When it comes to the best anime protagonists, Boruto Uzumaki from Boruto series is probably one of the most controversial choices. After all, he's often criticized for his undeserved power, uneven character development, and inability to stand out on his own. It's easy to understand why many fans hesitate to nominate him among the greats, as he feels he has yet to prove himself worthy compared to others.
While Boruto Uzumaki is still growing into a truly memorable main character, there are many anime protagonists who are far superior to him in depth, personality, and the challenges they overcome to define their stories. These main characters have a firm grip on the fandom, making a lasting impact BorutoThe main character still strives to achieve.
Boruto: How the Writers Nerfed Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki was extremely nervous in Boruto. Sasuke received similar treatment.
7
Izuku Midoriya
Izuku Midoriya is My Hero Academias most beloved anime protagonist. He is an inspiration to many who struggle with insecurity, which makes it easy to relate to his struggle. His kind and humble personality also makes him likable, as does his tireless determination to protect others, good or bad.
My Hero Academia Season 8 has already ended, but the final season proved how effective Deku is as an anime protagonist. He showed that underdogs could become true heroes, proving that the path to greatness is not inherited.
6
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki can pass as a Hall of Famer when it comes to anime's greatest protagonists of all time. He is irreplaceable, so it is easy to understand why fans have a hard time accepting Boruto as his successor. Between the two Uzumaki, Naruto is much more compelling, and his underdog story is hard to beat. Not to mention, his fights are much more intense, with higher stakes.
Additionally, fans saw how every power-up Naruto had was hard-earned through relentless training and overcoming impossible odds. Compared to Boruto, who was handed OP techniques one after the other with less of a fight. In an attempt to overshadow Naruto, the series gave Boruto insane power-ups that often felt undeserved.
5
Monkey D. Luffy
From the beginning of One PieceLuffy already knew his end goal. He really wants to be the next Pirate King, and every adventure, battle and challenge that comes his way is a step towards that huge dream. On the contrary, Boruto does not have Luffy's clear vision, making it difficult for fans to connect with his personal struggles and dreams.
Luffy can easily move his crew, as well as other characters, with his words and actions. Liking and following Luffy comes naturally, as his contagious optimism and longing for freedom inspire everyone around him to believe in his dream and give it their all.
4
Son Goku
Son Goku may be a simpleton and a musclehead, but he is universally hailed as one of the legends. He is far more iconic and compelling than any other anime protagonist, including Boruto. While most fans usually see him fighting world-enveloping, universe-threatening, and even multiverse threats, all of his fights matter. His transformations are iconic, and to this day fans are excited to see more of his development.
Now Goku is set to return in Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol anime, bringing back the epic battles, humor and power that have made him a role model for countless fans around the world.
3
Eren Yeager
Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan gained a shape-shifting power that allowed him to change the course of the world. Although he may seem straightforward at the beginning of the story, his development into an overly complex protagonist gives him unmatched depth compared to Boruto Uzumaki. Initially revenge drives Eren, but he continues to become a symbol of freedom and destruction.
While Eren's actions at the end of Attack on Titan remains a topic of debate, many fans admire the sheer impact of his choices and the moral complexity he embodies. To protect his friends and erase the Titans' presence once and for all, Eren made unpredictable choices that left many fans in awe of his convictions.
2
Gabimaru
Watching Gabimaru the Hollow fight for his life on the dangerous island of Shinsenkyo is enough to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Every fight is intense and losing means instant death, something Boruto rarely experiences in his own series.
The sense of constant danger, as Gabimaru is hunted not only by monsters but also by executioners and rival assassins, keeps the tension unbearably high. He does not know who the ally or enemy is, as even those who seem trustworthy can have deadly intentions.
Gabimaru's goal to return to his wife alive and well makes his battles not only about survival but also about love and devotion. These emotions keep his humanity grounded, allowing viewers to connect with him on a deeper level.
1
Rimuru Tempest
Rimuru Tempest is the protagonist of the popular isekai anime The time I was reincarnated as a slime. Like Boruto, Rimuru is an overpowered MC with the ability to devour any target to grow stronger than anyone else. However, Rimuru is much more convincing in the sense that he often uses his cleverness to come up with strategies to either defeat or befriend an opponent.
Instead of using his power directly, Rimuru usually assesses problems, fights, or conflicts with creative solutions. He combines his power with intelligence, which is a stark contrast to Boruto's impulsive and less calculated approach. In addition, Rimuru has a likable personality that makes it easy for everyone to trust him. His allies are also fully invested in his vision, showing how Rimuru inspires more loyalty and cooperation than Boruto.
- Release date
-
April 5, 2017
- Network
-
TV Tokyo
