Do you ever look at an anime character and think, I need to protect them no matter what? It’s especially true for the characters nominated under the category “Must Protect at All Costs” because, well, we must protect their smiles at all costs. So if you’re like me and can’t choose one character to take home the trophy, join the Protection Squad and see why these characters will go down in history as the most precious beans in anime!
 

Anya Forger, SPY x FAMILY

 

 

Here’s none other than resident anime gremlin, Anya Forger from SPY x FAMILY. It’s fair to say she’s gained many fans on the internet. Who can deny the cute yet chaotic energy she exudes whenever she’s on the screen? 

 

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Anya is a kid who wants to live happily with her family after growing up as a test subject and being thrown into an orphanage. While she’s over the moon about becoming a Forger, thanks to her telepathic abilities she knows it’s a facade and plays along to help Loid on his spy mission. That said, it’s clear Anya wants her family to stay together forever, so for that future to happen she does whatever she can within her power to bring Loid’s mission to the finish line. 

With her smug expressions, love of peanuts, spy movies and desire for a real family, it’s a no-brainer that Anya falls under the “Must Protect at All Costs” category. 

 

Bojji, Ranking of Kings (Cour 2)

 

 

2022 gave us not just one but many young protagonists who honestly are so brave to go off on dangerous adventures. Bojji from Ranking of Kings is one who fulfills a role that’s larger than life even though his appearance is smol. His journey continues in Cour 2 alongside his companion, Kage (who’s also a nominee), and the stakes are higher than ever. Bojji abdicates the throne in favor of going on adventures (honestly, same) and he’s come out of them stronger without losing his compassionate side.

 

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Many count Bojii out because he's deaf and mute, but he proves that he can overcome all the obstacles that come his way. He’s a great example of a hero who strives for greatness but also remains humble. He doesn’t shed his emotions but embraces them, allowing himself to cry even though he’s a prince. There’s so much bravery going on with this boy it’s hard not to cheer for him in front of the screen. He deserves all the love. 
 

Kage, Ranking of Kings (Cour 2)

 

 

We’re not done talking about Ranking of Kings characters yet. If you see Bojji anywhere, Kage is likely next to him. Funny that he’s a shadow but doesn’t stay behind Bojji. As the prince’s companion, he rightfully stays by his side and is the best supporter and friend anyone can ask for. Kage lost his mother at a young age and was left scrounging for scraps of food, which turned him into a thief. Then he met Bojji and the two formed a camaraderie that’s so endearing it makes my heart melt.

 

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Bojji and Kage stick together to the end and they’re so happy about it that their blushing expressions are adorable. If there’s anything to take away from the hero’s journey, it’s that they can’t go alone. The companion is one of the most important characters as they tend to be the voice of reason and uplift the hero during their lows. Kage does exactly this, and while his appearance doesn’t fit the conventional human form, he’s a character that developed over the series and grew into his own. 
 

Komi Shouko, Komi Can't Communicate (2nd series)

 

Image: Netflix

 

Adorable characters don’t necessarily mean they have to be a literal kid. Komi Shouko from Komi Can’t Communicate is the perfect example of a teenager who can still come across as someone you want to protect. Her dream of making 100 friends in school is so pure that Hitohito Tadano decides to help her out. Komi struggles to communicate with people, so she’s super thankful to Tadano who starts things off easy for her by writing on a chalkboard rather than directly conversing with her. From there, he becomes her very first friend at school.

 

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Naturally, people want to befriend Komi because she’s beautiful and appears stoic. While the beauty part is true, the stoicism is because she can’t bring herself to talk to anyone without freezing up. That’s why Tadano’s presence and guidance are a huge help to her and how she eventually adds more friends to her social circle. The series reminds me of Kimi ni Todoke — From Me to You, which would’ve been another excellent nominee if it released in 2022. 

 

Kotaro Sato, Kotaro Lives Alone

 

Image: Netflix

 

We’re back to the little ones, this time with Kotaro from Kotaro Lives Alone. This four-year-old is mature beyond his years, so much so that he lives alone in an apartment. Although alarming, Kotaro’s upbringing is even worse, as he’s dealt with abusive parents. Wanting to escape the abuse, Kotaro decides to live alone but ends up being friends with his neighbor, a manga artist named Shin Karino. That friendship eventually turns into guardianship as Shin decides to care for the young boy.

 

RELATED: Bojji, Kotaro & How Anime Kids Are Better Than We'll Ever Be

 

Because of Kotaro’s rough past, there’s no question that anyone would do anything in their power to protect him. The image of a toddler showing up to an apartment with his suitcase without a parent or guardian is already cause for concern, on top of his maturity. Kotaro deserves a happier life and a healthier environment with supportive people around him. Thankfully, Kotaro is in good hands.
 

Marin Kitagawa, My Dress-Up Darling

 

 

Another high school student in the “Must Protect at All Costs” category is Marin Kitagawa from My Dress-Up Darling. She’s a cosplayer — what’s not cute about that? When she meets Wakana Gojo, an aspiring craftsman with a love for hina dolls, the two become an instant match. Instead of using his sewing machine to make doll costumes, he uses it to make cosplays for Marin. Marin is big on not judging others based on what they like, something that resonates with Wakana since he was made fun of for liking dolls. In return, Wakana doesn’t judge her because he’s been in her shoes before.
 

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It’s also nice to see a young man enjoy an activity that’s deemed “girly” and isn’t shamed about it by a young woman who embraces her own hobbies despite the criticisms. Marin and Wakana display a healthy friendship where they can be themselves — it’s so sweet. Also, have you seen Marin’s smile? Immediate shot to the heart. 

 

And there you have it! Not all of these characters can win the category because only one can be chosen, but they at least won our hearts and that’s all that matters. 

Who do you think is going to win the “Must Protect At All Costs” category? Let us know in the comments!

 

 

By Crunchyroll feed