Anime today offers a captivating array of characters, each possessing their own distinctive set of skills. Among them, many excel in combat, wielding either weapons or harnessing the extraordinary power systems within the show.
However, there exists a remarkable group of characters who have honed their abilities to a level where their own bodies become their ultimate weapon. These individuals have transcended the confines of human limitations, enabling them to face off against opponents armed with weapons. Now, let's delve into the world of anime and explore both the formidable standalone powerhouses and those whose true potential hinges on their weapon of choice.
Disclaimer: This article contains minor spoilers from the One Punch Man manga and reflects the author's opinion on the subject.
Goku and 3 other anime characters whose bodies are their own weapons
1) Saitama
Saitama as seen in One Punch Man (Image via Madhouse)
Known affectionately as the Caped Baldy, this individual serves as the central figure in the popular series One Punch Man. Undoubtedly, this anime character stands as one of the most formidable on this roster, with abilities that defy all rationality and common sense. Remarkably, he possesses the power to vanquish opponents with a single strike.
Within the manga, he has displayed an astounding resilience, surviving numerous nuclear assaults, obliterating a planet with a mere sneeze, and even traversing the confines of time. Saitama renders any weapon futile, as his only requirement for victory is the might of his own fist.
2) Monkey D. Luffy
Monkey D. Luffy as seen in One Piece (Image via Toei Animation)
Monkey D. Luffy, a cheerful character from the One Piece series, possesses a kind and compassionate nature. Equipped with the Devil Fruit, Luffy's body gains the flexibility of rubber, enabling him to stretch and manipulate his limbs in extraordinary ways. Mastering this unique ability, Luffy has honed his skills to become an impressive combatant, even unlocking a new array of powers in the process.
Moreover, Luffy's rubber-like qualities extend beyond his own body, allowing him to utilize his surroundings to his advantage. Notably, this ability played a significant role in his triumph over Kaido, ultimately leading him to rise in stature and become one of the Four Emperors of the Sea. In both the anime and manga series, Luffy employs his extraordinary body as his primary weapon during intense battles.
3) Goku
Goku using his Ultra Instinct in the Dagon Ball series (Image via Toei Animation)
This Dragon Ball series anime character is widely recognized and requires no introduction. As a Saiyan, he possesses extraordinary combat skills, capable of effortlessly obliterating planets. His unparalleled agility and reflexes, coupled with his mastery of energy manipulation and sensing, make him unmatched.
With his Ultra Instinct ability, he engages in combat in a state where his consciousness and body function independently. Consequently, his body instinctively reacts and counters enemy attacks even before Goku consciously thinks. Remarkably, Goku demonstrates this tremendous fighting prowess without relying on any weapons, as showcased throughout the series.
4) Yujiro Hanma
Yujiro Hanma as seen in Baki Hanma (Image via Netflix)
Yujiro Hanma is a character who commands fear simply by his presence. Known as the strongest man in the world, nobody dares to provoke him. He possesses the formidable ability to effortlessly defeat an entire armed army using only his bare fists. In one astonishing display of strength, he effortlessly punched through a man's face, completely pulverizing the skull into minuscule fragments.
To further showcase his extraordinary power, he was able to break the blade of a Katana using only his thumb, effortlessly overpowering the sharp cutting edge. Yujiro Hanma stands as the unparalleled fighter, a league above any other human, except for one exception - his son, Baki Hanma.
Tanjiro and 3 other anime characters that are useless without their weapons
1) Tanjiro Kamado
Tanjiro Kamado, portrayed in the Demon Slayer series (Image via Ufotable), holds the role of the adored protagonist. Within a realm teeming with malevolent demons, the formidable skills possessed by demon slayers rest solely upon their utilization of Nichirin Blades and Breathing Techniques. Forged from a unique mineral infused with an enduring exposure to Sunlight, the Nichirin Blade imbues slayers with an edge in battle.
The swordsmith discovered a method to infuse the swords with the power of the Sun, which is the only thing capable of defeating demons. Without his sword, Tanjiro would be ineffective against Lower and Upper Moon demons. However, he might still have a chance against weaker demons if he can extend the battle until sunrise.
2) Asta
In the vibrant world of Black Clover, Asta emerges as the central character who lacks any magical abilities, a rare and disadvantageous trait within a society heavily reliant on magic. Nevertheless, Asta wields a distinctive sword capable of countering and neutralizing any magical assault directed towards him.
3) Tenten
Having joined the Black Bulls, he swiftly established himself as a highly esteemed member within his guild, and he consistently played a crucial part in the successful execution of numerous assigned missions. It is essential to note that his sword is a vital asset, as without it, Asta's contributions in combat against mages would be significantly limited. Hence, the inclusion of his name in this list is justified.
In the Naruto series, Tenten is known for her weapon-wielding skills. Studio Pierrot has captured her in action in this image.
Tenten, a character from the Naruto series, has earned a reputation for being relatively ineffective in battle without her weapons. Her expertise lies in being a specialist in various close-range and projectile weapons. Without her arsenal, Tenten would have to rely on Taijutsu, which is not her strong suit.
4) Light Yagami
Light Yagami, as seen in the Death Note series (Image via Madhouse)
Light Yagami is a highly iconic anime character renowned for his role in Death Note. The series is often regarded as an introduction to the world of anime for non-fans. His possession of the Death Note grants him the power to eliminate individuals according to his precise desires.
Utilizing the Death Note as his tool, he ruthlessly eliminated numerous individuals. It is safe to say that this indeed served as his weapon of choice. Without the Death Note, Light's ability to claim so many lives would have been greatly hindered. In essence, his character would not have attained the same level of significance without this formidable weapon.
Some of the anime characters mentioned above are highly skilled in combat, with a particular expertise in weapons. However, there are also characters who have focused on developing their physical abilities to the point where they no longer rely on weaponry. These individuals hold a significant advantage due to their exceptional adaptability in battle. Keep following for further updates on anime and manga throughout 2023.