Some anime fans often debate the extent of character development and growth for main characters in anime. While some may not prioritize a character’s progression and prefer to let the story unfold naturally, others consider a protagonist’s development to be a crucial element in any anime.
Despite being an interesting character, Yuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen often experiences bursts of character development that do not last throughout the entire story. When compared to other popular anime characters like Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan or Luffy from One Piece, who consistently evolve and grow, Yuji’s potential remains somewhat untapped.
Disclaimer: The author’s Opinions and Rankings in the Following Article
Comparing the Character Development of Luffy, Subaru, and Other Anime Protagonists to Yuji
Monkey D. Luffy, protagonist of One Piece
Despite receiving major boosts of character development similar to Yuji, Luffy continuously matures and applies the lessons he has learned throughout One Piece to his current experiences. Even during his “inactive”periods, he still undergoes smaller but significant growth as a character.
However, it is clear that Luffy is the more developed character in this battle among anime main characters. This can be attributed to the constant growth he undergoes arc by arc through his journey and the individuals he encounters and defends along the way. Furthermore, the vast scope of the series and its extensive cast contribute to his immense character development, ultimately giving him the upper hand in this comparison.
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto’s main character experiences consistent development throughout the series, making him one of several anime protagonists who undergo visible character growth from arc to arc. This aspect of Naruto’s story is closely intertwined, portraying his transformation from an undesirable figure to an undeniable one, while also forming genuine connections throughout his journey.
Naruto’s foil relationship with deuteragonist Sasuke Uchiha not only deepens his character development, but also highlights the contrast between the two. This dynamic also presents numerous opportunities for growth throughout the story. In comparison to Yuji, another anime protagonist, Naruto has a clear advantage in terms of character development due to his foil relationship with Sasuke and his transformation from an underdog to a hero.
Izuku Midoriya: The Rise of Deku (My Hero Academia)
Deku from My Hero Academia shares a similar structure to Naruto Uzumaki, although not exactly the same. Despite this, the outcome is remarkably alike; Deku’s journey follows a path of growth and development, with each arc contributing to his maturity as a character. His rivalry with Katsuki Bakugo also plays a significant role in this progression, offering further chances for growth and development.
Despite sharing many similarities with Naruto, Deku and Bakugo’s relationship shifts after their final major fight when Deku reveals his Quirk’s truth. However, Deku’s character development surpasses that of Yuji Itadori and places him among the ranks of well-developed anime main characters. This is evident in his zero-to-hero journey, the challenges he faces in the Vigilante arc and his eventual redemption, and other factors throughout the series.
Asta from Black Clover
Asta, the protagonist of Black Clover, also benefits from a comparable scenario to the overall plot of his series. His adoptive brother Yuno serves as a naturally gifted and highly skilled rival, adding an interesting dynamic to their relationship. Although their connection often revolves around surpassing each other in combat, it still contributes to the development of their individual characters.
Asta’s growth is evident throughout his journey, particularly during moments when the series challenges him to fail in order to become stronger in both body and mind. This combination effectively establishes Asta as one of the many anime protagonists who surpass Jujutsu Kaisen’s main character in terms of development.
Denji: The Heartwarming and Brutal World of Chainsaw Man
Chainsaw Man’s protagonist, Denji, is a character-driven figure within the framework of a battle shonen. Unlike Yuji, Denji’s development as an anime main character is already established. The first part of the series focuses on his growth as both a person and a character, and the second part builds upon this by presenting him with a difficult choice between his two greatest desires.
In prioritizing making characters that are worth investing in, Fujimoto deviates from traditional shonen tropes and norms. This is evident in the organic development of Denji and other characters, expertly crafted by author and illustrator Tatsuki Fujimoto. As a result, it can be concluded that Denji is more well-developed than Yuji.
Eren Yeager: The Protagonist of Attack on Titan
Eren Yeager, the protagonist of Attack on Titan, follows the common theme of personal growth and development that is prevalent among many anime main characters. However, Eren’s journey stands out as a particularly unique one. He struggles with the conflict between his own desires for the limited time he has left and the sacrifices he must make for the sake of his friends.
Ultimately, this showcases Eren as an incredibly dynamic character who faces conflicts with his friends, the world, and his own inner struggles, culminating in his final decision on who and what to prioritize. Undoubtedly, this solidifies his complexity and character development, setting him apart from Jujutsu Kaisen’s Yuji.
Subaru Natsuki, Protagonist of Re:ZERO
A notable aspect of Re:ZERO is its ability to facilitate character development through Subaru’s powers. With the constant option to reset, the series allows its characters to face challenges and undergo transformative experiences that shape their personalities. Although the resets may take away from the characters’ personal growth, they still leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Despite the resets, the character remains fully developed and complex to the viewer, allowing audience members to gain a deeper understanding of the character beyond what they would have in a linear timeline. This is particularly beneficial for Subaru, the protagonist, who is one of many anime main characters who are more extensively developed than Yuji.
Guts: A Warrior’s Tale (Berserk)
Unlike Yuji, who is not as developed as other main characters in anime, Guts stands out as a unique case. Initially portrayed as a loner, Guts eventually joins Griffith and the Band of the Hawk, only to leave them in order to hone his own strength. Upon reuniting with them, he suffers from Griffith’s betrayal and embarks on a new journey where he learns to form genuine relationships and regain his trust. This ultimately leads to him gaining a group of loyal friends.
Despite his initial goal of seeking revenge on Griffith and his love for Casca, the protagonist also gains a newfound appreciation for life and discovers other reasons to live.
Character Profile: Lelouch Lamperouge from Code Geass
At the beginning of the series, Lelouch is deeply concerned about the conflicts in the world of Code Geass, even though he has a personal connection to them through his childhood. However, his perspective shifts when he gains the titular Geass power and realizes he can now use it to shape the world according to his own desires.
This event ignites a transformation within him, causing him to become a significantly more dynamic character who strives for the betterment of both Japan and Britannia. This ultimately leads to his final deed, which serves as a clear indication of how much he has evolved since the beginning of the series. While there are several notable contenders on this list, Lelouch’s character development may slightly surpass that of Yuji Itadori’s.
10) Character Profile: Thorfinn Thorsson (Vinland Saga)
Without a doubt, the protagonist of Vinland Saga is a strong contender for being one of the most well-developed main characters in anime, surpassing even Yuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen. This can be attributed to the depths of Thorfinn’s character, as he is forced to shoulder the burden of his father’s death at just 10 years old.
During his teenage years, Thorfinn’s existence is characterized by constant suffering as he relentlessly seeks revenge. However, as he learns to properly cope with his grief, he matures into a well-rounded individual. This transformation is exemplified in the iconic “I have no enemies”scene in the series. Undoubtedly, Thorfinn’s character development surpasses that of many other anime protagonists, including Yuji.
In summation
It is important to note that while some may argue that there are other anime main characters with more development than Yuji, this does not necessarily imply that Yuji is lacking in development. Additionally, in the current chapters of the Jujutsu Kaisen manga, Yuji is actively engaged in a battle against Sukuna, which will undoubtedly result in significant character growth for him as the story progresses.
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