Non-magical main characters are becoming a dominant force in anime. Stepping away from fantastical spellcasters and wielding warriors, these characters rely on their wit, honed skills, and unwavering determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Here are some of the most popular non-magical main characters in anime, each with their own unique story and motivations:
Tanjiro Kamado (Kimetsu no Yaiba):
Tanjiro Kamado is a kind and compassionate young man living a peaceful life in a secluded mountain village with his family. This tranquility shatters when demons brutally murder his entire family, except for his younger sister Nezuko, who is transformed into a demon herself. Fueled by grief and a burning desire to protect his sister, Tanjiro embarks on a perilous journey to become a demon slayer. He trains relentlessly to master swordsmanship and hone his skills, vowing to avenge his family and find a cure for Nezuko’s condition. Tanjiro’s unwavering resolve, unwavering optimism, and fierce loyalty to his sister make him a compelling protagonist.
Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan):
Eren Yeager lives in a walled city, a desperate measure humanity has taken to shield itself from monstrous Titans – colossal, humanoid creatures with an insatiable appetite for humans. Eren’s world crumbles when a colossal Titan breaches the wall, unleashing devastation on his hometown and leading to his mother’s brutal death. Witnessing this horrific event awakens a burning rage within Eren. Consumed by vengeance and a fervent desire to protect humanity, he joins the military and dedicates his life to mastering combat and exterminating the Titans. Eren’s impulsiveness, unwavering determination, and emotional depth make him a complex and captivating protagonist.
Saitama (One Punch Man):Â 
Saitama is a unique anomaly in the world of heroes. Driven by a childhood dream of becoming a hero, Saitama embarked on a rigorous training regime that pushed him beyond human limitations. However, his relentless pursuit of strength led to an unexpected outcome – he became so powerful that he can defeat any opponent with a single punch. This immense power, however, comes with a heavy price – boredom. Saitama’s comedic quest to find a worthy opponent who can match his strength, coupled with his laid-back personality and surprising kindness, makes him a truly entertaining protagonist.
L Lawliet (Death Note):
L Lawliet is a legendary detective shrouded in mystery. Known for his eccentric habits and unconventional methods, L possesses an unparalleled mind for logic and deduction. When a mysterious notebook capable of killing anyone whose name is written in it surfaces, L emerges from the shadows. Fueled by a strong sense of justice and a desire to cleanse the world of crime, L utilizes his brilliant deductions to track down the notebook’s owner, sparking a thrilling cat-and-mouse game. L’s enigmatic persona, exceptional intelligence, and unwavering dedication to justice make him a fascinating protagonist.
Edward Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist):
Edward Elric is a prodigy in the world of alchemy, a science that allows the manipulation of matter. Fueled by a tragic past where they attempted to revive their deceased mother through alchemy, Edward and his younger brother Alphonse lost parts of their bodies. Edward, with a metal arm automail prosthetic, embarks on a journey to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful artifact rumored to be able to restore their lost limbs. Edward’s exceptional scientific mind, unwavering determination to protect his brother, and short temper create a compelling protagonist with a complex backstory.
This is just a taste of the many exciting non-magical main characters populating the anime landscape. Each character offers a unique blend of personality, skills, and motivations, captivating audiences with their struggles and triumphs. Whether driven by vengeance, a thirst for justice, or a desire to protect loved ones, these characters prove that strength comes in many forms, and magic isn’t always necessary to make a compelling hero.
Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan):
Mikasa Ackerman is Eren Yeager’s adopted sister and fiercely loyal protector. Witnessing the brutal murder of her parents when she was young, Mikasa was saved by Eren. This event instilled in her an unwavering devotion to protecting him. Mikasa possesses exceptional combat skills and unmatched physical strength, honed through years of training. Despite her stoic demeanor, Mikasa harbors a deep emotional connection with Eren and will stop at nothing to ensure his safety.
Inosuke Hashibira (Kimetsu no Yaiba):
Inosuke Hashibira is a wild and unpredictable young man raised by boars in the mountains. He wears a boar mask and carries dual katanas, wielding them with incredible ferocity. Despite his gruff exterior and lack of social graces, Inosuke possesses a strong sense of honor and a fierce determination to prove his strength. He forms an unlikely yet comedic partnership with Tanjiro on their demon-slaying quest.
Levi Ackerman (Attack on Titan):
Levi Ackerman is humanity’s strongest soldier within the Survey Corps, an elite military regiment dedicated to fighting Titans. Despite his short stature and clean-shaven head, Levi possesses unmatched combat skills and tactical prowess. He is a master of wielding the Vertical Maneuvering Equipment, allowing him to move with incredible agility and precision. Levi’s loyalty lies with his squad, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure their survival, even if it means making difficult decisions.
Goblin Slayer (Goblin Slayer):
Goblin Slayer is a stoic and ruthless warrior whose sole purpose is the extermination of goblins. Witnessing the horrors inflicted by goblins on his village in his past, Goblin Slayer dedicates his life to their eradication. He utilizes unconventional tactics and possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of goblin behavior, making him a formidable opponent. Goblin Slayer’s cold demeanor and pragmatic approach often clash with his allies, but his unwavering determination to eliminate the goblin menace is undeniable.
Naofumi Iwatani (The Rising of the Shield Hero):
Naofumi Iwatani is a young man summoned to another world to become a Shield Hero, one of four cardinal heroes tasked with protecting the kingdom. However, Naofumi is falsely accused of a crime and ostracized by the kingdom. Fueled by a burning desire for revenge and to prove his innocence, Naofumi embarks on his own path. He utilizes his strategic mind and unconventional methods to overcome challenges, while also building a loyal following of allies who recognize his true worth.
