In anime, the theme of exorcists battling malevolent forces is a prominent and captivating element. These characters often possess extraordinary abilities that enable them to expel evil spirits, maintaining a critical balance between the realms of the living and the supernatural. Exorcists can vary from traditional onmyoji to modern jujutsu sorcerers, each bringing unique strengths and narratives to the table.
Typically, anime exorcists are characterized by their tragic backstories and extraordinary powers, while they navigate complex relationships with the very demonic entities they oppose. This article delves into 10 notable exorcists in anime, ranking them based on their exceptional abilities and their profound impact on character development within their respective stories.
Note: The following list represents the author’s personal rankings.
Top 10 Exorcists in Anime: From Tragedy to Triumph
10) Subaru Sumeragi (Tokyo Babylon/X)
Subaru Sumeragi emerges as a quintessential exorcist in anime, featured prominently in Tokyo Babylon/X. As the 13th heir of the Sumeragi family, he harnesses onmyodo techniques through ofuda and shikigami to safeguard Tokyo’s spiritual harmony.
Unlike conventional exorcists, Subaru’s empathetic nature leads him to cherish all beings, living or spirit. Following a painful betrayal by Seishiro Sakurazuka, he transforms into a more hardened figure, seeking vengeance. His journey underscores a poignant truth: profound personal wounds can alter even the most compassionate souls.
9) Haruitsuki Abeno (The Morose Mononokean)
Haruitsuki Abeno takes a more formalized approach to exorcism in The Morose Mononokean. Operating the Mononokean tea room, Abeno facilitates a passage for yokai back to the Underworld, charging a fee for his services.
While many exorcists focus on obliterating supernatural beings, Abeno aims for equilibrium, conducting exorcisms solely when absolutely necessary. His pragmatic view on the supernatural, coupled with a unique mentor-student dynamic with Ashiya, provides a refreshing perspective within the exorcist genre.
8) Allen Walker (D.Gray-man)
In D.Gray-man, Allen Walker embodies the archetype of the tragic exorcist. As a member of the Black Order, he battles Akuma—soulless machines created by the Millennium Earl from human souls. His left arm wields a unique ability known as “Innocence,”symbolizing both his burden and his primary tool for soul-saving exorcisms.
Distinguished from many exorcists, Allen empathizes with the trapped souls within Akuma, conducting exorcisms as acts of mercy. His commitment to rescuing even his adversaries positions him among the most compassionate exorcists in anime.
7) Seiko Ayase (Dandadan)
Injecting fresh energy into the genre, Seiko Ayase from Dandadan revises conventional exorcism narratives. Initially skeptical of the supernatural, this high school girl uncovers her psychic gifts through encounters with spirits and extraterrestrials. Her unique style fuses traditional spiritualism with punk-rock aesthetics, setting her apart in the exorcist landscape.
Seiko’s calm confidence, developed through extensive experience with spirits, positions her as a seriously formidable force, earning formidable respect from both the human and supernatural realms.
6) Rokuro and Benio (Twin Star Exorcists)
Twin Star Exorcists offers a dual protagonist approach with Rokuro Enmado and Benio Adashino. Together, they embody a destined duo meant to cleanse the world of impurities, evolving from former rivals into unified partners.
Rokuro’s reluctance stems from a troubled past, contrasting sharply with Benio’s resolute commitment to their shared mission. This clash of personalities fosters dynamic growth, enhancing their development as both exorcists and partners.
5) Shinra Kusakabe (Fire Force)
Shinra Kusakabe from Fire Force is noteworthy for his unique power: the “devil’s footprints.”Utilizing his third-generation pyrokinetic abilities, Shinra enters Special Fire Force Company 8 to uncover the truth behind the blaze that claimed his mother’s life.
As he combats Infernals—humans turned fire demons—his journey is intricately linked to Adolla, a parallel dimension that bestows incredible fire powers. His mission intertwining personal loss with a universal quest for truth solidifies his significance within the anime exorcist canon.
4) Shigeo Kageyama (Mob Psycho 100)
Known as “Mob,”Shigeo Kageyama from Mob Psycho 100 provides a fresh take on the exorcist role. An emotionally reserved middle schooler, Mob employs his formidable psychic skills to exorcise spirits, aided by his mentor, Reigen Arataka.
Initially, Mob suppresses his emotions to harness control over his abilities, graphically represented by a “percentage”counter. Over time, he learns to embrace his emotions and forge genuine connections, portraying compassion towards the spirits he encounters—a rare quality among exorcists in anime.
3) Rin Okumura (Blue Exorcist)
In Blue Exorcist, Rin Okumura stands out as one of the most paradoxical exorcists. As the son of Satan, he grapples with his lineage while training under Father Fujimoto, a powerful exorcist, to combat demons with his inherited blue flames.
Rin’s journey of controlling his formidable demonic powers while striving for recognition among his peers adds depth to his character, navigating the struggle between his dual identities and his commitment to protecting humanity.
2) Ichigo Kurosaki (Bleach)
Ichigo Kurosaki, the orange-haired substitute Soul Reaper from Bleach, ranks as one of the most iconic exorcists in anime history. Initially gaining Shinigami powers, Ichigo takes up the mantle of protector against Hollows that prey on souls.
With a unique mix of human, Shinigami, Quincy, and Hollow heritage, he continues to evolve, mastering Bankai abilities and Hollow masks. His refusal to chase mere power reflects his true character—one dedicated to safeguarding others.
1) Gojo Satoru (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Renowned as one of the mightiest exorcists in anime, Gojo Satoru from Jujutsu Kaisen wields unmatched power through his Six Eyes and Limitless abilities, rendering him nearly invincible. His laid-back attitude belies a serious commitment to upholding the present jujutsu society.
As an educator at Tokyo Jujutsu High, he strives to dismantle rigid social hierarchies among sorcerers, dreaming of a brighter future. His extraordinary skills, paired with a forward-thinking vision, solidify Gojo’s status as a paradigm-shifting figure among anime exorcists.
Conclusion
Anime exorcists transcend their roles as mere ghost hunters, emerging as nuanced heroes navigating the intricate dance between light and darkness. They resonate with audiences by embodying humanity’s eternal struggle against unseen evils, both external and internal.
While Gojo exemplifies tremendous strength, Subaru brings a touch of traditional elegance, each character offering distinct methodologies to confront spiritual battles. Their shared experiences underscore a common responsibility to unveil concealed truths and engage in conflicts often overlooked by society.
The exorcist archetype remains a compelling narrative device in anime, delving into themes of duty and sacrifice while exploring the enigmatic convergence of life, death, and the supernatural.