Hero of the Week: Yusuke Urameshi

This week's hero is the hot blooded delinquent with a heart of gold. I could only be talking about the semi-misanthropic spirit detective, Yusuke Urameshi.



Yusuke is an intriguing hero. While he has some of the traits of an anti-hero, he really doesn't take that archetype to the extreme. This is odd when you take into account his casual acceptance as a misanthrope. He still saves those in trouble and fights those that are dangerous. In a way, Yusuke is a the delinquent version of Goku. He won't hesitate in a fight at all but his friends still take priority.

Another interesting trait is Yusuke's abnormal yet inconsistently high luck. He would not have one several fights (most notably Rando's) had it not been for his ridiculous luck. Of course, that same luck lead to two exhausting battles in a row.

With his smack talking and clever use of signature techniques, Yusuke usually ends up with some entertaining fights. Yeah, the spirit gun may just be "generic beam attack number 3384" but at least he looks badass performing it. In fact, I would say the fight against Toguro is one of the best fights in Shonen Jump history.

Overall, Yusuke is the standard shonen hero before that archetype became generic. Still, his social incompatibility yet charismatic demeanor make him stand out. Like I always say, actions are greater than personality.