.
As a character, Power's development is deeply satisfying. Beneath her violent antics and egotism is a wounded being who learns to trust, care, and even love. Her arc resonates because it captures the tragedy and fragility behind her bravado, making her death all the more gut-wrenching. Power embodies both chaos and heart, a rare blend that turns her into more than just comic relief—she becomes a tragic hero in her own right, and a definitive standout in a series full of compelling figures.
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Sena Kobayakawa - Eyeshield 21
Sena Kobayakawa’s journey from a timid, bullied boy to a confident ace runner is the essence of what makes him a compelling protagonist. His transformation is rooted in perseverance, self-discovery, and the refusal to give up despite physical and emotional challenges. Sena's growth doesn’t come from sudden power-ups but from consistent effort, which makes his progress feel earned and inspiring. As a main character, his humility and relatability invite readers to root for him deeply, especially as he learns to embrace the “Eyeshield 21” persona.
What cements Sena as an outstanding character is how his growth influences those around him. His earnestness and evolving courage galvanize his team, making him the emotional center of Deimon's rise. The narrative never over-romanticizes his success; instead, it grounds it in sweat, failure, and team spirit. Sena exemplifies the everyman turned hero, and his triumphs feel like the reader's own, which is what every great sports manga MC should deliver.
What cements Sena as an outstanding character is how his growth influences those around him. His earnestness and evolving courage galvanize his team, making him the emotional center of Deimon's rise. The narrative never over-romanticizes his success; instead, it grounds it in sweat, failure, and team spirit. Sena exemplifies the everyman turned hero, and his triumphs feel like the reader's own, which is what every great sports manga MC should deliver.
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Mao Mao - The Apothecary Diaries
Mao Mao is one of the sharpest and most original female protagonists in recent anime and manga. With her keen intellect, observational skills, and unflinching attitude, she navigates the deadly intricacies of an imperial court with aplomb. Unlike traditional heroines, Mao Mao’s power lies in her brain and her boldness, not brute force. Her background as an apothecary and her curiosity about poisons and medicine give her a unique lens through which she views the world, allowing her to solve mysteries in a world that constantly underestimates her.
What elevates Mao Mao as a top-tier character is her unapologetic individuality. She’s quirky, morally gray, and often detached, but her gradual emotional evolution is natural and rewarding. Mao Mao’s interactions with Jinshi and the court intrigue demonstrate her adaptability and subtle growth in empathy. She’s a rare type of protagonist—cerebral, morally complex, and utterly engrossing—making her a standout not just in her own story, but across the genre.
What elevates Mao Mao as a top-tier character is her unapologetic individuality. She’s quirky, morally gray, and often detached, but her gradual emotional evolution is natural and rewarding. Mao Mao’s interactions with Jinshi and the court intrigue demonstrate her adaptability and subtle growth in empathy. She’s a rare type of protagonist—cerebral, morally complex, and utterly engrossing—making her a standout not just in her own story, but across the genre.
VS
Oguri Cap - Cinderella Gray
Oguri Cap’s characterization in Cinderella Gray presents a refreshing take on the underdog sports narrative. She’s quiet, intense, and carries a stoic charm that sets her apart from the typical high-energy sports protagonist. Her story is one of silent determination, resilience, and grit, reflected in her racing style that embodies patience and explosive finishing power. Despite not being the loudest or flashiest, Oguri’s presence is magnetic, her focus and resolve turning every race into a battle of willpower.
As a character, Oguri Cap resonates due to her internal struggles and how she learns to balance her fierce independence with the realities of competition and teamwork. She rarely vocalizes her feelings, but the art and pacing subtly reveal her vulnerabilities, aspirations, and the quiet fire that drives her. Her role in Cinderella Gray elevates the entire narrative, providing a grounded, emotionally compelling lens through which readers experience the pressures and triumphs of elite competition.
