Attack on Titan is celebrated for its gripping narrative and the intricacies of its characters, particularly Eren Yeager, who has surprised fans with his evolution. While Eren experiences a dramatic transformation throughout the series, many other anime protagonists showcase even deeper or more complex character development compared to Eren.
These characters grow not only through significant plot events but also through subtle emotional and psychological nuances that distinguish them within their narratives.
From overcoming personal challenges to discovering new meanings in their lives, these protagonists illustrate that character growth can be profoundly multi-layered. Here are ten anime main characters that have undergone more significant development than Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan.
Guts, Denji, and 8 More Anime Protagonists with Greater Development Than Eren Yeager in Attack on Titan
1) Thorfinn (Vinland Saga)
Thorfinn from Vinland Saga transforms from a vengeful warrior with intentions to kill Askeladd into an individual who seeks peace and aspires to discover life’s purpose. Although his desire for vengeance initially drives him, his interactions with others lead him to critically assess violence and the perpetuation of hatred.
Thorfinn embodies resilience and growth, ultimately embracing ideals of forgiveness and understanding. His journey demonstrates a more nuanced exploration of identity and purpose compared to Eren Yeager in Attack on Titan.
2) Mob (Mob Psycho 100)
Shigeo Kageyama, known as Mob, undergoes substantial growth throughout Mob Psycho 100. He begins confused about his emotional and social dynamics, ultimately forging meaningful connections with others. His evolution is characterized by the gradual acceptance of his psychic abilities and the pursuit of friendships, contrasting with Eren’s often aimless character trajectory.
Mob’s development peaks as he learns to express vulnerability and affirm his identity, emphasizing that emotional intelligence triumphs over brute strength. This depth secures his place as one of the anime protagonists with more development than Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan.
3) Natsuki Subaru (Re:Zero)
Natsuki Subaru experiences profound character development as he faces multiple deaths, carrying the emotional weight of each cycle. These repeated experiences compel him to confront failures, develop resilience, and recognize the importance of trust and friendship. Unlike Eren, whose journey revolves around external conflicts, Subaru’s growth is introspective and self-reflective.
This internal struggle, combined with his realization of his protective role, showcases a level of complexity that transcends Eren’s comparatively straightforward development in Attack on Titan.
4) Violet Evergarden (Violet Evergarden)
Violet Evergarden undergoes significant character evolution as she transitions from a soldier unable to articulate or feel emotions to a compassionate individual who learns the power of words and human connection. Her narrative revolves around grappling with the concepts of love and loss, spurred by her quest to understand her master’s final words.
With each episode revealing new dimensions of her character, Violet’s emotional growth and changing worldview resonate with viewers, making her transformation feel far more authentic and impactful than Eren Yeager in Attack on Titan.
5) Guts (Berserk)
Guts from Berserk showcases rich character development through the horrors of his tumultuous past and constant challenges. Evolving from a relentless seeker of vengeance to someone who values friendship and purpose, Guts’s journey portrays the vulnerable side of a character capable of love, starkly contrasting Eren’s largely solitary path in Attack on Titan.
Guts grapples not only with external demons but also with inner turmoil, illustrating resilience in the face of despair. This layered approach to healing and self-discovery adds depth that surpasses Eren’s character arc.
6) Lelouch vi Britannia (Code Geass)
Lelouch’s character evolution is defined by profound moral dilemmas and strategic prowess. Initially driven by revenge, he gradually becomes a complex leader, dealing with the consequences of his actions. His arc offers valuable insights into sacrifice and the weight of power as he strives to enact change in the world.
In comparison to Eren from Attack on Titan, whose evolution is primarily influenced by external conflicts, Lelouch’s journey is shaped by internal struggles, relationships, and personal transformation.
7) Denji (Chainsaw Man)
In Chainsaw Man, Denji’s journey is marked by a compelling character arc as he transitions from a desperate young man to someone who learns to value relationships and personal desires.
Initially driven by basic survival instincts, Denji’s encounters with friends and foes challenge his motivations, enhancing his understanding of what it means to live fully.
Through loss, betrayal, and complexities in his desires, Denji develops into a character possessing greater self-awareness than Eren Yeager in Attack on Titan.
8) Simon (Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann)
Simon from Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann exemplifies substantial character development, evolving from an unwilling youth into a decisive leader who inspires those around him.
His growth is marked by the need to confront overwhelming challenges both externally and internally, particularly in reconciling loss and taking on responsibility.
In contrast to Eren’s increasingly complex and darker motivations, Simon’s evolution emphasizes themes of hope, unity, and determination. He learns to trust his potential and empowers others to find faith in themselves.
9) Gon Freecss (Hunter x Hunter)
Gon Freecss experiences significant transformation throughout Hunter x Hunter, especially during the Chimera Ant arc. His journey illustrates how losses and the quest for revenge shape his character. From an optimistic, determined youth, Gon becomes filled with rage following Kite’s death.
This transformation reaches a dark turning point where he confronts Neferpitou in a fierce climax, which starkly contrasts his earlier self. The emotional complexity of his choices highlights the intricate depth of his character compared to Eren Yeager.
10) Shoya Ishida (A Silent Voice)
Initially portrayed as a bully, Shoya Ishida tormented a deaf girl named Shoko Nishimiya during childhood. As time progresses, Shoya is consumed by guilt, alienated from society, and burdened by remorse for his actions against Shoko.
His maturation occurs as he seeks redemption through making amends with Shoko, learning to cope with his flaws, build new friendships, and forgive himself. This rich emotional depth and character progression firmly position Shoya Ishida among anime characters with greater development than Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan.
Final Thoughts
Attack on Titan effectively showcases Eren Yeager’s character transformation; however, several other anime protagonists exhibit even more profound development, enriching their narratives significantly. Characters like Thorfinn, Mob, and Shoya Ishida evolve in relatable ways, addressing themes of forgiveness, self-acceptance, and emotional strength.
They grow not only through external conflicts but also through internal struggles, making their journeys captivating. These protagonists exemplify the rich potential for character development within anime.
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