Mohsin Lag
Are you searching for some incredible badass anime series that will keep you hooked from beginning to end? Look no further – this list has got you covered. These shows truly earn the title epic in anime history and are a must-watch for anyone who appreciates Japanese animes that features these coolest anime characters, who are shining as the most iconic figures of all time. We will cover a wide range of genres, from romance and drama to action and adventure, and while you may recognize some of these shows, there are also underrated titles waiting to be discovered.
So, let’s kicks off our list of the 26 most satisfying and coolest anime series with badass characters that truly deserve to be on your watchlist as soon as possible.
26. Jormungand
Starting off our list with the awesome mafia anime series Jormungand. The story revolves around a crew the boasts a bunch of unique badass characters in this series make it worth-watching. Growing up in a war-torn environment, child soldier Jonah despises weapons and those who trade them. However, when Koko Hekmatyar, an international arms dealer, hires Jonah as one of her bodyguards, he finds himself compelled to take up arms. Alongside Koko’s other bodyguards, mostly former special-ops soldiers, Jonah is now on a mission to protect Koko and her ambitious goal of achieving world peace from the numerous dangers associated with her line of work.
Jormungand follows Koko, Jonah, and the rest of the crew as they travel the world selling weapons under the international shipping company HCLI. Since Koko’s work is illegal under international law, she must constantly evade local and international authorities while dealing with armies, private militaries, and militias. With the CIA in pursuit and assassins at every turn, Jonah and the crew must defend Koko and her dream of world peace with everything they’ve got or risk losing it all.
25. Re: Creators
Re:Creators, a unique anime that flips the isekai concept. The story revolves around Souta Mizushino, a high school student with dreams of creating his own light novel. One day, while watching anime for inspiration, he finds himself briefly transported into a fierce fight scene. Upon returning to the real world, he realizes something strange has happened—Selesia Yupitilia, the headstrong and badass heroine from the anime, is now with him.
Soon, other cool characters start appearing in the real world, each carrying the essence of their home worlds. A princely knight, a magical girl, a ruthless brawler, and more now wander the streets of Japan. Among them is a mysterious woman in military attire known as Gunpuku no Himegimi, who holds knowledge beyond her fictional origin. Despite this, her true name and the world she comes from remain unknown.
As the story goes on, Souta and Selesia join forces with Meteora Österreich, a calm and composed librarian NPC, to unravel the mystery behind these unusual events. With powerful forces in motion, the boundary between reality and imagination becomes increasingly blurred, leading to a crucial encounter between creators and the characters they brought to life.
24. Terror in Resonance
Zankyou no Terror, a dark anime series that will hit you right in the feels and for that you shouldn’t miss it. The show begins with a terrorist attack on a nuclear facility in Japan, leaving behind the cryptic word VON painted in red. The government is in disarray, and the police scramble to find the culprits. The public remains clueless until a mysterious video surfaces on the internet six months later. In the video, two teenage boys, known only as Sphinx, challenge the police directly, threatening chaos in Tokyo.
With the city in a state of panic and the police struggling to handle the situation, Detective Kenjirou Shibazaki finds himself caught in the middle of the chaos. “Zankyou no Terror” unfolds the tale of Nine and Twelve, the masked figures behind Sphinx. Despite their seemingly impossible existence, they navigate a world of deception and secrets, orchestrating the city’s downfall. All of this is driven by their desire to bury a tragic truth that haunts them. This is an emotional and revenge story that revolves around two badass anime boys that you’ll remember forever.
23. Kenichi the Mightiest Disciple
If you’re into action anime with epic fights, intense rivalries, and a protagonist transforming from zero to a total badass, then KenIchi: The Mightiest Disciple”is the perfect show for you. Kenichi Shirahama, a high schooler who, when not enduring beatings in the karate club, is buried in self-help books. One day, he accidentally startles the new student, Miu Furinji, but they soon become friends. Facing a decisive fight in the karate club, Kenichi seeks help after seeing Miu effortlessly handle thugs.
Tired of being bullied, he asks Miu for guidance on becoming a better fighter. Miu directs him to Ryouzanpaku, her grandfather’s dojo, where eccentric martial arts masters gather. Miu assures Kenichi he’ll get stronger if he survives. With the threat of a criminal martial arts gang called “Ragnarok” and Miu’s words echoing, Kenichi embarks on a journey to become a formidable fighter and protector of the defenseless.
22. Darling in the FranXX
In the far-off future, humanity faces near-extinction due to monstrous creatures called Klaxosaurs. People seek refuge in fortress cities called Plantations, where children are trained to pilot giant mechas called FranXX, the only weapons effective against Klaxosaurs. These kids, bred for piloting, know little beyond defending their race, and Hiro is one of them, an aspiring FranXX pilot who loses motivation after a test failure.
