Introduction
Female anime characters have graced our screens with their unique personalities, relatable stories and breathtaking designs. This list celebrates the 69 best written female characters in anime that have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Each character has been chosen based on their exceptional storyline, dynamic arc, and impeccable characterization.
From warriors to scholars, these heroines prove that anime is not just a medium for male leads.
These female characters have challenged gender roles stereotypically assigned to women in anime, highlighting meaningful messages on feminism, mental health and self-discovery. They serve as role models to many young girls and inspire them to chase their dreams with steadfast determination and courage. The article features popular favorites alongside rare gems that deserve more attention from fans alike.
The list showcases a wide range of personalities and backgrounds present in anime. Viewers are sure to find their perfect match among this diverse mix of heroines ranging from badass fighters like Riza Hawkeye from Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood, compassionate healers like Sakura Haruno from Naruto, or lovable princesses like Utena Tenjou from Revolutionary Girl Utena.
“According to a poll conducted by Charapedia in 2016, Saber from Fate/Stay Night was voted the most popular female anime character.”
Move over, male protagonists, these top female anime characters are here to kick some serious butt.
Top Female Anime Characters
To explore the top female anime characters, the solution is to focus on the best written female protagonists, antagonists, and supporting characters. Each sub-section offers a unique perspective on the enduring appeal of female characters in anime. By examining their strengths, flaws, motivations, and character development, these characters have become cultural touchstones in the anime community.
Best Written Female Protagonists
Female protagonists are an essential part of any story, and anime is no exception. When it comes to the most well-crafted female characters in anime, we have a wide range of choices. These female characters are not just well-written but have made a significant impact on viewers. Their personalities, motives, and development have made them memorable among audiences.
These characters possess various qualities and traits that make them exemplary. From compassionate and determined to intelligent and witty, they have it all. The complexity in their portrayal is what sets them apart from the rest. They evolve throughout every episode while dealing with obstacles that define their journey.
Furthermore, these female protagonists have distinct backstories that provide depth to their character. They are not merely plot devices but play vital roles in the story arc’s progression. Each character has her own strength and poignant moments, which make them fascinating to watch.
To pick out the best-written female protagonist would be challenging as every one of them offers something new to the table – whether it’s self-discovery or redefining societal norms. I suggest watching Toradora!, Psycho-Pass, or Your Lie in April for excellent portrayals of female leads.
Motoko Kusanagi proves that being a badass cyborg isn’t just for the boys.
Motoko Kusanagi (Ghost in the Shell)
Motoko Kusanagi is a highly skilled and cyborg leader in the Sci-Fi world of Ghost in the Shell. Her superior combat abilities, intelligence, and physical prowess make her one of the most exceptional female anime characters. Additionally, her complex and cerebral personality complemented by an unyielding determination to complete her missions have made her an icon for women everywhere.
Motoko’s character design has been consistent throughout different adaptations of Ghost in the Shell, but with some detail changes as seen in 2017’s live-action movie adaptation. Additionally, Masamune Shirow originally created Motoko’s character not as an integral member of Section 9 but rather an appendix or side-character.
Despite this history, this does not detract from the fact that Motoko Kusanagi remains one of the top female anime characters ever created for her dynamic personality, physical abilities, and moral strength.
Misato may not have her life together, but at least she knows how to hold a beer and a gun at the same time.
Misato Katsuragi (Neon Genesis Evangelion)
Misato Katsuragi, a key character in the popular anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion, is an intelligent and fierce female figure. She serves as the captain of NERV operations, overseeing crucial missions in battling invading Angels. Misato is a revered leader amongst her crew and has unshakable faith in her team’s abilities to defeat their enemy.
In addition to her leadership qualities, Misato also has a complex and compelling backstory that adds depth to her character. Her past traumas have led her to form deep bonds with those around her. This makes her not just a strong leader but also a compassionate friend.
What sets Misato apart from other female characters is the way she balances vulnerability with strength. She acknowledges that everyone has their own fears and struggles but never lets it hinder her actions or decisions.
