Overview
- Momo Ayase harnesses spiritual abilities to combat extraterrestrial and yokai threats, often coming to her friends’ rescue.
- Seiko Ayase, dubbed Santa Dodoria, is a nurturing grandmother who offers invaluable support to Momo and her companions.
- Ken Takakura, transformed into Okarun, acquires formidable powers but struggles to fully harness them.
Yukinobu Tatsu’s Dandadan presents a captivating world where extraterrestrials coexist with the mystical realm of yokai. The series is not only noted for its imaginative universe but also for its eclectic characters, each showcasing distinct combat techniques essential for survival in a perilous environment rich with supernatural entities. What truly sets these characters apart is how they wield their abilities to leave a lasting impact.
Despite the diverse talents of the characters, they are not all equally formidable. In this analysis, we will examine the most powerful characters in the anime focusing on their influence, combat skills, adaptability, and overall impact within the narrative.
The following rankings are based solely on characters introduced in the first season of Dandadan; characters only briefly featured in the finale will not be included, as they remain unfamiliar to viewers who only follow the anime.
7. Momo Ayase
Seiko Ayase’s Granddaughter
- Manga Debut: Chapter 1
- Anime Debut: Episode 1
- Race: Human
Raised under the guidance of her grandmother, Seiko Ayase, Momo was forced into public rituals from a young age. Initially ridiculed for these practices, her relationship with Seiko became complicated. However, these rituals ultimately became a source of strength, unlocking Momo’s spiritual powers in moments of crisis.
“Come at me, I’m gonna beat the living sh*t out of you.” Momo’s journey as a combatant against aliens and yokai highlights her growth as she defends herself and rescues friends from perilous situations. With continued development, she possesses the potential to follow in Seiko’s footsteps as a skilled spirit medium.
6. Seiko “Santa Dodoria” Ayase
The Motherly Spirit Medium
- Manga Debut: Chapter 1
- Anime Debut: Episode 3
- Race: Human
Widely recognized as Santa Dodoria, Seiko Ayase embodies both playful and nurturing traits as Momo’s grandmother. Despite her somewhat brash demeanor, her genuine compassion for those around her shines through.
During Momo’s paranormal endeavors, Seiko provides unwavering support and guardianship, demonstrating her spiritual wisdom and kindness that extends even to yokai and aliens.
5. Ken “Okarun” Takakura
Momo’s Best Friend
- Manga Debut: Chapter 1
- Anime Debut: Episode 1
- Race: Human
Ken Takakura, having faced bullying throughout his youth, turned to alien conspiracy theories as a means of escape, hoping to make a connection with extraterrestrial beings. His life takes a turn when he meets Momo Ayase.
“I’m an awkward fellow after all.” Ken eventually inherits the powers of Tubo Granny, a formidable yokai, showcasing his untapped potential even if he struggles to effectively wield these abilities.
4. Acrobatic Silky
The Struggling Mother Who Became a Lost Yokai
- Manga Debut: Chapter 13
- Anime Debut: Episode 6
- Race: Spirit
Acrobatic Silky’s life was marred by tragedy, culminating in her untimely death, leading her to become a yokai. Her haunting of Aira Shiratori stems from a mix of regret and nostalgia for her lost daughter. In a moment of realization, she sacrifices her aura to revive Aira, triggering the flood of her past memories.
Her intense encounter with Momo and Okarun showcases her strength, establishing her as one of the anime’s most powerful spirits.
3. Mr. Mantis Shrimp
The Enemy-Turned-Friend
- Manga Debut: Chapter 20
- Anime Debut: Episode 8
- Race: Unknown Alien Race
Known as Peeny-Weeny, Mr. Mantis Shrimp is an alien who, after losing his wife, faces overwhelming challenges to provide for his son. He becomes embroiled in the oppressive work environment crafted by the Serpoians.
Following their defeat, Seiko Ayase assists in his son’s recovery, fostering a sense of gratitude in Mr. Mantis Shrimp. As he joins Momo and Okarun’s team, he proves his physical prowess, even if his tactical skills leave something to be desired.
2. Serpo Dover Demon Nessie
Serpo Arc’s Main Antagonist
- Manga Debut: Chapter 23
- Anime Debut: Episode 9
- Race: Serpo (Alien)
Created out of desperation by Serpo, the Serpo Dover Demon Nessie is a hybrid that merged elements of the Dover Demon and Nessie, fashioned to challenge Momo, Okarun, and Aira. This formidable creature possesses both aquatic agility and immense strength.
Ultimately, it falls to the combined efforts of Momo, Okarun, and Aira to bring it down, pushing their powers to their limits in a climactic showdown.
1. Turbo Granny
The Dangerous Yokai From Shono City
- Manga Debut: Chapter 1
- Anime Debut: Episode 1
- Race: Spirit
Turbo Granny, notorious for her speed and malicious nature, has left a trail of fear in her wake across Japan. Known to inflict mental harm gleefully, her backstory reveals a more nuanced character; she harbors compassion for young girls who met tragic ends, offering solace where she can.
While Momo and Okarun manage to outwit her in a climactic encounter, it is evident that Turbo Granny stands as one of the strongest yokai, further solidifying her place in Japanese folklore.
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