While contemplating by a lake, he encounters Zero Two, a mysterious and badass girl with horns. She’s infamous as the Partner Killer. When a Klaxosaur attacks, Zero Two’s FranXX is damaged, and she invites Hiro to join her. Together, they defeat the Klaxosaur, giving Hiro a chance at redemption.
21. Baki the Grappler
Baki the Grappler stands out as the most intense and rough martial arts series ever. At first glance, it might seem like it’s all about fighting, but it goes deeper with a diverse cast of cool characters, each with their own reasons for engaging in brutal battles. From the moment he was born, Baki Hanma’s life revolved around fighting. Under the guidance of his mother, Emi Akezawa, he tirelessly trained his muscles and mastered various martial arts techniques.
His ultimate goal is to challenge and surpass his father, Yuujirou Hanma, known as the “Ogre” and considered the world’s strongest being. As Baki realizes that his mother’s teachings can only take him so far, he embarks on a journey to forge his own path to strength. Seeking formidable opponents and building unbreakable connections, he evolves both physically and spiritually. The countdown begins to the inevitable confrontation with his father, and Baki continues to grow, preparing for the showdown of a lifetime.
20. Fate/Zero
Fate/Zero is a dark and bloody battle royale featuring legendary historical figures fighting for the holy grail. It’s considered the best in the Fate series due to its diverse and captivating fights, including magical battles and epic swordplay clashes between regular badass humans, confrontations between armies, giant monsters, and more. The Holy Grail, with its promise to fulfill any wish, has initiated brutal wars in the past. Despite the harsh history, the wealthy Einzbern family believes the Fourth Holy Grail War will be different, holding a vessel of the Holy Grail.
To secure their chances, they enlist the services of the infamous “Magus Killer” Kiritsugu Emiya, offering him marriage to their daughter Irisviel as part of the contract. Kiritsugu becomes a central figure in this deadly game, facing six other participants, each armed with ancient familiars and driven by unique desires. Alongside his own familiar, Saber, Kiritsugu’s ultimate adversary emerges in the form of Kirei Kotomine, a priest seeking salvation from his inner emptiness through a confrontation with Kiritsugu.
19. Claymore
Claymore is an anime featuring strong and badass female warriors known as Claymores. Their mission is to hunt down and eliminate creatures called Yoma. The central character, Clare, embarks on a journey to defeat these Yoma, and the challenges become tougher as the story progresses. Clare’s character undergoes significant development, and your perceptions of her may fluctuate as the series unfolds. Learning about Clare’s past and comparing it to her present self creates a compelling narrative.
While some other main characters may not receive as much development as Clare, they still contribute positively to the overall story. Raki, the main supporting character, stands out as a somewhat annoying presence and doesn’t add much to the story. However, as the story progresses, it evolves from its initial focus on hunting and killing Yoma to a more engaging and epic plot, featuring high-level fights.
18. Mahouka Koukou No Rettousei
Mahouka is a magic anime about a super-strong and badass main character. When I say super-strong, I mean he never loses. He’s a genius with combat skills better than everyone else in the show. Created by Madhouse, Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei is set in a world where magic is no longer just in fairy tales. It’s now a structured technology taught as a skill.
In First High School, where magicians are trained, students are divided into Blooms and Weeds based on their exam scores. Blooms go to the First Course, and Weeds, like Tatsuya and Miyuki Shiba, end up in the Second Course. Even though the transfer student Tatsuya is seen as magically weak, he has exceptional technical knowledge, combat skills, and unique magic techniques, making him stand out at the magical high school.
17. Overlord
Overlord is a good isekai anime with great fights and a badass protagonist. The action scenes are well-animated and stand out compared to other isekai shows. The story revolves around Momonga, a powerful wizard in a virtual reality game.
As the game’s final hour approaches, Momonga is surprised to find himself still conscious, and the non-player characters in the game now have their own personalities. Momonga, now in an abnormal situation, directs his loyal servants to help him explore and take control of this new world. The goal is to understand what caused this development and if others are in the same situation.
16. Jojo’s bizarre Adventure
Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure 2012 is one heck of a manly and badass anime that you really should watch. It’s all about the Joestar family, and this part, in particular, is filled with badassery and bizarre fights against vampires. The story kicks off in 1868 with English nobleman George Joestar and his son Jonathan, who become indebted to the cunning Dario Brando after a carriage incident.
