Female characters in Neon Genesis Evangelion are one of the most iconic ones in anime.
This influential anime series, blends complex psychological themes with giant mechas and has some unforgettable characters.
Among its deep and dynamic cast, the female characters stand out for their multi-layered personalities, unique roles, and emotional arcs.
Here’s our list of the top 10 female characters in Evangelion, ranked based on their impact on the story, development, and overall fan appeal.
List of the Best Female Characters In Evangelion
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10. Kyoko Zeppelin Soryu
Kyoko Zeppelin Soryu, the mother of Asuka Langley Soryu, plays a pivotal yet tragic role in the series.
Her mental instability following a failed experiment with Evangelion Unit-02 led to her detachment from reality and her eventual suicide.
Although her screen time is limited, Kyoko’s backstory has a significant influence on Asuka’s character development.
As a key figure in Asuka’s troubled psyche, Kyoko’s importance to the narrative can’t be overlooked.
9. Maya Ibuki
Maya Ibuki is one of the cutest female characters in Evangelion. She is a core member of NERV’s technical team, responsible for monitoring the operations of the Evangelion units.
Her technical skills and loyalty to her superiors, particularly Dr. Ritsuko Akagi, make her an essential part of NERV’s operations.
Maya’s journey from a dedicated worker to someone who deeply questions the morality of NERV’s actions is subtly developed.
Her reluctance to accept the darker truths behind the Evangelions adds an interesting layer to her character.
8. Yui Ikari
Yui Ikari, the mother of Shinji Ikari and wife of Gendo Ikari, is a mysterious and integral figure in the Evangelion series.
Her decision to merge her soul with Evangelion Unit-01 during an experiment binds her to the very heart of the show’s narrative.
Yui’s influence over her son’s life, even from beyond the grave, and her pivotal role in shaping the events of the series, make her a fascinating character.
Though she appears primarily in flashbacks, her presence is felt throughout the series.
7. Ritsuko Akagi
Dr. Ritsuko Akagi is one of the most popular female characters in Evangelion. She is NERV’s chief scientist and a key player in the development of the Evangelion units.
As the daughter of Naoko Akagi, who was instrumental in creating the Magi supercomputer system, Ritsuko struggles with living up to her mother’s legacy while hiding her own emotional vulnerabilities.
Her unrequited love for Gendo Ikari and her eventual disillusionment with NERV add layers of complexity to her character.
Ritsuko’s journey from a confident scientist to a woman caught between her professional duties and personal conflicts makes her one of the more tragic figures in Evangelion.
6. Naoko Akagi
Naoko Akagi, Ritsuko’s mother, is another crucial figure in the series’ backstory.
As the chief architect of the Magi supercomputer system, Naoko’s genius was unmatched.
However, her emotional attachment to Gendo Ikari and her resentment toward Rei Ayanami (whom she realizes is a clone) lead to her ultimate downfall.
Naoko’s story is a cautionary tale of how emotions and ambitions can lead to one’s demise, and her actions have lasting consequences for both her daughter and the future of NERV.
5. Hikari Horaki
Hikari Horaki, is easily one of the best female characters in Evangelion.
She is Asuka’s best friend and the class representative of Shinji’s class, is a down-to-earth character who brings a sense of normalcy to the otherwise chaotic world of Evangelion.
Despite her minor role in the larger story, Hikari’s strong sense of responsibility and kindness shine through in her interactions with others, especially Asuka.
Her relationship with Toji Suzuhara adds a sweet and humanizing element to the series, providing a glimpse of what life could be like outside of NERV’s dark undertakings.
4. Mari Makinami Illustrious
Introduced in the Rebuild of Evangelion films, Mari Makinami Illustrious brings a refreshing energy to the cast.
Unlike the other pilots, who are burdened with psychological trauma, Mari is upbeat and seems to genuinely enjoy piloting the Evangelion units.
Her carefree attitude, combined with her impressive combat skills, makes her a fan favorite.
Though her character is still somewhat mysterious, Mari’s presence adds a new dynamic to the otherwise serious tone of the story.
3. Misato Katsuragi
Misato Katsuragi, NERV’s operations director and caretaker of Shinji, is one of the most complex female characters in Evangelion.
Her outwardly confident and carefree personality hides a deep well of trauma and guilt stemming from the Second Impact, which killed her father.
Misato’s relationships with Shinji, Kaji, and the other members of NERV reveal her emotional struggles and need for connection.
As both a mentor and a flawed human being, Misato’s development throughout the series makes her one of the most beloved characters in Evangelion.
2. Rei Ayanami
Rei Ayanami, the enigmatic and emotionless pilot of Evangelion Unit-00, is one of the most iconic characters in anime history.
As a clone created from Yui Ikari’s DNA, Rei’s existence raises profound questions about identity, humanity, and purpose.
Over the course of the series, Rei slowly begins to develop emotions and form connections, particularly with Shinji.
Her journey from a seemingly soulless entity to a character who contemplates her own individuality is one of the most compelling arcs in Evangelion.
1. Asuka Langley Soryu
Asuka Langley Soryu, the fiery and confident pilot of Evangelion Unit-02, is arguably the most memorable female character in Evangelion.
Her strong personality, combined with her deep insecurities, creates a complex character who struggles with feelings of inadequacy and abandonment.
Asuka’s arc is one of intense emotional highs and devastating lows, culminating in a mental breakdown that reveals the fragility behind her brash exterior.
Her relationship with Shinji and her journey toward self-acceptance make her the most compelling female character in the series.
Conclusion
Evangelion features some of the most fascinating and multi-dimensional female characters in anime, each contributing to the show’s exploration of psychological themes and human emotions.
From the mysterious Rei Ayanami to the fiery Asuka Langley Soryu, these characters have left a lasting impact on fans and the genre alike.
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