I’m a God. And you three… are trash.
Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) spoilers ahead!
Summary:
- Tengen appears in the first season, but is not revealed until the Entertainment District Arc.
- The hero's colorful appearance makes a great impression.
- The most important element is Tengen's story.
Few modern anime can compare to Demon Slayer in the number of hated yet loved characters. Even the main heroes are often criticized. But there are more stable favorites that are less often challenged and consistently remain at the top of popular character lists. One of them is Tengen Uzui. It may be surprising that such a defiant character is successful, but it seems that Tengen isn't just about brashness and flamboyance (but that's a big deal!).
Not the best, but still a strong Hashira
Tengen is a member of an elite fighter group who are the most formidable demon opponents. Although he is a minor character, Tengen has a big impact on the story. He appears in the first season during Tanjiro's trial, but is not revealed until the Entertainment District Arc. Here, he goes on a mission with the main characters trio. Though this arc is similar in concept to Mugen Train, where Rengoku served as a companion to Tanjiro, Zenitsu, and Inosuke, Tengen has more screen time and is shown better.
Tengen doesn't have much power compared to the other Hashiras. He admits his weakness himself. However, this character is unique. After getting injured in a battle with Gyutaro, he decides to retire and becomes one of the few Hashiras to survive after service.
Good details about him you may have missed
Tengen has many appealing traits. First of all, his eccentric character. But we can't say that he is always cheerful and resilient. What makes him so special is his balance. Mostly he is enthusiastic, but when necessary he gets serious. His very human traits and empathy are attractive. He realizes and points out to the main characters that there is no shame in being afraid. Many have noted Tengen's good dynamic with the main trio. It's not the usual mentor/apprentice relationship, but rather an unequal yet fun boss/subordinate interaction.
The hero's colorful appearance, with clothes adorned with jewelry, makes a great impression. The effect is heightened considering that Tengen is a shinobi and is supposed to blend in with the crowd rather than stand out with his individuality. His fighting style and skills are also very stylish. Most of his attacks are based on good hearing and his outstanding physical abilities. In battle, he uses Dual Nichirin Cleavers that appear to dance during attacks.
Perhaps the most important element that sets Tengen apart from other characters is his story. Unlike the other heroes, he didn't become a Hashira because his family was harmed by demons. His goal is to become better than his father and brother, who only recognize strength and don't spare even relatives. Tengen remains a kind and sensitive man despite his troubled past, where he constantly had to prove his strength.