Top 10 Smartest Anime Characters 2023 - (Based on IQ)
by Maivizhi A | Updated Mar 27, 2023
Smartest Characters in Anime
For those new to anime, it's easy to assume that the genre primarily features non-stop battles. With so much focus on action-shounen anime in the media, it's understandable why newcomers might think this way. However, the reality is that anime is home to many thought-provoking shows with some of the most intelligent characters in the genre.
Numerous anime explore the psychology of the human mind and delve into complex scientific themes, challenging viewers to think deeply. The smartest characters often provide logical reasoning that not only helps their peers but also engages audiences. While there are numerous intelligent characters across the genre, some stand out as particularly brilliant. For a rundown of the most popular characters in anime history, Check out this list to know Top 10 Smartest Anime Characters ever.
Top 10 Smartest Anime Characters
Here is the list of Top 10 Smartest Anime Characters for your reference. Check below to know their ability and Smartness and these characters possess high IQ level.
S.No
Smartest Anime Characters
1
Light Yagami ( Death Note)
2
Kiyotaka Ayanokoji(Classroom of the Elite)
3
Dio Brando (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
4
Koro-sensei (Assasination Classroom)
5
L(Death Note)
6
6. Senku Ishigami (Dr.Stone)
7
Zen-Oh( Dragon Ball)
8
Shikamaru Nara(Naruto)
9
Madara Uchiha( Naruto)
10
Norman (The Promised Neverland)
Top 10 Highest IQ Anime Characters
Let us discuss each anime character in detail.
1. Light Yagami ( Death Note)
If anyone else had possessed the Death Note, the book's user would have likely been discovered and captured promptly. However, Light Yagami managed to continue his killing spree for years, even though the clever detective L had already confirmed his location in Japan.
Ultimately, Light's downfall was due to his own arrogance and his failure to recognize the intelligence of other geniuses such as Near. Nevertheless, it is evident that no one else in that universe could have generated such a significant impact on society if they had access to the same resources.
2. Kiyotaka Ayanokoji(Classroom of the Elite)
Kiyotaka Ayanokoji, the main character of Classroom of the Elite, is a student in Class D of the prestigious Koudo Ikusei High School. Despite being in the lowest-ranked class, Ayanokoji appears to have a hidden agenda for being there. He often exhibits a cynical demeanor, but the audience is aware that he is harboring a secret that his peers have yet to uncover.
Despite this, Ayanokoji employs his exceptional intellect to help propel Class D to the top. While he tends to intervene at the last possible moment, his fans can perceive that he has always been several steps ahead of everyone. Ayanokoji does not showcase his intelligence blatantly, but rather prefers to lurk in the shadows until the opportune moment arises.
3. Dio Brando (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
In JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, there are numerous villains who exhibit extraordinary intelligence. The series' creator, Hirohiko Araki, deserves recognition for crafting such imaginative and malevolent antagonists.
Among all of the JoJo villains, Dio is undoubtedly the most cunning. His exceptional ingenuity enables him to pose a persistent threat to the Joestar family. Dio's unparalleled shrewdness and ability to execute his plans make him an enduring adversary in the series.
4. Koro-sensei (Assasination Classroom)
In Assassination Classroom, Koro-sensei is a unique genius who chose to become a teacher by destroying the moon in order to help struggling students who were left behind by the traditional educational system. Despite being an unstoppable monster with an array of powers, Koro-sensei spends his time positively transforming the lives of his students.
Korosensei's plan is not only intricate but also beautiful. This culminates in a poignant ending that greatly affects Assassination Classroom fans who have spent two seasons observing the unfolding story through subtle hints and reveals. It becomes apparent that Koro-sensei was the hero his students needed all along.
5. L(Death Note)
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure features a plethora of villains who showcase exceptional intelligence, and credit should be given to the series' creator, Hirohiko Araki, for designing such imaginative and malevolent antagonists.
Out of all the JoJo villains, Dio stands out as the most crafty. His exceptional inventiveness allows him to present a constant danger to the Joestar family. Dio's unmatched astuteness and proficiency in carrying out his plans render him an enduring foe throughout the series.
6. Senku Ishigami (Dr.Stone)
In Dr. Stone, Senku Ishigami is a scientific genius who possesses a vast array of knowledge in various fields of science. Unlike Bulma from Dragon Ball, who specializes in technology, Senku is a versatile master of disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and biology. He can craft almost anything, even with limited resources.
Aside from his extensive knowledge, Senku's adeptness at drawing intricate conclusions from new information sets him apart. He is also a capable strategist who leads the charge against threats like Tsukasa in the Stone World.
