7 Anime Characters With The Best Development

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In the world of anime, a rapid increase in power is common, yet genuine character development occurs gradually. It’s tempting to be captivated by spectacular transformations and extraordinary powers, but the characters that truly leave an impression are those undergoing emotional, psychological, and philosophical changes.

This list is not focused on which characters became more powerful or unveiled the most spectacular new abilities. Instead, it highlights the unique characters whose development feels genuine, those who began as one type of character and transformed into someone entirely different over time.

Here are 7 Characters with Great Development.

7.
Hinata Shoyo

Haikyu!!

At the outset of Haikyuu!!, Hinata Shoyo is merely a middle school student harboring dreams that surpass his modest stature. His admiration lies in “The Little Giant,” an iconic Karasuno player renowned for overcoming odds through sheer determination and physical prowess. However, from a casual perspective, Hinata’s enthusiasm for volleyball appears more like fanciful daydreaming than practical aspiration.

What’s truly captivating about his progress is that it’s based entirely on sheer determination, persistent setbacks, and an unwillingness to compromise. Starting as an unpolished talent with no professional coaching, no team, and no strategic insight, he eventually transforms into one of the most agile and adaptable players on the court in Haikyuu!! To The Top. This isn’t just due to his impressive vertical leap, but because he’s mastered the art of understanding the game, predicting plays, and thinking like a seasoned athlete.

In the anime, there are no easy paths for him. Instead, his competition against Kageyama evolves into a bond based on respect and perseverance. His dedication to learning beach volleyball in Brazil, focusing on enhancing his balance and ball control, is an exceptional part of his story that underscores his commitment to personal development. In a sports genre often dominated by prodigies, Hinata’s progression stands out as one of the most authentic and motivating journeys.

6.
Shinichi

Parasyte: The Maxim

In the anime “Parasyte: The Maxim,” Shinichi initially presents as a mild-mannered high school student, one who struggles even to speak loudly or raise his fists. However, when a parasitic alien partially invades his body, specifically his right hand, this triggers a dramatic transformation in him.

Instead of merely presenting a sci-fi tale about survival, the narrative delves into a gradual psychological metamorphosis. Shinichi’s human feelings start to wane, making way for rationality and detachment. Remarkably, this state of emotional numbness isn’t glorified as a power, but rather, it’s depicted as a price to pay. As his strength escalates, his capacity to empathize with others decreases. His mother’s demise serves as a significant juncture, compelling him to grapple with the very essence of what he is becoming.

As the series progresses, he transforms from a timid lad to a silent, resilient figure who holds onto the final remnants of his human qualities. His relationship with Migi grows into something more profound than mere survival; it reflects the essence of living together harmoniously and acknowledging the duality within oneself.

5.
Ken Kaneki

Tokyo Ghoul

Not many anime characters undergo as many changes, be they physical or emotional, as Ken Kaneki from Tokyo Ghoul. Initially, he’s a timid scholar who wouldn’t dream of causing harm to any creature. However, when an unfortunate encounter on a date turns into a horrific event and results in him possessing ghoul organs within him, Ken embarks on a journey into the realm of man-eating creatures.

Kaneki’s progression doesn’t follow a straightforward path. Instead, it spirals through periods of trauma, identity confusion, and compulsory transformation. Initially, he struggles against his ghoul nature, maintaining his human identity. However, as the brutality intensifies, so does his necessity to evolve into a form capable of withstanding it. The iconic scene where he undergoes the white-haired transformation isn’t merely about gaining power; it symbolizes a complete psychological breakdown. He adopts the role of someone prepared to endure torment and suffering, all for the sake of protecting others.

In Tokyo Ghoul:re, things are taken to a deeper level. The complex identity of Kaneki is delved into extensively, from Haise Sasaki, the investigator struggling with his forgotten past, to the one-eyed king shouldering the expectations of both humans and ghouls. Each iteration of Kaneki doesn’t represent a fresh start. Instead, it adds another layer to the already fractured foundation of who he truly is.

In a raw and authentic manner, Sui Ishida portrayed Kaneki as a survivor who became strong not for the sake of appearing cool, but out of necessity – to avoid death. His journey is an account of resilience enveloped within sorrow.

4.
Midoriya

My Hero Academia

In My Hero Academia, the story begins with an underdog theme that’s common in anime: a boy who doesn’t possess powers in a world where 80% do. However, Izuku Midoriya isn’t satisfied with merely watching heroes from afar. Instead, he dreams of becoming one, even if it means putting his life on the line to make it happen.

What makes Midoriya unique is the incredible speed at which he has to grow and adapt. When All Might recognizes his selfless valor and selects him as the next bearer of One For All, it appears almost like a fairy tale. However, reality paints a starkly different picture. The power that Midoriya receives isn’t a blessing; instead, it’s an onerous burden that leaves his body shattered and tests his resilience each time he employs it.

