Chuunibyou Demo Koi Ga Shitai – A romantic comedy about teenagers who once had wild, delusional fantasies, now navigating their past and forming new relationships as they deal with their embarrassing "chuunibyou" phases.
Rikka Takanashi is the main female protagonist of *Chuunibyou Demo Koi ga Shitai!*, known for her eccentric and fantastical personality. Suffering from "chuunibyou," or "eighth-grader syndrome," Rikka firmly believes she possesses the "Tyrant's Eye," a mystical power she imagines gives her supernatural abilities. Despite her outlandish behavior, Rikka is endearing and innocent, often using her delusions as a way to escape the pain of her past, especially regarding the death of her father. Her relationship with Yūta Togashi, who once suffered from the same syndrome, is central to the story as it helps her gradually face reality. Rikka’s growth throughout the series highlights her struggle between clinging to her fantastical world and learning to live in the present.
Nibutani Shinka is one of Rikka’s classmates and serves as a contrast to Rikka’s chuunibyou behavior. Although she used to suffer from chuunibyou in middle school, Shinka now tries to present herself as mature and popular, going to great lengths to distance herself from her embarrassing past. Despite this, Shinka still harbors a competitive and fiery side, particularly in her interactions with Dekomori, who constantly reminds her of her chuunibyou phase. Shinka’s character reflects the internal conflict of wanting to shed one’s past identity while still dealing with the remnants of who she used to be.
Dekomori Sanae is Rikka’s closest ally and another chuunibyou sufferer, fully immersed in her delusions. She idolizes Rikka, referring to her as "Master," and believes in the power of the Mjolnir Hammer, a set of long pigtails she uses as weapons in her delusions. Despite her childish and playful behavior, Dekomori is highly intelligent and excels academically. Her constant clashes with Shinka provide much of the comedic relief in the series. While Dekomori clings tightly to her chuunibyou persona, her character subtly develops as she begins to confront the realities of growing up, though she retains her playful nature.
Kumin Tsuyuri is a gentle and easygoing character who doesn’t suffer from chuunibyou but happily supports her friends in their quirky behaviors. Kumin is known for her love of sleeping and often brings a calming presence to the group. She is more of an observer in the group’s antics, providing a peaceful counterbalance to the chaos around her. Kumin’s simple and kind nature makes her a beloved member of the cast, and while she doesn’t participate in the delusions, her willingness to accept her friends’ oddities showcases her open-mindedness and care for them.