Unforgettable and Underrated: 5 Shonen Anime Protagonists That Deserve More Recognition

The 2010s witnessed a significant impact on iconic Shonen anime protagonists. From the immensely popular characters of My Hero Academia and Jujutsu Kaisen to the cherished sleeper hits like Black Clover and Chainsaw Man, this decade greatly influenced the realm of Shonen protagonists. As a result, new Shonen series will be inspired by them, potentially achieving iconic status in the future.

However, not every series can enjoy the same fortune. Alongside the iconic hits, there are series that fade into obscurity, quietly getting canceled or discontinued. Some manage to persist, only barely popular enough to survive.

5 new-gen shonen anime protagonists that are beloved, and 5 people don’t think too much about

1) Unforgettable: Tanjiro

Tanjiro has quickly become a beloved character in the world of shonen anime. (Image via Ufotable)

As the relentless demon slayer, Tanjiro Kamado has made a lasting impression as a prominent figure in the realm of shonen anime protagonists. While his forehead scar and ability to wield sunlight are notable attributes, fans of Demon Slayer are most captivated by his unwavering dedication to rescuing his sister, Nezuko, from her dreadful demonic state.

2) Easily forgotten: Shinra Kusakabe

Tanjiro's unforgettable nature is further enhanced by the incredible animation and artistry showcased in Demon Slayer as a whole. Ufotable truly brings to life his striking sunlight sword fighting style, leaving viewers in awe. It is safe to say that his face will remain ingrained in the memories of many as a remarkable demon slayer.

Although visually appealing, Fire Force may not be the most memorable anime. The protagonist, with his fiery nature, falls into the category of shonen anime protagonists that people might find difficulty in recalling. While the Fire Force manga did have a decent following, it did not achieve the same level of acclaim as some of the more prominent hits of the 2010s. Furthermore, the series primarily thrives on its flashy presentation, lacking substantial depth or substance.

Shinra, our protagonist, possesses the unique ability known as pyrokinesis, which manifests in his flaming feet. To combat both fires and the malevolent creatures known as Infernals, he joins a brigade specifically dedicated to fire fighting. In addition to facing external threats, the brigade also tackles the issue of corruption within their own ranks. Fire Force embraces the classic elements of the shonen genre, with its archetypical storytelling and characters, and remains true to its roots.

3) Unforgettable: Denji

In this image, Denji is depicted as the Chainsaw Man engaged in a fierce battle against the formidable Katana Man. With the fusion of Denji and his devil companion Pochita, they transform into the legendary Chainsaw Man, the central character of the series. Initially, Denji may appear as a typical protagonist found in shonen anime. He is infatuated with women, appears to be impulsive and hot-tempered, and carries a loyal chainsaw-dog pet.

However, what truly captivates about him is his unconventional portrayal of the archetype. He carries emotional scars, having been accustomed to being dehumanized rather than having any expectations for himself. Witnessing Denji seize control of his own destiny and discover happiness is a truly inspirational narrative that ensures this shonen protagonist remains unforgettable.

4) Easily forgotten: Boruto

How different is Boruto from his father, really? (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Many might say, "I definitely remember Boruto, he is Naruto's son!" and indeed, this statement is probably true. Boruto is widely recognized as the offspring of Naruto and Hinata, and he is also the main character in the series "Boruto." However, can we truly say that Boruto brings anything fundamentally new compared to his father?

Does Boruto possess significant differences from his father? Although he is an outspoken and energetic young boy, constantly burdened by the weight of his family's reputation, he does not possess a particularly unique identity. He is not alienated from others, but he lacks distinctive qualities.

5) Unforgettable: Yuji Itadori

Despite having his name featured in the title and being the son of a highly renowned protagonist, Boruto's character is often overlooked and easily forgotten.

Yuji and Sukuna engage in a confrontational encounter, depicted in the image provided by Studio MAPPA.

Yuji unquestionably merits inclusion in a compilation of this nature. Jujutsu Kaisen has garnered immense popularity as an ongoing shonen series, with Yuji playing a crucial role in its success. While he may not be particularly distinctive as a character, his unique attribute of sharing a corporeal vessel with Sukuna, the primary antagonist and ruler of curses, sets the stage for an intriguing dynamic that resonates right from the outset of the storyline.

