When it comes to the best anime protagonists, Boruto Uzumaki z Boruto series is probably one of the most controversial selections. After all, it is often criticized for its undeserved power, uneven character development, and inability to stand out on its own. It's easy to see why many fans are hesitant to nominate him among the greats, as they feel he has yet to prove himself compared to others.
While Boruto Uzumaki continues to grow into a truly memorable main character, there are many anime protagonists 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, leaving a lasting impact Borutothe protagonist is still trying 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 Academiamost popular anime hero. He is a source of inspiration among many who struggle with insecurities, so it is easy to relate to his struggles. His kind and humble personality also makes him likable, as does his relentless determination to protect others, whether they are good or bad.
My Hero Academia Season 8 is already over, but this last season showed how effective Deku is as an anime protagonist. He showed that underdogs can become true heroes, proving that the path to greatness is not inherited.
6
Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto Uzumaki could pass as a member of the Hall of Fame when it comes to the best anime protagonists of all time. He's irreplaceable, so it's easy to see 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 matches are much more intense, with higher stakes.
Additionally, fans witnessed how every power-up Naruto had was hard-earned through tireless training and overcoming impossible odds. Compared to Boruto, who was handed OP techniques one after the other with less effort. In an effort to outshine Naruto, the series gave Boruto insane upgrades that often felt undeserved.
5
Monkey D. Luffy
From the beginning One pieceLuffy already knew his ultimate destination. He desperately wants to become the next pirate king and every adventure, battle and challenge that comes his way is a step towards that huge dream. Conversely, Boruto doesn't have Luffy's clear vision, making it hard for fans to connect with his personal struggles and dreams.
Luffy can easily move his crew and other characters with his words and actions. Liking and following Luffy is natural, as his infectious optimism and desire for freedom inspire everyone around him to believe in his dream and give it their all.
4
Goku's son
Son Goku may be a simpleton and a brat, but he is widely 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 threats that threaten the end of the world, the universe, and even many universes, all of his fights matter. His transformations are iconic and to this day fans are excited to see his next evolution.
Now Goku is set to make a comeback Dragon Ball Super: The Galactic Patrol anime, bringing back the epic battles, humor and power that made it a role model for countless fans around the world.
3
Eren Yeager
Eren Yeager of Attack on Titan he gained a shape-shifting power that allowed him to change the course of the world. While he may seem straightforward at the beginning of the story, his development into an overly complex protagonist gives him unparalleled depth compared to Boruto Uzumaki. At first revenge drives Eren, but gradually he becomes a symbol of freedom and destruction.
While Eren's actions at the end Attack on Titan remain a matter of debate, with many fans admiring the sheer impact of his decision and the moral complexity it embodies. To protect his friends and erase the presence of the Titans once and for all, Eren made unpredictable decisions 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. Each fight is intense and losing means instant death, something Boruto rarely experiences in his own series.
The sense of constant danger, with Gabimaru pursued not only by monsters, but also executioners and rival killers, keeps the tension excruciatingly high. He doesn't know who is an ally or an enemy, because even those who look trustworthy can have deadly intentions.
Gabimar's goal to return to his wife alive and well makes his struggles not just survival, but love and devotion. These emotions keep his humanity grounded and allow the audience to connect with him on a deeper level.
1
Storm in Rimuru
Rimuru Tempest is the main character of the popular isekai anime That time I was reincarnated as slime. Like Boruto, Rimuru is an overpowered MC with the ability to absorb any target to become stronger than anyone else. However, Rimuru is much more convincing in the sense that he often uses his cleverness to devise strategies to either defeat or befriend opponents.
Instead of using his power directly, Rimuru usually assesses problems, struggles, or conflicts with creative solutions. He combines his strength with intelligence, which is in stark contrast to Boruto's impulsive and less calculated approach. In addition, Rimuru has a likable personality that makes everyone trust him easily. 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
