Let's explore some of the most prominent male anime characters with one eye who have left an indelible mark on the anime landscape.
1. Ken Kaneki (Tokyo Ghoul)
Perhaps one of the most famous modern examples, Ken Kaneki from Tokyo Ghoul embodies the transformation and struggle associated with losing an eye – or rather, gaining a ghoul eye. Initially a timid college student, a near-fatal encounter with a ghoul forces him to undergo a transplant, merging ghoul organs with his human body. This event irrevocably changes him, granting him ghoul abilities but also plunging him into a world of conflict and identity crisis.
Kaneki's left eye, initially his normal human eye, becomes a ghoul eye – a crimson iris with a black sclera, often hidden beneath an eyepatch. This transformation is central to his character development. His journey is one of grappling with his dual nature, the horrors he must commit to survive, and the profound loneliness that comes with being neither fully human nor fully ghoul. His struggle resonates deeply, making him a compelling figure for anyone interested in characters who navigate extreme circumstances. The visual of his ghoul eye, often revealed in moments of intense emotion or combat, is a powerful symbol of his inner turmoil and burgeoning power. His evolution from a victim to a formidable, albeit tormented, entity is a testament to the narrative potential of such a defining characteristic.
2. Ciel Phantomhive (Black Butler)
Ciel Phantomhive, the young Earl of Phantomhive and protagonist of Black Butler, possesses a distinctive pentagram-shaped contract mark in his right eye, which is usually covered by his hair or an eyepatch. This eye is the physical manifestation of his pact with the demon Sebastian Michaelis. In exchange for his soul and servitude, Sebastian aids Ciel in his quest for revenge against those who wronged his family.
Ciel's single visible eye, often portrayed as sharp and calculating, reflects his determined and often ruthless nature. The covered eye, holding the key to his demonic contract, represents the immense burden he carries and the dark path he has chosen. His intelligence, cunning, and unwavering resolve are all amplified by this visual element. The contrast between his youthful appearance and the profound darkness he’s involved in makes him a fascinating character. The mystery surrounding his contract and the power it wields adds layers to his persona, making him a prime example of how a single, covered eye can symbolize a deep, unspoken pact and a life irrevocably altered. His quest for vengeance is fueled by a profound loss, and the mark in his eye is a constant reminder of the price of his pursuit.
3. Ryuk (Death Note)
While not a human character in the traditional sense, the Shinigami Ryuk from Death Note is an indispensable part of the narrative and possesses a distinctive avian-like eye. Ryuk is the original owner of the Death Note that Light Yagami finds. He is depicted with large, often unnerving, yellow eyes that seem to hold an ancient, detached amusement.
Ryuk's single, dominant eye is a window into his otherworldly nature. He observes the unfolding events with a mixture of curiosity and boredom, often finding human endeavors, particularly Light's god complex, highly entertaining. His perspective is alien and amoral, and his singular eye serves as a constant reminder of his detachment from human concerns. He is a catalyst for the story, a cosmic observer whose presence fundamentally alters the lives of those around him. His character highlights how a unique physical trait can underscore a character's fundamental role and perspective within a narrative. Ryuk’s fascination with apples and his capricious nature are as much a part of his identity as his striking eyes.
4. Kakashi Hatake (Naruto / Naruto Shippuden)
Kakashi Hatake, the elite ninja and mentor from the Naruto series, is arguably one of the most iconic one-eyed characters in anime. His left eye is covered by his forehead protector, revealing a Sharingan – a powerful dōjutsu gifted to him by his dying friend, Obito Uchiha. This transplanted eye grants him incredible visual prowess, allowing him to copy jutsu and predict movements.
Kakashi's covered eye is a constant source of intrigue. The reveal of the Sharingan is a pivotal moment, symbolizing his connection to Obito, his past trauma, and the immense power he wields. His reputation as the "Copy Ninja Kakashi" stems directly from this ability. Despite the power it grants, the Sharingan also carries a burden, constantly reminding him of his failures and the friends he has lost. His calm, laid-back demeanor often masks the weight of his experiences, and the single visible eye, often depicted with a slight wink or a knowing gaze, adds to his enigmatic charm. The visual of his uncovered Sharingan eye, a deep red with concentric circles, is instantly recognizable and synonymous with his formidable skill set. He’s a character who masterfully balances immense power with profound personal loss, making him a beloved figure.
5. King Bradley / Wrath (Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood)
King Bradley, also known as Wrath, the Führer of Amestris in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, is a formidable antagonist defined by his piercing gaze and the "Ultimate Eye" located in his right eye. This eye, capable of seeing everything and predicting movements with uncanny accuracy, is a testament to his nature as a Homunculus created for destruction. The eye is marked by a unique symbol and is never covered, serving as a constant symbol of his overwhelming power and his role as the embodiment of Wrath.
