14 Anime Battles Featuring Non-Binary Warriors as MVPs

Anime has increasingly embraced diverse gender identities and provided a stage for non-binary and gender-ambiguous characters to shine in combat. These warriors often possess unique abilities that challenge the traditional power dynamics of their respective universes. The battles listed here showcase moments where these characters took control of the battlefield through strength, strategy, or sacrifice. This collection highlights the most memorable conflicts where gender-non-conforming heroes and villains proved they were the most valuable players.

‘That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime’ (2018–Present)

Rimuru Tempest faces the starving Orc Disaster in a clash of ideals and magical power. The slime warrior uses the Predator skill to absorb the enemy attacks and cleanse the Orc Lord of his sins. This battle showcases Rimuru as a benevolent ruler who turns enemies into allies through understanding. The victory cements the Jura Tempest Federation as a major power in this fantasy world.

‘Soul Eater’ (2008–2009)

Crona engages Maka Albarn in a dark cathedral under the influence of the witch Medusa and the Black Blood. The Meister wields the demon sword Ragnarok to unleash erratic and devastating attacks against the scythe user. Maka eventually uses her soul wavelength to reach the terrified child trapped inside the madness. The fight ends with an emotional breakthrough rather than a fatal blow.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Yamato clashes with Kaido on the rooftop of the Skull Dome in a fierce display of Haki and physical strength. The warrior identifies as Oden and uses a mythical wolf fruit to trade heavy blows with the Emperor of the Sea. This confrontation proves vital in tiring out the dragon while Luffy recovers for the final round. Yamato fights with the resolve to free Wano Country from years of tyranny.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Hange Zoë leads a desperate charge against the colossal Wall Titans to buy time for the alliance. The commander maneuvers with exceptional skill while taking down multiple massive enemies using Thunder Spears. This sacrifice allows the remaining scouts to reach the flying boat and escape the rumbling destruction. Hange demonstrates the heart of the Survey Corps by giving everything for the future of humanity.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Neferpitou confronts Kite in a dense forest to test the limits of their newfound Nen abilities. The chimera ant displays a terrifying aura that instantly signals an overwhelming difference in power. Kite sacrifices himself to allow Gon and Killua to escape the monster. This off-screen massacre establishes Neferpitou as a primary threat for the rest of the arc.

‘Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood’ (2009–2010)

Envy battles Colonel Roy Mustang in an underground chamber filled with rage and flames. The homunculus shapeshifts into a giant green monster but cannot withstand the relentless fire alchemy. Mustang incinerates the enemy repeatedly until Envy is reduced to a tiny and helpless form. The conflict highlights the destructive nature of vengeance and the pitiful reality of the jealous sin.

‘Land of the Lustrous’ (2017)

Phosphophyllite leads a defense against the Lunarians after gaining new alloy arms and faster legs. The gem warrior moves with unprecedented speed to slice through the cloud hunters before they can capture the others. Phos showcases a drastic evolution from a clumsy observer to a front-line combatant. This battle marks the beginning of a loss of innocence and a physical transformation.

‘Naruto’ (2002–2007)

Orochimaru challenges the Third Hokage inside a barrier during the invasion of the Hidden Leaf Village. The Sannin summons the First and Second Hokage from the dead to psychologically and physically torment his former teacher. Hiruzen is forced to use the Reaper Death Seal to remove the arms of the snake villain. The duel ends in a stalemate that saves the village but costs the Hokage his life.

‘One Piece’ (1999–Present)

Bon Clay stays behind in Impel Down to face Warden Magellan so the prisoners can escape through the Gates of Justice. The martial artist uses the Mane Mane no Mi to impersonate the warden and order the gates to open. This selfless act pits the exhausted warrior against a poison user with no hope of survival. The sacrifice remains one of the most touching displays of friendship in the series.

‘Jujutsu Kaisen’ (2020–Present)

Uraume intervenes in the Shibuya Incident to freeze multiple sorcerers instantly with the Frost Calm technique. The ancient curse user effortlessly immobilizes Choso and Yuji Itadori to pave the way for Sukuna. Their control over ice is precise enough to shatter limbs without killing the targets immediately. This display of power establishes Uraume as a loyal and dangerous servant to the King of Curses.

‘Tiger & Bunny’ (2011)

Fire Emblem gets trapped in a massive stadium battle against formidable android opponents. The hero uses flamboyant fire techniques to hold the line while protecting the other heroes from being overwhelmed. Nathan Seymour reveals a tough resilience beneath a campy persona during the high-stakes combat. The fight proves that Fire Emblem is a veteran who can handle serious threats.

‘Mobile Suit Gundam 00’ (2007–2009)

Tieria Erde pilots the heavy assault Virtue Gundam against the combined forces of the world superpowers. The Innovade utilizes the GN Bazooka to wipe out fleets of enemy mobile suits in a single blast. Tieria later reveals the hidden Nadleeh Gundam during a critical moment to disable enemy systems. The battle highlights the tactical versatility and immense firepower of the Celestial Being pilot.

‘Darwin’s Game’ (2020)

Sui and the soul of her deceased brother Souta fight the Florist in a tactical urban battle. They switch control of their body to utilize water manipulation for both defense and freezing attacks. The duality allows them to trap the enemy armor in ice while maintaining high mobility. This unique combat style catches the experienced Florist off guard.

‘Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun’ (2019–Present)

Opera steps onto the battlefield to defend the students during the Walter Park crisis against giant magical beasts. The security devil uses physical combat skills to overpower the monsters without relying on flashy magic. Every movement is precise and calculated to humiliate the savage creatures. The fight demonstrates why Opera is feared even by high-ranking demons.

Tell us which of these powerful warriors is your favorite in the comments.