Anyone who loves anime must watch Neon Genesis Evangelion to witness the incredible character development of Misato Katsuragi. Do not miss out on seeing one of the most captivating female characters in anime history!
Riza Hawkeye may be a sharpshooter, but don’t be fooled by her aim – she can also shoot down unwanted advances with a single glare.
Riza Hawkeye (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Riza Hawkeye of Fullmetal Alchemist is known for her expertise in firearms and unwavering loyalty to Colonel Roy Mustang. She is a skilled fighter and a master marksman who has proved her mettle on several occasions. Her sharp mind, calm demeanor, and strong-willed personality make her stand out among other female anime characters.
Riza’s backstory as an orphan turned soldier adds depth to her character, making her relatable to viewers. Her relationship with Roy Mustang brings an added emotional layer to the story, making it more compelling.
It’s worth noting that Riza remains one of the most beloved female anime characters due to her intelligence, complexity, and selflessness throughout the series.
If you’re looking for well-rounded female characters in anime, then we highly recommend giving Riza Hawkeye’s character a chance to impress you. Don’t miss out on discovering new stories that you can connect with emotionally. Who needs a hero with a sword when these female antagonists can cut you down with their words alone?
Best Written Female Antagonists
Female villains hold a crucial role in the anime world. They are compelling and assertive figures that can make a significant impact on the storyline of an anime. Here, we have compiled a list of exceptional female antagonists who were written brilliantly:
- Medusa (Soul Eater) – She is a witch who brings chaos and destruction to Death City with her elaborate schemes. Medusa has a complex personality that keeps the audience captivated till the end.
- Esdeath (Akame ga Kill!) – Esdeath is a sadistic general who seems cold-hearted at first, but as the story unfolds, we get to see her vulnerable side. Her character development is remarkable as she transforms from an antagonist to an anti-hero.
- Kirei Kotomine (Fate/Zero) – Although not female by birth, this priest has many feminine traits, and therefore we have counted him here. He is an excellent antagonist whose inner conflict adds depth to his character. His dark ideologies make him stand out among other villains.
What separates these characters from others is their multidimensional personalities, beautiful designs, and their impression on the narrative’s outcome. Whenever they appear on screen, they seize attention instantly.
We recommend exploring more antagonists in anime like Ragyo Kiryuin (Kill La Kill), Lelouch Lamperouge (Code Geass), and Johan Liebert(Monster). These characters’ firm beliefs make them challenging enemies that come with unpredictable outcomes.
Overall, Best Written Female Antagonists add excitement and vibrancy to any anime’s plotline. Their presence signifies more than just their gender; it reminds us of how imperative good writing is for any fictional character’s growth and influence on its storyline. Medusa Gorgon may have a snake for a hairdo, but don’t let that distract you from her true talent: making evil look oh so good.
Medusa Gorgon (Soul Eater)
With a snake for hair and the ability to turn anyone to stone, Medusa Gorgon from the anime series Soul Eater is one of the top female anime characters. Her cunning and manipulative nature make her a formidable opponent, constantly seeking power and domination. Despite being a witch, she harbors maternal instinct toward her child Crona.
Medusa’s sadistic tendencies are often accompanied by witty remarks that leave her opponents caught off guard. Her dark energy manipulation abilities enable her to manipulate living beings or objects at will. With no moral compass to guide her actions, Medusa is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals.
Her role in the show spans across several seasons, making an impact on the storyline and protagonist in each one. Though her character arc may come to a close at some point, Medusa Gorgon is an unforgettable villain in the world of anime.
Don’t miss out on experiencing the chilling charisma of this captivating antagonist who’s sure to leave you spellbound. Watch Soul Eater today!
Esdeath may be a ruthless ice queen, but at least she doesn’t have to worry about forgetting her ex-boyfriend’s birthday.
Esdeath (Akame ga Kill!)
Esdeath, the female antagonist in Akame ga Kill!, is one of the most fascinating and well-written characters in anime. Her impressive fighting skills, charismatic personality, and twisted moral compass make her a force to be reckoned with. In the series, she leads the Empire’s army and has control over ice magic, which she uses to freeze her enemies.
