The concept of reincarnated anime characters is a common motif due to its strong ties to Japanese folklore and society. Although this theme may become monotonous for certain viewers, it has also given rise to numerous iconic characters throughout the years.
Throughout the years, viewers have witnessed the emergence of countless complex and diverse reborn individuals who adapt and grow in unfamiliar environments and circumstances.
Throughout the history of anime, several characters have gained significant popularity and impact, rising to become the main protagonists. Here are the top ten most beloved reincarnated anime characters in the medium.
This article includes spoilers for all the series mentioned in this list.
Top 10 Most Popular Reincarnated Anime Characters, Ranked
10) Journey to Become a Librarian (Ascendance of a Bookworm)
Myne, a beloved reincarnated anime character, embodies the highlights of the isekai genre. Instead of having to rescue the world or confront evil rulers, she simply strives to pursue her passion for books and become a librarian.
Despite being born as Urano Motosu, a girl with a deep love for books, she met her unfortunate demise when she was crushed by a pile of them. In her new life as a young girl with a delicate constitution, her love for books remained unchanged and she longed to read once again. Utilizing the knowledge from her past life, she strives to make a positive impact in this world and gain an advantage in certain situations.
9) The Misfit Demon King Anos Voldigoad (The Misfit of Demon King Academy)
Anos was once known as the Demon King of Tyranny two thousand years ago. However, he made the selfless decision to sacrifice his life in order to divide the world into four distinct regions. After being reincarnated during the Magical Age, he enrolled in the Demon King Academy where he faced challenges as an outsider, as the title of the series implies. Despite this, he persevered and rose to the top.
Despite its conventional approach, this series stands out among reincarnated anime characters due to Anos’ captivating character. While he may exhibit traits of chaos, ruthlessness, and extreme arrogance, he also possesses the intellect and skill to execute impressive feats throughout the entirety of the series.
Although he possessed great strength in his previous life, he became weary of the constant battles and disputes among the four dominant races in the series. As a result, he made the choice to divide the world into four distinct territories. This brought a greater level of complexity to Anos, a rare occurrence among reincarnated anime characters.
8) Escanor (The Seven Deadly Sins)
Elizabeth plays a significant role in the plot of The Seven Deadly Sins anime as she is not only the love interest of the protagonist, Meliodas, but also believed to be the reincarnation of the goddess with the same name. Meliodas safeguards her due to their strong bond and patiently awaits her as she grows older.
Despite her inherent kindness and nobility, Elizabeth struggles with insecurities and often perceives herself as a burden to those around her. Nevertheless, it is her unwavering love for Meliodas that allows her to overcome these flaws and develop into a stronger and more capable individual.
7) Rimuru Tempest – That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Rimuru from That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is often recognized as a representative character of the isekai genre and the common theme of reincarnation.
In her past life, Rimuru was known as Satoru Mikami. A Japanese man in his mid-30s, he met his end after being attacked. However, he is reborn in a fantasy world as a slime with extraordinary magical powers. As the plot unfolds, Rimuru forges new bonds and alliances, and becomes embroiled in a significant conflict that spans the entire series.
Despite being an unconventional concept, it has been the key to the franchise’s success as an anime, light novel, and manga.
6) Rudeus Greyrat (Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation)
Despite being a middle-aged and overweight Japanese man, Rudeus died and was reincarnated as a baby in a fantasy world. This second chance at life allowed him to pursue his desires and he ultimately becomes a skilled magician. Despite facing numerous hardships, he sets out on his own journey.
In the isekai genre, Rudeus embodies the typical traits of reincarnated anime characters. While his background and that of other characters may seem familiar, Mushoku Tensei is widely regarded as one of the top contenders in this genre.
Despite experiencing many ups and downs, Rudeus’ imperfect decisions in the anime add to the series’ appeal. Compared to other isekai, this story has numerous developments, making Rudeus a captivating character for many viewers.
5) Hak (Yona of the Dawn)
Throughout the events of the story, Yona, the princess of the kingdom of Kouka, is highly regarded as the reincarnation of the Crimson Dragon King. This is evident from her distinct features of red hair and purple eyes, which hold great significance.
