"Analysis of the EVA Pilots in Neon Genesis Evangelion: Who's the Best?"
Exploring the EVA pilots in Neon Genesis Evangelion
In Neon Genesis Evangelion, the ability to pilot an EVA is a crucial aspect of humanity's survival. However, not all pilots have the same ability or opportunity to demonstrate their potential. Toji, for example, never had the chance to show his skills due to unfortunate circumstances. Shinji, the protagonist, constantly struggles with fear and anxiety, which hampers his performance. On the other hand, Mari stands out as the strongest pilot, demonstrating impressive skills and bravery in battle.
Who is the best EVA pilot?
Neon Genesis Evangelion is not a typical shonen franchise, where the focus is on becoming more skilled and powerful. However, fans often debate who is the best EVA pilot. The franchise features different pilots in its different continuities - the original 90s anime series and the 2010s movie reboot, Rebuild of Evangelion. Both continuities feature pilot characters who do not appear in the other, making the comparison somewhat complex. This analysis will attempt to reconcile the two continuities and create a ranking of all the EVA pilots ever seen in anime form, classified by their ability and strength in piloting an EVA unit.
Toji Suzuhara: The driver who never had a chance to shine
Introduced as a classmate of Shinji's, Toji Suzuhara is revealed as the Fourth Son, destined to pilot Unit EVA-03. However, Unit 03 is defeated before it even enters battle, being infected by the Angel Bardiel. Toji barely survives after Unit 01 defeats Unit 03. Unfortunately, Toji never gets the chance to show off his piloting skills.
Shinji Ikari: A pilot whose skill never really grows
Shinji Ikari, the protagonist of the series, is dominated by fear and anxiety, which hinders his performance in real battles. Despite showing some moments of bravery, Shinji can't fully overcome his psychological problems. In Rebuild, Shinji is a better pilot, but still not good enough to outperform the other pilots.
Kaworu Nagisa: A pilot with almost unparalleled synchronization
Kaworu Nagisa, the fifth child and last EVA pilot introduced in the original series, is able to achieve impressive synchronization numbers with Unit 02 due to his true angel nature. In Rebuild, Kaworu plays a similar role, demonstrating extraordinary skills, although not as often as some of the other pilots.
Rei Ayanami: The original EVA pilot
Rei Ayanami, the First Child, is the first person to pilot an EVA. With the most experience of any EVA pilot, Rei is able to fight even in extreme circumstances. In Rebuild, Rei remains an experienced and skilled pilot.
Asuka Langley Soryu: A pilot whose ultimate skill makes her one of the best
Asuka Langley Soryu, the Second Child and pilot of Unit 02, is recognized as the most skilled of the three original pilots. However, her mental state deteriorates over the course of the series, affecting her ability to pilot an EVA. In Rebuild, Asuka retains her skills, but her mental state doesn't deteriorate as much.
Mari Makinami Illustrious: Evangelion's best EVA pilot
Mari Makinami Illustrious, introduced in the Rebuild films, is the strongest and most unquestionable EVA pilot in Neon Genesis Evangelion. Mari demonstrates impressive skills and a passion for piloting an EVA, setting her apart from the other pilots.
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a series created by Hideaki Anno, available on Netflix.