Dive into the world of anime’s most cunning and unpredictable characters! From master strategists to playful pranksters, these tricksters keep us on our toes. Join me as we explore the top 25 trickster anime characters who bring a twist to every plot they’re in.
Our Favorite Trickster Anime Characters
Kikuri Deceives with Innocence (Hell Girl)
In the anime series, she’s always up to some mischief, using her innocent appearance to deceive others. One memorable moment is when she tricks the protagonist into believing she’s a harmless child, only to reveal her true cunning nature by leading them into a trap. Her backstory is pretty tragic, though. She became this way after being abandoned and learning to fend for herself, using her wits and charm to survive. It’s hard not to feel a bit of sympathy for her, even when she’s causing chaos!
Joseph Joestar: The Ultimate Trickster (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)
He’s the ultimate trickster in the series, always using his wits and clever tactics to outsmart his enemies. One of his classic moves is predicting what his opponents will say next, throwing them off their game. Joseph’s trickster nature comes from his adventurous spirit and his upbringing, where he had to rely on his cunning to survive. His backstory is filled with wild escapades and a knack for getting into and out of trouble, making him one of the most entertaining characters in the series!
Toshino Kyoko: The Hilarious Antics of a Mischievous Prankster (Anime Series)
In the anime series, she’s always up to some mischief, pulling pranks on her friends and getting into all sorts of hilarious situations. One time, she swapped everyone’s lunches just to see their reactions, and another time, she convinced her best friend that the school was haunted. Her backstory is pretty interesting too; she grew up in a lively household where pranks were a way of showing affection, so it’s no wonder she turned out this way!
Sucy Manbavaran: The Mischievous Potion Master (Little Witch Academia)
The one on the right is Sucy Manbavaran, and she’s the quintessential trickster of the series. Sucy is always up to some mischief, brewing bizarre potions and setting up pranks that often leave her friends in hilarious predicaments. Her love for experimenting with dangerous mushrooms and concoctions is both her charm and her curse. Sucy’s backstory is pretty intriguing too; she grew up in a place where magic was a bit of a taboo, which made her rebellious and curious nature even more pronounced. This background totally explains why she’s always pushing boundaries and stirring up trouble at Luna Nova Academy!
Kyousuke Hyoubu Outsmarts Everyone with Elaborate Schemes (Unlimited Psychic Squad)
He’s always one step ahead, using his sharp wit and cunning to outsmart everyone around him. In the series, he pulls off some of the most elaborate pranks and schemes, like that time he tricked the entire student council into believing there was a ghost haunting the school. His backstory is pretty tragic, though; he became this way after a rough childhood where he had to rely on his smarts to survive. It’s like he uses his trickster persona as a shield to protect himself from getting hurt again.
Magane Chikujoin: Deceptive Mastermind with a Tragic Past (Re:Creator)
In the anime series, she’s always up to some mischief, using his sharp wit and cunning to outsmart everyone around him. One of her most memorable tricks was when she managed to deceive the entire town into believing she was a benevolent figure, only to reveal her true intentions at the last moment. Her backstory is pretty tragic, though; she became this way after being betrayed by those she trusted most, which turned her into a master manipulator who trusts no one.
Li Shenhua Is Always One Step Ahead (The Asterisk War)
He is a skilled fighter known for his agility and cunning, often employing trickery and strategy in battles. His character adds an element of unpredictability and challenge to the series, making him a memorable antagonist.
Raphiel Uses Mischief to Cope with Loneliness (Gabriel Dropout)
In the anime series, she’s always pulling pranks and causing mischief, but with that innocent smile, no one ever suspects her. One time, she swapped everyone’s lunchboxes, leading to a hilarious chaos in the cafeteria. Her backstory is pretty interesting too; she grew up in a family of magicians, so trickery is in her blood. She uses her skills to keep things lively and to cope with her own loneliness, making her a really complex and lovable character.
Zange Natsume Uses Mischief as a Shield (Inu x Boku Secret Service)
With that mischievous grin and the “shh” gesture, you just know he’s up to no good. In the anime series, he’s always pulling pranks and manipulating situations to his advantage, often leaving everyone else scrambling to keep up. His backstory is pretty tragic, though – he became this way after a series of betrayals in his past, which made him distrustful and cunning. It’s like he uses his trickery as a shield to protect himself from getting hurt again.
