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The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists


In many stories, the main characters are often paired together, but this doesn’t always mean they are the best match.

Sometimes, the character with the more appealing personality or deeper feelings for others ends up overlooked. Just because someone is the hero or heroine doesn’t automatically make them the best match for each other.

In anime, it’s common for the main couple to have a relationship that seems unhealthy or problematic, yet it is often portrayed as ideal.

This can be frustrating for fans who see better potential matches for these characters, but the story often pushes the main couple as the perfect pair regardless of their dynamic.

Fans frequently notice that many anime characters have more fitting romantic options around them than the ones they end up with.

Despite this, the main couple’s relationship is frequently celebrated, even if it’s not the healthiest or most genuine connection.

The reasons for disliking certain anime relationships can vary widely. Sometimes, the issues are glaringly obvious,  other times, the reasons are more subtle and subjective.

Debates about these less-than-ideal anime pairings often arise, and the fact that people argue about them shows that these relationships are not universally accepted.

Whether the reasons are clear-cut or more nuanced, the disagreements highlight how certain pairings can affect the enjoyment of a series.

1) Misa and Light’s Doomed Relationship in Death Note 

Misa Amane, despite her kind and loyal nature, ended up feeling more like a follower of Light than an equal partner.

Throughout Death Note, she was treated increasingly poorly, almost as if she was just another tool in Light’s plan to become the god of his ideal world.

Their relationship lacked genuine feelings, and it was clear that neither Misa nor Light truly cared for each other in a meaningful way.

Misa’s devotion to Light came from her gratitude for avenging her parents, but that loyalty led her down a tragic path.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Misa and Light’s Doomed Relationship in Death Note (MADHOUSE)

She could have found happiness with someone who valued her more, as Light only used her for his own gain.

Their relationship was never built on mutual affection, and they would have been better off with different people.

Interestingly, many fans of the series believed that Light and L would have made a stronger pair, as their dynamic was far more compelling.

While the idea of them being together never became reality, the chemistry between Light and L continues to spark discussions among fans, showing how much more engaging their connection was compared to Light’s with Misa.

2) Sasuke and Sakura A Love Story That Never Quite Connected in Naruto 

From the start, fans realized that Sasuke wasn’t the best match for a romantic relationship. His troubled past and tragic life made it difficult for him to connect with anyone emotionally.

Even though he ended up marrying Sakura, who spent much of her character arc expressing her love for him, their relationship lacked real depth and felt emotionally distant.

The bond between Sasuke and Sakura, despite having a child together, never seemed truly genuine. Their relationship comes across as forced, with little emotional connection between them.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Sasuke and Sakura A Love Story That Never Quite Connected in Naruto (Studio Pierrot)

Many feel that both characters would have been better off with partners who matched their personalities or goals more closely, rather than being together for the sake of their shared history.

Sakura and Naruto didn’t need to end up together either, as her feelings for Naruto mirrored the unrequited love she experienced with Sasuke.

Both relationships seemed like attempts to satisfy fans, but over time, these pairings no longer felt necessary or authentic, leaving their romantic stories feeling somewhat hollow.

3) Subaru and Rem’s Unexplored Romance in Re:Zero 

In many stories, the main characters are often paired together, but this doesn’t always mean they are the best match.

Sometimes, the character with the more appealing personality or deeper feelings for others ends up overlooked. Just because someone is the hero or heroine doesn’t automatically make them the best match for each other.

In anime, it’s common for the main couple to have a relationship that seems unhealthy or problematic, yet it is often portrayed as ideal.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Subaru and Rem’s Unexplored Romance in ReZero (White Fox)

This can be frustrating for fans who see better potential matches for these characters, but the story often pushes the main couple as the perfect pair regardless of their dynamic.

Fans frequently notice that many anime characters have more fitting romantic options around them than the ones they end up with.

Despite this, the main couple’s relationship is frequently celebrated, even if it’s not the healthiest or most genuine connection.

4) The Unfulfilled Love of Kayo Hinazuki in Erased 

In the series, Kayo Hinazuki ends up with Hiromi Sugita, a kind childhood friend. Their relationship is pleasant and supportive, but it’s not the main issue.

The real problem is that the series builds up a romance between Kayo and the protagonist, Satoru Fujinuma.

