Top 30 Anime Characters ranked on MAL

 The world of anime is filled with captivating characters who have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. These characters, with their unique traits, compelling stories, and memorable personalities, have become icons within the anime community. MyAnimeList (MAL) is a popular platform where fans can rate and rank their favorite anime series and characters. In this list, we explore the top 30 anime characters ranked on MAL, delving into their respective shows and the reasons why they have resonated so deeply with audiences.

1. Lelouch Lamperouge (Code Geass): Lelouch is a highly intelligent and strategic protagonist who leads a double life as a student and a masked revolutionary called "Zero." He possesses the power of Geass, which allows him to manipulate people's minds. Throughout the series, Lelouch seeks to overthrow the oppressive Britannian Empire and create a better world for his sister, Nunnally. His complex personality and intricate plans make him a fascinating character to follow.

2. Levi (Shingeki no Kyojin): Levi is a skilled and ruthless soldier in the Survey Corps, known for his exceptional combat skills and unyielding determination. Despite his small stature, Levi is a formidable force on the battlefield, earning him the nickname "Humanity's Strongest Soldier." He is stoic and often maintains a cold demeanor, but he deeply cares for his comrades and is fiercely protective of them.

3. Monkey D. Luffy (One Piece): Luffy is the main protagonist of the long-running series One Piece. As the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, he embarks on a grand adventure to find the ultimate treasure, One Piece, and become the Pirate King. Luffy possesses a unique ability called the "Gomu Gomu no Mi," which gives him rubber-like stretching powers. He is known for his infectious enthusiasm, unwavering loyalty, and his determination to protect his friends.

4. L Lawliet (Death Note): L, whose real name is Lawliet, is a brilliant and enigmatic detective who becomes the primary rival of Light Yagami in the psychological thriller Death Note. L is known for his unorthodox investigative methods and eccentric behavior, such as sitting in odd positions and constantly snacking on sweets. His deductive skills and cat-and-mouse game with Light make him a captivating and iconic character in the series.

5. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece): Zoro is a skilled swordsman and a member of the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece. As the crew's swordsman, he dreams of becoming the world's greatest swordsman. Zoro wields three swords simultaneously and showcases incredible swordsmanship and determination. Despite his serious and often stoic nature, Zoro is fiercely loyal to his crewmates and possesses a strong sense of honor.

6. Light Yagami (Death Note): Light is the protagonist and anti-hero of Death Note. After discovering a supernatural notebook called the Death Note, which grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it, Light takes it upon himself to rid the world of criminals and create a utopian society. His journey descends into a complex battle of wits as he matches wits with L, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse chase.

7. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter): Killua is a skilled assassin and one of the main characters in the Hunter x Hunter series. Initially introduced as a member of a notorious assassin family, Killua befriends Gon Freecss and embarks on a journey to become a Hunter. Killua possesses incredible agility, strength, and lightning-based powers. Despite his dark past, Killua develops a strong bond with Gon and gradually discovers his own values and path in life.

8. Rintarou Okabe (Steins;Gate): Rintarou Okabe, also known as "Okabe Rintarou" or "Hououin Kyouma," is the eccentric and self-proclaimed mad scientist in Steins;Gate. Okabe is the founder of the Future Gadget Laboratory and invents gadgets with his fellow lab members. He accidentally discovers a way to send text messages back in time, leading to a series of events involving time travel and altering the past. Okabe's charismatic but eccentric personality hides deep emotional turmoil as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and the fate of his friends. His journey showcases his growth and resilience as he navigates the complexities of time travel and fights to protect those he cares about.

9. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist): Edward, also known as Ed, is one of the main protagonists of Fullmetal Alchemist. As a skilled alchemist, he and his younger brother Alphonse embark on a quest to find the Philosopher's Stone, hoping to restore their bodies after a failed alchemical experiment. Edward is determined, resilient, and has a strong sense of justice. His journey explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the moral complexities of alchemy.

10. Naruto Uzumaki (Naruto): Naruto is the titular character of the long-running series Naruto. He is a spirited ninja with a dream of becoming the Hokage, the leader of his village. Naruto possesses an indomitable spirit, unwavering determination, and a knack for mischief. Throughout the series, he faces numerous challenges, forms lasting bonds with his friends, and strives to protect his loved ones while fighting against powerful enemies.