Hiruma Yoichi: The Master Manipulator and Trickster (Eyeshield 21)
Hiruma Yoichi is the ultimate trickster in the series. He’s the quarterback of the Deimon Devil Bats and is notorious for his cunning and manipulative tactics both on and off the field. Hiruma’s backstory is pretty intense; he grew up in a rough environment, which honed his survival instincts and made him the master strategist he is today. He uses blackmail, psychological warfare, and even outright lies to get what he wants, making him both feared and respected by his teammates and opponents alike. One of my favorite moments is when he tricks an entire team into thinking their star player is injured, only to reveal it was all a ruse to gain a strategic advantage. Classic Hiruma!
Rory Mercury (Gate: Thus the JSDF Fought There!)
Rory Mercury isn’t exactly a trickster; rather, she’s a millennia-old demigoddess with a mischievous streak. She enjoys teasing others and playing up her immortal status, often toying with enemies before swiftly dispatching them with her immense combat skills. Her backstory involves serving the god Emroy, which shaped her into a formidable warrior and a playful deity-like figure in the series.
Karma Akabane: Masterful Trickster of Assassination Classroom
Karma is a total trickster because he loves messing with people’s minds and pulling pranks, all while being a genius strategist in the classroom assassination missions. His mischievous nature stems from his past of being underestimated and bullied, which led him to develop sharp wit and cunning to outsmart his opponents. His backstory reveals his troubled childhood, fueling his determination to never be taken lightly again.
Xerxes Break Manipulates with Charm and Wit (Pandora Hearts)
In the anime series, he’s always up to some mischief, using his charm and wit to manipulate situations to his advantage. One of his most memorable tricks was when he convinced the protagonist to trust him, only to lead them into a trap that served his own mysterious goals. His backstory is pretty tragic, though. He became this way after a series of betrayals in his past, which made him believe that the only way to survive is to stay one step ahead of everyone else, no matter the cost.
Lubbock Outsmarts his Enemies (Akame Ga Kill!)
Lubbock from “Akame ga Kill!” is the ultimate trickster! He uses his Imperial Arms, Cross Tail, to set intricate traps and outmaneuver enemies with ease. His mischievous nature and strategic mind were honed through his loyalty to Najenda and his experiences in the corrupt Empire, making him a cunning and resourceful member of Night Raid.
Medusa Gorgon: The Ultimate Trickster and Manipulator (Soul Eater)
She’s the ultimate trickster, always scheming and manipulating everyone around her. Medusa’s cunning nature is evident in how she infiltrates the DWMA disguised as a nurse, all while plotting to unleash the Kishin. Her backstory is pretty dark too; she was once a powerful witch who became obsessed with chaos and experimentation, which led her down this twisted path. Her ability to control black blood and her manipulative tactics make her one of the most intriguing and devious characters in the series!
Izaya Orihara Thrives on Chaos (Durarara)
Izaya thrives on chaos and loves manipulating people just to see how they’ll react. One of his most notorious schemes involves pitting rival gangs against each other in Ikebukuro, all while he sits back and enjoys the mayhem. His backstory is pretty intriguing too; he’s a genius with a deep fascination for human behavior, which probably stems from his own twisted sense of curiosity and desire to feel superior.
Yūko Ichihara: The Ultimate Trickster with a Mysterious Past (xxxHolic)
She runs a mysterious shop that grants wishes, but there’s always a catch. Her playful and enigmatic nature keeps everyone on their toes, and she often teaches valuable lessons through her seemingly mischievous actions. Yūko’s backstory is shrouded in mystery, but it’s hinted that her experiences and immense knowledge of the supernatural world have shaped her into the cunning and wise figure she is. Her interactions with Watanuki, the series’ protagonist, are filled with cryptic advice and clever manipulation, making her one of the most fascinating tricksters in anime.
Xellos Pranks Others For Fun (Slayers)
In the anime series, this character is always up to some mischief, using his magical abilities to create chaos and confusion. One memorable moment is when he cast a spell that turned the protagonist’s hair into a wild, uncontrollable mess, just for a laugh.
