Embracing the Shadows: The “Dark/Shadow Character” Poll Returns!
The Winter Solstice in 2025 falls on December 22nd.
Touji, or the Winter Solstice, is one of the Nijyuushisekki (Twenty-Four Solar Terms) that divide the year into 24 distinct seasons. It marks the day when the night is longest in the Northern Hemisphere.
As these long nights arrive, it’s the perfect time to turn our attention to characters who embody the essence of “darkness” and “shadow.” These captivating figures are often portrayed in myriad intriguing ways: some might wield formidable powers of darkness, while others prefer to don all-black attire, creating an air of mystery. Then there are those who truly come alive and showcase their full potential only in the dead of night. Their alluring presence often draws us in during this time of year, making us wonder about the depths of their power and their hidden agendas.
That’s why Anime!Anime! is excited to announce that we’re bringing back our popular reader poll after three years, asking: “Who comes to mind when you think of ‘Dark/Shadow Characters’?” This is a free-response poll, so we invite you to tell us which characters and their respective series you believe truly fit the bill!
Click here to participate in the poll!
*Eligible characters must appear in 2D content, including anime (TV broadcasts, movies, streaming, OVAs, etc.), games, CD series, and manga.
*Each person may submit only one response.
Basic information such as gender and age are optional fields, and you are welcome to participate without providing them. Everyone is encouraged to join in!
The deadline for submissions is December 3rd. We will publish the poll results as soon as they are compiled. Please look forward to seeing which shadowy figures rise to the top of the rankings!
Previous Poll Results: 2022 Edition
Want to see who topped the charts in our last poll?
Check out the 2022 results for “Dark/Shadow Characters”!
In the 2022 edition, Anime!Anime! asked our readers “Who comes to mind when you hear ‘Dark/Shadow Characters’?” The poll revealed fascinating results, with Cid Kagenou from Kage no Jitsuryokusha taking 3rd place, Kurohige from ONE PIECE in 2nd, and a surprising character claiming the top spot! Click the link above to discover who it was!
Please note: This poll is part of our ongoing research into reader interest and attention towards current anime works and characters. The results are not intended to determine superiority or inferiority among any characters or series. We sincerely hope that this article serves as an opportunity for you to discover new works and characters, or to deepen your understanding and interest in those you already know.
Written by Takahashi Katsunori
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