The main characters of Parasyte are one of the key elements in making the anime so successful. The work based on the manga produced by Hitoshi Iwaaki released in the 1980s is a little more recent, having seen the light of day in 2014, but it has still captivated both new and old fans. In today's article, you will check out the 7 most iconic characters of the franchise to learn a little more about them in the anime! Are you ready to embark on this adventure with us?
Shinichi Izumi
Shinichi Izumi, as the protagonist, is one of the main characters of Parasyte. He begins the story as a shy and reserved student, living an ordinary life until he is infected by a parasite called Migi, which lodges itself in his right arm.
At first, Shinichi is seen as fragile due to his concern for people, his clumsiness, and even his paralyzing fear of insects. This event completely changes his trajectory, forcing him to deal with a brutal and dangerous reality. As the story progresses, Shinichi undergoes a significant transformation, developing courage and determination to face the parasites that threaten humanity.
His connection to Migi puts him in constant moral conflict, challenging his own vision of humanity. Among the most striking moments are his struggle to protect those he loves and the emotional losses he faces along the way. Shinichi wins over fans for the way he represents the internal struggle between the human and the inhuman.
Satomi Murano
Satomi Murano is one of the main characters in Parasyte and plays a crucial role as Shinichi Izumi's childhood friend and love interest. Her kind and compassionate personality provides strong emotional support for Shinichi, who struggles to balance his humanity with the changes brought about by Migi's presence.
Satomi is one of the few figures who still represents a connection to Shinichi's human side, becoming a source of comfort amidst the chaos and confusion that the parasites cause. However, her relationship with Shinichi is often marked by fear and doubt, as he worries how the truth about his transformation may drive her away.
Despite her deep connection with Shinichi, Satomi never learns of the existence of Migi or the true extent of the secrets Shinichi carries. This secret becomes an emotional wedge between the two, as Shinichi fears that revealing his true nature could lead to the loss of Satomi.
Migi
Migi is one of the most interesting main characters in Parasyte, playing a central role in infesting Shinichi Izumi's right hand. Unlike other parasites that seek to take complete control of their host, Migi was unable to lodge itself in Shinichi's brain, allowing him to retain his individuality.
As a result, Migi has developed a unique bond with Shinichi, functioning more as an ally than an enemy. His rational and calculating personality contrasts with Shinichi's emotional nature, making their work together complementary but also challenging. Despite being a parasite, Migi does not have the primal desire to consume humans, focusing instead on survival and protecting Shinichi.
Reiko Tamura
Reiko Tamura is one of the main characters in Parasyte, known as a high school teacher who is possessed by a parasite. Her personality is distinct from other parasites in that she initially displays no emotions, but after giving birth, she becomes increasingly maternal. Her transformation and compassion towards her child show a human connection that many parasites lack.
Ryoko is the parasite who assumes her identity, using her intelligence to understand the nature of both humans and parasites. Unlike Reiko, Ryoko is cold and calculating, seeking to ensure her survival and reinforcing the division between humans and parasites. Her most memorable moments involve direct confrontations with Shinichi and other characters, highlighting her role as a difficult and strategic antagonist.
Gotou
Gotou is one of the main antagonists of Parasyte, an extremely powerful and mysterious parasite. His strength and abilities make him a huge threat to Shinichi and Migi, putting them in life-or-death situations. Created from the fusion of five different parasites, Gotou combines their powers into a body that surpasses the limits of the other parasites.
As one of the main characters in Parasyte, Gotou is the result of experiments led by Reiko. His unique body allows him to manipulate the powers of the five parasites that compose him. This makes him a formidable antagonist, responsible for increasing the conflict between humans and parasites.
Kana Kimishima
Kana Kimishima is one of the main characters in Parasyte who is known for her rebellious and disobedient attitude. Having a crush on Shinichi Izumi, her unrequited affection becomes a source of emotional conflict in the plot. Even though Shinichi never reciprocates her feelings, Kana's death leaves a profound impact on her journey.
As a major character in Parasyte, Kana symbolizes the innocent victims who suffer in the midst of conflict. Her tragic death remains one of the most defining moments in the series, generating emotional tension that influences Shinichi's development.
Takeshi Hirokawa
Takeshi Hirokawa is one of the main characters of Parasyte, being the leader of a cabal of parasites that includes figures such as Reiko and Gotou. As the mayor of East Fukuyama City, he is a human who sympathizes with the parasites. His influential stance and decisions generate significant conflict in the plot, especially due to his support and connection to the parasites.
As the leader of the cabal, Takeshi Hirokawa plays a pivotal role in the unfolding conflict between humans and parasites. Hirokawa's influence leaves a lasting impact on the narrative, representing a different perspective within the struggle for control and survival.
Conclusion
There's no denying that each of the main characters in Parasyte are the soul of the series. If you've already watched the anime, leave your favorite in the comments! Take a look at it too our article about the cast of the anime Fieren! We're sure you'll like it too!
Questions that might interest you
Who is the strongest villain in Parasyte?
The main villain of the series is the character Gotou.
Which human characters have the biggest impact on the story of Parasyte?
The humans who have the greatest influence on history are Shinichi Izumi, Kana Kimishima and Takeshi Hirokawa.