Unveiling the Ultimate Masterminds: Anime's Most Deviously Manipulative Villains

Some of anime's most cunning villains pose a significant threat without relying on power. Instead, they manipulate others with their intelligence and ruthless personalities. Whether operating behind the scenes or deceiving unsuspecting heroes, they effectively control and sway everyone to serve their own interests.

The top-tier of these characters effortlessly explain why they have maintained their hold, even surpassing the lifespan of the protagonists. Not only are they highly intelligent, but they also possess charisma and persuasive skills, effortlessly grasping the motivations of others. Often, they are older than the rest of the cast and possess a deeper understanding of their world, which they expertly exploit for their benefit.

12 Toichirou Suzuki - Mob Psycho 100 (2016 - 2022)​​​

Claw leader Toichiro presented himself as the ultimate villain in Mob Psycho 100, captivating audiences with his malicious schemes and actions. Exploiting humanity's inherent desire for recognition, Toichiro created a cult-like following of individuals aspiring to possess psychic abilities, all with the intention of seizing control over the entire world. Demonstrating the traits of a charismatic cult leader, Toichiro commanded unwavering loyalty and obedience through his imposing willpower and unwavering determination. This manipulation even extended to the perpetually anxious Serizawa, whom Toichiro exploited, leveraging his anxiety to coerce him into joining his quest for global domination. Had it not been for Mob's intervention, Toichiro's immense power and cunning manipulation might have indeed paved the way for his conquest of the world.

11 Sousuke Aizen - Bleach (2004 - 2012)

Aizen, portrayed as a benevolent and honorable figure within Soul Society, meets a tragic fate in his pursuit of uncovering corruption within the organization. However, it is later revealed that he orchestrated both the corruption and his own supposed demise, utilizing these events to further his own agenda. This revelation merely scratches the surface of the manipulative tactics he employs to manipulate his former comrades. Not only does Aizen possess remarkable combat abilities, but he also possesses an uncanny ability to deliver persuasive speeches that incite anger and demoralize his adversaries, rendering them unable to fight back.

10 Naraku - Inuyasha (2000 - 2004)

Naturally, his zanpakuto's powers of illusion make him a formidable opponent in battle, as he adeptly manipulates his enemies. He employs various cunning tactics, such as deceiving his foes into attacking their own teammates, confusing them by assuming their own appearance, or leading them to believe they have delivered a fatal strike, thus causing them to lower their guard. Aizen's intellect and excessive self-confidence may eventually lead to his downfall, but they undeniably contribute to his success in achieving his objectives.

Taking after the image of a colossal spider lurking in its intricate web, Naraku embodies the archetype of a villain who seldom engages the heroes directly. Instead, he typically opts to dispatch his henchmen to confront them, and even in the midst of a confrontation, he excels more in the art of deception than in swordsmanship. Nevertheless, this does not imply that he lacks means of undermining his adversaries.

All bonds of love and trust suddenly become endangered when Naraku opens his mouth. Instead of fostering compassion, his intricate understanding of human relationships sharpens his ability to corrupt the virtuous and sow discord among friends. Naraku remains uncertain about his plans for the Shikon Jewel, the source of the chaos he has unleashed, but one thing is for certain – he derives immense pleasure from every destructive act he commits.

9 Black Zetsu - Naruto (2002 - 2017)

Naruto boasts an abundance of exceptionally cunning adversaries, constantly vying to outdo one another with their nefarious schemes. However, as the story reaches its climax, an unexpected contender emerges, unveiling a shocking revelation: every twist and turn in the narrative was ingeniously orchestrated by none other than Black Zetsu!

8 Izaya Orihara - Durarara!! (2010 - 2016)

Zetsu, an enigmatic figure in the shadows throughout Shippuden, has remained shrouded in mystery, concealing his true origins and motives. Displaying cunning wit, he masquerades as a mindless servant for other villains, biding his time until the opportune moment to betray them and set his grand plan in motion. Manipulating events for ages, from the era of the Sage of Six Paths, Zetsu has orchestrated a series of actions aimed at the revival of his ultimate master, Kaguya. His machinations range from sowing discord among the Sage's sons to perpetuating animosity among their descendants.

In Ikebukuro, Izaya reigns supreme as the ultimate purveyor of information. His passion for his craft knows no bounds as he meticulously collects insights on the district's vibrant and morally compromised personalities. Armed with this knowledge, he expertly manipulates them, pitting one against the other to suit his whims. Despite his formidable reputation, Izaya rarely indulges in physical altercations himself, recognizing that his true strength lies in cunning rather than combat prowess. Consequently, he remains prone to the perilous threat posed by blades and airborne refuse.

Outside of his actual schemes, Izaya's manipulative personality is most evident in the episode "Out of Your Control" when he engages in a board game of his own creation. This unique game utilizes pieces from various other games and is played on a chessboard, with rules that only Izaya can comprehend. Interestingly, the objective of the game is not simply to win; instead, Izaya concludes the game by setting the entire board on fire.

7 Kyubey - Puella Magi Madoka Magica (2011)

Kyubey, as an alien, has a unique perspective on manipulation, deceit, and the concept of right and wrong, which starkly contrasts with that of humans. However, this stark contrast horrifies Madoka fans, as he lures young girls with the promise of a bright future but ultimately exploits them until their premature deaths. It is this underlying motive that makes Madoka a must-watch, as it presents a darker and more nuanced portrayal of the magical girl genre.

