10 Anime Friendships That Are Actually Toxic

Friendship is a staple theme in anime that often champions loyalty and the power of bonds to overcome any obstacle. Many iconic duos are celebrated for their devotion to one another even when their dynamic is fundamentally unhealthy or destructive. Some relationships rely heavily on codependency while others are marred by manipulation and physical violence. Viewers often overlook the red flags in these connections because of the charisma of the characters or the compelling nature of the story.

‘Berserk’ (1997)

Griffith and Guts share a bond defined by possession and ambition rather than mutual respect. The animation by OLM highlights the stark contrast between the charismatic leader and the wandering mercenary. Griffith views Guts as belonging to him and cannot handle his friend seeking independence or finding a path of his own. This obsession eventually leads to one of the most devastating betrayals in anime history during the events of the Eclipse.

‘Death Note’ (2006–2007)

Light Yagami and L maintain a relationship built entirely on deception and a deadly game of intellectual supremacy. Madhouse brings this psychological warfare to life as the two geniuses constantly maneuver to expose or kill one another. They feign friendship to gain tactical advantages while secretly plotting the demise of their counterpart. Their interaction is less about camaraderie and more about intellectual vanity and the desperate need to survive.

‘Naruto’ (2002–2007)

Naruto Uzumaki chases Sasuke Uchiha for years despite repeated attempts by the latter to sever their bond violently. Studio Pierrot animates their intense battles that often result in severe physical harm to both parties. Sasuke constantly pushes Naruto away to pursue vengeance while Naruto refuses to respect those boundaries in his quest to save him. The foundation of their connection relies heavily on obsession and unilateral effort until the very end.

‘My Hero Academia’ (2016–)

Katsuki Bakugo subjects Izuku Midoriya to years of physical and verbal bullying due to his lack of a Quirk. The dynamic animated by Bones shows Midoriya admiring his tormentor despite the constant degradation and hostility. Bakugo struggles with an inferiority complex that manifests as aggression toward the one person who tries to be his friend. It takes a long time for their relationship to evolve beyond abuse and fear.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2007)

Lelouch and Suzaku find themselves on opposite sides of a war while hiding their true identities from each other. Sunrise depicts their tragic friendship that crumbles under the weight of lies and conflicting ideologies. Suzaku feels betrayed by the actions of Zero while Lelouch manipulates his friend to achieve his political goals. Their bond is marred by hypocrisy and the blood of the people they claim to protect.

‘Hunter x Hunter’ (2011–2014)

Gon Freecss and Killua Zoldyck appear to have a perfect friendship until the stakes get too high. Madhouse illustrates the subtle shift where Killua develops a codependent need to protect Gon at the cost of his own well being. Gon eventually disregards the feelings of his best friend during his descent into darkness and leaves Killua emotionally devastated. The imbalance in their emotional reliance makes their separation inevitable and necessary.

‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ (2011)

Homura Akemi traps herself in a time loop to save Madoka Kaname and loses her humanity in the process. Shaft utilizes surreal imagery to depict how Homura becomes possessive and controlling over the girl she wishes to protect. Her desire to keep Madoka safe transforms into an obsession that disregards the wishes of Madoka herself. The relationship shifts from protective affection to a stifling force that alters the laws of the universe.

‘Devilman Crybaby’ (2018)

Ryo Asuka manipulates Akira Fudo into merging with a demon to fulfill his own hidden agenda. Science SARU uses fluid and visceral animation to show how Ryo views humanity and his friend as tools for a grander scheme. Akira loses everything he loves because of the machinations orchestrated by the person he trusted most. The revelation of their true natures leads to a global apocalypse rather than a resolution.

‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ (1995–1996)

Shinji Ikari seeks validation and love from Kaworu Nagisa during a time of extreme mental fragility. Gainax portrays this brief connection as a setup for further psychological trauma for the young pilot. Kaworu reveals himself as an Angel and forces Shinji to choose between his friend and the survival of humanity. The betrayal destroys the little emotional stability Shinji had managed to build up to that point.

‘Attack on Titan’ (2013–2023)

Mikasa Ackerman devotes her entire life to protecting Eren Yeager and often ignores her own needs. Wit Studio captures the intensity of her attachment while Eren frequently dismisses her concern or treats her with coldness. He eventually pushes her away with cruel words to distance her from his genocidal path. Their relationship is defined by unrequited devotion and a tragic inability to communicate honestly until it is too late.

Tell us which anime duo you think has the most unhealthy dynamic in the comments.