25 Best Power Systems in Shonen Anime, Ranked

Key Takeaways

Power systems in shonen anime are key to the conflicts and battles between characters, with different motivations driving these clashes.
Detailed power systems enhance the audience’s engagement and prevent confusion in how actions are performed.
Shonen power systems also offer unique abilities and applications for characters, adding excitement to the series.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of anime, I must admit that the power systems these stories present are nothing short of captivating. Each one offers a unique take on what it means to have extraordinary abilities, and they’re often as diverse as the characters wielding them.

In many action-packed anime that feature supernatural powers, conflicts frequently arise among the characters, driven by diverse reasons. These stories often unfold within extraordinary worlds or realms filled with fantastical elements, such as extraordinary combat styles and magical power structures.

Power systems in various universes of fiction are commonly shared resources that characters can utilize for a variety of purposes. These systems often serve to enhance combat abilities and skills. For instance, Haki from One Piece and Cursed Energy from Jujutsu Kaisen are examples of such power systems within the shonen genre. Among these many power systems, which ones stand out as the most compelling and effective?

25 Abilities

Bungo Stray Dogs

Bungo Stray Dogs is a series penned by Kafka Asagiri and visually brought to life by Sango Harukawa. The story unfolds in a universe where extraordinary powers are commonplace, but with an interesting twist: the power system of this series draws inspiration from actual literary works and references.

As I delve deeper into this unique gaming world, it’s fascinating to discover that the characters bear names familiar from the literary realm. It may appear straightforward at first glance, but each power they wield is intricately designed, with only the users fully understanding their workings. This complexity gives the game an alluring, diverse charm that keeps me hooked.

24 Kagune

Tokyo Ghoul

The well-known 2010s anime series “Tokyo Ghoul,” penned and illustrated by Sui Ishida, unfolds in a grisly universe where cannibalistic ghouls are engaged in conflict with humans. At a critical juncture, both factions experience an unexpected encounter resulting in a unique being who is part human, part ghoul.

In this series, the weapon system is centered around an unique organ developed by the ghost-like creatures known as kagune. Remarkably, this organ serves as both a weapon for the ghouls and their adversaries, the CCG, who use modified versions of these organs called qinques to create weapons specifically designed to kill ghouls. Notably, this system stands out due to its straightforward design and functionality, along with being biologically consistent in terms of its power source.

23 Tao

Hell’s Paradise: Jigokuraku

One aspect that makes “Hell’s Paradise” an impressive anime is its unique power system, referred to as Tao. Within this storyline, Tao represents a vital energy found in all living beings, which skilled individuals can harness or materialize.

The philosophy of Tao primarily revolves around the principle of Yin-Yang, where achieving balance in one’s spirit is facilitated through the path known as the Middle Way. The appeal of this power system lies in its straightforward nature, making it highly efficient when fully grasped.

22 Psychokinesis

Mob Psycho 100

In the anime “Mob Psycho 100”, the construction of its world effectively demonstrates the impressive intricacy of its power system. Notably, the narrative seamlessly integrates this power system, known as psychokinesis, with the characters’ personalities, as it serves as an extension of their inner selves.

In this show, people are predominantly known as ‘espers’, possessing at least the abilities of psychokinesis and communicating with spirits. The strength of a person’s psychokinesis depends on their inherent esper level. For instance, Shigeo Kageyama is the series’ most potent esper. What makes this system intriguing is how it showcases each character’s creative ingenuity in employing their powers.

21 Kaiju

Kaiju No. 8

As an ardent admirer, I’d like to highlight that it was Matsumoto Naoya who breathed life into the gripping saga of monstrous action titled “Kaiju No.8.” This narrative paints a world teetering on the brink of annihilation by colossal creatures known as Kaijus. The intrigue lies in the fact that these Kaijus serve as the backbone of the series’ power structure, with their potency determining their potential transformation into weapons.

Kaijus have their power levels assessed using a method called Fortitude level, which categorizes them as either Yoju (the least powerful) or Identified Kaiju (the most powerful). This implies that a weapon designed for a specific Kaiju can match its strength, giving the system an element of simplicity yet creativity.

20 Energy

Yu Yu Hakusho

The series in question is called “Yu Yu Hakusho,” penned by Yoshihiro Togashi, famously known for “Hunter X Hunter.” Similar to “Hunter X Hunter,” it boasts a carefully designed power system. The narrative follows the journey of a boy named Yusuke Urameshi, who, after selflessly saving a child’s life, is chosen to be a spirit detective. This event opens up a world of spirits and demons for him, ultimately revealing his hidden potential within.