Satoru travels back in time to prevent Kayo from being killed by a teacher who turns out to be the villain. As he tries multiple times to save her, he and Kayo develop a deep and meaningful connection.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
The Unfulfilled Love of Kayo Hinazuki in Erased (A-1 Pictures)

Despite his efforts, Satoru gets badly injured and falls into a coma for 13 years. When Satoru finally wakes up, he finds that Kayo has already married Hiromi.

While he is glad to see Kayo happy, there is a lingering sense of disappointment because their potential romance was never fully realized.

5) Tatsumi and Mine’s Relationship Falls Flat in Akame ga Kill! 

In Akame ga Kill!, Tatsumi had several potential romantic partners, including characters like Esdeath and Leone, who each showed some level of affection towards him.

However, Tatsumi ended up with Mine, which surprised many fans. Their relationship seemed forced because there was minimal chemistry between them throughout the series.

Mine often mocked Tatsumi, and it wasn’t until her final moments that she revealed her feelings for him.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Tatsumi and Mine’s Relationship Falls Flat in Akame ga Kill! (White Fox)

Although Mine could be seen as a decent choice for Tatsumi, their relationship never had a chance to grow naturally.

Most of the series focused on their dynamic without developing it into something deeper. This lack of development left fans puzzled about their eventual pairing.

Other pairings might have been more interesting. For instance, Tatsumi and Esdeath could have made a more dynamic couple.

Their relationship had the potential to offer more drama and excitement, making it a more compelling choice than the rushed conclusion with Mine.

6) Ichigo and Rukia a Better Fit Than Orihime in Bleach 

The debate over who Ichigo should have ended up with is a big topic among Bleach fans. In the end, Ichigo ends up with Orihime, but many believe he would have been better with Rukia.

The Ichigo-Rukia pairing has strong support because their relationship seems more interesting and meaningful.

Ichigo and Orihime do care about each other, but their relationship has issues. For most of the series, Ichigo interacts with Orihime mainly when he needs to save her, rather than showing real interest in her.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Ichigo and Rukia a Better Fit Than Orihime in Bleach (Studio Pierrot)

Orihime’s personality is more passive and unsure compared to Rukia’s, which makes their relationship feel uneven.

Her feelings for Ichigo often seem idealized and not very realistic. In contrast, Ichigo and Rukia’s relationship feels more balanced and genuine.

Rukia gave Ichigo his powers, and their bond is built on mutual trust and respect, with some friendly teasing.

Their dynamic appears more natural and grounded, which is why many fans think Ichigo and Rukia would have been a better match.

7) Raku’s Heart Truly Belonged to Kosaki in Nisekoi 

Just because Raku and Chitoge were the main characters in Nisekoi didn’t mean they had to end up together.

From the start, neither of them wanted to be together, and they only got closer due to the situations they were forced into.

Throughout the series, Raku’s feelings were uncertain, but it was clear he had a deeper understanding and connection with Kosaki, who he had made a childhood promise to.

Raku’s relationship with Chitoge felt strained compared to the healthy friendship he had with Kosaki. His bond with Kosaki seemed more natural and genuine, making it hard to see why he would eventually choose Chitoge.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Raku’s Heart Truly Belonged to Kosaki in Nisekoi (Shaft)

It felt unnatural when Raku suddenly realized his feelings for Chitoge went beyond friendship, despite his long-standing crush on Kosaki.

Kosaki appeared to be the better match for Raku in every way. She shared a strong history with him, and their connection was much more solid than the rocky relationship he had with Chitoge.

Many fans felt that Raku and Kosaki should have been the couple in the end.

8) Akito and Shigure’s Toxic Love in Fruits Basket 

Akito, the main antagonist of Fruits Basket, spent much of the series causing pain to the Sohma family.

Even though she was a victim of emotional abuse, she chose to lash out at those who cared about her, especially the Zodiac members.

Shigure seemed to be the only one with romantic feelings for Akito, but their relationship was far from healthy.

Their connection was built on a cycle of revenge. Akito, feeling incapable of forming real emotional bonds, slept with someone else to punish Shigure for loving her.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Akito and Shigure’s Toxic Love in Fruits Basket (Studio DEEN)

In response, Shigure had an affair with Akito’s mother, which only deepened the dysfunction between them.

By the end of the series, Akito and Shigure appeared to come to terms with their actions and moved forward together.

However, their relationship remained troubled. The idea that they belonged together didn’t quite excuse the harmful ways they treated one another throughout the story.