Undertaker: The Enigmatic Trickster of Black Butler
Undertaker is a notorious trickster known for his enigmatic nature and penchant for manipulating events from behind the scenes. He plays a crucial role in orchestrating elaborate schemes that affect the main characters, often with a mysterious agenda that unfolds over the series. His backstory is intertwined with the supernatural world of reapers and demons, revealing his complex motivations and dark past.
Lupin the Third: Ultimate Trickster, Master Thief and Chaos Maker (Lupin III)
Oh man, Lupin III is the ultimate trickster in the anime world! This guy is a master thief with a knack for pulling off the most outrageous heists, always staying one step ahead of the law. In the series, he’s constantly outwitting Inspector Zenigata with his clever disguises and elaborate schemes. Lupin’s backstory is pretty wild too—he’s the grandson of the famous gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, so trickery and mischief run in his blood. Whether he’s stealing priceless artifacts or just causing chaos for fun, Lupin’s antics never fail to entertain!
Hikaru and Kaoru Hitachiin: The Mischievous Twins with a Bond of Tricks (Ouran High School Host Club)
Oh, the Hitachiin twins from “Ouran High School Host Club” are the ultimate tricksters! Hikaru and Kaoru are always up to some mischief, using their identical looks to confuse everyone around them. They love playing the “Which one is Hikaru?” game, and their pranks often leave the other host club members in hilarious predicaments. Their trickster nature stems from their childhood, where they felt isolated and used their pranks as a way to bond and protect each other. Their antics are not just for laughs, though; they also serve as a way for them to navigate their complex feelings and relationships.
Lelouch vi Britannia: Master Manipulator and Ultimate Trickster (Code Geass)
He’s a master manipulator, using his Geass power to control others and orchestrate elaborate schemes. Lelouch’s backstory is pretty tragic; he was exiled and betrayed by his own family, which fueled his desire for revenge and justice. His cunning plans, like the infamous Zero Requiem, showcase his trickster nature as he constantly outsmarts his enemies and allies alike.
Mao Is a Deceptive Trickster with a Tragic Past (Code Geass)
Oh, this character is such a classic trickster! He can read other peoples’ minds. This ability overwhelms him, as he can’t control the constant influx of thoughts and emotions from others. Eventually, he lost his grip on reality, becoming obsessed with C.C. as a means to find solace and control in the chaotic storm of thoughts within his mind. His obsession and inability to manage his newfound abilities drove him deeper into madness, leading to his erratic and dangerous behavior throughout the series.
Eren Yeager Is Driven by Trauma and Vengeance (Attack on Titan)
Eren Yeager is known for his cunning and unpredictable nature. He constantly keeps everyone on their toes with his deceptive plans and bold moves. Remember when he infiltrated Marley and caused chaos from within? That was a masterclass in trickery! Eren’s backstory is filled with trauma and loss, which shaped him into the complex and often morally ambiguous character we see. His desire for freedom and vengeance drives him to manipulate and outsmart his enemies, making him one of the most intriguing tricksters in anime.
Azula Is a Master Manipulator (Avatar: The Last Airbender)
Azula is the ultimate trickster, always scheming and manipulating everyone around her to get what she wants. Remember that time she disguised herself as a Kyoshi Warrior to infiltrate Ba Sing Se? Classic Azula! Her cunning nature stems from her intense desire to please her father, Fire Lord Ozai, and her need to prove herself superior to her brother, Zuko. Her backstory is filled with pressure and expectations, which shaped her into the ruthless and strategic character we see in the series.
Are you interested in trickster anime characters and their unique traits? Then you might also be interested in our article about the weakest anime character, the most hated anime character or psychotic anime characters! What are your favorite trickster anime characters? Let us know in the comments!
FAQ – Trickster Anime Characters
Who is the MC of trickster?
The main character (MC) of “Trickster” is Kensuke Hanasaki, a young detective with a sharp mind and a knack for solving mysteries.
Should I watch trickster anime?
Yes, “Trickster” anime offers a thrilling experience with its clever protagonists who outwit their opponents using intellect and strategy, making it enjoyable for fans of suspenseful storytelling and cunning characters.
What is a Trickster character type?
A Trickster character type is known for cunning, wit, and unpredictability. They use deception and cleverness to achieve their goals, often challenging norms and authority.