In this story, a particular kind of power, often referred to as ‘aura’ or ‘energy’, is shared among all the characters. This energy has distinct variations – humans utilize ‘spirit energy’, while demons manipulate ‘demon energy’. By mastering this energy, characters can boost their strength, create tools, or even mend wounds. The power’s capabilities are not fixed and can be affected by emotions to some degree. Its intensity differs from one character to another.

19 Gourmet Energy

Toriko

As a dedicated fan, I’d describe “Toriko” as an extraordinary series that unfolds in a captivating and dreamlike world where the terrain is composed of various foodstuffs and edible items. The central theme in this world revolves around adventurers, including the protagonist Toriko, who are known as gourmet hunters, embarking on quests to unearth exotic ingredients for the creation of mouthwatering dishes. I am one such enthusiast drawn into this culinary adventure!

A significant number of these high-end hunters tap into a power source known as gourmet vitality or hunger energy. This basic energy permeates the world and can be utilized in diverse ways. It can be channeled to launch potent energy blasts, craft beneficial tools or equipment, and amplify the strength of specific body areas.

18 Trion

World Trigger

As a dedicated fan, I’d describe it like this: “I’m talking about an intriguing series where extraterrestrials, called Neighbors, pose a threat to our world. To counter these formidable foes, we humans have developed powerful weapons, the triggers, which are inspired by their own technology.

Instead of relying on external energy sources, individuals tap into their own internal energy reserves, known as Trions, to activate their abilities. This empowerment grants them full control over these abilities, resulting in a stronger, Trion-enhanced body. In combat, this boost allows fighters to greatly amplify their strength, though the degree of enhancement can differ based on an individual’s unique Trion values.

17 Magical Power

Seven Deadly Sins

This show features a diverse array of strong characters, representing various races and origins. These characters often possess unique skills, which are typically powered by magic.

In this series, the ability that’s often referred to as “magic” is more formally known as “magical power.” Almost every significant character in the story possesses this power. The powers stemming from it are divided into nine distinct categories based on their function, ranging from destruction to search and enchantment. Much like other systems of power, the potency of abilities granted by magical power can differ greatly among individuals, serving as a crucial factor in determining a person’s overall power ranking.

16 Devils

Chainsaw Man

The anime “Chainsaw Man” features a unique take on devils, where they’re not just solitary supernatural entities, but are frequently used by humans for various purposes, such as advancing personal goals or eliminating other troublesome devils.

Devils emerge from human anxieties, and their potency mirrors the intensity of our collective dread towards them. Some engage in agreements with humans, while others take over deceased human bodies. This blend results in a system where humans harness the talents of specific devils to serve various functions.

15 Rukh

Magi

In the captivating anime series called “Magi,” there’s an extraordinary power system known as Rukh, which isn’t quite like traditional magic. Instead, it’s more akin to swarms of tiny bird-like entities that are omnipresent in the world of Magi. This magical essence is embedded within every living thing and even the environment itself.

In the fictional world of Magi, these magicians have mastery over an element called Rukh, which they manipulate to cast potent spells. A notable character who excels in this is Aladdin, who not only has a strong bond with Rukh but also possesses the ability to control it extensively on a grand scale.

14 Pyrokinesis

Fire Force

In many shonen-style anime, characters frequently use fire abilities, but none do so quite like Fire Force does, given its unique emphasis on pyrokinesis. This anime is centered around the idea of manipulating fire, a power that emerged after the Great Cataclysm, which annihilated the previous world and gave birth to both infernals and individuals with pyrokinetic abilities.

Individuals known as pyrokinetics have the unique ability to control flames in various ways. Their categorization can be either second-generation, third-generation or hybrid pyrokinetics. Notably, those who use Adolla possess extraordinary abilities that can sometimes distort the very fabric of space and time.

13 Grimoire/Magic

Black Clover

In the world of Black Clover, characters utilize enchanted books known as Grimoires to control and harness magical energies, or mana. These Grimoires serve as a conduit for casting spells, which can vary from powerful offensive attacks to healing abilities. Characters in Black Clover who possess these supernatural talents are typically Magic Knights.

In the magical world of Black Clover, each mage can utilize one grimoire throughout their lifetime. To access potent spells within their grimoire, mages need to hone their mana control abilities exceptionally well. However, while these regulations generally hold true, characters like Asta and Yuno have proven that there can be exceptions. Nonetheless, the fundamental principles of magic and grimoires in Black Clover revolve around these rules.