Kyubey possesses an enigmatic countenance, a perpetually serene vocal tone, and a diminutive and gentle feline silhouette. These attributes serve to entice his targets into placing trust in him. Exploiting the vulnerable underbelly of teenagers' deepest fears and aspirations, he maneuvers them into accepting his offer and transforming into magical girls. When confronted with allegations of intentionally concealing the true consequences of their agreement, he cunningly shifts the blame onto his targets, suggesting that it is their own fault for neglecting to ask something he never indicated they ought to inquire about.

6 Ren Gyokuen - Magi: The Labyrinth Of Magic (2012 - 2014)

Centuries ago, Gyokuen strategically positioned herself within the top ranks of Kou, a militaristic nation, with the explicit aim of unleashing chaos globally. Ensuring her survival by periodically transferring her soul into the bodies of her offspring, she eventually ascended to the throne and orchestrated her apocalyptic schemes through the might of Kou's armed forces and her personal coven of magicians.

5 Johan Liebert - Monster (2004 - 2005)

Gyokuen's grip on power doesn't extend to controlling every individual within the empire, but rather, she only seeks control over the royal family. In order to maintain her position, she resorts to extreme measures such as orchestrating the murder of her husband and eldest sons, strategically placing her nephews in a precarious situation where they cannot challenge her without endangering the empire. However, Gyokuen's fatal error lies in underestimating the unwavering determination of her surviving son, Hakuryuu, and the Magi she has abducted, Judal, who both harbor a deep desire to exact revenge upon her for the grave atrocities she committed. This revenge-driven narrative stands as one of the most compelling and gripping plotlines in the realm of anime.

The method by which Johan is able to manipulate and control those around him remains a mystery. It could be attributed to the experiments he and his sister Nina were subjected to during their childhood, or it could stem from a dark aspect of Johan's own personality. Regardless of the origin, the chilling truth is that Johan possesses a power that effortlessly allows him to bend others to his will. With a simple word, Johan is able to obtain exactly what he desires from anyone who crosses his path.

4 Makima - Chainsaw Man (2022)

: This individual goes beyond merely being a wicked anime sibling. He effortlessly engenders a devoted following, holds sway over impressionable children to the point of sacrificing their lives at his command, and callously lures a once-recovering alcoholic back into the clutches of addiction for his own twisted amusement. His otherworldly abilities allow him to elude even the most brilliant investigators and skillfully shift blame onto unsuspecting individuals for his heinous acts.

Makima, one of the newest manipulative villains, skillfully exploits her authority within the Public Safety Devil Hunters Bureau. Upon meeting Denji, she quickly realizes the simplicity of gaining his unwavering loyalty. Denji's yearning extends beyond basic necessities like food and safety; he craves human connection and solace. Makima expertly leverages these desires to tightly control him.

3 Father - Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009 - 2010)

Nevertheless, Denji is not the sole individual subjected to her exploitative nature. Makima harbors a strong aversion towards anything that is beyond her command and she employs various methods to ensure that she maintains control over everyone under her influence. While she is not inclined to outright falsehoods, she favors deception by divulging only minimal information or providing evasive responses when confronted with direct inquiries.

Before Amestris even existed, Father had already been present and played a pivotal role in shaping the country. He has long exerted control over the government, operating from the shadows. Through his Homunculi offspring, he implements his schemes, manipulating them into becoming puppet dictators or instigating genocidal wars through their murderous acts. Even Amestrian alchemy is merely a tool in his hands. Not only did he give it to Amestris with the intention of creating sacrifices, but since it originated from him, he possesses the ability to deactivate it if it ever poses a threat to him.

2 Dio Brando - JoJo's Bizarre Adventure (2012 - 2015)

His origins revolve around his manipulation of Van Hohenheim, a nameless slave in the kingdom of Xerxes, whom he successfully convinces to release him from his flask. Leveraging their friendship, he cunningly infiltrates the hierarchy of Xerxes' monarchy and deceives the king into eradicating the entire nation, all in his quest to obtain a human body. His scheme to achieve ultimate godhood involves employing the same strategy against Amestris.

Dio possesses such an immense level of iconic status that he is arguably more recognizable than any of the main characters in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, except for perhaps Jotaro. This iconic presence is thoroughly deserved, as Dio emanates pure evil in every single one of his appearances. Dio's ability to charm and manipulate others is truly remarkable, as evidenced by his rise to power. From obtaining the Stone Mask to transform into a vampire, surviving decapitation, and then establishing a new cult-like following after being absent for a century, Dio's unwavering determination to attain power is evident. The fact that Dio's actions in Part 3 continue to have profound implications for the series all the way to Part 6 serves as undeniable proof that Dio belongs to the highest ranks of Anime villains.

1 Light Yagami - Death Note (2006 - 2007)

Light may not see himself as a villain, but he possesses the traits that categorize him as one. His entire life has been dedicated to cultivating the image of a exemplary student and citizen, all to conceal his immense god complex and disdain for a corrupt world he deems beneath him. He possesses an uncanny ability to anticipate the actions of others and understand their expectations.

L quickly proves to be a formidable opponent for Light, demonstrating considerable manipulation skills. However, Light manages to maintain control as he infiltrates the investigation team pursuing him. He is even willing to put himself in a vulnerable position to deflect suspicion, relying on his influence over Misa and their Shinigami, even when he has lost his memories.

Anime's most manipulative villainsare all living proof that in the contest between brains versus brawn, brains tend to win out more often than not.