Anime has long been synonymous with powerful swordsmen, many of whom are featured in shonen series. However, beyond the bounds of shonen anime, numerous characters from genres such as seinen, isekai, and dark fantasy also wield swords with remarkable skill. From charismatic leaders to vengeful anti-heroes, here are ten exceptional swordsmen from non-shonen anime who have earned their place in the spotlight.
10. Saeko Busujima – Highschool of the Dead
Saeko Busujima stands out as one of the most skilled female swordsmen in anime. Originally the captain of her school’s kendo club, she transforms into a formidable fighter during a zombie apocalypse. Armed with a katana, Saeko showcases remarkable precision, defeating grown men and entire zombie hordes with a single strike. Her combat prowess and fearless demeanor make her a standout in Highschool of the Dead, solidifying her status as an iconic anime swordswoman.
9. Askeladd – Vinland Saga
In Vinland Saga, Askeladd is not just a swordsman but a master tactician and manipulator. His cunning strategies, combined with his elite swordsmanship, make him one of the most formidable figures in the series. Although not a traditional hero, Askeladd’s brutal efficiency in battle—whether confronting Viking warriors or royal guards—cements his legacy as one of anime’s greatest swordsmen.
8. The Captain – Goblin Slayer
The Captain, a gold-ranked adventurer in Goblin Slayer, is a swordsman with a unique blend of martial and magical abilities. His expertise in combat is rivaled only by his tactical brilliance. With the ability to sever limbs with a single sword strike and wield destructive spells, he stands as a silent but powerful force within the series, capable of facing off against the deadliest of foes.
7. Saizō Kirigakure – Brave 10
Saizō Kirigakure is a ninja known for his unconventional approach to swordsmanship. His weapon of choice is the Mari-Blade, a large kunai-like blade, which he uses with deadly efficiency. Able to deflect projectiles and create after-images, Saizō’s swordplay goes beyond mere physical skill. His “Instant Light” technique allows him to slice through multiple opponents with stunning speed, making him one of the most innovative swordsmen in anime.
6. Raphtalia – The Rising of the Shield Hero
Raphtalia, the demi-human heroine of The Rising of the Shield Hero, evolves from a slave into one of the most formidable warriors in her world. As the Katana Hero, she gains the ability to perform magical sword strikes, often enhancing her attacks with light magic. Her mastery of the katana, combined with her loyalty and determination, makes her one of the most skilled swordswomen in the isekai genre.
5. Ryūko Matoi – Kill la Kill
Ryūko Matoi, the protagonist of Kill la Kill, is known for her unyielding quest to avenge her father’s death. Armed with the red half of the Scissor Blade, Ryūko battles her way through a world of powerful enemies. Her superhuman strength and regenerative abilities, combined with her raw swordsmanship, make her a dynamic and dangerous fighter. Ryūko’s skill with the Scissor Blade, capable of slicing through nearly anything, cements her place among anime’s top swordsmen.
4. Afro – Afro Samurai
Afro Samurai is an iconic anti-hero who becomes a master swordsman driven by vengeance. After witnessing his father’s death, Afro trains relentlessly to earn the Number One Headband, which signifies the world’s strongest fighter. His unparalleled speed, agility, and ability to create new combat techniques mid-fight make him a formidable foe, capable of slicing through bullets and even RPG missiles. Afro’s cold-blooded nature and mastery of the katana have solidified his status as a legendary swordsman.
3. Kirito – Sword Art Online
Kirito, the main protagonist of Sword Art Online, is one of the most skilled swordsmen in the virtual world. Initially a solo player trapped in a deadly MMORPG, Kirito quickly adapts to the game’s rules and becomes known for his exceptional swordplay. His dual-wielding abilities and kendo background allow him to defeat powerful bosses and other players, making him one of the best swordsmen in the isekai genre.
2. Artoria Pendragon – Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works
Artoria Pendragon, or Saber, is one of the most iconic figures in the Fate franchise. As the legendary King Arthur, Artoria wields Excalibur, a powerful sword capable of unleashing devastating magical energy. Her exceptional skill and agility in battle, combined with her noble presence, make her a standout swordswoman in the Holy Grail War. Artoria’s strength is such that she can face legendary heroes like Hercules and Gilgamesh on equal footing.
1. Guts – Berserk
Guts, the protagonist of Berserk, is perhaps the greatest non-shonen swordsman in anime. His iconic weapon, the Dragon Slayer, is a massive sword capable of cleaving through demons, monsters, and entire armies. Guts’ unrelenting will to survive, coupled with his remarkable swordsmanship, allows him to battle and defeat horrific creatures despite overwhelming odds. His journey through the dark, brutal world of Berserk has made him an enduring symbol of strength and resilience, securing his place as the top swordsman in anime.
These ten characters prove that powerful swordsmen aren’t confined to the world of shonen anime. Whether through magical abilities, tactical genius, or sheer determination, each of these warriors brings a unique flavor to the art of swordsmanship in anime, showcasing a wide range of skills and styles beyond the typical shonen protagonist.
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