9) Future Letters Altered Naho and Kakeru’s Love Story in Orange 

Without the letters from her future self, it’s hard to imagine how things might have turned out for Naho.

In the original timeline, she naturally moved towards Kakeru but struggled to help him emotionally because her feelings weren’t deep enough.

Meanwhile, Naho had a stronger and more meaningful connection with Suwa, which made their eventual pairing seem more fitting.

Suwa’s willingness to let Naho and Kakeru grow close, despite his own feelings, shows his kind and selfless nature.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Future Letters Altered Naho and Kakeru’s Love Story in Orange (Telecom Animation Film)

He allowed them to get closer so they could help Kakeru, which highlights his beautiful heart and his dedication to helping those he cares about.

An ideal setup for the anime could have been a future where Kakeru survived, but Naho and Suwa ended up together.

Their relationship seemed healthier and more promising, making it a fitting conclusion to their story.

10) Miroku’s Persistent Harassment of Sango in Inuyasha 

In the relationship between Miroku and Sango from Inuyasha, there is a serious issue with how Miroku treats Sango.

He frequently disrespects her boundaries by making inappropriate comments and touching her without consent.

This behavior continues even before they begin dating, making his actions quite disturbing.

Despite Sango’s clear objections to Miroku’s behavior, they eventually develop a romance, get married, and have children.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Miroku’s Persistent Harassment of Sango in Inuyasha (Sunrise)

This progression feels unrealistic given how much Sango opposed Miroku’s actions early on.

The relationship sends a troubling message that persistent harassment might eventually lead to success.

Instead of showing respect, Miroku’s actions suggest that continually ignoring someone’s boundaries could somehow lead to a positive outcome.

11) Kyousuke’s Choice of Kirino Over Kuroneko Feels Unfair in My Little Sister Can’t Be This Cute

Kyousuke Kousaka has several romantic options, but he ends up focusing on his sister, Kirino. The anime even includes a symbolic wedding ceremony for them, though it’s not legally valid since they are siblings.

This decision is unsettling for many viewers and doesn’t get better upon closer examination, even for those interested in such themes.

Kirino frequently treats Kyousuke badly and shows no thanks for his efforts to support her. This harsh treatment makes their relationship hard to appreciate.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Kyousuke’s Choice of Kirino Over Kuroneko Feels Unfair in My Little Sister Can’t Be This Cute (AIC Build)

Meanwhile, Kyousuke had a healthy and promising relationship with Kuroneko, but he suddenly develops feelings for Kirino, leaving Kuroneko out of the picture.

Even though the show is titled My Little Sister Can’t Be This Cute, hinting at its unusual direction, the development of the story still feels random and unfair.

Kyousuke’s sudden shift in affection seems abrupt and disappointing, leading to a less satisfying storyline for many fans.

12) Tomoya Aki’s Choice of Megumi Kato Feels Like a Letdown in Saekano

Tomoya Aki’s eventual choice of Megumi Kato as his partner in Saekano seems almost unavoidable given the anime’s premise.

While Megumi is a kind and pleasant character, their relationship lacks depth and common interests, making it feel like a less fulfilling outcome. Their pairing doesn’t offer a strong foundation or much excitement.

Meanwhile, two other female characters, Eriri and Utaha, are notably absent from Tomoya’s final choice. Eriri, in particular, has a complex and intriguing history with Tomoya.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Tomoya Aki’s Choice of Megumi Kato Feels Like a Letdown in Saekano (A-1 Pictures)

As his childhood friend, she distanced herself from him to avoid ridicule for her love of anime, which left him isolated and vulnerable.

Exploring their past issues and working on a meaningful relationship could have been a compelling storyline.

The decision to exclude Eriri and Utaha from the romantic conclusion is disappointing. Their characters have rich backstories and emotional depth that could have led to a more engaging and nuanced relationship with Tomoya.

The opportunity to explore these unresolved issues and develop a stronger bond was missed.

13) Yuki and Kaname’s Complicated Romance in Vampire Knight 

Vampire Knight was often compared to Twilight for its intense love triangle. Yuki was caught between Kaname, the charming vampire, and Zero, the more brooding and caring one.

Fans were amazed by the drama of Yuki’s indecision until she ultimately made her choice.