11. Guts (Berserk): Guts is the protagonist of the dark fantasy series Berserk. He is a skilled swordsman and a former mercenary known for his immense strength and relentless pursuit of revenge against the demonic entities known as Apostles. Guts wields an oversized sword called the Dragon Slayer and battles against overwhelming odds while struggling with his own inner demons. His story is one of tragedy, resilience, and the pursuit of his own humanity.

12. Sakata Gintoki (Gintama): Gintoki is the main protagonist of the comedic samurai series Gintama. He is a lazy yet highly skilled samurai-for-hire who often takes on odd jobs to make a living. Gintoki possesses incredible swordsmanship, a sharp wit, and a love for sweets and laziness. His carefree and laid-back demeanor hides his deep loyalty to his friends and his determination to protect what is dear to him.

13. Eren Yeager (Shingeki no Kyojin): Eren is one of the central characters in the action-packed series Attack on Titan. Initially introduced as a member of the Scout Regiment, Eren discovers that he possesses the power to transform into a Titan, a giant humanoid creature. His unwavering resolve to eradicate the Titans and protect humanity drives the story forward, leading to intense battles and shocking revelations. Eren's complex character arc explores themes of freedom, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

14. Kurisu Makise (Steins;Gate): Kurisu is a key character in the sci-fi thriller Steins;Gate. She is a genius neuroscientist and researcher who becomes entangled in a time-travel experiment. With her sharp intellect and scientific prowess, Kurisu contributes to the development of a time-traveling device. Throughout the series, her relationship with the protagonist, Okabe Rintarou, evolves, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Kurisu's strong-willed personality and complex past make her a compelling and memorable character.

15. Itachi Uchiha (Naruto): Itachi is a complex character in the Naruto series. Initially portrayed as a villain, Itachi is a prodigious shinobi from the Uchiha clan with extraordinary abilities. His actions and motives are shrouded in mystery and later revealed to be driven by a desire to protect his younger brother, Sasuke, and the village they belong to. Itachi's tragic story, deep love for his family, and the burdens he carries create a character that evokes both sympathy and admiration.

16. Mikasa Ackerman (Shingeki no Kyojin): Mikasa is one of the main characters in Attack on Titan. She is a skilled and disciplined soldier who possesses exceptional combat skills. Mikasa's unmatched talent in battle, unwavering loyalty to Eren Yeager, and her stoic yet fierce personality make her a formidable force on the battlefield. Her character development explores themes of attachment, survival, and the complexities of human relationships.

17. Hachiman Hikigaya (Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru.): Hachiman is the protagonist of the romantic comedy series My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU. He is a highly cynical and antisocial high school student who is forced to join the Volunteer Service Club as a punishment. 

18. Kaneki Ken (Tokyo Ghoul): Kaneki is the protagonist of the dark fantasy series Tokyo Ghoul. Initially, he is a college student who becomes a half-ghoul after a fateful encounter. Ghouls are beings that feed on human flesh. As Kaneki struggles to come to terms with his new identity, he is thrust into a dangerous world of violence and conspiracy. The series explores themes of identity, morality, and the blurred line between humans and monsters.

19. Gojou Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen): Gojou is a prominent character in the supernatural action series Jujutsu Kaisen. He is a teacher and jujutsu sorcerer at Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu Technical High School. Gojou possesses immense power and is known for his laid-back personality and flashy style. He plays a crucial role in guiding the main protagonist, Yuuji Itadori, in his journey to become a skilled sorcerer. Gojou's power, wit, and enigmatic nature have made him a fan favorite.

20. Saitama (One Punch Man): Saitama is the main character of the superhero parody series One Punch Man. Despite his plain appearance, Saitama is an incredibly powerful superhero capable of defeating any opponent with a single punch. However, this power has left him bored and disillusioned, as he yearns for a worthy opponent. The series humorously explores the themes of power, heroism, and the struggle for recognition in a world full of extravagant superheroes.

21. Hatake Kakashi (Naruto): Kakashi is a major character in the popular shonen series Naruto. He is a skilled ninja and serves as a mentor to the series' protagonist, Naruto Uzumaki. Kakashi's calm and mysterious demeanor, coupled with his mastery of various ninja techniques, make him a formidable warrior. Throughout the series, Kakashi's past and personal struggles are revealed, adding depth to his character and highlighting his growth as a leader.

22. Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop): Spike is the main protagonist of the influential space western series Cowboy Bebop. He is a skilled bounty hunter with a laid-back attitude and exceptional combat skills. Spike's past as a former member of a criminal syndicate comes back to haunt him as he navigates through various missions and encounters. His cool and detached personality, combined with his tragic backstory, have made him an iconic character in the world of anime.

23. Rem (Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu): Rem is a supporting character in the fantasy series Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu. She is a maid in the mansion where the protagonist, Subaru Natsuki, finds himself after being transported to a different world. Rem possesses incredible combat skills and develops a deep bond with Subaru. Her unwavering loyalty, selflessness, and complex character arc have made her a fan favorite in the series.

24. Emilia (Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu): Emilia is one of the main characters in the fantasy series Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu. She is a half-elf and a candidate to become the ruler of the Kingdom of Lugnica. Emilia forms a strong bond with the protagonist, Subaru Natsuki, as they navigate a world filled with magic, mythical creatures, and dark forces. Her compassionate nature, determination, and mysterious past contribute to the depth of her character.

25. Megumin (Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!): Megumin is a character from the comedic fantasy series Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo! (also known as Konosuba). She is an Arch Wizard and a member of the protagonist's adventuring party. Megumin is known for her obsession with explosion magic, which drains all her energy in a single powerful blast. Her eccentric personality, explosive magical abilities, and comedic interactions with the other characters make her a fan favorite.

26. Joseph Joestar (JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken): Joseph Joestar is a recurring character in the long-running manga and anime series JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. He first appears as the protagonist of Part 2: Battle Tendency and later reappears as a supporting character in subsequent parts. Joseph is a cunning and quick-witted character known for his catchphrase "Niiice!" and his clever strategies in combat. His vibrant personality and entertaining antics have endeared him to fans of the series.

27. Hitagi Senjougahara (Bakemonogatari): Hitagi Senjougahara is one of the main characters in the Monogatari Series, specifically the first installment, Bakemonogatari. She is a high school student with a sharp tongue and a mysterious past. Hitagi becomes involved with the series' protagonist, Koyomi Araragi, and together they face supernatural encounters and unravel the secrets of their world. Hitagi's unique personality, emotional depth, and complex relationship dynamics have made her a memorable character.

28. Kirigaya Kazuto (Sword Art Online): Kirigaya Kazuto, also known as Kirito, is the main protagonist of the series Sword Art Online. He is a skilled gamer and becomes trapped in the virtual reality MMORPG game called Sword Art Online, where players must fight their way through dangerous levels to escape. Kirito's determination, strategic thinking, and exceptional combat skills make him a formidable player within the game. His journey and relationships with other characters drive the narrative of the series.

29. Yato (Noragami): Yato is the central character in the supernatural action series Noragami. He is a minor god who performs odd jobs for five yen and dreams of becoming a revered deity. Yato forms a bond with a human girl named Hiyori and teams up with a regalia (spirit weapon) named Yukine. Together, they embark on various adventures, battling malicious spirits and uncovering the secrets of the spirit world. Yato's charismatic personality, complex past, and growth throughout the series have made him a fan favorite.

30. Sakurajima Mai (Seishun Buta Yarou wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Minai): Mai Sakurajima is the female lead in the series Seishun Buta Yarou wa Bunny Girl Senpai no Yume wo Minai (also known as Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai). She is a popular actress and model who becomes the center of attention due to a mysterious phenomenon that makes her invisible to most people. Mai forms a connection with the protagonist, Sakuta Azusagawa, as they navigate supernatural occurrences and explore the complexities of adolescence. Mai's enigmatic personality, emotional depth, and character development contribute to the series' compelling storyline.

The top 30 anime characters ranked on MAL represent a diverse range of personalities, stories, and genres. From fierce warriors to complex anti-heroes, endearing protagonists to enigmatic figures, these characters have left a lasting impact on fans and the anime industry as a whole. Their popularity is a testament to the power of well-developed characters who can evoke emotions, inspire admiration, and create lasting memories. Whether they come from long-running shonen series or thought-provoking psychological dramas, these characters have captured the imagination and hearts of anime enthusiasts worldwide. Their rankings on MAL serve as a testament to their enduring popularity and the immense impact they have had on the anime landscape.