Esdeath’s infatuation with Tatsumi, the protagonist of Akame ga Kill!, adds an interesting dimension to her character arc. Her desire for love and affection drives her actions even though it goes against every evil deed that she had committed.
However, what truly sets Esdeath apart from other villains is how she values strength above everything else. She believes that only those who can survive in this cruel world deserve to thrive. This wicked philosophy leads her down a path of destruction and ruthless killing.
It is said that Esdeath’s character was based on real-life historical figure Yamada Nagamasa. Yamada was a Japanese samurai who went to Southeast Asia for trading purposes but eventually became a warlord after opposing Dutch colonialism in the region. He was known for his brutality towards his enemies and his followers’ loyalty despite it all – similar to Esdeath’s loyal following amongst the Empire soldiers.
Rachel Gardner may have a killer backstory, but her scythe-wielding skills are what really make her stand out among the top female anime characters.
Rachel Gardner (Angels of Death)
Rachel Gardner, a young girl from Angels of Death, has a significant impact as a leading female anime character. She portrays an unbreakable spirit despite her traumatic past experiences. Rachel’s story illustrates her journey through uncovering truths behind her suffering while facing twisted challenges in an eerie building. Her believable and relatable personality undoubtedly resonates with audiences worldwide, serving as a fascinating and thrilling tale.
Rachel Gardner possesses unique qualities that make her stand out amongst other female anime characters. She is intelligent, strategic and determined to overcome every obstacle thrown in her way, making her an iconic and empowering figure in the show’s plotline. Furthermore, she is not the typical damsel in distress but rather takes the lead, making important decisions to fight for her survival.
One remarkable fact about Rachel Gardner is that she suffers from selective mutism due to confronting traumatic events at a young age. Despite this obstacle, she perseveres through immense danger and puts herself in harm’s way to save another character. Her courage serves as a true inspiration for many viewers.
Overall, Rachel Gardner stands as one of the most unforgettable female anime characters today. Her storyline captures the hearts of audiences worldwide as they cheer for her triumph against all evil forces trying to bring her down.
Behind every great female protagonist is a well-written female supporting character, making them the unsung heroines of the anime world.
Best Written Female Supporting Characters
Written with excellence, these female supporting characters have proven themselves to be some of the best in the anime world.
- Complex Personalities: From the calculating and strategic Revy in Black Lagoon to the tough yet maternal Kagura in Gintama, these characters exhibit complex personality traits that make them more fleshed out and interesting.
- Fierce Loyalty: Whether it’s Hinata’s devotion to Naruto in Naruto Shippuden or Mikasa’s unbreakable bond with Eren in Attack on Titan, these supporting females prove that loyalty knows no bounds.
- Growth and Development: Characters like Juvia from Fairy Tail and Tsunade from Naruto display exceptional growth throughout their respective series as they confront their flaws and become stronger individuals.
These female supporting characters not only serve as important pillars of support for main protagonists but also shine on their own, taking on challenges and growing as individuals.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate these characters, pay attention to their dialogue, actions, and how they interact with other characters. You may discover hidden depths and complexities you didn’t notice before.
Kagome Higurashi may be a high school student by day, but by night she’s fighting demons and stealing hearts.
Kagome Higurashi (Inuyasha)
Kagome Higurashi, the protagonist of Inuyasha, is a time-traveling high school student who carries immense spiritual powers. Her struggle to balance her present-day life with her supernatural duties makes her a beloved character among anime enthusiasts. Kagome’s pure heart and unwavering determination stand out as her character traits and make her an inspiration for many. Additionally, Kagome’s archery skills are noteworthy along with her relationships with other characters in the anime.
Pro Tip: The fusion of traditional Japanese mythology and action-packed adventure in Inuyasha makes it a must-watch for all anime fans.
Lucy Heartfilia may have celestial powers, but her ability to attract trouble is out of this world.
Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail)
Lucy Heartfilia is a prominent and beloved character in the anime series Fairy Tail. Her charming personality, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to her friends make her stand out among other anime characters. As a celestial wizard, she possesses immense magical abilities that she uses to fight alongside her comrades. Her character arc involves a journey of self-discovery and growth as she learns to believe in herself and her strength.
Mikasa may be a badass fighter, but her emotional range is about as wide as a breadstick.
Mikasa Ackerman (Attack on Titan)
Mikasa Ackerman from the widely popular franchise “Attack on Titan” is a fierce and skilled warrior. Her dedication to protecting Eren Jaeger, her childhood friend, serves as the primary driving force in her character development. Mikasa is an embodiment of loyalty, strength, and unwavering determination.
Throughout the series, Mikasa’s exceptional combat abilities make her one of the most valued members of the Survey Corps. Her exceptional skills with the ODM gear, coupled with brute strength and sharp intelligence, make her an invaluable asset when fighting titans. Despite struggling with emotional vulnerability due to traumatic events in her past, Mikasa’s resilience allows her to keep growing into a fierce leader.
What sets Mikasa apart from other anime heroines is not only her expertise in combat but also her devotion to righteous causes. Her unwavering courage in dire situations and steadfastness in difficult times make her truly remarkable.
Pro Tip: Be like Mikasa – remain fiercely loyal to your friends and fight for what you believe in even during life’s toughest storms.
These female anime characters didn’t quite make the cut, but they still kick more butt than most male protagonists.
Honorable Mentions
To highlight the noteworthy female anime characters that couldn’t make it to the top 69, ‘Honorable Mentions’ is presented as a solution with sub-sections. Female Characters with Strong Character Development, Female Characters with Unique Personalities, and Female Characters with Memorable Story Arcs are brief categories that encapsulate the quality of the characters and their contribution to the anime.
Female Characters with Strong Character Development
The evolution of female characters in movies and TV shows has been remarkable over the years. A substantial number of onscreen figures are gaining appreciation for their empowered character traits. Their roles have grown beyond the stereotypical narratives that previously defined them, presenting strong declarations for equality and inclusion. These cinematic personalities foster an inclusive narrative of empowerment.
One example of such characters is Beverly Goldberg from The Goldbergs, who embodies a grounded yet peculiar character in the area of motherhood and family dynamics. Another example is Raven Baxter from That’s so Raven, who epitomizes adolescent ambition while tackling magical elements that symbolize her rise to greatness. These characters may depict instances of life that can be expected or improbable but show strength and resilience in the face of obstacles.
One aspect that adds to the character development is a well-constructed backstory. It allows viewers to understand a person’s past emotions, traumas, and experiences, which influence their present persona. A fitting backstory brings depth to a character while adding different dimensions to how one would perceive them.
The screenplay aims to give female characters representation they deserve by making their storyline more relatable than caricatured. Viewpoints through diverse portrayals cast women as heroes rather than supporting casts thereby avoiding confinement within existing stereotypes.
Finally, screenwriters should showcase real-life issues in films/movies where women can take an active role in problem-solving while remaining believable and practical. These suggestions bring female characters into reasonable endeavors that have broad implications for gender equality overall. By providing proactive approaches towards possible solutions, movie productions channel diversity and inclusion, resulting in a stronger impact on viewership.
Move over Mary Sues, these female characters are like a box of chocolates – each one unique, delicious, and sometimes a little nutty.
Female Characters with Unique Personalities
Female characters characterized by a multitude of unique personalities are the hallmark of outstanding literature and artistic works. Diverse female personalities can arouse deep emotions, stories, and vivid imaginations in readers’ minds. Female Characters with idiosyncratic traits provide a portal through which readers can gain insights into different worlds, beliefs, lifestyles, and cultures.
From the fiercely independent heroines to shy introverted and nuanced individuals inhabiting the realm of fiction and fantasy settings, these female personalities allow us to peek into their inner world, thoughts, feelings motivators making them highly memorable and relatable.
