September 28 marks Computer Day in Japan, commemorating the September 1979 launch of NEC's PC-8001 personal computer, which helped popularize personal computing across the country. In contemporary anime, computers and consoles serve as gateways to online multiplayer sessions, esports competitions, and even creative hobbies like game development.
To celebrate the occasion, Japanese media outlet Anime! Anime! conducted a readership poll asking fans to vote for their favorite gaming enthusiasts in anime. Running from September 15 to September 22, the survey gathered 205 responses with a nearly even gender split, dominated by fans in their teens and twenties.
Kenma Kozume and Miku Nakano Take the Top Spots
Claiming the number one position with roughly 11 percent of the total vote is Haikyu!! setter Kenma Kozume from Nekoma High School. Known for his introverted demeanor and passion for portable gaming devices, Kozume captured readers' hearts with his characteristic slouch and dedication to playing late into the night. Fans noted how his distinct prioritization of gaming contrasted brilliantly with the intense physical demands of competitive volleyball, adding deep emotional resonance to his performance in Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle.
Securing second place is Miku Nakano from The Quintessential Quintuplets. Renowned for her calm disposition and enthusiasm for historical warlords, Miku's love for gaming originated from a history-themed title borrowed from Yotsuba. Readers highlighted how her gaming habits add endearing depth to her character beyond the main narrative arc.
Diverse Cast of Heavy and Casual Gamers
Tying for the third spot are Gen Narumi from Kaiju No. 8 and Mayuri Habu from 2.5 Dimensional Seduction. Narumi, the powerful captain of the Japan Defense Force's First Division, won over voters with his contrast between elite battlefield prowess and a relaxed, gaming-heavy private life. Meanwhile, Habu—a former cosplay queen and high school art club advisor—drew votes for her habit of engaging in fighting games in the club room, reacting with real-world defensive reflexes.
Other notable mentions across the top tier include Mio Yemi from Teppen-Aria, Seishiro Nagi from Blue Lock, and Yugi Mutou from the classic Yu-Gi-Oh! franchise. The survey results showcase a fascinating spectrum of gaming personalities in Japanese animation, ranging from professional-grade esports competitors to casual enthusiasts unwinding after a long day.