Bradley's single, unblinking eye is a terrifying feature that strikes fear into his opponents. It represents his absolute control, his predatory nature, and his unwavering dedication to his mission. He is a master swordsman, and his Ultimate Eye allows him to anticipate every move, making him nearly invincible in combat. His character is a chilling exploration of power unchecked and the consequences of manipulating life itself. The visual of his eye, often shown gleaming with a cold, calculating light, perfectly encapsulates his ruthless efficiency and his status as a supreme predator. His ability to perceive weaknesses and exploit them makes him one of the most dangerous adversaries in the series.
6. Guts (Berserk)
Guts, the Black Swordsman from the dark fantasy epic Berserk, is a character defined by his immense strength, his tragic past, and his iconic missing left eye, replaced by a prosthetic with a cannon. After a brutal ordeal during the Eclipse, Guts loses his left eye and is forever branded by the Brand of Sacrifice. His remaining right eye is often depicted as filled with rage and sorrow.
Guts's single eye, along with his prosthetic, is a powerful symbol of his enduring will to survive and his relentless pursuit of revenge against Griffith. The loss of his eye is just one of the many horrors he has endured, and it serves as a constant reminder of the trauma he carries. Despite his disfigurement, Guts remains an indomitable force, his rage fueling his every action. His character is a profound exploration of trauma, resilience, and the struggle against overwhelming darkness. The visual of his scarred face and the menacing prosthetic eye perfectly capture the brutal, unforgiving nature of the world he inhabits and his own fierce determination. He is a warrior forged in the fires of suffering, and his single eye bears witness to the countless battles he has fought, both external and internal.
7. Sanji (One Piece)
Sanji, the chef of the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece, typically keeps his left eye covered by his hair. While not a physical loss or a supernatural mark, this stylistic choice adds to his suave and mysterious persona. When his eye is revealed, it’s often in moments of intense action or when his emotions run high.
Sanji's covered eye contributes to his enigmatic aura. He is known for his chivalry, his incredible kicking techniques, and his unwavering loyalty to his crew. The mystery surrounding his eye adds a layer of intrigue to his character, making fans wonder what lies beneath. Unlike others on this list, his covered eye doesn't necessarily signify trauma or a curse, but rather a deliberate choice that shapes his image. His dedication to his craft and his fierce protectiveness of Nami and Robin further endear him to fans, making the occasional glimpse of his eye a moment of heightened anticipation. His character arc often involves confronting his past and his family, and the reveal of his eye can sometimes coincide with these significant plot points.
8. Roronoa Zoro (One Piece)
Another prominent Straw Hat Pirate, Roronoa Zoro, famously sports a scar across his left eye, which he keeps closed. This scar was inflicted by Dr. Mihawk during their first encounter, a brutal lesson that solidified Zoro's resolve to become the world's greatest swordsman.
Zoro's closed eye is a powerful symbol of his ambition and the price he has paid to achieve his goals. The scar is a constant reminder of his defeat and the immense gap in skill he needed to overcome. His unwavering determination to surpass Mihawk fuels his rigorous training and his relentless pursuit of strength. While the exact nature of what lies behind the closed eye remains a subject of fan speculation, it undeniably adds to his intimidating presence and his reputation as a formidable warrior. His commitment to his dream is absolute, and the scar serves as a visual testament to his unwavering dedication. He is a character who embodies the spirit of perseverance, and his closed eye is a badge of honor earned through sheer willpower.
9. Cyclops (X-Men - Anime Adaptations)
While primarily a Marvel character, Cyclops has had numerous anime adaptations where his signature optic blasts are a defining feature. Scott Summers, also known as Cyclops, has a genetic mutation that causes him to emit powerful concussive blasts from his eyes. To control this uncontrollable power, he must wear specialized ruby-quartz visors or glasses.
Cyclops's "one eye" in terms of controlled power is his visor, which conceals the destructive force within. His inability to control his mutant ability from birth forces him into a life of constant vigilance and suppression. This makes him a character who constantly battles his own inner nature, striving to use his power for good while fearing its destructive potential. His leadership role within the X-Men often involves making difficult decisions, and the visual of his visor is intrinsically linked to his burden of responsibility. He represents the struggle to control immense power and the sacrifices required to protect others. The ruby quartz is not just a tool, but a symbol of his self-discipline and his commitment to a cause greater than himself.
10. Kagetane Hiruko (Black Bullet)
Kagetane Hiruko from Black Bullet is a particularly menacing example of a one-eyed character. As a "Gastrea," a powerful supernatural being, he possesses a distinctive red eye that is a source of his formidable abilities. His entire demeanor is one of predatory menace, and his single, piercing eye perfectly encapsulates this.
Kagetane's red eye is not just a visual characteristic; it's a symbol of his monstrous nature and his dangerous capabilities. He is a charismatic yet utterly ruthless antagonist, and his single eye seems to bore into his opponents, conveying a chilling lack of empathy. His character serves as a stark reminder of the monstrous threats faced by humanity in the Black Bullet universe and the blurred lines between human and monster. His fighting style is brutal and efficient, and his eye is often the last thing his victims see. He embodies the terrifying potential of unchecked power and the primal nature that lurks beneath the surface.
