The 10 Best Anime Sword Fighters Ranked

Anime is well-known for its stunning and action-packed fight scenes, often featuring epic battles between skilled sword fighters. The combination of breathtaking animation, imaginative storytelling, and awe-inspiring swordsmanship has made anime sword fighters some of the most beloved characters in the genre. In this article, we will be ranking the top 10 anime sword fighters, based on their skills, strength, and overall cool factor.

1- Kenshin Himura - Rurouni Kenshin

Kenshin Himura is a wandering swordsman who has left behind his violent past as a government assassin. He now seeks to atone for his past sins by using his swordsmanship to protect the innocent. His signature move, the Hiten Mitsurugi, is a unique and powerful sword style that allows him to attack with incredible speed and accuracy. In addition to his swordsmanship, Kenshin is also a skilled hand-to-hand combatant and has a strong sense of justice.

Kenshin's journey is not just a physical one, but also a mental and emotional one. He struggles with the guilt of his past actions and the fear of reverting to his old ways. His internal conflict and personal growth are just as compelling as his sword fighting skills. Kenshin's character is also known for his lighthearted and comical moments, which contrast with his serious and intense battles. His charming personality and noble ideals have made him a beloved character in the anime community. Kenshin's impact on anime sword fighting cannot be overstated, as he has inspired countless other characters and even real-life martial artists.

2- Guts - Berserk

Guts is a fierce and brutal warrior who wields a massive sword known as the "Dragon Slayer." He is known for his incredible strength and endurance, which he uses to battle demons and other monstrous foes. His battle scars and rugged appearance only add to his badassery.

Guts' backstory is one of tragedy and perseverance. He was born from the corpse of his mother and raised by mercenaries, which led to a life of violence and hardship. However, despite his traumatic past, Guts continues to fight for what he believes in, making him a complex and relatable character. His immense strength and skill with the "Dragon Slayer" sword are matched only by his determination to overcome any obstacle in his path. Guts' battles are often bloody and intense, and his unwavering resolve to protect those he cares about makes him a true warrior.

3- Kirito - Sword Art Online

Kirito is a skilled swordsman who becomes trapped in a virtual reality MMORPG where he must fight his way to the top to escape. He wields the "Elucidator," an ominous black blade and one of the most badass anime swords known to fans. Kirito's fighting style is incredibly fast and agile, making him a formidable opponent.

Kirito is a complex character with a tragic past that drives him to excel in the virtual world of Sword Art Online. He initially comes across as a solo player who prefers to keep to himself, but he eventually forms close bonds with other players and becomes a leader in his own right. Kirito's skills with a sword are unmatched, and his ability to use his surroundings to his advantage in battle is impressive. He is also a quick thinker who can adapt to unexpected situations. Beyond his impressive sword fighting skills, Kirito is a character who constantly strives to do what is right, even when it is difficult. His determination to protect his friends and loved ones is admirable, and his selflessness in the face of danger is a defining trait of his character.

4- Roronoa Zoro - One Piece

Roronoa Zoro's impressive strength and dedication to his craft have led him to become one of the most respected and powerful swordsmen in the anime world. As a member of the Straw Hat Pirates, he brings a unique flair to his battles with his three swords, which he wields simultaneously. Zoro's training in the art of sword fighting is evident in his incredible techniques, and his unwavering loyalty to his friends is just as impressive as his fighting skills. Despite his gruff exterior, Zoro has a soft spot for his fellow crewmates and will stop at nothing to protect them, making him not only a skilled swordsman but a loyal and trustworthy friend.

5- Ichigo Kurosaki - Bleach

Ichigo Kurosaki is a powerful and determined Soul Reaper who wields his trusty sword, Zangetsu, to protect the world of the living from the dangers of the afterlife. Bleach hosts a series of cool anime swords, but Ichigo’s Zengetsu is iconic to say the least. The sword has a special ability to manifest ichigo's spiritual energy to deliver deadly attacks. What sets Ichigo apart from other sword fighters is his unique ability to tap into his inner strength, allowing him to unleash incredible power and devastating attacks. As he gains experience and becomes more skilled with his swordsmanship, his battles become even more intense and visually stunning. Despite his immense power, Ichigo remains grounded and determined to use his strength to protect those he cares about.

