While Maki Zenin from Jujutsu Kaisen holds a distinct place in the anime universe, there are numerous other female characters who share similarities with her. Maki’s fierce and determined personality has garnered significant popularity among anime fans globally.
Unlike the majority of Shonen anime, Jujutsu Kaisen features well-crafted female characters, with Maki Zenin standing out as one of the strongest, even in the absence of a cursed technique. Maki has helped popularize the archetype of fearless female characters in Shonen anime, although this archetype has existed long before her.
This listicle highlights 10 powerful female anime characters akin to Maki Zenin from Jujutsu Kaisen.
Erza from Fairy Tail, Mikasa from Attack on Titan, and 8 More Strong Female Characters Like Maki from Jujutsu Kaisen
1) Erza Scarlet – Fairy Tail
Erza Scarlet is among the most formidable characters in Fairy Tail. She shares several traits with Maki, including an unwavering sense of righteousness and a tumultuous past. Both characters have endured the trauma of losing a parent while being strict yet caring leaders within their teams.
2) Mikasa Ackerman – Attack on Titan
Mikasa Ackerman from Attack on Titan is another fierce character reminiscent of Maki. Renowned as humanity’s second-strongest soldier, Mikasa displays a stern demeanor and evolves into a fearless fighter. Although initially appearing to prioritize Eren above all, she gradually reveals her deep care for her friends, similar to Maki’s development after loss.
3) Akame – Akame ga Kill
The rivalry between Maki and Mai parallels the relationship between Akame and her sister Kurome in Akame ga Kill. Akame wields the enchanted Demon sword Murasame and is known for her exceptional swordsmanship and loyalty to her anti-authoritarian cause, sharing many similarities with Maki’s character.
4) Mizu – Blue Eye Samurai
Set in the Edo period, Blue Eye Samurai features Mizu, a half-Japanese, half-American girl ostracized for her blue eyes. Like Maki Zenin, Mizu embarks on a path of vengeance and learns swordsmanship to confront her troubled past, showcasing her resolve and combat prowess.
5) Sawa Yukimura – Joran: Princess of Snow and Blood
In Joran: The Princess of Snow and Blood, Sawa Yukimura serves as a government assassin. Her cold-blooded demeanor, skilled use of a katana, and hidden kindness resonate with Maki’s character traits, highlighting her unwavering commitment in a dark world.
6) Kallen Kouzuki – Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Kallen Kouzuki is a powerful Knightmare Frame pilot in Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion. Her resolve to fight against oppression, coupled with her loyalty to her friends, closely mirrors Maki’s traits, as both characters defy societal norms to pursue justice.
7) Lucy – Cyberpunk Edgerunners
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners takes place in a futuristic setting, with Lucy as the Netrunner who brings protagonist David into the city’s underworld. Although Lucy is not primarily a fighter, her loyalty, resilience, and desire for revenge against Arasaka share thematic connections with Maki’s character.
8) Satsuki Kiryuin – Kill la Kill
Satsuki Kiryuin is a formidable character in Kill la Kill. Initially portrayed in clashes with her sister Ryuko Matoi, Satsuki evolves throughout the series, showing a strong, strategic mind and excellent combat skills, resembling Maki’s quick-witted and stern nature.
9) Noelle Silva – Black Clover
Similar to Maki Zenin, Noelle Silva from Black Clover comes from an aristocratic background but is isolated due to her struggles with magical control. Her relentless determination to showcase her abilities and grow into a powerful ally resonates with Maki’s character arc.
10) Riza Hawkeye – Fullmetal Alchemist (2003 & 2009)
Riza Hawkeye from the Fullmetal Alchemist series is Roy Mustang’s loyal subordinate. Despite lacking alchemic power, she operates as an exceptional weapon specialist. Similar to Maki, Riza is disciplined and analytical, excelling in hand-to-hand combat while supporting her comrades unwaveringly.
Final Thoughts
Finding an exact match for characters in the anime world is challenging, but familiar archetypes are utilized in character creation. Tsunade and Erza established the archetype of dominant, powerful female characters in Shonen anime.
Maki, however, has expanded this archetype by embodying a dynamic, strong female character in Shonen anime. Her resilience, strength, and complex struggles enrich her character in the plot. While female anime characters like Maki are rare, they can be discovered within this listicle.
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