12 Alchemy

Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

This shonen classic stands out as one of the greatest due to its captivating storylines and skillfully designed power system, which revolves around alchemy – a unique ability closely tied to scientific principles. In essence, alchemists can manipulate matter through a process known as Transmutation.

In the shonen genre, alchemy’s power system stands out as one of the most potentially hazardous. It often demands significant sacrifices from those unaware of its workings, and mastering it requires a profound comprehension of the intricate process involved.

11 Power Of The Titans

Attack On Titan

Without a doubt, “Attack on Titan” has become one of the most acclaimed shonen anime of the past decade. Its storyline and character development across the four seasons make it clear why it’s highly regarded within the shonen genre. The titans’ power is the primary source of power in this series.

In the world of Attack on Titan, while typical titans are mindless beasts that feed on humans, there’s a unique category known as titan shifters. Among these are the Nine Titans, who possess extraordinary abilities and characteristics, all linked to the bloodline of Ymir, the Founding Titan. Despite the dangers associated with wielding this power, it proves to be a valuable weapon in the chaotic world of Attack on Titan.

10 Servants

Fate

In the Fate series, we are introduced to a world where various mage classes engage in a struggle, all with the ultimate goal of acquiring the legendary artifact known as the Holy Grail. To emerge victorious in this Holy Grail War, each competitor summons a Servant—a powerful entity they can control using incantations called command spells. The strength of these servants varies based on their class.

In the narrative of Fate, the characters or Servants can be categorized into three main groups: Knight, Cavalry, and Extra classes. The Knight class encompasses Saber, Lancer, and Archer variants, while the Cavalry Class comprises Assassin, Berserker, Rider, and Caster types. Lastly, the Extra class gathers less common types of Servants who are usually quite powerful; this group includes figures like Ruler, Moon Cancer, Pretender Ego, and others.

9 Ki

Dragon Ball

Dragon Ball stands out as a prominent anime in the shonen genre, with its intricate power system often overshadowing the fact that the source of these powers lies in ‘Ki’. Ki represents an internal energy that the characters can tap into and control for various purposes.

As a gamer, I’ve noticed that harnessing Ki in Dragon Ball significantly boosts one’s combat skills. Mastery of Ki allows for the creation of powerful energy blasts, sharp Ki blades, and other devastating attacks. However, the show doesn’t fully explore or emphasize the potential of this energy source, making it hard to rate as a top-tier power system in my book.

8 Breathing Forms

Demon Slayer

Introduced an exclusive energy system to the shonen anime series “Demon Slayer”. In this world, characters utilize swords and assume various shapes. The superior breathing technique in season 2 was unveiled as the Sun Breathing Style, because all other breathing methods can be traced back to it.

In the captivating world of Demon Slayer, the techniques used for breathing are exceptionally varied. For example, Rengoku employs a fire-infused breathing style, while Tomioka specializes in Water Style. These unique abilities have been passed down from past Breath User masters. However, there are also unconventional, self-taught styles like Inosuke’s Beast Breathing and Obanai’s Snake-inspired technique that have emerged.

7 Cursed Energy

Jujutsu Kaisen

In Jujutsu Kaisen, the power system is as ominous as its name suggests. This world draws upon negative human emotions like anger and resentment to generate a force known as Cursed Energy. Every individual within Jujutsu Kaisen carries some level of this energy. However, when an individual’s Cursed Energy surpasses a certain threshold, they gain the ability to perceive curses, which are physical manifestations of Cursed Energy.

It’s ideal that sorcerers in Jujutsu, who specialize in removing curses, have a substantial amount of cursed energy at their disposal. They can control this energy to varying degrees, using methods specifically designed for curse removal – these range from techniques they naturally possess, to extended and ultimate techniques.

6 Stands

JoJo Bizarre Adventures

Jojo Bizarre Adventures

This system boasts an intriguing power structure with boundless possibilities. A stand serves as the physical embodiment of a person’s vital energy and is capable of performing feats beyond human abilities. Users can command these stands to carry out their orders, which can be benevolent or malicious based on the user’s intent. In certain instances, Stands symbolize an individual’s will to fight.

No two Stands are identical; they each possess unique qualities. Take for example, the Stand of Kujo Jotaro, named Platinum. This stand is capable of halting time momentarily. On the other hand, another Stand might display a more intricate ability.

2024-11-16 06:55