Why Do Fans Downplay Attack on Titan Characters?

The tendency to downplay characters from Attack on Titan (AOT) in favor of characters from other series like Demon Slayer or Tokyo Ghoul is a common phenomenon in the anime and manga community. This article explores the reasons behind this behavior, focusing on character popularity, power scaling discrepancies, and misunderstanding of AOT's themes.

Character Popularity and Fandom

Fans of other series often feel the need to elevate their favorite characters by arguing that they could defeat characters from AOT. This mindset creates a competitive atmosphere where fans strive to assert the superiority of their preferred series. For example, fans of Demon Slayer might argue that Tanjiro Kamado could defeat AOT's main characters, believing his exceptional skills and exceptional weaponry give him an advantage.

Powerscaling Discrepancies

Vast differences in power systems between different anime and manga contribute to these debates. Characters like Tanjiro and Ken Kaneki, from Demon Slayer and Tokyo Ghoul respectively, possess abilities that can be interpreted in multiple ways, leading to heated discussions and debates. Fans often use these discrepancies to argue that their characters are superior to AOT characters, claiming that Tanjiro could easily defeat Eren Yeager or Mikasa Ackerman with his blade and sheep sword techniques.

Misunderstanding of AOT’s Themes

AOT focuses heavily on moral and survival themes, with characters often facing challenging situations and complex moral dilemmas. Some fans might overlook the depth and complexity of AOT characters, instead focusing on more straightforward power feats from other series. However, the strength of AOT characters lies not only in their physical abilities but also in their resilience, morality, and determination to survive against overwhelming odds.

Hyperbolic Claims and Crossover Comparisons

Many fans engage in hyperbolic claims and crossover discussions without substantial evidence or basis in the lore or character development of the respective series. For instance, some might claim that a character from Tokyo Ghoul, like Ken Kaneki, could easily defeat an AOT Titan. These unfounded claims are often more about fan enthusiasm than evidence-based reasoning.

Context and Evidence in Debates

It is essential to consider the context of each character's abilities, the narrative they exist within, and the thematic elements of their stories. Engaging in respectful discussions and providing evidence for claims can lead to more productive conversations about these characters. For example, the vulnerability of AOT's characters to sword cuts, as noted in the original text, should be balanced with the intricate plot and the characters' growth throughout the series.

Conclusion

The debate over character strengths in the anime community is often influenced by fandom, power discrepancies, and misunderstandings of themes. By acknowledging the complexity of characters and narratives, we can engage in more meaningful and respectful discussions. Whether it is Tanjiro from Demon Slayer or Eren from AOT, each character brings unique strengths and challenges to the series they inhabit.