As a character, Oguri Cap resonates due to her internal struggles and how she learns to balance her fierce independence with the realities of competition and teamwork. She rarely vocalizes her feelings, but the art and pacing subtly reveal her vulnerabilities, aspirations, and the quiet fire that drives her. Her role in Cinderella Gray elevates the entire narrative, providing a grounded, emotionally compelling lens through which readers experience the pressures and triumphs of elite competition.
VS
Kurta Kurapika - Hunter x Hunter
Kurapika stands as one of the most complex and emotionally rich characters in Hunter x Hunter. His singular quest for vengeance against the Phantom Troupe for slaughtering his clan drives a dark, tragic arc that balances intellect, restraint, and emotional unraveling. Unlike many revenge-driven characters, Kurapika operates with methodical precision, making him a cerebral protagonist who’s constantly walking a tightrope between justice and obsession. His development through the Yorknew and Succession Wars arcs is a masterclass in long-form character writing.
What makes Kurapika such an excellent character is the emotional toll his journey takes on him—and how that toll is never ignored. He sacrifices everything, including his morality and health, in his pursuit of justice, making his actions deeply human and painfully real. He’s a hero whose descent mirrors a slow-burning tragedy, and that layered, haunting portrayal sets him apart as one of the most compelling figures in shonen storytelling.
What makes Kurapika such an excellent character is the emotional toll his journey takes on him—and how that toll is never ignored. He sacrifices everything, including his morality and health, in his pursuit of justice, making his actions deeply human and painfully real. He’s a hero whose descent mirrors a slow-burning tragedy, and that layered, haunting portrayal sets him apart as one of the most compelling figures in shonen storytelling.
VS
Mori Buntarou - Climber
Mori Buntarou, the protagonist of Climber (also known as Yama no Susume), is a standout character who offers a unique perspective on growth, determination, and personal challenge, particularly within the context of climbing. Initially presented as a highly introverted and physically unremarkable young man, Mori's journey is one of self-discovery through his passion for mountain climbing. What makes Mori compelling as an MC is his quiet perseverance and the gradual transformation he undergoes throughout the story. While many sports anime protagonists are defined by their explosive talents or overt displays of confidence, Mori's strength lies in his mental and emotional growth. His development comes not from an innate skill or natural ability but from his relentless drive to push beyond his limitations, deal with self-doubt, and overcome physical and emotional hurdles.
Mori's struggles are deeply human and relatable. His evolution is not just about becoming a better climber but about understanding his own fears, motivations, and relationships with those around him. His deep respect for the mountains and his desire to improve as both an individual and a climber are central to his character. What stands out is Mori’s humility and his ability to recognize and learn from his mistakes. His emotional and physical journey mirrors the ascent of a mountain itself—full of setbacks, moments of self-reflection, and, ultimately, triumphs. Mori’s character resonates with audiences because he shows that success is not always about being the best or the fastest, but about growth, persistence, and learning how to deal with both your strengths and weaknesses. His story is a perfect balance of personal introspection and outward challenge, making him one of the most grounded and authentic main characters in the genre.
Mori's struggles are deeply human and relatable. His evolution is not just about becoming a better climber but about understanding his own fears, motivations, and relationships with those around him. His deep respect for the mountains and his desire to improve as both an individual and a climber are central to his character. What stands out is Mori’s humility and his ability to recognize and learn from his mistakes. His emotional and physical journey mirrors the ascent of a mountain itself—full of setbacks, moments of self-reflection, and, ultimately, triumphs. Mori’s character resonates with audiences because he shows that success is not always about being the best or the fastest, but about growth, persistence, and learning how to deal with both your strengths and weaknesses. His story is a perfect balance of personal introspection and outward challenge, making him one of the most grounded and authentic main characters in the genre.
