Intelligent characters are evident in the world of anime. Some even exceed the minds of real-life intellects, including people like Einstein. However, it's not just the outspoken and articulately intelligent characters that are adored by fans, but also those who don't act like it. Stupidly intelligent characters often have the complete package, adding depth to the story with their wit, intelligence, and intriguing personalities.
There are a lot of smart characters and a list of stupid ones, but only a few are considered stupidly smart – the characters who act like they have no idea what's going on, but surprise everyone with their intelligence when it matters most. These characters stand out for their unique ability to combine seemingly foolish behavior with moments of pure brilliance. They may seem clueless, but they can outsmart everyone when it matters most. Their unpredictable nature keeps fans guessing, ensuring they remain memorable.
10
Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon)
Academically lazy but a heart-driven genius
Usagi Tsukino is a popular character from the 90s, and even today's youngest fans know her. Usagi's character has never been portrayed or perceived as someone intelligent. At first glance, most would describe her as strong and beautiful. She openly expresses her distaste for school, especially for subjects like math and English, where she always got the worst grades.
However, Usagi can stand out when she wants to. Unlike students who dedicate all their time studying for the entrance exam, Usagi managed to pass without much effort. Considering how challenging these exams are in the Japanese school system, this feat is impressive for those who have not dedicated themselves to studying. If her laziness didn't stop her often, she could achieve even more, more people would recognize her hidden brilliance.
9
Haru Yoshida (My Lovely Monster)
A better delinquent student
Haru Yoshida is a typical delinquent high school student with anger issues that make it difficult to build genuine relationships. But when his heroine, Shizuku, comes into his life and convinces him to return to school, her kindness is revealed alongside her hidden brilliance. Haru is far from being the type of nerdy student like Shizuku. However, despite his carefree personality, Haru easily beats Shizuku in exams and even tops his class without barely reading any content.
This surprising intelligence stems from the homeschooling Haru received when he was younger. Although his foundation was solid, Haru's ability to solve advanced mathematical equations beyond his grade level and retain this knowledge for years without studying proves that he is naturally gifted. His carefree nature often hides this talent, but it cements his place among stupidly intelligent characters.
A detective with a heart of gold
Hughes is one of the characters in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and brings a lot of humor to the series’ story. He is likeable and one of the characters who supported the brothers Edward Elric and Alphonse Elric. Approachable and kind, Hughes shows genuine care for everyone he meets.
.
But despite his laid-back attitude, Lieutenant Colonel Maes Hughes achieved his status thanks to his incredible intellect. His keen mind allowed him to uncover Amestris' military activities involving the Homunculus, exposing his sinister plans, which led to one of the saddest moments in history. Fullmetal Alchemist. Hughes isn't just smart — he's humorously smart, balancing his comedic charm with a brilliance that drives the story forward.
7
Vegapunk (one piece)
The intriguing scientific mind in the world of One Piece
Vegapunk, an intriguing character from One piece franchise, is the mind behind the Marines' most innovative advancements. As the lead scientist of the Special Science Group, Vegapunk was labeled the greatest scientific genius the world has ever known. Even with the mere mention of his name in previous arcs, many already admired the intelligence that Vegapunk possesses, despite never having witnessed it firsthand.
Vegapunk may be an otherworldly genius, but his personality sometimes contradicts that perception. Known for his eccentric and sometimes stray habits, he is the mastermind behind revolutionary creations like the Pacifista and advances in Devil Fruit technology. Despite his brilliance, Dr. Vegapunk tends to focus on big ideas, sometimes neglecting smaller, practical details, adding a different kind of complexity to his character.
6
Himura Kenshin (Samurai X / Rurouni Kenshin)
The Samurai with a great tactical mind
Himura Kenshin is a classic character from SamuraiXnow reintroduced in the remake Rurouni Kenshin. Kenshin is a samurai feared by many, although few know what he looks like – proving the adage “looks can be deceiving.” Despite being an incredible samurai, Kenshin doesn't boast about his skills. Instead, he remains soft-spoken, humble, and serene, making it difficult to believe he is the legendary Himura Battosai unless he reveals his abilities.