Does Yuji's dynamic hold him back? Yes, but eliminating this dynamic would have a substantial impact on the series. His connection to Sukuna greatly contributes to his memorability factor.

Similar to Tanjiro, Yuji has also benefited from an exceptionally well-animated anime by Studio MAPPA, further solidifying his lasting impression. Yuji Itadori is truly unforgettable.

6) Easily Forgotten: Inyuo

This Netflix Shonen might not be super memorable. (Image via Pierrot Plus)

Magnell of the Sea Blue is an aesthetically pleasing anime that constructs a captivating world. However, its main character, Inyuo, lacks uniqueness and primarily serves as a vessel to perceive the distinct perils of this world.

Despite competing against powerful and unforgettable shonen anime protagonists like Denji and Itadori, who made their debut in 2019, Inyuo finds himself included on this list. It is rather unjust, as people tend to forget about him. Nonetheless, he is recognized here.

7) Unforgettable: Izuku ‘Deku’ Midoriya

Deku's an iconic face of shonen now. (Image via Studio Bones)

While some may consider My Hero Academia's main character uninteresting, Deku is definitely memorable. As the central figure of the series, Deku transcends his powerlessness and becomes a wielder of an extraordinary ability. Additionally, he has become an iconic figure among the new generation of shonen anime protagonists that are difficult to forget. It is highly probable that he has served as an inspiration for numerous other protagonists in shonen anime, as they too start off as powerless individuals who gain incredible powers when introduced to a new realm.

This can be seen in characters like the previously mentioned Yuji and Asta from Black Clover. Deku’s impact being forgetten is doubtful.

8) Easily Forgotten: Eiji Hoshimiya

Eiji, the protagonist of Big Order, fails to leave a lasting impression. His character design is unremarkable, and he lacks any depth or intrigue. Additionally, Eiji possesses an overwhelming control over various abilities, resulting in a lack of conflict and a disproportionate increase in power throughout the series.

9) Unforgettable: Asta

Eiji's character fails to generate any significant conflict, leading him to blend in with the countless forgettable shonen anime protagonists. Big Order, compared to other shonen series in the 2010s, resides at the very bottom of the barrel.

Asta has now become a timeless protagonist in the world of Shonen. (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Despite initially garnering a negative reputation as yet another boisterous shonen anime protagonist, Asta managed to defy expectations through his unwavering determination and tenacity in the popular series, Black Clover. Similar to Deku, he defies the odds in a society that favors magic, even though he himself lacks the ability.

10) Easily Forgotten: Bell Cranel

Unlike Deku, Asta never utilizes magic. Instead, he possesses the extraordinary ability of 'anti-magic' and is accompanied by a mischievous familiar. Asta's reliance is not on casting spells but rather on his sheer strength and formidable sword to navigate this world alongside his fellow Black Bulls. As a result, Asta's unforgettable presence will be etched in the memories of many for a considerable time.

Is it really him? Bell, the protagonist? (Image via J.C.Staff)

Concluding the roster of unremarkable new-generation shonen anime heroes is the main character of Is It Wrong to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? This infatuated fourteen-year-old boy finds himself captivated by the renowned swordswoman, Ais Wallenstein, while others become enamored with him.

Bell lacks the qualities that make him endearing to viewers. Despite his lack of charisma, he inexplicably attracts the affection of countless girls. He hardly encounters any challenges and simply serves as a vessel for readers to indulge in their power fantasies. In essence, Bell embodies the negative traits typically associated with a shonen anime protagonist, making him entirely unmemorable.

Editor's P/S

In the realm of unforgettable Shonen anime protagonists, Tanjiro Kamado from Demon Slayer stands out as a shining example. With his unwavering determination to save his sister Nezuko from her demonic state, Tanjiro has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. The incredible animation and artistry of Demon Slayer further elevate Tanjiro's character, making his battles against demons and his journey truly captivating.

On the other hand, Shinra Kusakabe from Fire Force, despite his visually appealing abilities, fails to leave a lasting impression. While the anime embraces classic shonen elements, it lacks substantial depth and substance, preventing Shinra from truly resonating with audiences.