Among the numerous “-dere” archetypes that are ever-so present in media,the kuudere archetype tends to be overlooked. These characters are typically seen as standoffish and aloof, usually keeping their true feelings bottled up inside. Sometimes, they do to the point that those around them may think of them as mean or uncaring.
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The kuudere archetype is still extremely prominent in the JRPG genre of video games, and while this ismostly seen in male characters, there is no shortage of female characters who also fall into this archetype. Out of all the women in JRPGs, these ladies are the embodiment of the kuudere archetype.
8Zelda (The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess)
Princess Zelda has had many portrayals throughout the years, but she is at peak kuudere inThe Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.Aftersurrendering to Zant, although she laments Hyrule’s sad state of affairs, Zelda remains level-headed and calm even in the most desperate situations.
As a testament to her composure, Zelda sacrificed everything, even her physical form, to save a dying Midna without a second thought. However, this would leave her vulnerable to being possessed by Ganondorf near the end of the game. But after she is freed from his possession, Zelda wastes no time in joining Link in the final fight against their enemy.
7Lightning (Final Fantasy 13)
While some fans might argue thatLightning is a tsundere, there are signs that she fits into the kuudere archetype instead. For the majority ofFinal Fantasy 13, Lightning is a headstrong, no-nonsense soldier that leads the party in their quest to save her sister Serah and figure out their focus.
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Although she remains composed throughout the game, Lightning does have her moments of hot-headedness, such as when she first discovers Serah’s new status as a l’Cie and her initial frustration with an inept Hope. But overall, Lightning proves to be a fearless leader willing to take on the world to reach her goals.
6Kaori Asahina (1bitHeart)
The mature intellect Kaori Asahina is one of many people that the protagonist of1bitHeart,Yoshi Nanase, meets after coming out of his house. As the sole owner of the bookstore, Kaori dramatically enjoys reading, allowing Nanashi to do whatever he pleases in her bookstore so long as he doesn’t bother her.
Outside of reading, Kaori enlists Nanashi’s help in being more desirable soshe can get married someday. Unfortunately, despite Nanashi’s efforts, Kaori’s ridiculous standards (which include knowing three languages and having sophisticated hobbies) make it very difficult for her to find a date.
5Naoto Shirogane (Persona 4)
Although first appearing as a man inPersona 4, Naoto is later revealed to be a woman with a mature way of speaking and acting. Coming from a long line of detectives, Naoto takes her status as a detective very seriously and wishes to honor her family legacy.
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Despite her maturity, however, Naoto is still plagued with insecurities unique to herself. ThroughoutPersona 4,Naoto reveals that she dresses as a man to taken seriously in her male-dominated workforce. However, after battling her shadow, Naoto learnsto accept herself for who she isand embrace her femininity.
4Lulu (Final Fantasy 10)
One of the wisest guardians in the party, Lulu remains calm and collected throughout the majority of Yuna’s pilgrimage inFinal Fantasy 10. With a vast array of Spira’s lore andblack magic at her disposal, Lulu’s importance to the party simply cannot be understated.
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Although she may seem insensitive and blunt at times, especially towards Wakka, venturing into the Cavern of the Stolen Fayth will reveal that Lulu once accompanied a previous summoner on a failed pilgrimage. This event, coupled with losing her boyfriend Chappu, hardened her to the prospect of death. After leaving the cavern, she becomes more gentle, serving as a motherly figure to Tidus and Yuna.
3Ikaruga (Senran Kagura series)
As a third-year student of Hanzo Academy, Ikaruga is the most mature of her team of five, making her an older sister-like figure among her team. She also possesses a no-nonsense attitude toward tomfoolery and is usually the one to put a stop to Katsuragi’s lecherous antics.
Although she detests Katsuragi’s antics, as her first true friend, Ikaruga truly cares for her and the two of them are capable of working together with their team. She also has a traditional side to her as well; her main hobby is cooking Japanese cuisine.
2Samus Aran (Metroid series)
Samus Aran is considered by fans to be one of the most iconic female characters in gaming, and much of it is due to her personality. Having lost her parents at a very young age, she underwent superhuman training with the mysterious Chozo race, which morphed her into the strong-willed, mature heroine that fans know and love.
While most of theMetroidgames portray her as a woman of few words, Samus is not without benevolence. The most famous example of Samus' tenderness is when she encounters a baby Metroid and develops a mother-child relationship with it.
1Aya Brea (Parasite Eve series)
Aya Brea, the heroine of theParasite Eveseries,is portrayed as an adventurous, determined individual who never loses her cool even in dangerous situations. This makes her role as a police officer very appropriate.
Due to her trade revolving around fighting biological atrocities, Aya has shown herself to be a strong humanitarian, not caring about the immutable characteristics of the people whose lives she saves. Needless to say, her most defining trait is to never turn a blind eye to anyone in need, even if the odds are against her.
