Between 2016 and 2026, the Brazilian otaku community witnessed the emergence of protagonists who left their mark, going far beyond the common clichés of the genre. Based on an original analysis from the CBR website, we can highlight eight anime heroes whose psychological depth and narrative development place them on a superior level. The relevance of this selection, therefore, goes beyond popularity, focusing on the quality of writing and the emotional impact these characters had on their viewers. Thus, the list brings together everything from shonen icons to complex figures from introspective dramas, all contributing to the richness of the current Japanese animation landscape.
This decade was marked by narratives that prioritized personal growth and overcoming trauma, with characters who act as mirrors for the audience’s own struggles. While some achieved instant global fame, others earned their cult status through slower and more meticulous development. As a result, we have a diverse panorama ranging from the redemption journey of Shoya Ishida in A Silent Voice to the unique wit of Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries. Next, we explore what makes each of them an example of exceptional writing for Brazilian fans who follow these stories.
The Protagonists Who Redefined the Narrative
At the top of the quality pyramid, we find characters who defied expectations. Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama from Mob Psycho 100, for example, replaces the typical power journey with a touching process of emotional maturation. Similarly, Denji from Chainsaw Man shocks by trading grand dreams for basic desires, like eating bread with jam, in a sharp social critique that resonates with today’s audience. On the other hand, Frieren, the elven mage from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, deals with the melancholy of immortality and grief, offering a depth rarely seen in adventure protagonists.
In the field of productions that blend genres, Kaguya Shinomiya from Kaguya-sama: Love is War shines as a heroine whose sharp intelligence hides a touching vulnerability. Her evolution, intimately linked to her romance with Miyuki, creates one of the best-built relationships in recent years. In sports series, Kei Tsukishima from Haikyu!! proves that the protagonist role may not lie with the main character, but rather with the one with the most satisfying redemption arc, evolving from a cynical individual to a true volleyball lover.
The Weight of Drama and Modern Complexity
Furthermore, the last decade has established heroes marked by tragedy and deep internal conflicts. David Martinez from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners personifies the self-destructive spiral in an oppressive capitalist society, with an ending that left a lasting mark on fans. Shoya Ishida, in turn, carries the burden of regret and the search for forgiveness in A Silent Voice, in a story that addresses bullying and mental health with rare sensitivity. These characters show how anime has been delving deeper into complex themes, generating powerful identification, especially among younger audiences.
Finally, Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries stands out as an absolutely unique figure. Her brilliant and eccentric mind, coupled with her role as an unreliable narrator, transforms each mystery into a unique experience for the viewer. Therefore, this list not only celebrates the recent past but also signals the creative direction anime should take in 2026 and beyond, with characters who are increasingly human, imperfect, and memorable.