VS
Kakashi Hatake - Naruto
Kakashi Hatake is arguably one of the most iconic and multifaceted characters in Naruto. Initially introduced as a mysterious, aloof mentor, Kakashi's backstory gradually unfolds to reveal a deeply scarred and principled man shaped by loss, responsibility, and an unwavering sense of duty. He embodies the perfect balance of power, wisdom, and humanity, making him an ideal mentor figure and later, an effective Hokage. His cool demeanor hides a depth of emotion that comes through powerfully in key arcs, such as the Kakashi Gaiden and his leadership in the Fourth Great Ninja War.
Kakashi’s strength as a character lies in his quiet resilience. He’s not defined by his Sharingan or his techniques, but by how he carries the weight of the past while still guiding the next generation. His loyalty, sense of irony, and dry humor make him relatable, while his sacrifices and growth mark him as a tragic yet noble figure. Kakashi is the kind of character who elevates every scene he’s in, making him a pillar of the Naruto universe.
Kakashi’s strength as a character lies in his quiet resilience. He’s not defined by his Sharingan or his techniques, but by how he carries the weight of the past while still guiding the next generation. His loyalty, sense of irony, and dry humor make him relatable, while his sacrifices and growth mark him as a tragic yet noble figure. Kakashi is the kind of character who elevates every scene he’s in, making him a pillar of the Naruto universe.
VS
Mugen - Samurai Champloo
Mugen’s raw energy and rebellious spirit make him one of the most electrifying main characters in anime. His breakdance-infused swordplay mirrors his chaotic, unpredictable nature, while his backstory—a brutal life of survival and abandonment—lends his wild persona a tragic undertone. Mugen challenges authority, lives on his own terms, and contrasts sharply with his co-leads Jin and Fuu, forming one of anime’s most iconic trios. His growth is subtle but impactful, shaped through the journey rather than overt introspection.
Mugen’s greatness lies in his authenticity—he never pretends to be noble or righteous, but he still evolves emotionally. Beneath his swagger and vulgarity is a man slowly realizing the value of connection, loyalty, and purpose. Mugen is compelling not because he changes completely, but because we glimpse the man he could become, even if he never fully gets there. That tension between freedom and attachment is what makes him unforgettable.
Mugen’s greatness lies in his authenticity—he never pretends to be noble or righteous, but he still evolves emotionally. Beneath his swagger and vulgarity is a man slowly realizing the value of connection, loyalty, and purpose. Mugen is compelling not because he changes completely, but because we glimpse the man he could become, even if he never fully gets there. That tension between freedom and attachment is what makes him unforgettable.
VS
Andy - Undead Unluck
Andy is a wild, unpredictable, and deeply endearing protagonist whose immortality sets the stage for one of the most original shonen premises in years. What makes Andy stand out isn’t just his power—it's how he wields it with reckless joy, all while carrying the emotional weight of centuries of life and death. His partnership with Fuuko evolves from chaotic comedy to one of mutual respect and deep emotional connection, making him the heart and soul of Undead Unluck.
Despite his brash exterior, Andy is a thoughtful and protective character. His journey to understand the purpose of life, love, and death is poignant, and his interactions often reveal a surprisingly philosophical side. He’s a character who literally can’t die, yet the story constantly explores what it means to live. This duality of absurd comedy and sincere existential reflection makes Andy a refreshingly unique and compelling MC.
Despite his brash exterior, Andy is a thoughtful and protective character. His journey to understand the purpose of life, love, and death is poignant, and his interactions often reveal a surprisingly philosophical side. He’s a character who literally can’t die, yet the story constantly explores what it means to live. This duality of absurd comedy and sincere existential reflection makes Andy a refreshingly unique and compelling MC.
VS
Brunhilde - Record of Ragnarok
Brunhilde, the tactician behind humanity's fight against the gods, is a force of intellect, manipulation, and unbreakable resolve. As the leader of the Valkyries, she masterminds the lineup of fighters in Record of Ragnarok, often outwitting even divine beings through sheer strategy and psychological insight. Her stoic facade and apparent ruthlessness mask a deep-seated love for humanity and her sisters, making her much more than a simple war commander. She operates with a chessmaster’s mind, always ten steps ahead, but her moves are driven by fierce empathy, especially when the odds are crushing.
