When it comes to anime, the antihero character is always intriguing and complex. This character challenges viewers to question their morality in every action they take. Antiheroes usually operate in a gray area, different from most anime where protagonists and antagonists are clearly presented to the audience. However, some anime take a different approach, making their protagonists also become antagonists and antiheroes. If you’re interested in watching anime with antihero characters, check out our top 10 list!
10. Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo — Gangsta
Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo are mercenaries who are always willing to take on the riskiest jobs in their town. Not only do local criminal syndicates depend on them, but so do the police. Even though they have moral reasons for their actions, they are not afraid to take on their dark side when needed. Despite living in the seedy underbelly of their city, they make sure to honor their contracts with both the police and gangs while also trying to help the less fortunate around them.
9. Angelo — 91 Days
Angelo Lagusa’s parents and younger brother were killed by the Vanetti crime family. Angelo, the sole survivor, feels guilty and changes his identity to survive. After receiving news from a friend of his late father, Angelo returns to his hometown and gains the trust of the Vanetti family. On his journey for revenge, Angelo becomes a killing machine who enjoys torturing and killing his enemies, especially those who were involved in the slaughter of the Lagusa family. Angelo ends up becoming the villain of his own story.
8. Ray — Angels of Death
On the surface, Rachel “Ray” Gardner of Angels of Death appears like an average girl, but her true colors are darker than most people would imagine. While Ray may seem calm, she lacks empathy, struggles to express herself, and is not able to understand complex emotions. Everyone who knows her believes that Ray is cruel and selfish. Throughout her journey to escape the building she’s trapped in, she defeats everyone who tries to stop her. As the story unfolds, viewers will discover more about Ray and see why she’s an antihero.
7. Alucard — Hellsing Ultimate
Alucard, the attacking dog of Sir Integra Hellsing, is the ultimate weapon of the Hellsing Organization. He is a military-loving vampire who helps slay his own kind for a better and safer world. He is not afraid to kill humans who pose a threat to his ideals. Despite having pure evil lurking inside him, Alucard chooses not to use his abilities to harm the innocent. Even though he’s under Sir Integra’s control, Alucard has a mind of his own and uses his power and influence fairly, despite his easy access to the dark side.
6. Hei — Darker Than Black
Hei is a Contractor from the underground world of Darker Than Black. He maintains some semblance of humanity, despite trading it for power. In a world where people sell their humanity, Hei continues to work as an assassin. He shows no mercy towards his targets and completes his missions without much difficulty. As a worker for the Syndicate, Hei does what is required of him while also fighting his enemies. Although his emotions are not a joke, Hei does his best to survive in a world where people have given up their humanity.
5. William James Moriarty — Moriarty the Patriot
William James Moriarty is the protagonist of Moriarty the Patriot, who is a criminal mastermind. Moriarty desires to create a world free from class differences and oppression. In the pursuit of his goal, he takes on the rich, greedy, and powerful. He may be a criminal, but Moriarty believes his actions are necessary to achieve his greater goal. He may be the antagonist, but some viewers may see him as a hero fighting against a corrupt system.
In conclusion, antiheroes in anime are always fascinating characters that add depth and complexity to the story. The above anime series showcase some of the most compelling antiheroes in the world of anime. Which one will you be watching first?
