Here’s a list of 20 anime friendships that feel authentic and truly resonate with viewers

Jujutsu Kaisen

Here’s a list of 20 anime friendships that feel authentic and truly resonate with viewers:

1.      Naruto and Sasuke (Naruto)

A complex friendship defined by rivalry, love, and mutual understanding, despite numerous clashes. Their friendship is rooted in a shared sense of loneliness and the desire for belonging, but their differing paths—Naruto's pursuit of peace and Sasuke's quest for revenge—often put them at odds. Despite betrayals and battles, their bond endures, symbolizing the power of understanding and forgiveness in even the most fractured relationships.

2.      Gon and Killua (Hunter x Hunter)

These two friends grow together, with their bond deepening through shared struggles and adventures. Their friendship stands out because of how they grow alongside each other. Killua learns compassion and emotional openness from Gon, while Gon finds strength and loyalty in Killua. Their unwavering support during life-threatening situations showcases the importance of trust and shared growth in a friendship.

3.      Edward and Alphonse Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)

Brothers who are also best friends, they support each other through everything. As brothers and best friends, their relationship is built on a foundation of shared trauma and a mutual goal: to restore their bodies. Edward's fierce protectiveness and Alphonse's quiet strength highlight how they complement each other, showing that true friends are those who support you through every challenge.

4.      Ash and Pikachu (Pokémon)

Their bond goes beyond friendship; it’s a deep partnership built on trust and loyalty. Starting with a rocky relationship, Ash and Pikachu grow to trust each other completely. Their partnership is a testament to the idea that bonds transcend words and species, built instead on shared experiences, sacrifices, and unwavering loyalty.

5.      Yuji, Megumi, and Nobara (Jujutsu Kaisen)

A trio that has each other's backs in both battle and life, displaying genuine concern and camaraderie. This trio’s dynamic captures the essence of modern camaraderie. Their banter, mutual respect, and willingness to risk their lives for each other demonstrate a deep bond that strengthens as they face life-and-death battles together.

6.      Tanjiro and Nezuko (Demon Slayer)

The love between these siblings drives Tanjiro to protect Nezuko at all costs, and they share a powerful emotional connection. The sibling relationship between Tanjiro and Nezuko is an emotional core of the series. Tanjiro’s relentless drive to protect Nezuko, coupled with her unwavering trust in him despite her demonic transformation, illustrates the profound power of family as the ultimate friendship.

7.      Luffy and Zoro (One Piece)

These two are fiercely loyal to one another, with Zoro willing to sacrifice himself to protect Luffy. Zoro’s decision to join Luffy’s crew is followed by moments of extraordinary loyalty, such as his willingness to endure pain to protect his captain. Their friendship exemplifies the kind of loyalty where actions, not words, prove the strength of the bond.

8.      Tohru and Kyo (Fruits Basket)

Their friendship turns into a deep emotional bond, where they support each other’s growth.   Tohru’s unwavering belief in Kyo’s humanity and potential helps him overcome his inner turmoil, while Kyo’s eventual support of Tohru demonstrates mutual emotional growth. Their friendship is a testament to the healing power of kindness and understanding.

9.      Natsu and Happy (Fairy Tail)

Natsu’s friendship with his talking cat Happy is full of light-hearted moments and unwavering loyalty. Natsu and Happy’s friendship adds levity and warmth to the series. Despite the playful teasing, their loyalty and shared sense of adventure demonstrate that friendship doesn’t always need grand gestures—it can be found in the everyday moments of joy and trust.

10.  Simon and Kamina (Gurren Lagann)

Kamina's belief in Simon helps Simon gain the confidence to lead, and their friendship becomes a symbol of growth and perseverance. Kamina’s faith in Simon inspires Simon to believe in himself, even after Kamina’s death. Their bond exemplifies how friendships can transform us, leaving an indelible mark that continues to drive us long after the friend is gone.

11.  Sakura and Tomoyo (Cardcaptor Sakura)

Tomoyo’s unwavering support and kindness for Sakura makes their friendship heartwarming and inspiring. Tomoyo’s devotion to Sakura is pure and selfless, rooted in admiration and love. Her quiet, unwavering support reminds us that true friendship isn’t about seeking reciprocation but about being there for someone through thick and thin.

12.  Yato and Yukine (Noragami)

Despite their rough start, they grow to become incredibly close, learning to trust and care for each other. Their rocky start, marked by conflict and mistrust, evolves into a deep friendship as they learn to rely on and understand one another. This journey of growth and reconciliation highlights how friendships can become stronger through hardship.

13.  Shinji and Kaworu (Neon Genesis Evangelion)

A brief but powerful connection, Kaworu's acceptance of Shinji gives him emotional support during his darkest times. In a world filled with despair, Kaworu’s acceptance and kindness toward Shinji offer a rare moment of solace. Their connection, though brief, shows how even fleeting friendships can have a profound impact during life’s darkest moments.

14.  Misaka and Kuroko (A Certain Scientific Railgun)

Kuroko’s dedication to Misaka may be comedic at times, but their bond is genuine and filled with trust. While Kuroko’s admiration for Misaka often takes a comedic turn, her dedication to protecting and supporting her friend showcases a deeper layer of their bond. Their relationship strikes a balance between light-heartedness and sincerity.

15.  Maka and Soul (Soul Eater)

Their partnership as weapon and meister transcends into a true friendship based on understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses. As meister and weapon, their bond is built on mutual understanding and synchronization, but it goes beyond duty. Their friendship emphasizes the importance of accepting each other’s strengths and flaws, proving that trust is the foundation of any partnership.

16.  Ryuko and Mako (Kill la Kill)

Mako’s enthusiasm and loyalty keep Ryuko grounded, even in the wild world they live in.

Mako’s unwavering enthusiasm and support act as a grounding force for Ryuko. Their friendship illustrates the value of having someone who believes in you unconditionally, even in a chaotic world.

17.  Okabe and Mayuri (Steins;Gate)

Okabe is fiercely protective of Mayuri, and their long-standing friendship is one of the core emotional threads of the show. Her gentle presence and his determination to keep her safe highlight the sacrifices we make for those we love.

18.  Rintarou and Itaru (Steins;Gate)

Despite their eccentric personalities, these two share a long history and unshakable friendship that helps them through even the darkest of timelines. Their friendship is built on shared unconventionalities and a history of working together. Despite their quirks, they support each other through challenging times, proving that even the most unconventional bonds can be unshakable.

19.  Eren, Mikasa, and Armin (Attack on Titan)

Look I know what he ultimately did but… this trio’s friendship evolves through numerous trials, but their bond is one of the few constants in their harsh world. Despite their differing perspectives and paths, their loyalty to one another endures, showcasing the resilience of friendship in a harsh and changing world.

20.  Saitama and Genos (One Punch Man)

While Genos idolizes Saitama, their relationship grows into a bond of mutual respect, with Genos looking up to Saitama as both a friend and mentor. Saitama’s casual yet dependable nature complements Genos’s intensity, creating a balanced and endearing dynamic.