While it may seem that a single sword can be captivating, it’s hard to ignore the numerous swords that appear in the world of anime, particularly those related to combat. Whether it’s the katana from Japan in Demon Slayer or the large swords from medieval times in Black Clover and Berserk, swords in anime come in various shapes and sizes, and sometimes even represent abstract concepts in series like Fate.
In reality, it would be difficult to find an action anime that does not feature at least one memorable sword, which clearly illustrates the creative potential swords embody in anime, not just as tools for battle but also as key design elements of the main weapon.
Below are 7 of the most iconic swords in the anime world:
1. Dragon Slayer of Guts (Berserk)
It’s hard to find a sword more symbolic than Guts’ Dragon Slayer from Berserk. Although the sword itself appears quite simple, what gives the Dragon Slayer its significance is Guts’ sheer determination and the way he wields it to slay foes, making it feel much larger than it actually is.
2. Demon-Slayer Sword of Asta (Black Clover)
Asta’s Demon-Slayer Sword from Black Clover is a clear homage to Berserk, but with its unique red and black design and special properties, it creates a distinct style for Asta. Despite its smaller size, Asta skillfully wields this large sword with great agility. Additionally, this sword allows Asta to channel magic and cut through even the most powerful spells.
3. Ea/Sword of Rupture of Gilgamesh (Fate Series)
Despite its unusual appearance and departure from typical sword designs, the Sword of Rupture, also known as Ea, is one of the most powerful Noble Phantasms in the entire Fate series and may even be regarded as one of the most “legendary” weapons across all anime.
Ea embodies the concept of a sword that grants Gilgamesh unmatched power that cannot be replicated. Furthermore, this weapon can only be used by Gilgamesh himself, and even then, it is only wielded as a last resort in battle.
4. Nichirin of Rengoku (Demon Slayer/Kimetsu no Yaiba)
While Demon Slayer features many unique Nichirin swords, Rengoku’s sword is the most recognizable and symbolic within the series. Although Rengoku only appears in Season 2, he quickly leaves a lasting impression in viewers’ hearts after his final battle against Akaza.
Moreover, Rengoku’s sword continues to hold significant meaning in the series, with Tanjiro inheriting the flame-like sword style that is distinct to Rengoku and integrating it into his own fighting technique. If any sword captures the essence of Demon Slayer, it has to be Rengoku’s.
5. Split-Soul Katana of Toji (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Surprisingly, despite being a shonen action series, swords and blades in Jujutsu Kaisen are relatively rare, with the Split-Soul Katana of Toji being the most notable. This weapon first appears in the Hidden Inventory Arc, and Toji uses it multiple times throughout the series.
Although it may not stand out much on the surface, the Split-Soul Katana is quite powerful, possessing the ability to target the souls of its enemies, making it especially dangerous in combat. This sword ultimately played a pivotal role in the climactic battle against Sukuna, when Maki utilized an exact replica of it.
6. Zangetsu of Ichigo (Bleach)
Zangetsu, Ichigo’s Zanpakuto, is unlike any other sword in the entire series because it represents the fusion of Ichigo’s powerful Quincy heritage and his Hollow side. In its Shikai form, Zangetsu typically appears as a large black and white blade resembling a traditional sword. However, after Ichigo unlocks its true potential, Zangetsu manifests as a dual-blade sword that signifies the duality of its nature.
7. Yoru of Mihawk (One Piece)
While Zoro may wield many swords that are often seen throughout One Piece, such as Enma, Wado Ichimonji, and Sandai Kitetsu, the sword that holds the most symbolic significance in One Piece belongs to Mihawk, known as Yoru. Although Mihawk appears only a few times in the series, the sword is elaborately designed, and its reputation as the strongest swordsman in the world cannot be forgotten.
Besides its unique appearance, Yoru is also associated with its wielder’s fame, being recognized as one of the Supreme Grade swords, which are rare treasures in their own right.
Source: Comicbook
