In the last 20 years, the anime went from being a niche taste to becoming a global phenomenon. And much of that impact is due to characters who not only starred in epic stories, but also set trends, inspired memes, generated debates and became symbols of an entire era. Here are 10 anime characters that marked an entire generation:
10. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
The Alchemist of Steel is not only the protagonist of one of the most beloved series of all time, it is also the face of a time when anime began to consolidate worldwide. His mixture of determination, vulnerability and humor made him unforgettable.
9. Subaru Natsuki (Re:Zero)
An atypical hero who popularized the concept of suffering, dying and starting again in a fantasy world. Subaru connected with fans because he is human, vulnerable and stubborn, and his emotional journey became a hallmark of the 2010s.
8. Jinwoo Sung (only Leveling)
Although he was born from Manhwa and not from Japanese anime, Jinwoo It is impossible to ignore. Its popularity exploded with the arrival of the animation, making it one of the most commented characters in recent years. His rise from “weak to unstoppable” defined the modern Isekai.
7. Megumin (Konosuba)
The most beloved explosive magician of the anime. Her obsession with a single spell made her an instant icon and an eternal meme generator.. Megumin It represents that combination of comedy, charisma and eccentricity that defined the otaku culture of the 2010s.
6. Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)
From victim to hero and then to one of the most complex and controversial characters ever written. Eren Yeager It became a cultural phenomenon, marking an entire generation of fans and raising the conversation about anime as a serious and profound narrative medium.
5. Frieren (Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End)
A recent example of how a character can set a trend in a very short time. Frier He captivated with his serenity, nostalgia and humanity hidden under his cold facade. It is proof that the 2020s also know how to produce icons that will stay with us.
4. Guts (Berserk)
Although its history began much earlier, the last two decades consolidated Guts As one of the most respected and admired characters in anime and manga. His fight against darkness, both external and internal, made him a symbol of resistance and tragedy.
3. Ai Hoshino (Oshi no Ko)
a viral phenomenon since its first appearance. Ai He conquered with a mixture of tenderness, mystery and tragedy that made her one of the most popular characters in recent years. Its impact on networks was so great that it transcended the Otaku fandom and it reached the mainstream.
2. Tanjiro Kamado (Demon Slayer)
The boy who loaded the anime on his back throughout the 2010s and early 2020s. Tanjiro He is the noble, hard-working and empathetic hero who became synonymous with Demon Slayer, one of the greatest commercial and cultural successes of modern anime.
1. Rimuru Tempest (that time i got reincarnated as a slime)
The most famous slime of the anime and one of the most influential protagonists in the Isekai boom. rimuru He broke molds with his adorable design, his almost infinite powers and his charismatic leadership. Its popularity not only defined the genre, but catapulted it to the international mainstream.
Each of these characters is not only remembered for their history, but for the cultural weight they carry. They defined trends, shaped genres, and connected with millions of fans around the world. In other words, without Edward, Eren, , Tanjiro, Rimuru And company, the anime of the last 20 years would not be what it is today.