Fast forward 12 years, George adopts Dario’s son, Dio, in an attempt to repay the debt. However, Dio has sinister plans to snatch the Joestar fortune. As the two brothers clash, Jonathan eventually defeats Dio in a brawl. The story unfolds with their seemingly friendly relationship hiding deeper troubles, especially when George falls ill, and Jonathan suspects Dio’s involvement in the mysterious incident.
15. Black Lagoon
Black Lagoon is all about badass anime girls armed with guns, swearing a lot, and taking down bad guys. The story kicks off with Rokurou Okajima, a regular office worker, getting caught up in a messed-up business deal in Thailand. Things go south, and he ends up being taken hostage by the ruthless pirate mercenaries known as the Lagoon Company. Instead of pleading for his life, Rokurou decides to join the crew that kidnapped him.
Now part of the group, Rokurou has to adapt to life in Roanapur, a city full of corruption and crime where survival is a daily struggle. Alongside his brash and trigger-happy colleague, Revy, Rokurou faces constant challenges in this lawless city. As he grapples with leaving his past behind and navigating the dangers of Roanapur, Rokurou must make tough decisions to survive while holding onto his humanity.
14. Darker Than Black
Darker Than Black is an anime that features a super cool main character who engages in awesome and badass fights in every episode. Imagine a Chinese electric Batman – that’s reason enough to check this one out. The story unfolds 10 years after Heaven’s Gate appears in South America and Hell’s Gate shows up in Japan, changing the night sky into something strange.
These Gates defy the laws of physics, and alongside them, Contractors emerge. These Contractors trade their humanity for supernatural abilities. In the Japanese city near Hell’s Gate, Section 4 Chief Misaki Kirihara finds herself at odds with a notorious Contractor named Hei, also known as the “Black Reaper.” Hei, along with his comrades, takes on missions for the mysterious Syndicate. As they unravel a dark plot that threatens Contractors’ existence, the story becomes a sci-fi thriller, revolving around a war fought in the shadows, where politics and justice hold no power.
13. Gurren Lagann
Gurren Lagann is one of the coolest anime you’ll ever watch. It’s truly epic, with each fight getting crazier and bigger than the last. But what makes this badass mecha anime show special is its heart and spirit – it’s impossible to watch without feeling hyped. Simon and Kamina grow up in an underground village, far from the surface. Kamina is a wild, adventurous guy aiming to make a name for himself, while Simon is a shy boy with no big dreams.
One day, while digging, Simon finds a mysterious object – the ignition key to Lagann, an ancient war artifact. With their new weapon, Simon, Kamina, and Yoko Littner, a fiery redhead with a massive gun, defend against a surprise surface attack. After the battle, the sky is revealed, inspiring the trio to journey with Yoko and explore the surface wastelands. They face the Beastmen, humanoid creatures terrorizing humanity with powerful robots called Gunmen. In spite of the challenges, they bravely fight alongside fellow survivors to reclaim the surface and uncover a galaxy-sized mystery.
12. Great Teacher Onizuka
Great Teacher Onizuka is a funny school show, and Onizuka is one of the coolest anime characters ever. Eikichi Onizuka is a 22-year-old guy with a wild past—he used to lead a biker gang, ruled Shonan, and has never been with a girl. Now, he has a big dream: to be the best high school teacher in Japan. It’s not because he loves teaching, though; he just wants a cute teenage wife when he’s old. Even though Onizuka is a bit of a pervert, greedy, and lazy troublemaker, there’s more to him than meets the eye.
When he becomes the homeroom teacher for Class 3-4 at the fancy Holy Forest Academy, despite suplexing the Vice Principal, he faces a real challenge because this class is notorious. The students of Class 3-4 are known for hating all teachers and playing mind games to make them quit. They want to break every new teacher mentally, so they’ll leave the school. But Onizuka is not your typical teacher, and he’s ready for anything.
The students deal with serious problems like bullying, suicide, and harassment every day. Onizuka uses his unique and unexpected methods to get to the root of their issues—even if it means jumping off a building to save a student. With his quirky charm and fun personality, Class 3-4 starts to realize how enjoyable school can be when Onizuka is their teacher.
11. Yu Yu Hakusho
Yu Yu Hakusho, made by the same creator as Hunter x Hunter, features unique fights but a crew of some of the coolest and most likable badass anime characters of all time. Also, the English dubbed version is considered one of the best. The story begins with Yusuke Urameshi, a 14-year-old troublemaker with a bleak future.
His life takes a surprising turn when he sacrifices himself to save a young boy by jumping in front of a moving car. This unexpected act catches the attention of the spirit realm authorities, and they’re not ready to let him pass on just yet. Koenma, the heir to the spirit realm throne, offers Yuusuke a chance to come back to life if he completes a series of tasks.
