The Most Polarizing Protagonists In Isekai Anime

Key Takeaways

Ainz from
Overlord
shifts from hero to villain, dividing fans with his complexity.
Cid from
The Eminence In Shadow
embraces cringe isekai tropes, polarizing viewers.
Hajime from
Arifureta
strays into dark paths in his quest for revenge, sparking mixed reactions.

As a seasoned anime enthusiast who’s seen more than a few sunsets in the realm of animated storytelling, I must say that these characters are as diverse as they come. Each one has their unique quirks and backstories that make them stand out from the crowd.

Over time, anime has introduced many unforgettable characters, and for the large part, opinions about these characters tend to be either very positive or negative. Most enthusiasts would list characters such as Spike Spiegel, Edward Elric, L, and others, among the most endearing main characters in anime.

Additionally, you’ll find some characters that many dislike, but others spark heated debates due to their complex or controversial aspects. These characters often cause divisions within fan communities because not everyone shares the same perspective on them. In the world of Isekai, there are a few such characters who have the power to split opinions straight down the line.

7 Ainz Ooal Gown

Started Great, But People Aren’t So Sure Anymore

Initially, when “Overlord” premiered in 2015, it was well-received as an engaging isekai series boasting a formidable protagonist and intriguing setting. Viewers delighted in following the character Ainz’s exploration of the world, and found amusement in his moments of innocence.

Over time, it grew increasingly evident that Ainz could be more than the hero of our tale – perhaps even a villain. Some found this intriguing shift subtle and well-executed, while others felt put off by it. Ainz is captivating because his actions can be understood as stemming from his role within this video game, where he’s essentially guardian to a race of monsters, created by close companions. This complexity makes Ainz intriguing, but also divisive among the audience.

6 Cid Kagenou

A Polarizing Edgelord

Character named Cid Kagenou, hailing from “The Eminence In Shadow”, tends to evoke strong opinions due to its distinctive nature. At times, the series seems like a satire, as it boldly embraces the over-the-top elements found in contemporary isekai stories, such as extravagant power levels, illogical harems, and morally questionable protagonists.

As a devoted fan, I must confess that while the second season of “The Eminence In Shadow” has been a hit for many, garnering a good rating on MAL, it hasn’t resonated with everyone. The character Cid, though entertaining due to his flashy skills and hero persona, can stir unease because he embodies something questionable for some viewers. His portrayal often reflects an alluring fantasy that, at times, makes one ponder the boundaries of acceptable behavior.

5 Hajime Nagumo

Spoiled By Revenge

Initially, Hajime finds himself transported to another world together with his peers, each receiving remarkable abilities. In contrast, he obtains something initially deemed worthless. To add insult to injury, he’s betrayed by his classmates and left for dead. Miraculously surviving, he develops formidable powers. Now, it seems he has a collection of admirers – a harem, as it were. Sounds like the usual storyline? That’s Arifureta for you!

What’s troubling about Hajime is his relentless pursuit of vengeance against his former classmates, a path that has plunged him into some very grim territories. This intense portrayal of Hajime leaves some people questioning the depth of his anger and why it drives him to such an extreme level.

4 Tanya Degurechaff

A Grown Man In A Little Girl’s Body Might Not Be For Everyone

In The Saga of Tanya the Evil, the protagonist Tanya Degurechaff stirs controversy for several reasons. Initially, she’s portrayed as an antagonist due to her questionable actions. Yet, what truly complicates matters is that she’s actually a grown man disguised as a young girl, which leaves some viewers finding her challenging to accept or empathize with.

Initially a corporate worker who met an untimely end and challenged a deity she referred to as ‘Entity X’, Tanya is harsh, unyielding, and her enthusiasm for conflict makes her hard to sympathize with. Moreover, the World War-like atmosphere of the series often draws comparisons between Tanya’s faction and the Nazis, which undoubtedly contributes to her divisive nature among viewers.

3 Kirito

The One Who Started It All

Sword Art Online wasn’t the initial isekai anime, but its massive popularity can undeniably be credited as a significant factor in creating the vast following that the isekai genre enjoys nowadays.

Kirito‘s unique quality that sparks much debate is his similarity to the archetypal Isekai Mary Sue: an individual who possesses immense power, unwavering virtue, and seemingly no obstacles or complexities in their character. This effortless ability in all endeavors has led many fans to lose interest, making Kirito a subject of controversy since then.

2 Naofumi Iwatani

His Quest For Revenge Made Him A Slave Owner

Initially, “The Rising of the Shield Hero” stirred up controversy right from its debut episode. Airing during a period marked by high societal tension, the theme of assault and false accusations is delicate and provocative, which made certain viewers uncomfortable due to its bold approach to these sensitive topics.

In the initial season, Naofumi, who was wrongfully accused of an assault, becomes increasingly irritable, resentful, and at times, difficult to like. His obtaining Raphtalia is criticized as exploitation, and her status as part of his supposed harem raises eyebrows among some viewers.

1 Rudeus Greyrat

An Irredeemable Pervert To Some

Rudeus Greyrat initially embarks on the journey of Mushoku Tensei Jobless Reincarnation as an unemployed otaku with a less than admirable lifestyle. However, after being reborn into another world as a baby, he resolves to change his ways and strive for self-improvement.

while he grows into the role of Rudeus.

Some people see Rudeus as a middle-aged man because he retained his memories from his previous life. His romantic involvements with younger girls make him appear unchangeable in a negative light. Although Rudeus develops as a character, he never fully sheds the label of being a pervert that he earned.

2024-10-19 23:35