10 best anime characters like Asuna Yuuki from Sword Art Online

From action-packed shonen to emotional slice-of-life series, anime characters like Asuna Yuuki have left an indelible mark on the medium. Asuna Yuuki has become one of anime's most iconic female characters as the lead heroine in the massively popular series Sword Art Online.

She is initially introduced as a strong lone wolf determined to conquer the deadly SAO game by any means necessary. Over time, she evolves into a fierce fighter defined by grace, empathy, and courage in the face of mortal danger.

As Vice Commander of the Knights of Blood guild, Asuna spearheads the war against Boss monsters that threaten thousands. Her rapier strikes fear in enemies with unmatched speed and precision. These 10 anime girls share Asuna's mold—fierce combatants outside, fueled by warmth and devotion inside.

Zero Two, Mikasa Ackerman, and 8 anime characters like Asuna Yuuki

1. Zero Two from Darling in the FranXX

Zero Two (Image via CloverWorks and Trigger)

Zero Two from Darling in the FranXX has some striking similarities to Asuna in terms of personality and character arc. Initially, she is portrayed as a mysterious and rebellious combat pilot with a wild side.

However, after being paired up with the timid Hiro, Zero Two starts developing genuine human emotions and attachments. In battle, Zero Two fights fiercely to protect Hiro, just as Asuna does everything to keep Kirito safe.

Both are fierce warriors deeply devoted to their one true love. They also have some kuudere qualities to keep things interesting. This makes Zero Two one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki who resonates with fans.

2. Mikasa Ackerman from Attack on Titan

Mikasa Ackerman (Image via Wit Studio and MAPPA)

The fiercely loyal and absurdly strong Mikasa perfectly complements protagonist Eren's fiery determination in humanity's fight against Titans.

Viewers admire Mikasa for her calm composure in contrast to her lethal combat skills and steadfast devotion to Eren at all costs. Much like Asuna dutifully supporting Kirito, Mikasa plays a pivotal role in the central story by selflessly fighting alongside Eren with unwavering faith in him.

Fans love that despite her stoic personality, Mikasa cares deeply for her friends and will do anything to protect them. Mikasa is another example of anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

3. Akame from Akame Ga Kill!

As the title character of Akame Ga Kill!, Akame shares several key traits with Asuna Yuuki. Both characters are exceptionally skilled fighters who wield deadly blades and fight alongside a ragtag group of fighters.

Viewers admire Akame for her cold professionalism that masks a caring personality. Like Asuna softening over time and showing affection for Kirito, Akame reveals her capacity for love and friendship with her comrades in their fight against a corrupt empire.

Fans love Akame's reserved personality, in contrast with her brutal fighting style using her weapon, Murasame. Akame is one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

4. Rem from Re: Zero

Despite being a secondary character, Rem resonated strongly with fans through her steadfast love, loyalty, and sacrifices for protagonist Subaru.

Like Asuna's unwavering devotion to Kirito, Rem remains wholly committed to loving and supporting Subaru despite his flaws and regardless of whether he returns her romantic affection. Fans admire Rem for her humility, empathy, and emotional support for Subaru in his darkest moments.

Her sincerity, optimism, and selfless nature make her one of the purest examples of unconditional love in anime. Rem stands out as one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki, who fans adore.

5. Violet Evergarden from Violet Evergarden

Violet Evergarden (Image via Kyoto Animation)

Former child soldier Violet Evergarden's journey to understanding her emotions mirrors some of Asuna's character growth.

Both characters were initially cold towards others but learned to open their hearts after experiencing love and friendship. Viewers love Violet for her odd charm, soldier-like personality contrasting with a demure appearance, and steady emotional development across the series.

Like Asuna, Violet matures into someone full of compassion, empathy, and warmth after shedding her initial coldness towards people. Violet's character development places her among anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

6. Winry Rockbell from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Winry Rockbell from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Image via Bones)

Like Asuna Yuuki, Winry Rockbell plays the role of a significant female character and love interest to protagonist Edward Elric.

Viewers admire Winry's technical skills as an engineer and mechanic, paralleling Asuna's initial portrayal as a highly-skilled gamer. More importantly, fans love Winry for her compassionate personality and ability to ground Ed's ambitions with emotional support.

Her romantic relationship with Ed similarly anchors his heroic journey. Winry's sincerity, optimism, and loyalty mirror the emotional support Asuna offers Kirito. Winry is certainly one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

7. Hinata Hyuga from Naruto

While initially shy and lacking confidence, Hinata grows significantly as a ninja and person through her admiration of protagonist Naruto's determination. Her gradual confidence gain mirrors Asuna overcoming her initial coldness to show affection towards Kirito and friends.

Most importantly, fans admire Hinata's longstanding care and love for Naruto. Like Asuna's loyalty towards Kirito, Hinata holds true to her feelings for Naruto throughout his long journey to become Hokage.

Her humility, empathy, and integrity reflect some of Asuna's core strengths. Hinata is undeniably one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

8. Annie Leonhart from Attack on Titan

Annie Leonhart (Image via Wit Studio and MAPPA)

The quiet, solitary, and often ruthless Annie from Attack on Titan mirrors some of Asuna's initial focused determination as a top gamer. Viewers also learn that Annie's remoteness towards others in the military hides a more complex backstory.

While their story paths diverge, Annie remains a fascinating foil to Asuna in how both female characters initially present themselves as aloof and distant. However, they gradually reveal their humanizing motivations, driving their outward coldness in personality. Annie is among the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki who captivate viewers.

9. Revy from Black Lagoon

The gun-slinging badass Revy is the mercenary fighter of the Lagoon Company. Somewhat psychotic with a violent streak, Revy is nevertheless dedicated to protecting her teammates during jobs. Her skill with firearms helps her excel, while her determination pushes her through.

These qualities strongly reflect Asuna's main attributes as well. Both are nearly unstoppable once they have set their sights on a target, eliminating all enemies standing in the way.

Asuna and Revy have very different personas, but their inner drive and combat ability are closely aligned. Revy is one of the anime characters like Asuna Yuuki in terms of determination and combat prowess.

10. Erza Scarlet from Fairy Tail

Erza Scarlet (Image via A-1 Pictures and CloverWorks)

As an S-class mage and master swordswoman, Erza Scarlet leads many dangerous missions for the Fairy Tail guild. Her courageous leadership mirrors Asuna's role as Vice Commander of the Knights of Blood. Both play pivotal roles in keeping their comrades unified and focused on their goals.

Erza also has a softer, more sensitive side beneath her tough exterior. We see occasional glimpses of this in Asuna, too. At her core, Erza cares deeply about her guildmates and will go to extreme lengths to defend Fairy Tail's honor when necessary.

This mirrors Asuna's dedication to her friends and guild. Erza is a prime example of anime characters like Asuna Yuuki.

Conclusion

Asuna Yuuki appeals to fans globally through her inspirational character arc from a seemingly perfect girl defined by her talents to someone full of warmth and compassion. Female anime characters like Asuna Yuuki, such as Zero Two, Mikasa Ackerman, and others, mirror Asuna's courage, loyalty, and elite combat skills.

Meanwhile, characters like Rem, Violet, Winry, and Hinata reflect Asuna's emotional range from initial coolness transforming into someone overflowing with love and empathy.

While their stories differ, they share Asuna's memorable capacity for forming unbreakable bonds with friends and lovers through selfless devotion. Anime characters like Asuna Yuuki continue to inspire fans with their depth and strength.

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