6- Inuyasha - Inuyasha

Inuyasha is one of the most beloved anime sword fighters of all time, and for good reason. His half-demon heritage makes him a unique and compelling character, and his bond with his human companion Kagome adds depth and emotion to his story. Inuyasha's Tessaiga sword is a formidable weapon that has the power to slay demons and protect his friends, and his ability to transform into a full demon gives him an added edge in battle. His fighting style is a combination of brute strength and lightning-fast attacks, making him a fearsome opponent to anyone who crosses his path. Inuyasha's battles often come with high stakes, as he must protect the people he cares about while also facing his own inner demons. His story is a timeless classic that continues to inspire fans of all ages.

7- Saber - Fate/Zero

Saber is a skilled swordswoman and one of the main characters in the Fate/Zero series. She wields a magical sword known as "Excalibur," which allows her to unleash devastating attacks. Saber's chivalry and determination make her a worthy opponent and a beloved character among fans.

Saber's true identity is that of King Arthur, the legendary figure of British mythology. Her unwavering sense of justice and noble character are a reflection of her royal heritage. Saber's fighting style is both graceful and powerful, and her swordsmanship is further enhanced by her magical abilities. Despite her formidable skills, Saber is also known for her compassionate heart and willingness to put herself in harm's way to protect others. Her complex character and captivating presence make her a standout among anime sword fighters.

8- Afro Samurai - Afro Samurai

Afro Samurai is a skilled swordsman who seeks revenge against those who killed his father. He wields a unique sword that is part of his own body, making him a deadly and unstoppable force. Afro's battles are often brutal and bloody, showcasing the true grit and intensity of anime sword fighting.

Afro Samurai is not only a skilled swordsman, but he is also a complex character with a tragic past. His journey to avenge his father's death takes him through a dark and violent world, where he must confront powerful enemies and face his own inner demons. Despite his stoic demeanor, Afro has a strong sense of justice and a deep love for his friends, making him a compelling protagonist in the anime world. His battles are not only a display of his swordsmanship skills, but also a reflection of his inner turmoil and personal growth.

9- Tanjiro Kamado from Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba

Tanjiro Kamado is the protagonist of the popular anime series Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. Despite being a newcomer to the world of anime sword fighting, Tanjiro has quickly become one of the most beloved characters in recent years. Tanjiro is a member of the Demon Slayer Corps, and he wields a sword made from a special ore that is particularly effective against demons. His sword fighting style is known as the Water Breathing technique, which allows him to move with fluidity and grace. Tanjiro's fighting skills are not just limited to his swordsmanship, as he also possesses enhanced senses and exceptional physical strength.

Tanjiro's sword is also one of the coolest in anime, with a unique design that includes a black blade and a guard resembling a circular, stylized flower. His sword, along with his exceptional fighting skills and unwavering determination, make Tanjiro one of the best anime sword fighters of all time.

10 - Aki Hayakawa - Chainsaw Man

In the world of Chainsaw Man, Aki Hayakawa is a force to be reckoned with. As a member of the Public Safety Devil Hunters, he wields his trusty katana with the grace of a master swordsman, slicing through his enemies with ease. But Aki's skills don't stop there – he possesses the extraordinary ability to peer into the future, giving him a supernatural edge in combat. With this power, Aki can anticipate his opponent's moves before they even make them, allowing him to outmaneuver even the most skilled fighters.

But Aki is more than just a fighter. He's a deeply empathetic person, fiercely loyal to his friends and always willing to put himself in harm's way to protect them. His sharp intellect also sets him apart, as he often devises complex strategies to overcome his adversaries. Aki's multifaceted personality makes him a complex and intriguing character, one that fans of Chainsaw Man can't get enough of.