Top 10 Best Anime Characters in 2024

Anime has gifted us with an array of characters that go beyond just being protagonists or supporting roles. They are the heart and soul of their respective stories, leaving lasting impressions with their depth, complexity, and memorable arcs. From fierce warriors to compassionate leaders and antiheroes, these top 10 anime characters represent the best of what anime has to offer in terms of personality, development, and impact on fans. Here’s a list of best anime characters you should know in 2024.

1. Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece)

Monkey D. Luffy is the epitome of a passionate, adventurous spirit in One Piece. As the optimistic and fearless leader of the Straw Hat Pirates, Luffy’s unwavering determination to become the Pirate King drives the narrative forward. What sets him apart as one of the best anime characters is his genuine heart, loyalty to his friends, and his ability to inspire those around him. His growth from a carefree boy into a formidable pirate captain shows the depth of his character, making him an enduring figure in the world of anime.

2. Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto / Naruto Shippuden)

Naruto Uzumaki is an iconic figure in the anime world, known for his resilience, optimism, and unwavering will to protect his friends and village. Starting as an outcast, Naruto grows into a hero who earns the respect of even his greatest enemies. His journey is filled with struggles, both internal and external, making his story relatable to many fans. His desire to be acknowledged by others and to forge his own destiny resonates deeply with anyone who has ever faced adversity.

3. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

Edward Elric from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a character whose personal sacrifices and journey for redemption make him one of the best in anime. As a skilled alchemist, Ed is driven by his search for the Philosopher’s Stone to restore his brother Alphonse, whose body was lost in a failed alchemical experiment. Edward's combination of brilliance, stubbornness, and vulnerability makes him an unforgettable anime character who continues to inspire fans worldwide.

4. Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

As humanity’s strongest soldier in Attack on Titan, Levi Ackerman stands out as one of the most beloved anime characters. His exceptional combat skills, stoic personality, and fierce loyalty to his comrades make him a fan favorite. Despite his cold exterior, Levi shows deep care for his team and is a symbol of strength in the face of overwhelming odds. His backstory and complex character arc also add layers to his persona, making him one of anime’s greatest warriors.

5. Light Yagami (Death Note)

Light Yagami is a character who represents the darker side of morality in anime. In Death Note, Light’s descent into megalomania as he attempts to rid the world of criminals by using the Death Note is both chilling and fascinating. His intellectual brilliance and moral ambiguity make him one of the most compelling antiheroes in anime. Light’s complex character challenges the viewer to consider the fine line between justice and tyranny, making him one of the best anime characters of all time.

6. Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)

Mikasa Ackerman, also from Attack on Titan, is a formidable fighter and loyal protector. Her unwavering devotion to Eren Yeager and her calm demeanor in battle make her one of the strongest female anime characters. Mikasa’s complex emotional depth and backstory, coupled with her unmatched skill, create a character who is both relatable and inspiring. She has become a symbol of strength and emotional depth in anime.

7. Goku (Dragon Ball Z)

Goku from the Dragon Ball series is one of the most recognizable and beloved characters in anime history. Known for his boundless energy, insatiable hunger for battle, and a heart full of optimism, Goku’s journey from a carefree child to the universe’s greatest fighter is a story that has resonated with fans for decades. His endless determination to protect those he loves and his ability to overcome insurmountable odds define his character, making him a true icon of anime.

8. Sakura Kinomoto (Cardcaptor Sakura)

As the lead character in Cardcaptor Sakura, Sakura Kinomoto is a young, kind-hearted girl who is tasked with capturing magical cards known as the Clow Cards. Her purity, compassion, and courage make her one of the most beloved characters in anime, especially in the magical girl genre. Sakura’s journey is not just about saving the world, but about learning to believe in herself and embracing her destiny. Her warmth and perseverance make her a standout in the world of anime characters.

9. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)

Another standout from One Piece, Roronoa Zoro is the loyal swordsman of the Straw Hat Pirates. Known for his incredible strength and unyielding determination, Zoro’s journey to become the world’s greatest swordsman is filled with challenges and sacrifices. His stoic personality, deep sense of honor, and unshakeable loyalty to his friends have made him a fan favorite and one of the most iconic anime characters.

10. Rem (Re- Starting Life in Another World)

Rem from Re

is a character whose loyalty and depth have captured the hearts of anime fans everywhere. Initially introduced as a demon maid with a tough exterior, Rem’s feelings for the protagonist Subaru Natsuki and her inner struggles are explored throughout the series. Rem’s selflessness, strength, and emotional vulnerability make her one of the best and most beloved female characters in anime. Her powerful character arc and the raw emotions she displays resonate deeply with viewers.

---

Conclusion

The world of anime is filled with characters that range from the heroic to the morally ambiguous, from the cheerful to the stoic. These best anime characters represent the diversity and emotional depth that anime offers to its fans. Whether you’re drawn to characters who embody strength, intelligence, compassion, or emotional complexity, these 10 characters stand out as the best of the best in the anime world. They are more than just faces in a story – they are the heart and soul of their respective series, and their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of anime fans.