10 protagonists stand out not just for their compelling storylines, but for their ability to elevate entire series through sheer charisma and depth. These characters become the heart and soul of their respective shows, captivating audiences and driving the narrative forward.
Let’s explore some of the most iconic anime main characters who truly carried their shows.
Lelouch vi Britannia (Code Geass)
Lelouch, the brilliant and charismatic protagonist of Code Geass, is the epitome of a character who carries an entire series. His complex motivations, strategic genius, and morally ambiguous actions make him a fascinating central figure.
Code Geass is essentially “the Lelouch show,” with his ideology and actions driving the plot forward and keeping viewers engrossed throughout the series. Lelouch’s unparalleled strategic mind, compelling anti-hero persona, and dramatic character development create a multifaceted protagonist that viewers can’t help but be drawn to, even when his actions are questionable.
Light Yagami (Death Note)
As the protagonist of Death Note, Light Yagami’s descent into moral ambiguity and his cat-and-mouse game with L create a gripping psychological thriller. His complex character and the ethical dilemmas he faces make him a controversial yet captivating lead.
Light’s journey explores the concepts of justice and morality, presenting viewers with challenging questions about power and corruption. The intellectual battles and mind games he engages in, coupled with his compelling anti-hero arc, ensure that Death Note remains a thought-provoking and engaging series from start to finish.
Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto)
Naruto’s journey from outcast to hero is the driving force behind one of anime’s most popular franchises. His unwavering determination and growth throughout the series resonate with viewers, making his story of perseverance and friendship truly inspiring. Not sure if Naruto is suppose to be here but gotta give him the flower’s he deserves for chasing Sasuke like Yandere.
Naruto’s remarkable character development, from a mischievous troublemaker to a respected leader, embodies the underdog spirit that many fans connect with. His ability to form strong bonds with supporting characters adds depth to the narrative and creates a rich, interconnected world that keeps viewers invested in his journey.
Okabe Rintarou (Steins;Gate)
Okabe Rintarou’s eccentric personality and his journey through time make Steins;Gate a captivating experience. His character growth and the weight of his decisions carry the emotional core of the series.
Okabe’s quirky yet endearing personality provides both comic relief and depth to the complex time travel narrative. As the story progresses, his emotional depth and character development become increasingly apparent, making his struggles and triumphs all the more impactful for the audience.
Saitama (One-Punch Man)
Saitama’s overwhelming strength and deadpan humor create a unique and often hilarious contrast to the typical shonen protagonist. His struggle with boredom and search for a worthy opponent drive the narrative in unexpected ways.
One-Punch Man subverts typical hero tropes through Saitama’s character, offering a fresh take on the superhero genre. The series explores existential themes amidst superhero action, with Saitama’s journey to find meaning in his overpowered existence serving as a compelling central narrative.
Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)
Eren Yeager’s transformation from a hot-headed youth to a complex, morally ambiguous character is central to Attack on Titan’s narrative. His actions and motivations drive the plot and keep viewers questioning their own perspectives.
Eren’s drastic character evolution throughout the series is a testament to the show’s intricate storytelling. His role in major plot twists and the moral ambiguity surrounding his decisions make him a controversial character, people cry cried about it for few months.
Violet Evergarden (Violet Evergarden)
Violet’s journey of self-discovery and understanding emotions carries the entire series of Violet Evergarden. Her growth from a war-hardened soldier to an empathetic individual forms the emotional core of the show.
Violet’s profound character development is beautifully portrayed as she learns to understand and express human emotions. Her compelling backstory and the way she touches the lives of those around her create a deeply moving narrative that resonates with viewers long after the series ends.
Guts (Berserk)
Guts’ relentless determination and struggle against fate make him one of the most iconic characters in anime. His complex relationships and inner demons drive the dark fantasy narrative of Berserk.
Guts embodies an unbreakable will in the face of overwhelming odds, making his journey both harrowing and inspiring, hopefully Guts get some peace from Kouji Mori. The depth of his character is further enhanced by his complex relationships, particularly with Griffith and Casca, adding layers of emotional complexity to the truly brutal world of Berserk.
Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Spike Spiegel’s cool demeanor, mysterious past, and internal conflicts make him the driving force of Cowboy Bebop. His journey of self-discovery and confrontation with his past form the backbone of the series. Spike’s charismatic and complex personality allows for a perfect blend of humor and depth, making him a relatable and intriguing protagonist.
His central role in the show’s thematic exploration of existentialism, redemption, and the weight of the past elevates Cowboy Bebop from a simple space western to a profound character study.
Asta (Black Clover)
Asta, the protagonist of Black Clover, stands out as a character who truly carries his show through sheer determination and unique abilities. Born without magic in a world where magical power is everything, Asta’s journey from powerless orphan to formidable Magic Knight is the driving force of the series. His rare anti-magic ability, derived from his five-leaf grimoire and the devil Liebe, sets him apart and makes him a formidable opponent against even the strongest mages. Asta’s unwavering spirit and determination in the face of adversity not only inspire his fellow characters but also resonate deeply with viewers.
Throughout the series, Asta undergoes significant character growth, evolving from a loud, impulsive boy to a more mature and strategic fighter. His impact on others, particularly in challenging the existing social hierarchy and discrimination in the Clover Kingdom, adds depth to the narrative.
Asta’s journey embodies the spirit of the underdog, proving that with hard work and an unbreakable will, even those born without natural talents can achieve greatness, making him the heart and soul of Black Clover.
These characters demonstrate that a truly captivating protagonist can elevate an entire anime series. Whether through their complex personalities, unique abilities, or compelling story arcs, these main characters have left an indelible mark on their respective shows and in the hearts of anime fans worldwide.
Their ability to carry their series speaks to the power of well-crafted, multidimensional characters in storytelling, proving that a strong central figure can turn a good anime into an unforgettable experience.
