Unforgettable Anti-Heroes: JRPGs’ Most Compelling Protagonists

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Summary

In gaming, there‘s a variety of compelling anti–heroes, some of which are iconic in Japanese Role–Playing Games (JRPG). Contrary to common belief, an anti–hero doesn‘t have to be gloomy or tormented. To be labeled as an anti–hero, all that‘s required is the absence of typical heroic traits. Traditional heroes are often depicted as selfless and morally upright, whereas anti–heroes can be tainted with flaws, moral complexities, or even driven by questionable motivations for doing what‘s right.

As a fan, I find that the realm of anti–heroes is a captivating gray zone, brimming with intriguing characters more numerous than one might initially envision. Anti–heroes are enticing protagonists due to their multifaceted nature and the deep emotional bond they can form with their audience, owing to their internal conflicts that often elicit empathy, even sympathy. This relatability is a significant factor contributing to their likability.

8. Caim (Drakengard)

The Hero Before Becoming The Villain

Characters like Caim exhibit typical qualities of anti–heroes: they are violent, self–centered, and morally complex. Unlike traditional heroes who act to establish peace and uphold justice, Caim is quick to resort to violence. His motivation is not preserving order but avenging the demolition of his homeland by eliminating all those involved.

In contrast to many others listed, Caim doesn‘t merely view violence as a necessary step, but rather takes pleasure in slaughtering his adversaries. His utter lack of empathy makes him more akin to a villain than most entries. Interestingly, Caim becomes the antagonist in the subsequent game within the Drakengard and Nier series, one of its initial installments.

7. Ace (Final Fantasy Type–0)

Face of a Group of Misled Child Soldiers

Occasionally, a hero may be led astray or duped into committing wrong actions, but they remain heroes nonetheless, albeit ones who are struggling and in need of guidance to return to the right path. However, Class Zero represents a group of child soldiers, whose minds have been indoctrinated with a distorted sense of ideology from an early age.

In this game, multiple characters can be controlled, with Ace leading the pack as the group‘s primary figure. Though not outright cruel, Ace often exhibits moral uncertainties throughout the narrative. He is frequently tormented by self–doubt about his choices and their morality, yet he persists in completing missions, regardless of their demanding nature or consequences.

6. Laharl (Disgaea: Hour of Darkness)

Selfish Prince of the Nether Realm

Laharl is a demon who once ruled over the Underworld alongside his father, now deceased. Upon being revived, he chooses to reclaim his position as the new ruler, which leads him into conflicts with demons, angels, advanced humans using technology, and other characters in various games where he takes a supporting role.

Although he occasionally veers towards villainy, there‘s undeniably a goodness within him that surfaces at times, making him more anti–hero than full–blown villain. His self–centered personality stems from incomplete emotional development, but throughout the game, he undergoes significant growth. The game Disgaea: Hour of Darkness, initially released on PS2, remains relevant and entertaining even today.

5. Ichiban Kasuga (Yakuza: Like A Dragon)

A Criminal with a Heart of Gold

In the series, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, the narrative ranks among the franchise‘s finest. Unlike other characters who might resort to violence or killing, Ichiban chooses a different path – one that steers clear of bloodshed. However, his past as a member of the Japanese criminal organization, the Yakuza, gives him traits that set him apart from typical heroic figures. The Yakuza, with its unwavering principles of loyalty and honor, remains on the wrong side of the law despite its strong ideals.

Ichiban excels at dishing out damage equivalent to Batman in street fights. His approach to justice is questionable, as he doesn‘t hesitate to break laws and enter buildings to achieve his objectives. He assumes the lead role once more in the sequel game titled “Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth“.

4. Velvet Crowe (Tales of Berseria)

A Heroic Heart That is Out for Blood

Similar to Marvel‘s The Punisher, Velvet embarks on a quest fueled by her thirst for vengeance. Her target is Artorius, a man she believes was responsible for the demise of her brother, Laphicet.

Without much difficulty, she allows a cloud to obscure her discernment, disregarding precautions and endangering those nearby as she relentlessly pursues her ambition. Unlike traditional heroes who prioritize protecting the innocent, Velvet seems unconcerned about the damage her actions may cause and the destruction they leave behind.

3. Therion (Octopath Traveler)

The Street Smart Thief of the Group

In Octopath Traveler, you‘ve got eight primary characters to pick from when starting the game, and among them is Therion, who specializes in stealing. Unlike other character choices that lean towards heroism or neutrality, Therion represents a more shadowy option.

He‘s a character in the game who initially takes on the role of a burglar, given his past as a criminal. His life has been marked by various challenges due to his illicit activities. He tends to be wary and vocal about his unwillingness to aid others in distress.

2. Cloud Strife (Final Fantasy 7)

Ex–Soldier of Shinra Turned Mercenary

Several people might contend that Cloud shouldn‘t be on this list, but there are certain aspects of his character that deserve consideration. Initially, Cloud seems detached from the group emotionally. He is essentially a hired gun, working for the reward and due to his bond with Tifa.

Cloud is not known for his empathy or kindness towards adversaries; instead, he seems to resort to violence instinctively. It‘s not that he fights to uphold justice, but rather because it serves his interests and those he values. His determination to vanquish Sephiroth stems from personal motives, not because Sephiroth is evil per se.

1. Joker (Persona 5)

Imposes Justice from His Perspective

The Character Type of the Dashing Rebel is ideal for creating compelling anti–heroes. For instance, characters who challenge the law due to their strong moral convictions or lone vigilantes who operate independently of legal systems can fall under this category.

Following the mold of the Charming Outlaw, Joker consistently employs his captivating charm and proficient abilities throughout the storyline. Joker and his cohort, the Phantom Thieves, often transgress various laws in their quest for what they perceive as justice.

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2025-01-26 14:37