Dandadan has emerged as a thrilling new landmark in the realm of shonen anime, captivating fans with its dynamic mix of supernatural encounters and occult action, coupled with romantic comedy elements and eccentric characters. This series delivers a unique and entertaining experience that feels truly refreshing.
Nonetheless, what truly draws attention in Dandadan is its ensemble of characters, each leaving a memorable impression. Here’s a list of the top 10 characters from the Dandadan manga.
10. Kinta Sakata
Kinta Sakata initially appears to be more of a nuisance and somewhat of a pervert. However, his evolution into a heroic figure surprises many.
With a self-absorbed and attention-hungry demeanor, Kinta’s ambition to be a hero and powers related to ‘nanoskin’ physical manipulation earn him the admiration of his peers. His quest for real friendships makes him a surprisingly relatable and cherished character.
9. Bamora
Bamora, an alien child who escapes from the Kur and lands on Earth, forms a heartwarming connection with the main characters.
With a sorrowful background as the sole survivor of her home planet, her eventual acceptance into the group brings a message of hope. Bamora’s mix of naivety and resilience makes her a fan-favorite.
8. Count Saint-Germain
A recent addition to the series, Count Saint-Germain has already captivated fans with his enigmatic persona.
This alien villain is known for his collection of bizarre occult artifacts, wielding eccentric abilities and having mysterious intentions. Although he plays the role of an antagonist, his charisma and enigmatic goals make him a fascinating character reminiscent of a shonen version of Loki.
7. Unji Zuma
Unji Zuma’s journey from a minor character to a key player during the Danmanra arc has earned him a solid fan base.
Although he often comes off as a delinquent, beneath that exterior lies a compassionate heart. Throughout his youth, he used his bad boy image to support those in need, and his poignant transformation into a selfless hero is one of the manga’s most profound narratives.
6. Turbo Granny
Turbo Granny might start off as an adversary, but her profound influence on the narrative cannot be overlooked. From her comedic antics, such as stealing Okarun’s family jewels, to empowering him in his Turbo transformation to save his friends, she undergoes significant character growth.
After being sealed inside a maneki-neko doll, she transitions into an audience favorite. Her sharp banter and unpredictable behavior contribute much-needed humor to the storyline, while moments of emotional depth reveal her layered nature.
5 . City
Jiji, Momo’s childhood companion and first crush, is one of Dandadan’s most whimsical characters. His cheerful disposition quickly wins over fans.
In the midst of various melancholic moments, his unwavering optimism and lively demeanor serve as a source of comfort. His friendships with Okarun and Momo enrich his character and story arc.
4. Aira Shiratori
Aira is introduced as Momo’s romantic competitor but swiftly transcends her initial portrayal. Her haughtiness and unrequited affection for Okarun lead to numerous amusing moments.
Her transformation into a supportive friend for both Momo and Okarun showcases one of the most compelling character arcs in the series, moving from self-centeredness to genuine teamwork.
3. Seiko Ayase
Seiko, Momo’s grandmother, takes on the role of an unconventional mentor, blending guidance with humor. She is among the most potent figures in the narrative and features a vibrant, irreverent persona as a spirit medium.
Always a source of wisdom for the team, Seiko’s lively demeanor and vast spiritual knowledge make her indispensable. Despite her age of 70, she possesses a youthful appearance that defies her years.
2. Okarun
Ken Takakura, endearingly referred to as Okarun, embodies the clumsy yet charming hero of Dandadan. His growth from an introverted teenager to a brave warrior protecting his friends is among the most poignant elements of the series.
Okarun’s character development, along with his evolving relationship with Momo, forms the emotional heart of Dandadan, solidifying his status as a fan favorite.
1 . Momo Ayase
Momo Ayase stands out as the premier character in Dandadan. She is not only pivotal to the overarching narrative but also represents one of the most adeptly crafted female protagonists in contemporary shonen.
Her passionate and vigorous spirit drives her toward aiding others, complemented by her extraordinary abilities, making her the backbone of the Occult team. As she encounters increasingly formidable foes, Momo grows and evolves with each chapter, making her journey compelling and unforgettable.
About Dandadan
‘Dandadan’ is a captivating manga series crafted by Yukinobu Tatsu, launching its serialization on Shueisha’s Shōnen Jump+ platform in April 2021. An exciting anime adaptation by Science Saru is expected to debut in 2024.
The plot centers around Momo Ayase, a high school girl fascinated by ghosts, while her classmate Okarun is convinced about the existence of aliens. To settle their debate, they make a wager, exploring locations linked with both the supernatural and the occult individually.
While Ayase explores ghostly sites, Okarun investigates alien hotspots. When they arrive, they soon learn they are each partly correct: both aliens and spirits exist in their world.
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