Although Kenshin dislikes attention and often acts funny or awkward around his friends, there is no denying that his intelligence is as formidable as his swordsmanship. Kenshin combines sharp battle strategies with empathy, never fighting emotions alone. His experiences as an assassin and wanderer have given him immense knowledge and intelligence, making him far smarter than most and able to outwit every opponent he faces.
5
Sakura Haruno (Naruto)
The Intelligent Kunoichi Who Defies Expectations
As part of Team 7, Sakura is often overshadowed by her teammates, Naruto and Sasuke, and her early actions created negativity surrounding her character. However, Sakura Haruno is one of the most intelligent characters in the seriesespecially considering she doesn't come from a powerful clan nor does she have any inherited abilities. She was always dedicated to following her ninja path, even if, at first, her main focus was seeking Sasuke's affection.
Sakura's intelligence allowed her to become the strongest kunoichi of her generation. Her sharp mind and exceptional chakra control made her a master of medical ninjutsu, a skill few could rival. Her ability to analyze and adapt in battle, combined with her resilience and determination, have made her a notable and indispensable part of her team and shinobi forces.
4
Osamu Dazai (Bungou Stray Dogs)
A cunning genius of the underworld and agency
Osamu Dazai adds humor and intrigue to the Bungou stray dogs. He is a renowned and trusted member of the Armed Detective Agency; however, his suicidal desires are met with humor by his friends and fans. Despite his humble and playful personality, Dazai is known for his exceptional abilities, including his ability No longer human.
As a former executive of an underworld organization, it was his intelligence that became the basis for his well-executed plans and negotiations. His strategic tactics are highly praisedearning the respect of his colleagues and the admiration of his fans. Dazai's intelligence, combined with his intelligence and charm, makes him a standout character who perfectly balances his humorous personality and dark, suicidal tendencies with his extraordinary brilliance.
3
King Bumi (Avatar: The Last Airbender)
The Eccentric Genie King
King Bumi is a fan favorite in Avatar: The Last Airbenderas he challenges the typical portrayal of elderly characters with his intelligence and strength. At first glance, he may seem like an eccentric and inappropriate king, but he quickly proves to be wiser than most in the series. Despite his playful and unpredictable behavior, King Bumi embodies the phrase: “Age does not define a person.”
Although he may appear senile to some, Bumi is remarkably open to possibilities and more cautious and patient than anyone when it comes to planning. He never takes a step without carefully considering the best strategy and the best time to secure victory. His unparalleled intellect led Aang to nickname him “Mad Genius,” a title that perfectly captures his unique combination of wisdom, intelligence, and strength.
2
Shikamaru Nara (Naruto)
Konoha's Greatest Strategist
Besides Sakura, Shikamaru is another intelligent character in naruto whose intellect went unnoticed in the early days of the series due to his lack of motivation and laid-back, lazy approach to life. However, as the story progressed, Shikamaru revealed his brilliant strategic mindusing it to overcome challenges and defeat formidable opponents.
Asuma, his sensei, introduced him to puzzles and mind games to demonstrate that Shikamaru's academy scores did not reflect his true genius – a fact proven by his IQ of over 200. His intelligence became a vital asset, especially following the death of his father during the Fourth Great Ninja War. Now, in Boruto: Naruto Next GenerationsShikamaru serves as Naruto's trusted advisor and is widely regarded as the smartest person in Konoha thanks to his unparalleled strategic skills and quick thinking.
1
Korosensei (assassination classroom)
An incomparable teacher
Korosensei stands out for his playful attitude towards Murder Classroombut behind his cheerful demeanor lies an incomparable genius. Even before gaining your abilities, Korosensei was hypercognitiveinstantly capturing complex information that others would have difficulty understanding. After acquiring his powers, his eidetic memory became extraordinary, allowing him to effortlessly learn and memorize anything – skills he used to help his students overcome their weaknesses and grow.
As the world's greatest assassin, Korosensei's brilliance is evident in how he always stays one step ahead of his students' meticulously planned assassination attempts. He excels at everything from teaching and programming to performing surgery, unleashing his students' potential at every step. To both his students and his fans, Korosensei is the ultimate genius, setting a benchmark in intelligence and showcasing a mind that truly knows no limits.