His progression is characterized by thorough examination, frequent self-assessment, and strategic adaptation. He assesses his adversaries during combat, learns from his defeats, and continually broadens his repertoire of tactics. By Season 6, the initial wide-eyed youngster who shed tears over an acceptance letter transforms into a resilient figure ready to battle alone in the rain for the sake of others.

Despite all the challenges he faces, Midoriya remains grounded. He doesn’t allow success to go to his head; instead, he stays humble, empathetic, and considerate – even towards his adversaries. Kohei Horikoshi didn’t merely create a typical shonen protagonist; he crafted a character who evolves with each passing season without forgetting the reasons that initially inspired him.

3.
Gon

Hunter x Hunter

Initially, Gon Freecss seems like a standard shonen protagonist, radiating positivity, energy, and unwavering loyalty. However, Hunter x Hunter skillfully subverts this archetype by gradually, intricately dismantling it.

Gon’s growth isn’t so much about acquiring new abilities or revealing hidden transformations. It’s more about understanding that childhood innocence doesn’t endure forever. His pursuit of his absent father leads him on a journey that does not provide him with resolution. Instead, it introduces him to a world filled with harshness, moral complexity, and sorrow.

In the deeply impactful Chimera Ant storyline, often hailed as a standout in anime, Gon’s character undergoes a dramatic transformation into a darker version of himself. Driven by fury and sorrow, he takes an action that results in him losing everything, even his identity. It isn’t just raw power that he unleashes, it’s the torment within him. The scene where he sacrifices his future for a solitary act of retribution is one of the most chilling moments in the show.

the discernment to cease pursuing a dream that caused him harm instead.

2.
Eren Yeager

Attack On Titan

In the realm of anime, Eren’s storyline in Attack on Titan stands out as one of the most acclaimed developments. However, it is also a subject that has sparked intense debate and discussion, making it arguably one of the most contentious and widely discussed character arcs in the history of this medium.

Initially fueled by raw fury following the brutal killing of his mother by Titans, Eren takes a solemn vow of revenge. His philosophy is straightforward: annihilate all Titans and regain our freedom. However, the narrative of Attack on Titan doesn’t allow this mindset to persist for too long.

In the heat of my gaming world, as I unravel the secrets behind Titans, Marley, the Founding Titan, and the endless loop of animosity echoing through generations, a shift within me is palpable. I’m no longer the warm-hearted comrade you once knew; I grow distant, my demeanor chillier than the icy walls of the Shiganshina District. Pragmatism has replaced my passion, and my once fiery speeches are now delivered as quiet, ominous threats. The cry for freedom that once echoed in my heart transforms into an unwavering resolve – a determination powerful enough to ignite the Rumbling.

What’s particularly haunting about Eren’s storyline is its adherence to his character’s internal logic. Every action he takes can be traced back to his past, and as he uncovers more truths, he becomes increasingly ready to act, regardless of the consequences.

By the final season, Eren is no longer the main character; instead, he serves as the driving force. He’s a confidant, an antagonist, a victim, and a beast, all rolled into one. His development over time exemplifies superior long-term character creation, and Hajime Isayama should be acknowledged for creating such a complex character that is difficult to admire but impossible to overlook.

1.
Thorfinn

Vinland Saga

There are few character journeys in anime as profound as Thorfinn’s in Vinland Saga.

Season 1 introduces us to a young boy, driven by a relentless desire for vengeance following his father’s demise. Nurtured in the crucible of warfare, he is tutored by the very man responsible for his father’s death – Thorfinn. As he matures, Thorfinn transforms into a brooding, enraged, and disconsolate warrior. His existence is singularly focused on one pursuit: to slay Askeladd. All else fades into insignificance.

But then, everything changes.

As I found myself stripped of my previous goal, Season 2 kicks off with me as a captive slave. Devoid of weapons and war, all I see is farmland and an eerie quietness. But it’s in these humble circumstances that my true transformation begins. Released from the shackles of vengeance, I start to appreciate the worth of life – not just mine, but that of others as well.

Through interactions with Einar, recollections of his former victims, and contemplations on his father’s values, Thorfinn undergoes a significant transformation. He loses his desire to engage in conflict anymore. Instead, he yearns to construct, not demolish. His perspective on life undergoes a complete reversal. As the second season concludes, Thorfinn is no longer the vengeful boy; he’s a man seeking tranquility and harmony.

Makoto Yukimura, creator of Vinland Saga, is known for focusing on events following conflicts, rather than the wars themselves. Thorfinn, the character, represents this vision perfectly. His storyline isn’t impressive just for his lack of growth in strength, but for his decision not to engage in further conflict. This makes it one of the finest arcs in all of anime.

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2025-04-27 00:10