7. Zen-Oh( Dragon Ball)
In Dragon Ball, we often see Zen-Oh depicted with an open mouth. Despite his simple appearance, Zen-Oh is actually quite intelligent, although his naivety can hinder him from utilizing his knowledge effectively. While he may appear to act selfishly like a child, Zen-Oh possesses great capabilities and understands the intricacies of all twelve universes in the Dragon Ball franchise. This is an impressive feat that even a knowledgeable and powerful figure like Whis cannot match. To learn more about Zen-Oh, check out these 15 fascinating facts about the character in Dragon Ball Super.
8. Shikamaru Nara(Naruto)
In Naruto, we see Shikamaru Nara employing his Shadow Possession jutsu to take down Hidan and Kakuzu. As a shinobi and member of the Nara Clan, Shikamaru desires a life of leisure, but his extensive knowledge and combat skills prevent him from achieving this. He not only excels in his clan's shadow-based jutsu but has also developed his own techniques. Despite his wish for a carefree existence, Shikamaru remains a faithful friend and will do whatever it takes to protect his companions. This often means taking on additional responsibilities, but he always prioritizes the safety of his friends over his own desire for a life of ease.
9. Madara Uchiha( Naruto)
In Naruto, we see Madara Uchiha depicted against a yellow backdrop. Regarded as the greatest tactician in the Naruto universe, Madara's ability to return from the dead is a testament to his extraordinary skills. He possesses mastery over several jutsu and possesses a commanding voice that can rally armies.
Madara's intelligence is a formidable weapon, which he employs to cause chaos and dominate those around him. He lives life on his own terms, with his only goal being to overshadow others. He ultimately chooses when to die, having lived life to the fullest on his own terms. For a comprehensive breakdown of all the story arcs in Naruto and Naruto Shippuden, check out this chronological list.
10. Norman (The Promised Neverland)
In The Promised Neverland Season 2, we see Norman, who is one of the most intelligent characters in the show's young cast, second only to Ray. Unfortunately, Norman is shipped out of Grace Field House and presumed dead after discovering the truth about the demons outside the orphanage.
Despite being absent, Norman devises a plan by anticipating every possible outcome leading up to the next child's shipment. He shares his plan with Emma, who executes it flawlessly, ultimately saving their family. Norman's incredible foresight and strategic planning firmly establish him among the ranks of anime's most brilliant characters.
Who is the Smartest Anime Character of All Time?
Light is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent characters not only in Death Note but also in the anime genre as a whole, and for good reason. Upon discovering the Death Note and its immense power, he immediately recognizes the potential danger it poses in the wrong hands. To prevent any mishaps, Light comes up with a brilliant contingency plan to conceal the notebook's existence. The plan involves a failsafe mechanism that would destroy the Death Note if someone tries to access it without authorization, thus ensuring that his secret is safe.
Light's attention to detail is extraordinary, and he can pick up even the slightest clues that others would overlook. When the police plant bugs and cameras in his room to monitor his activities, he quickly realizes that he is being watched and takes steps to counter their efforts. He cleverly disguises his actions by buying a portable TV, concealing it in a bag of chips, and watching the news while simultaneously using the Death Note to kill criminals. From the perspective of the surveillance cameras, Light appears to be innocently snacking while studying, but in reality, he is masterfully manipulating events to evade suspicion.
Conclusion
Finally, anime is home to many thought-provoking shows with some of the most intelligent characters in the genre. The smartest characters often provide logical reasoning that not only helps their peers but also engages audiences. While there are numerous intelligent characters across the genre, the top 10 smartest anime characters listed above stand out as particularly brilliant. From Light Yagami's strategic mind in Death Note to Zen-Oh's vast knowledge in Dragon Ball, each of these characters possesses high IQ levels and unique abilities that make them stand out. These characters challenge viewers to think deeply about complex scientific themes and the psychology of the human mind
Top 10 Smartest Anime Characters - FAQs
Light Yagami is the protagonist of the manga and anime series Death Note. He is a high school student who discovers a supernatural notebook that grants him the ability to kill anyone.
Kiyotaka Ayanokoji is the main character of the anime series Classroom of the Elite.
Dio Brando is the main antagonist of the manga and anime series JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
Koro-sensei is the main character of the manga and anime series Assassination Classroom. He is a highly intelligent and powerful creature who becomes the teacher of Class 3-E at Kunugigaoka Junior High School.
L is a character from the manga and anime series Death Note. He is a highly intelligent detective who is tasked with catching Light Yagami, the protagonist of the series.