Despite Zero being a more genuine and devoted partner, Yuki chose Kaname, who was also her ancestor.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Yuki and Kaname’s Complicated Romance in Vampire Knight (Studio DEEN)

Zero’s deep feelings and strong bond with Yuki made him the better choice in many fans eyes. His genuine care and trust stood in contrast to Kaname’s allure and ancestral connection.

In the end, Zero’s sincere affection seemed more deserving than Kaname’s status and complicated background.

Many felt that Yuki’s choice to be with Kaname overlooked the true value of Zero’s unwavering loyalty and friendship.

14) Rin Kaga’s Romance with Her Adoptive Father in Bunny Drop 

When Rin Kaga and Daikichi Kawachi first meet, Rin is grieving the loss of her father, and Daikichi, who is her father’s grandson, decides to adopt her.

This setup is clearly not meant to be romantic. However, in the manga Bunny Drop, their relationship becomes romantic, which upset many readers.

Initially, Daikichi refuses Rin’s desire to marry and have children, but once he learns they are not related by blood, he changes his mind.

Daikichi does explore other romantic possibilities, such as pursuing a relationship with a woman named Yukari.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Rin Kaga’s Romance with Her Adoptive Father in Bunny Drop (Production I.G)

Unfortunately, Yukari turns him down because her teenage son does not approve of her dating.

In a different situation, Yukari might have had a conversation with her son and agreed to date Daikichi, or Daikichi could have looked for romantic partners among other adults.

In the end, it seems strange that Daikichi, who has spent ten years raising Rin, ends up in a romantic relationship with her.

Many people feel that Daikichi could have found a suitable partner among many other people, rather than choosing someone he has raised since childhood.

15) Kyouya Wasn’t the Best Match for Erika in Wolf Girl and Black Prince 

Erika and Kyouya’s relationship is a troubling example of toxic love in anime. Built on lies and emotional manipulation, it’s difficult to understand why Erika chooses Kyouya, especially since he continues to disrespect her throughout their relationship.

Unlike other bad boy characters who grow after meeting the right girl, Kyouya remains emotionally distant and justifies his bad behavior by saying he’s still learning to be a good boyfriend.

Erika would have found much more happiness with Yu Kusakabe, a shy but kind-hearted boy who genuinely cared for her.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Kyouya Wasn’t the Best Match for Erika in Wolf Girl and Black Prince (TYO Animations)

While Yu wasn’t as flashy or popular as Kyouya, he treated Erika with the respect she deserved.

His quiet concern for her well-being made him a far better match than Kyouya, who never showed the same level of kindness or sincerity.

Yu even voiced his disapproval of how Kyouya treated Erika, showing he truly had her best interests at heart.

While Kyouya never really changed, Yu offered a healthier, more supportive relationship, which would have given Erika the love and respect she needed.

16) Mamoru’s Disrespectful Behavior Towards Usagi in Sailor Moon 

Usagi Tsukino and Mamoru Chiba’s relationship in Sailor Moon is often seen as problematic despite their destined love story.

When they first meet, Usagi is a 14-year-old middle school student and Mamoru is a 17-year-old college student.

He often mocks her appearance, eating habits, and other personal traits, creating a relationship dynamic that is far from healthy.

Although Usagi also throws some jabs, this doesn’t improve the quality of their interactions.

The situation worsens in Sailor Moon R when Mamoru breaks up with Usagi after having a prophetic dream that suggests their relationship will lead to her death.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Mamoru’s Disrespectful Behavior Towards Usagi in Sailor Moon (Toei Animation)

Instead of being honest with her, he lies and claims he no longer loves her, causing unnecessary heartbreak.

It is later revealed that this was a test orchestrated by his future self, who sent the dreams to his past self, causing confusion and emotional turmoil for the teenage Usagi.

Ultimately, after a brief reunion that results in Chibiusa’s birth, it seems the relationship should have ended.

Usagi’s evident attraction to Haruka suggests she might be open to dating other people, potentially leading to more fulfilling relationships.

Given that her fellow Sailor Scouts are supportive and friendly, exploring relationships with them could have been a better path for Usagi and would likely offer a more positive experience for viewers.

17) Akari Deserved a Happy Ending with Jiro in More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers 

In many romance anime, the pretty, hot-headed girl who seems to look down on the less popular guy is often secretly in love with him.

In such cases, it’s usually more rewarding to root for the childhood friend who has always had a crush on the male lead and is more approachable.