Guided by the death god Botan, Yuusuke takes on the role of a Spirit Detective, protecting Earth from evil entities. In his quest, Yuusuke forms a team with his former rival Kazuma Kuwabara and two demons, Hiei and Kurama, both with shady pasts. Together, they undergo training and face off against enemies threatening humanity’s existence.
10. Kill La Kill
Airing for the first time in October 2013, Kill La Kill delivers a unique and satisfying anime story. Filled with action, superpowers, comedy, ecchi, badass female characters, and more, it takes place in a school setting. Ryuuko Matoi, seeking her father’s murderer after his death, follows the clue of his invention’s missing half, the Scissor Blade, leading her to Honnouji Academy.
This prestigious high school is governed by the formidable student council president Satsuki Kiryuuin and her Elite Four. In this competitive hierarchy, Satsuki grants those at the top special clothes called “Goku Uniforms,” providing unique superhuman abilities.
After a defeat in a fight against a uniformed student, Ryuuko discovers Senketsu, a rare and sentient “Kamui” or God Clothes, in her razed home. Upon contact with Ryuuko’s blood, Senketsu awakens, giving her immense power. Now armed with Senketsu and the Scissor Blade, Ryuuko challenges the Elite Four, aiming to reach Satsuki and uncover her father’s murderer.
9. Inuyashiki
The next badass anime to watch is Inuyashiki, a series about Ichirou Inuyashiki, a 58-year-old man facing a difficult life, who discovers he has stomach cancer with only three months to live. Despite the indifference from his family, he finds solace in adopting an abandoned Shiba Inu named Hanako. While in a field embracing his dog, a strange figure appears before him. In a sudden turn of events, Ichirou is enveloped by smoke and dust, leading to his rebirth as a mechanized weapon with amazing abilities.
Regardless of the shock, the compassionate Ichirou uses his newfound powers to save a life, bringing him happiness and renewed hope. However, the origins of these powers and the mysterious character at the explosion site remain unclear, raising questions about the true nature of this dangerous gift, and is the other character is kind as Ichirou or not!
8. Katekyo Hitman Reborn
Ever started watching an anime, thought it wasn’t good, but then got addicted and thanked your lucky stars you didn’t give up on it? Well, this anime series, first released in November 2006 and wrapping up its ninth season in September 2010, is one of those gems.
Tsunayoshi Sawada, a guy who’s not exactly the poster child for success. He’s clumsy, lacks talent, and has a hopeless crush on the school idol, Kyouko Sasagawa. His classmates mockingly call him Loser Tsuna, making him the embodiment of failure in middle school. However, Tsuna’s mundane life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Reborn, a mysterious hitman who, shockingly, is also a baby!
Hailing from the strongest Mafia family in Italy, Reborn has a mission: transform the lackluster middle schooler into the next badass and tough boss of the infamous Vongola family, whose current leader is about to retire. It’s a tough journey for the seemingly dull Tsuna, but with the support of his new criminal associates and his peculiar home tutor, even Loser Tsuna might achieve greatness.
7. Samurai Champloo
Samurai Champloo is a show for everyone. Plenty of great sword-slashing action, clever comedy, and a good share of moments that will tug at your heartstrings — often all at once. If you enjoy anime with badass characters, this is one you can’t miss. Fuu Kasumi is a young and clumsy waitress who spends her days peacefully working in a small teahouse. That is, until she accidentally spills a drink all over one of her customers!
With a group of samurai now incessantly harassing her, Fuu desperately calls upon another samurai in the shop, Mugen, who quickly defeats them with his wild fighting technique, utilizing movements reminiscent to that of breakdancing. Unfortunately, Mugen decides to pick a fight with the unwilling ronin Jin, who wields a more precise and traditional style of sword fighting, and the latter proves to be a powerful opponent. The only problem is, they end up destroying the entire shop as well as accidentally killing the local magistrate’s son.
For their crime, the two samurai are captured and set to be executed. However, they are rescued by Fuu, who hires the duo as her bodyguards. Though she no longer has a place to return to, the former waitress wishes to find a certain samurai who smells of sunflowers and enlists the help of the now exonerated pair to do so. Despite initially disapproving of this idea, the two eventually agree to assist the girl in her quest; thus, the trio embark upon an adventure to find this mysterious warrior—that is, if Fuu can keep Mugen and Jin from killing each other.
6. Psycho-Pass
Adding another badass anime to our list, Psycho-Pass is a great choice to check out. Airing for the first time in 2012, the series explores a world where the concept of justice has evolved. In the 22nd century, Japan employs the Sibyl System, an objective method of assessing each citizen’s threat level by analyzing their mental state, known as their Psycho-Pass. Inspectors maintain law and order by dealing with anyone showing even a hint of criminal intent, using lethal force when necessary.