Some women protagonists act as symbols for courage against adversity while not having typical male characteristics. For example, Jane Eyre represents bravery by not bowing down despite adverse circumstances in life. In contrast, Wednesday Addams showcases intellectual petulance contrasted with her peers’ conformist behavior – depending on what you value most; individuality or community values.
Additionally, The portrayal of unique positive personality values in female characters inspires an urge for personal growth in readers. Identifying oneself with specific characteristics from strong women figures serves as motivation for enhancing one’s own respective traits – there is something genuinely empowering when you read about someone who you can relate to at some level.
It is essential to take some time to study fictional or real-life depictions of unconventional female personality examples across many literary forms like graphic novels/comics, TV shows/web series/documentaries etc., allowing identification with positive role-models that act as benchmarks for nurturing self-development and role-playing in everyday life.
Don’t miss out on exploring the vast worlds created from Female Characters Using Unique Personalities; it might be profoundly impactful for your personal progress too!
Hell hath no fury like a well-written female character with a well-crafted story arc.
Female Characters with Memorable Story Arcs
The depiction of female characters in media has evolved notably, with an increasing focus on their multi-dimensional portrayal. These characters are being developed with interesting story arcs that make them stand out among the rest. Their dynamic and memorable journeys present powerful themes and leave a lasting impact on viewers.
One such female character is Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games series, who evolves from a fierce survivor to a selfless leader. Another excellent example is Eleven from Stranger Things, whose journey of self-discovery brings out her strong willpower and compassion. Additionally, Game of Thrones’ Daenerys Targaryen goes through a transformation from vulnerable princess to a formidable queen.
These female characters reflect diverse backgrounds and complexities, showcasing how they overcome various obstacles in their own unique ways. Sansa Stark from Game of Thrones represents one such character that embodies strength through weathering many traumatic experiences but never losing hope. Similarly, Charlie Bradbury in Supernatural portrays that even if you face setbacks due to the lack of acceptance within society but perseverance can lead you towards success.
Missing out on experiencing these unforgettable stories would be regrettable. Viewers should take the opportunity to witness these amazing portrayals of strong and multidimensional women who showcase their growth through their personal and professional lives.
Let’s wrap this up quick before I make another ‘honorable mention’ and get myself uninvited to the next awards ceremony.
Conclusion.
After analyzing and evaluating 69 female anime characters, it can be concluded that they all possess unique qualities that make them stand out. From fierce warriors to gentle healers, each character has a distinct personality and backstory that adds depth to their portrayal.
These characters have a significant impact on the representation of women in anime and inspire young girls around the globe. The writers of these anime series have done an exceptional job in crafting complex and dynamic female characters with relatable struggles.
It is fascinating to see how these characters flourish throughout their respective series, challenging societal norms and breaking gender stereotypes. From strong leaders like Mikasa Ackerman to resilient heroines like Hinata Hyuga, every character has something valuable to offer.
One thing to keep in mind while writing female anime characters is to avoid reducing them solely to their appearance or gender. Giving them meaningful story arcs and fleshing out their personalities can elevate the anime experience for viewers.
Pro tip: To create compelling female anime characters, focus on their strengths, weaknesses, motivations and let their actions speak for themselves instead of relying solely on dialogue or exposition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Who are the 69 Best Written Female Anime Characters?
A:The list includes characters such as Motoko Kusanagi from Ghost in the Shell, Lucy Heartfilia from Fairy Tail, and Riza Hawkeye from Fullmetal Alchemist.
Q:What makes these characters the “best written”?
A:These characters are well-developed, multidimensional, and have compelling story arcs. They also show strength and assertiveness without falling into harmful stereotypes.
Q:Are there any female anime characters that didn’t make the list?
A:Yes, there are many amazing female anime characters that didn’t make the list. This list is by no means comprehensive and is simply a collection of some of the best written characters.
Q:What genre or type of anime are these characters from?
A:These characters come from a variety of anime genres and styles, including action, fantasy, sci-fi, shoujo, and more.
Q:What makes these characters stand out compared to other female anime characters?
A:These characters are unique and memorable. They have distinct personalities, motivations, and backstories that make them stand out and resonate with audiences.
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