However, in More Than A Married Couple, Akari didn’t get a happy ending. Akari faced a tough situation: she didn’t end up with the boy she initially liked, and she also lost Jiro, whom she grew to love.

The 20 Worst Romance Choices by Anime Protagonists
Akari Deserved a Happy Ending with Jiro in More Than a Married Couple, But Not Lovers  (studio MOTHER)

The anime hinted at a potential future for Jiro and Shiori with a passionate kiss, suggesting they might start dating or already have.

The series concluded on an uncertain note, but Jiro not being with Akari felt like a real emotional letdown.

It left fans with a bittersweet feeling, knowing that Akari’s hopes were dashed while other characters seemed to find their own paths.

18) Yuki Judai’s Girlfriend Makes Him Betray His Friends in Yu-Gi-Oh! GX 

At the end of Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, the story takes a very dark turn. Yuki Judai follows his friend Johan Andersen into a hellish alternate dimension.

There, Judai is taken over by a powerful being who makes him commit terrible actions, like enslaving and killing thousands of card spirits and nearly destroying his friends.

Even though these victims come back to life later, the trauma from these events remains. The being controlling Judai is Yubel, his girlfriend from a past life.

Jealous of the attention Judai was giving Johan, Yubel kidnaps Johan and forces Judai to commit these horrific acts.

Yuki Judais Girlfriend Makes Him Betray His Friends in Yu Gi Oh GX
Yuki Judai’s Girlfriend Makes Him Betray His Friends in Yu-Gi-Oh! GX (Studio Gallop)

Yubel’s motivation is her desire to be accepted back into Judai’s life. Since Yubel no longer has a physical body, she lives inside Judai and affects his behavior and personality.

Judai accepts this terrible situation because he had loved Yubel before and she had made significant sacrifices for him.

With Yubel living inside him, she helps him win card games but also makes him isolate himself from everyone who cares about him.

This dark conclusion contrasts sharply with what many fans hoped for, such as Judai overcoming Yubel and continuing his positive relationships with characters like Johan, Asuka, or others.

19) Nakagami’s Sacrifice for Hiromi Yuasa Misses the Mark in True Tears 

Shinichirou Nakagami ends up in a relationship with Hiromi Yuasa, a classmate who moves in with him after her father’s death.

Shinichirou is determined to help Hiromi overcome her grief and return to her cheerful self. However, this relationship feels less compelling when compared to his dynamic with Noe Isurugi.

Shinichirou’s first encounter with Noe is rocky, as she curses him for making fun of her. Despite this rough start, they quickly become close friends, supporting and motivating each other to improve.

Nakagamis Sacrifice for Hiromi Yuasa Misses the Mark in True Tears
Nakagami’s Sacrifice for Hiromi Yuasa Misses the Mark in True Tears (P.A. Works)

At one point, they even date, but they break up due to Shinichirou’s feelings for Hiromi.

While Shinichirou’s desire to help Hiromi is commendable, it shouldn’t be the main reason for their relationship.

His bond with Noe, who offers genuine mutual inspiration, might have been a better fit. Shinichirou’s pursuit of Hiromi, driven by his wish to heal her, ultimately makes their relationship less convincing.

20) Takeru and Hikari Not Ending Up Together Feels Like a Crime in Digimon Adventure: Last Evolution Kizuna 

While Digimon wasn’t primarily about romance, it did become part of the story’s ending. In the anime’s epilogue, Sora and Matt got married, which led fans to wish for a similar outcome for Takeru and Hikari.

Although Takeru and Hikari never had a romantic relationship, their close age and shared upbringing made them seem like a natural couple.

However, the epilogue showed that Takeru and Hikari ended up marrying other people. The anime didn’t reveal who these partners were, but it was clear that Takeru and Hikari didn’t view their relationship in a romantic light.

Takeru and Hikari Not Ending Up Together Feels Like a Crime in Digimon Adventure Last Evolution Kizuna
Takeru and Hikari Not Ending Up Together Feels Like a Crime in Digimon Adventure Last Evolution Kizuna (Yumeta Company)

This disappointed fans who hoped they would end up together. Many fans believed Takeru and Hikari would have been the perfect couple.

Their strong bond and history together made them an ideal match, so their not being paired up left a lot of viewers feeling let down.

Memes of the Day

Hitozuma Volley-bu no Asedaku S*X 

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