Top 15 Unique Anime Character Designs Of All Time Update 04/2024

anime characters design

It’s safe to say that anime isn’t short on originality. Throughout the years, there have been a few character designs that have stuck out above the rest.

Some of the best storylines, universes, combat scenes, romances and everything else imaginable can be found in the world of anime. However, while discussing the fascinating aspects of anime, one of the first things that comes to mind is the distinctive character designs seen in these productions. For the most part, anime characters are one-of-a-kind and memorable for all the right reasons.

As a result, the striking appearances of various characters make them stand out in their respective shows. Some of the most interesting and engaging character designs ever created have been compiled here.

Ritwik Mitra updated this page on February 17, 2022: Because of the fervor with which most anime creators approach their work, these episodes are sure to have a dazzling cast of characters. All of these characters have been painstakingly crafted, with every single detail highlighting the time and care that went into creating them. The following characters stand out among the plethora of eye-catching and mind-blowing creations that may be found. This list has been updated to include additional characters from a wide variety of anime episodes because of the huge variety of anime art styles and character designs.

15. Takeo Gouda (My Love Story)

Takeo Gouda

It’s hard to argue with the fact that Takeo Gouda stands out in an anime that’s founded in reality. In contrast to the over-the-top exaggeration prevalent in most anime, his broad and muscular form appears natural and stunning in a rather genuine manner.

It’s surprising, given his intimidating appearance, that Takeo is actually a nice and considerate individual. He’s a fascinating figure because he’s kind and honorable at the same time.

14. Goblin Slayer (Goblin Slayer)

The first season of Goblin Slayer attracted a lot of attention for a variety of reasons. Aside from the contentious nature of the material, the iconic design of the film’s main protagonist also grabbed the attention of onlookers.

An armored character makes sense given the anime’s gruesome naturestyle. .’s Since then, the Goblin Slayer’s armor has become almost as iconic as the show’s title character.

13. Shigeru Akagi (Akagi)

Shigeru Akagi (Akagi)

The concept of someone putting their own life on the line is an intriguing one, and Akagi executes it flawlessly. Fans of thriller anime should definitely check it out for both the story and the art style.

The protagonist. Shigeru Akagi has a stunning and unique design, which somehow matches the backdrop of a renowned gambler who will not hesitate to risk it all. He’s a fantastic character who enhances the show’s overall quality.

12. Iyami (Mr. Osomatsu)

It’s a lighthearted show that’s a refreshing change of pace from the grittiness of mainstream anime, and Mr. Osomatsu is no exception. It has a wide variety of characteristics, making it difficult to pick a favorite.

Iyami is an excellent choice because of how much personality he exudes just from the way he is designed. His appearance and demeanor are well suited to the role he plays, and he’s a joy to watch.

11. Elias Ainsworth (The Magician’s Bride)

If you’re looking for an example of character design that’s absolutely out of this world, check out The Ancient Magus’ Bride. Everyone’s going to pay attention to one character in particular, and it’s very obvious who that is

The strange past of Elias Ainsworth is reflected in his distinctive appearance. In addition to his goat-horned skull, his character is one of the show’s best.

10. Naruto During The Pain Arc (Naruto)

Naruto During The Pain Arc (Naruto)

Naruto’s design as a child was excellent, but as he got up, his character’s visuals took a step back. Fortunately, Naruto’s new clothing, which he debuted during the Pain arc, fixed this tiny issue.

New attire for Naruto was a work of art, with hues the ninja hadn’t previously sported. Because of this, and a magnificent scroll slung across his back, he became one of the most handsome Naruto characters ever.

9. Ryuk (Death Note)

Many people have seen the anime series Death Note and loved it. Light and L’s wit-to-wit conflict is a joy to see and almost always delivers.

The show’s shinigami, of course, raise it to a new level of quality. Many fans can’t get enough of Ryuk’s design and demonic nature, making this character one of the most memorable in the entire series.

8. Super Saiyans (Dragon Ball)

Son Goku

With the release of Dragon Ball Z, the long-running Dragon Ball anime series reached its zenith. It’s never boring to see Goku and his buddies struggle against overwhelming odds and come out on top.

When Goku faced Frieza, he unleashed a new level of power after seeing Krillin die. This is one of the best bouts in the series. The arrival of Super Saiyan in the series was a pure, unadulterated thrill that was further amplified by its iconic aesthetic.

7. Dio Brando (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)

The characters in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure are very stunning. In fact, there are so many distinct personalities represented in this show’s cast that picking a favorite may be a real chore.

In spite of this, the character of Dio is a superb pick from among the many fascinating ones on the show. Character design is based on his villainous persona and portrays him as such.

6. Saber (Fate/Stay Night)

Anime based on the video game Fate/Stay Night has become a popular phenomenon. It was Shirou Emiya who was thrown into the Fifth Holy Grail War in the series’ debut episode, and he nearly died in these fights.

The appearance of his servant Saber, on the other hand, shifted everything. Shirou’s friendship with her blossomed into something beautiful because of her character design and the way she handled it.

5. Yusuke’s Demonic Form (Yu Yu Hakusho)

Yusuke's Demonic Form (Yu Yu Hakusho)

Yusuke Urameshi’s return from the grave to become a Spirit Detective in Yu Yu Hakusho is a classic anime. Despite the final arc’s downturn in the story, the series as a whole is good.

The most memorable character in the show is without a doubt Yusuke, who undergoes an amazing change throughout the course of the episode. Awe-inspiring moments like the protagonist using Raizen’s abilities to transform into a demonic being are rare in video games, but this one deserves more attention.

4. Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

Character design in Fullmetal Alchemist is out of this world. Edward, the show’s protagonist, is one of the show’s most compelling characters.

It helps that he has an interesting persona and a unique character design, both of which contribute to his appeal. Edward is one of the few male characters in anime that resembles him.

3. Saitama (One-Punch Man)

Saitama

Having the ability to simultaneously make a bald person look funny and menacing demands some major artistic talent. Just as One-Punch Man does with Saitama’s paintings, so do I.

There’s no story in our series without a hero, and our hero is the engine that propels everything that happens. It’s hard to overstate how much fun he makes the show by a long shot.

2. Shoto Todoroki (My Hero Academia)

One of the best superhero animes out there, My Hero Academia is a unique and thrilling twist on the classic superhero genre. There are several worthy contenders for the title of best-designed character on this program, given the flashy style of some of the heroes.

Shoto, on the other hand, is a unique individual. Endeavor’s “ideal child” has a modest yet striking appearance that makes him a memorable figure in the show.

1. Akira (Devilman Crybaby)

Akira (Devilman Crybaby)

Devilman Crybaby is an extreme horror film that no one should watch. Taking a look at human nature’s most hideous traits, the show doesn’t waste any time in demonstrating just how cruel the world can be.

Akira, the half-human, half-demon protagonist, serves as the show’s emotional center and demonstrates that he has values that are far more clearly defined than those of the other characters. While the design of his character is impressive, it’s terrible to watch the way his story unfolds during the show.