Several anime characters are surprisingly bright, despite their apparent lack of intelligence. The heroes of these stories aren't the type to rely solely on brute force or dumb luck. They have sharp minds and use them to get through tough situations. They succeed because of their intelligence and ability to plan well in advance.
These people are underappreciated, but they always manage to outwit their opponents. These anime characters may initially come across as innocent but don't be fooled. They are more perceptive and resourceful than they appear.
9 Kiyotaka Ayanakoji (Classroom Of The Elite)
Kiyotaka Ayanakoji is Classroom of the Elite's main character, and is in Class D at the Advanced Nurturing High School. He is also an accomplished manipulator, a skill he employs in a wide range of situations. He has a reputation for being cold and emotionless, but he also shows compassion and empathy for his fellow students, when he needs to.
Kiyotaka confuses his teachers and peers because he has a high IQ, but doesn't have anything that makes him stand out. He thinks things through methodically and analytically. In addition, he has excellent observational skills that allow him to monitor his environment with ease.
8 Joseph Joestar (Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure)
Joseph Joestar is the main character in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure 2. Jotaro Kujo is his son, and he is also the grandson of Jonathan Joestar. Joseph is a formidable combatant who draws from a wide range of martial arts and uses a technique that he calls the Ripple to fight.
Joseph is a wayward, mischievous character who gets out of jams by using his wits and quick reflexes. Many of Joseph's enemies make the mistake of underestimating his intelligence, and eventually pay the price for it. Joseph may have a playful nature, but he is also a strong and loyal ally who will do anything to protect his friends and family.
7 Gintoki (Gintama)
Gintoki Sakata, a samurai from the Joui War, is the founder and head of the Yorozuya, a self-employed odd-jobs service team. Gintoki is a free-thinking man who is often seen with a cigarette in his mouth and a wooden sword in his hand, which is against the rules of the Edo era.
Gintoki is a multifaceted character who seems like a slacker, but is actually a lot more intelligent than he initially appears. He is a master strategist who often resorts to deception and cunning to solve difficult challenges. He is also an accomplished martial artist and swordsman who can hold his own against any foe.
6 Nana Hiiragi (Talentless Nana)
At first glance, Nana Hiiragi seemed to be a talented student thanks to her telepathic abilities. Without parents or relatives, she is seen as a helpless orphan. In reality, she is an elite assassin ordered to investigate the sudden appearance of "talentless" people with superhuman skills, despite the widespread belief that she has any innate abilities herself.
Nana is a clever and cunning person, capable of remaining cool and rational under pressure. In this series, she is a master thinker and tactician who frequently uses her wit and experience to outmaneuver her rivals. Her intelligence and cunning make her easy to ignore, yet she actually possesses considerable strength.
5 Osamu Dazai (Bongu Stray Dogs)
The Armed Detective Agency is led by detective Osamu Dazai. He holds the record for becoming the youngest executive of the Port Mafia ever. He has a high level of intelligence, analysis, and cunning and can draw correct conclusions from sparse facts.
His opponents and even some of his allies respect his brilliance and wit. He takes life easy and doesn't sweat the small stuff. He's smart and crafty, yet he makes blunders and struggles with despair, which has led to multiple suicide attempts.
4 Matsuda (Death Note)
Detective Matsuda is a pivotal character in the events of Death Note. He helps the crew in their pursuit of the mysterious killer known only as Kira. He's a very smart and driven private investigator. He is completely devoted to his job and regularly puts himself in danger to make arrests.
Matsuda is revered for his keen perception, sharp intuition, and unwavering commitment to the Task Force. Matsuda is a smart guy, yet he often makes sloppy, tired mistakes at work because of his intelligence. It's common for him to serve as comic relief.
3 Hermes (Danmachi)
Hermes, a god, leads the Hermes family. During the course of his long life, he has accomplished much and seen more. Hermes, a master tactician, is frequently active behind the scenes of events unfolding in the Danmachi world.
Hermes' ability to strategize creatively in games is a valuable asset that helps his family succeed. As a master of disguise, he employs this skill frequently in his intelligence gathering. Hermes is no stranger to deception and scheming. Whether dealing with gods or mortals, he usually has them both playing right into his hands.
2 Gon (Hunter X Hunter)
Gon Freecss, a brave and extraordinarily talented adolescent, sets off on a quest to find his fabled Hunter father. Due to his status as a phenomenal hunter, he possesses powers beyond those of mortal men. On the road, Gon meets many people who end up helping him in his quest.
Although Gon has a reputation for being dimwitted, he often manages to impress with his intelligence and insight when the timing is right. His special skill with Nen grants him access to a wide variety of supernatural energies. He constantly outdoes himself because he is so intent on proving his doubters wrong.
1 Minako Aino, aka Sailor Venus (Sailor Moon)
Sailor Venus, or Minako Aino, is the main character in the Sailor Moon series and the commander of the Sailor Senshi. She is the 'Soldier of Love and Beauty.' The most powerful of the five Inner Senshi, she was discovered by Usagi Tsukino as the fourth Sailor Senshi.
Minako Aino is surprisingly bright and witty. Despite her easygoing demeanor, she is analytical, resourceful, and capable of quickly resolving complex situations. She also has impressive skills as a musician, athlete, and artist. Her ability to think on her feet and come up with novel solutions has gotten the Sailor Scouts out of numerous sticky situations.