Over the years, there has been a growing number of strong and influential female anime characters in the anime world. Arguably, in the past, female anime characters were relegated to the background as love interests. However, with a growing audience and diversified storyline, several female characters have shared the center stage with their male counterparts.
Whether they possess extraordinary combat mastery, exceptional intelligence, or a compassionate heart, these characters have transcended the confines of their respective series to become some of the most beloved and popular figures in anime. While the list is arguably subjective, it examines characters from several anime genres. Here are 8 popular female anime characters.
Usagi Tsukino in Sailor Moon
Usagi Tsukino is the protagonist and titular character in the Sailor Moon anime series. At the beginning of the series, Usagi is depicted as a clumsy, crybaby middle-school girl who discovers that she is the reincarnation of the Moon Princess and has the power to transform into the superhero Sailor Moon. Alongside the other Sailor Guardians, Usagi battles the forces of evil to protect the Earth. As the anime’s main character, Usagi stands out amongst her male peers and is unarguably one of the most famous female characters in anime. Sailor Moon follows her growth as a character, her relationships with her friends and love interest, and her ultimate mission to protect the world from evil.
Watch Sailor Moon on Apple TV+
Zero Two in Darling In The FranXX
Zero Two is the deuteragonist (main heroine) in the anime Darling In The FranXX. She is a half-human, half-klaxosaur hybrid with distinctive red horns and a mysterious past. Nicknamed “Partner Killer,” Zero Two is a complex and enigmatic character. Despite her fearsome reputation, she’s a fiercely independent and emotional individual who longs to connect with others. Throughout the Darling In The FranXX, Zero Two’s quest for acceptance and understanding, as well as her developing relationship with the protagonist Hiro, form a central part of the series narrative. Despite not being the series protagonist, Zero Two is an unforgettable character in Darling In The FranXX.
Watch Darling In The FranXX on Crunchyroll
Anya & Yor Briar in Spy X Family
With the Spy X Family anime series having two female lead characters, both will share the spotlight on the list. Anya is a pivotal character in the anime series. As a telepath, she’s able to read people’s minds. Anya is the young orphan girl Twilight adopts while trying to create a fake family to spy on Donovan Desmond, the leader of the National Unity Party.
Yor Briar is Anya’s adoptive mother, who Twilight married to bolster his cover as a family man. Unbeknownst to him, Yor Briar is a highly skilled assassin with a mysterious past. She is known for her no-nonsense attitude and exceptional combat abilities. Yor Briar is tasked with the mission of pretending to be Twilight’s wife and Anya’s mother, forming a makeshift family.
Watch Spy X Family on Crunchyroll
Nezuko in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Nezuko is a central character in the anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. She is the younger sister of the main protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado. Early in the series, Nezuko is turned into a demon, but unlike other demons, she retains her human emotions and compassion. She is portrayed as a very protective and kind character, often supporting her brother in his demon-slaying quests. Nezuko’s unique abilities and unwavering bond with Tanjiro make her a beloved and integral part of the series.
Watch Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba on Netflix
Nobara Kugisaki in Jujutsu Kaisen
With the success and popularity of the Jujutsu Kaisen anime series, Nobara Kugisaki is worthy of mention. She’s a prominent character in the anime series, known as a strong-willed, independent young woman who possesses exceptional combat abilities. Nobara comes from a rural area and brings a unique perspective to the group of Jujutsu sorcerers. She’s introduced when teacher Satoru Gojo brings Yuji Itadori to the Tokyo Prefectural Jujutsu High School to train him. Nobara Kugisaki’s fearless and no-nonsense attitude and impressive skills in using a cursed tool make her a formidable asset in the fight against cursed spirits.
Watch Jujutsu Kaisen on Netflix
Kurisu Makise in Steins;Gate
Kurisu Makise is a key character in the anime series Steins;Gate. As a young and brilliant neuroscientist, she becomes entangled in the mysterious world of time travel and the concept of altering past events. Makise is known for her sharp intellect and strong-willed personality, often leading to thought-provoking clashes with the main protagonist, Rintarou Okabe.
Watch Steins;Gate on Apple TV+
Nami in One Piece
Nami is one of the most multi-dimensional characters in One Piece. At first glance, she may seem like a typical con artist and thief, but audiences learn much more about her as the series unfolds. Nami is introduced as a member of the Arlong Pirates, forced to aid them due to their hold over her hometown. Her dream of mapping the entire world drives her actions, and she eventually joins Monkey D. Luffy and his crew. Nami’s intelligence, resourcefulness, and unyielding determination make her a crucial and beloved member of the Straw Hat Pirates.
Mikasa Ackerman in Attack On Titan
Mikasa Ackerman is one of the central characters in the Attack on Titan anime series. She’s a fiercely loyal, skilled fighter with incredible strength and agility. Mikasa shares a close bond with Eren Yeager, the series protagonist, and is very protective of him. Her backstory and personal journey are explored throughout the series, shedding light on her unwavering determination and resilience in adversity. Together with Eren and Armin Arlert, they fight against the Titans invading their cities. If you enjoyed reading about these 8 popular female anime characters, check out these 5 Most Popular Anime TV Shows for Beginners.
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