What makes Brunhilde one of the most compelling characters is the duality of her strength: she doesn’t fight in the ring, but she’s arguably the most important player in the war. Her influence is felt in every match, and her emotional investment—especially when watching her chosen champions fight and die—reveals a hidden vulnerability. Her iron will and unwavering belief in humanity position her not only as a symbol of rebellion but as the emotional core of the story. She’s the rare mastermind whose heart is as strong as her mind.
What makes Brunhilde one of the most compelling characters is the duality of her strength: she doesn’t fight in the ring, but she’s arguably the most important player in the war. Her influence is felt in every match, and her emotional investment—especially when watching her chosen champions fight and die—reveals a hidden vulnerability. Her iron will and unwavering belief in humanity position her not only as a symbol of rebellion but as the emotional core of the story. She’s the rare mastermind whose heart is as strong as her mind.
VS
Loid Forger - Spy x Family
Loid Forger, or Twilight, is a master spy whose greatest mission—creating a fake family—turns into his most humanizing challenge. As an agent, he's suave, intelligent, and efficient, the embodiment of espionage perfection. But it’s in the domestic realm that Loid shines as a character. His attempt to balance his cold, calculated mission with the warmth and unpredictability of family life turns Spy x Family into a surprisingly heartfelt and humorous tale. His commitment to peace becomes more than a job—it transforms into genuine care for Anya and Yor.
Loid’s emotional evolution is subtle but steady. His internal conflict—between remaining a detached operative and becoming a real father—grounds the narrative and adds depth to every lighthearted moment. He’s at his best when he’s flustered, learning to navigate school interviews or Anya’s antics, revealing cracks in his perfect facade that make him all the more relatable. Loid is a brilliant protagonist because he shows that strength can be found not just in fighting wars, but in learning how to care and protect in the quietest, most human ways.
Loid’s emotional evolution is subtle but steady. His internal conflict—between remaining a detached operative and becoming a real father—grounds the narrative and adds depth to every lighthearted moment. He’s at his best when he’s flustered, learning to navigate school interviews or Anya’s antics, revealing cracks in his perfect facade that make him all the more relatable. Loid is a brilliant protagonist because he shows that strength can be found not just in fighting wars, but in learning how to care and protect in the quietest, most human ways.
VS
Tatsumi Oga - Beelzebub
Tatsumi Oga is the ultimate delinquent-turned-reluctant-father figure, and it’s that contrast that makes him one of the funniest and most unexpectedly wholesome shonen protagonists. Known for his brute strength and short temper, Oga finds himself raising the literal baby of the Demon Lord, Beelzebub, a premise that could easily slip into pure comedy but instead delivers surprising emotional resonance. Oga’s over-the-top brawls, paired with his growing (if begrudging) affection for Baby Beel, make every episode feel both ridiculous and rewarding.
What makes Oga stand out as a great MC is how his straightforward personality evolves in unexpected directions. He never stops being a tough guy, but he starts thinking more strategically, acting more responsibly, and showing genuine care for his chaotic “family.” The blend of absurd supernatural hijinks and grounded character growth gives him a unique niche in the shonen world. Oga isn’t trying to be a hero—he just does what he feels is right, which ironically makes him one of the most authentic and dependable leads in his genre.
What makes Oga stand out as a great MC is how his straightforward personality evolves in unexpected directions. He never stops being a tough guy, but he starts thinking more strategically, acting more responsibly, and showing genuine care for his chaotic “family.” The blend of absurd supernatural hijinks and grounded character growth gives him a unique niche in the shonen world. Oga isn’t trying to be a hero—he just does what he feels is right, which ironically makes him one of the most authentic and dependable leads in his genre.