Yona escapes her kingdom in the anime after her childhood sweetheart kills her father in a bid to take over the throne. This leaves the main character and his loyal protector, Hak, to cope with their grief and come up with a plan to defeat their enemy. Meanwhile, Yona has to confront her own doubts and adjust to a new way of life after being sheltered for so long.
Despite the immense pressure placed on her as the reincarnation of the Crimson Dragon King, Yona’s growth and development into a skilled warrior and leader is both inspiring and impressive. This, along with her captivating portrayal as a female protagonist, solidifies her as one of the top reincarnated anime characters.
4) Mirai Hoshino (Oshi no Ko)
Aquamarine is a relatively new addition to the list of popular reincarnated anime characters, thanks to the successful adaptation of the Oshi no Ko manga by Doga Kobo studio. He is a prime example of how crucial the concept of reincarnation is to the story, and removing it would greatly alter the plot.
Gorou Amamiya, a gynecologist, developed a fondness for Japanese idol Ai Hoshino after one of his former patients, a young girl who unfortunately passed away, expressed her love for the singer’s music. Despite this, Gorou’s duty to assist Ai in delivering her twins is cut short by his untimely murder at the hands of one of her obsessive fans.
The surprising turn of events in the story is that Gorou is reborn as one of Ai’s twins, now known as Aquamarine Hoshino. Despite being reincarnated, he retains all of his memories and knowledge from his previous life. Aquamarine grows up with Ai as his loving mother, forming a strong bond with her. However, their peaceful life is shattered when Ai is murdered by a different stalker. Aquamarine soon uncovers evidence that suggests their unknown father is responsible for this act of madness.
3) Kagome Higurashi – The Time-Traveling Priestess (Inuyasha)
Despite creating incredible female characters such as Lum from Urusei Yatsura and Akane Tendo from Ranma 1/2, author Rumiko Takahashi’s most acclaimed achievement, both in terms of critical praise and commercial success, was with Inuyasha’s Kagome Higurashi.
Kagome is the reincarnation of Kikyo, a formidable priestess from the feudal era. She travels back in time and crosses paths with the half-demon Inuyasha, and they go on exciting adventures together. As their relationship blossoms, Kagome learns that Inuyasha used to have feelings for Kikyo, which initially caused complications but ultimately allowed both of them to evolve and strengthen their bond.
She embodies the perfect demonstration of how anime characters who have been reincarnated are not just conceived for the purpose of being transported to a different time and place, but can also have significant impact on the plot.
2) Sailor Moon (Usagi Tsukino)
Despite typically being associated with the isekai genre, Usagi Tsukino stands out as one of the most popular reincarnated anime characters due to the immense influence and celebration of the Sailor Moon series in the entire industry. Her popularity transcends beyond just the medium of isekai.
Usagi was selected as the Sailor Guardian of Love and Justice, known as Sailor Moon, and is the central character of the series. This eventually led to her joining forces with the other Sailors. Throughout the series, it was disclosed that Usagi is the rebirth of Princess Serenity, a former member of the Moon Kingdom.
As for her true personality, Usagi may initially come off as immature, childish, and dramatic, but this is merely the starting point. Through her various adventures and challenges, she gradually matures into a reliable protagonist and leader.
1) Uzumaki Naruto (Naruto)
Naruto Uzumaki is considered the most successful reincarnated anime character, surpassing all others. He is widely recognized as one of the most iconic shonen protagonists in the medium’s history and is a highly recognizable figure in the world of animanga.
Despite being a controversial topic among fans, it is widely accepted that Naruto is the reincarnation of Ashura Otsutsuki, the son of Hagoromo, the Sage of Six Paths. Ashura’s Will of Fire, which served as the foundation of the Hidden Leaf Village for generations, was also created by Naruto’s predecessor. While opinions may differ, some argue that Naruto’s reincarnation takes away from his personal development and growth throughout the series.
Some people believe that this further emphasizes his determination to end the cycle, making it thematically appropriate. However, regardless of differing opinions, it is undeniable that this factor contributes to Naruto’s status as the most beloved among reincarnated anime characters.
Concluding Remarks
Although reincarnation is a frequently explored theme in anime, there are countless other characters who have been reincarnated in the medium. These individuals have had a significant impact and have served as inspiration for numerous animated series.
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