Alongside them are Enforcers—experienced Inspectors turned latent criminals—who carry out the dirty work. Enter Akane Tsunemori, a young woman with a genuine commitment to justice. Working with the seasoned Enforcer Shinya Kougami, she discovers that the judgments of the Sibyl System may not be as flawless as they seem. As her understanding of justice is challenged, Akane grapples with the question of whether true justice can be achieved through a system that might already be corrupt.
5. Cowboy Bebop
The Cowboy Bebop series is sure to satisfy all your cravings. It’s a mix of humor, heartwarming, and badass moments, combined with intense and heart-wrenching scenes. Set in the year 2071, humanity has expanded across the galaxy, creating settlements on various planets. However, crime remains a constant problem, and intergalactic outlaws are pursued by a growing number of skilled bounty hunters. The anime follows the most badass character of all time Spike Spiegel and his buddy the tough Jet Black, as they chase criminals through space to make a living.
Aside from Spike’s goofy demeanor, he carries the weight of a violent past. Jet, with his own troubled memories, takes care of Spike and their ship, the Bebop. The crew also includes the beautiful con artist Faye Valentine, the quirky child Edward Wong Hau Pepelu Tivrusky IV, and Ein, a bioengineered Welsh Corgi. As they form bonds and pursue a colorful array of criminals, the Bebop crew’s lives are thrown into chaos by a menace from Spike’s past. Caught between his newfound family and seeking revenge for old wounds, Spike must make a crucial choice.
4. Hellsing Ultimate
Hellsing Ultimate is a super cool and action-horror dark anime with a badass main character and edgy (but fun) side characters. I still remember reaching the final episode and reflecting on the epic 5-hour-long battle – it was intense! There are evil creatures lurking in the dark, preying on unsuspecting humans. On the other side, there’s Hellsing, led by Integra Fairbrook Wingates Hellsing, dedicated to wiping out these supernatural threats.
At the heart of their arsenal is Alucard, a vampire who fights against his own kind. Alongside his new vampire sidekick, Seras Victoria, Alucard takes on not just monsters but anyone opposing Hellsing, whether they appear good or evil. In the battle for humanity’s survival, Hellsing Ultimate shows that things aren’t always what they seem, and sometimes the scariest nightmare can be the greatest weapon.
3. Vinland Saga
Are you a fan of epic Viking tales? How about strong and badass anime characters? Are you eager for jaw-dropping animated fights, and compelling character growth? Look no further then Vinland Saga, an action-packed anime crafted by Wit Studio. The show follows the young Thorfinn as he absorbs tales of legendary places like Vinland, a warm and fertile land free from strife.
Unlike his icy birthplace in Iceland or his current life as a warrior, Vinland promises peace. However, Thorfinn’s reality is steeped in war, contradicting his father’s belief that no one has enemies. As the conflict between England and the Danes escalates, death becomes routine for Viking mercenaries reveling in the chaos. Thorfinn is driven by a quest for vengeance against Askeladd, his father’s murderer, amidst the tumultuous era of war and death, seeking his own kind of paradise.
2. Attack On Titan
Attack on Titan or Shingeki No Kyojin, in three words this anime is badass, dynamic, masterpiece. The story takes place long ago, where Titans, monstrous creatures with a taste for human flesh, nearly wiped out humanity. Fearing these giants, humans sought refuge behind massive walls. The Titans’ pleasure in devouring humans, rather than hunger, made them terrifying.
For a century, peace held within the protective walls until a colossal Titan shattered the illusion. Eren Yeager, fueled by a personal tragedy, vows to eliminate Titans. Joining the Survey Corps, an elite force of badass characters battling Titans beyond the walls, Eren, his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman, and friend Armin Arlert fight to find a way to defeat the Titans before the last defenses crumble.
1. Berserk
Berserk features Guts, the most badass male character in anime, although the ’97 version is the only good anime adaptation. However, the manga is a must-read, hailed as the best ever written. The show of course focuses on Guts, a powerful swordsman armed with a massive sword, who wanders as a mercenary, taking high-paying jobs. His life takes a turn when he encounters the Band of the Falcon after a fierce battle.
Griffith, the Falcon’s leader, defeats the warrior Guts in a duel, leading to Guts joining the group. Over three years, Guts rises to become one of their commanders, showcasing unmatched combat skills. Alongside Griffith’s leadership, the Band of the Falcon dominates battles. Yet, lurking in the shadows is a threat that could alter Guts’ life forever.
