It’s a common mix-up that many anime fans encounter, and for good reason: popular characters can often blur the lines between series. If you've landed here searching for "how old is Benimaru in Noragami," you're on the right path to understanding one of anime's most intriguing figures, but with a crucial clarification. While Benimaru is indeed a significant character, he doesn't actually appear in Noragami. Instead, he is a central and incredibly powerful figure from the hit series That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (also known as Tensura).
This super pillar hub is designed to clear up that confusion and dive deep into everything you need to know about Benimaru, from his age and origins to his formidable powers and pivotal role in the Jura Tempest Federation. We'll ensure you get all the accurate details about this crimson Ogre, guiding you through his story within the correct canon. To truly understand where this powerful warrior hails from, we recommend starting with a clear look at .
Unveiling Benimaru's Age and Evolution in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
One of the most fascinating aspects of characters in That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is how their age and capabilities change through evolution. Benimaru is no exception, undergoing a significant transformation that impacts his very being. Before he met Rimuru and was bestowed a name, Benimaru, as the son of the Ogre Chieftain, was estimated to be in his early 20s. This period of his life was marked by his leadership and the tragic destruction of his village.
However, his age — and indeed his power — fundamentally shifted after Rimuru named him. This act of naming caused him to evolve into a Kijin, a much more powerful race. His subsequent evolution after Rimuru became a Demon Lord further solidified his status, with his physical maturity generally perceived to be around 30 years old, representing the peak of his evolved form. The concept of age in Tensura isn't always linear, making his progression a compelling part of his character arc. For a detailed breakdown of these critical developmental stages, explore .
The Striking Visuals: Benimaru's Physical Appearance
Benimaru is instantly recognizable, largely due to his distinct and imposing physical traits. Standing at a remarkable 180 cm (approximately 5'11"), he commands attention with his towering presence. His most defining features include his vibrant red hair and piercing red eyes, which perfectly complement his Ogre heritage. Of course, no description of Benimaru would be complete without mentioning the pair of prominent horns that protrude from his forehead, signifying his evolved status as a Kijin. These characteristics are not just for show; they reflect his strength and his lineage.
His design beautifully conveys his warrior status, often seen in practical, yet elegant, attire befitting his rank. From the moment he's introduced, Benimaru's appearance tells a story of power, resilience, and a quiet dignity. To appreciate the nuances of his character design and how it evolves with him, delve deeper into .
Benimaru's Pivotal Role and Strategic Importance in Tempest
Beyond his raw power, Benimaru is an indispensable cornerstone of the Jura Tempest Federation. As the eldest son of the Ogre Chieftain, leadership runs in his blood, and he quickly rises through the ranks under Rimuru's guidance. Benimaru holds the esteemed titles of Flare Lord, Crimson Ogre, and General of Tempest, but his primary responsibilities include serving as the Minister of Defense and the Commander of the Tempest Army. In these roles, he is directly accountable for the security and military strategy of the entire nation, making critical decisions in times of peace and war.
His strategic mind and unwavering loyalty to Rimuru make him the ideal leader for Tempest's formidable forces, commanding respect from allies and fear from enemies. Understanding his profound impact on the federation's survival and growth is key to grasping his importance. For a full breakdown of his positions and influence, check out .
Family and Bonds: The Relationships That Define Benimaru
Benimaru isn't a solitary warrior; his story is deeply interwoven with a tight-knit circle of family and comrades. He is the proud older brother to Shuna, for whom he harbors a fierce, protective devotion. This sibling bond is a touching counterpoint to his stern warrior exterior. Beyond his sister, he shares a profound camaraderie with other Ogre survivors who joined Rimuru’s cause, including the stealthy Souei, the wise sword instructor Hakurou, and the boisterous Shion. Hakurou, in particular, has been a significant mentor, refining Benimaru's exceptional swordsmanship.
These relationships provide crucial context to Benimaru's motivations and personal growth throughout the series. They highlight his capacity for loyalty, grief, and unwavering support for those he cares about. To understand the dynamics of these vital connections, we invite you to explore .
Mastering the Flames: Benimaru's Formidable Abilities and Ultimate Skill
Benimaru's combat prowess is legendary, primarily centered around his extraordinary Fire Manipulation abilities. He is especially adept at wielding Black Flame, a unique and devastating fire with nihility attributes, capable of burning not just matter but energy and even souls. This makes his attacks incredibly potent and difficult to defend against, showcasing a mastery far beyond conventional pyrokinesis. His signature moves include the formidable Hell Flare and the ultimate nihility attack, Blazing Sun Lord Amaterasu, which can annihilate concepts and exert precise control over heat and light.
Beyond his magical might, Benimaru is also an expert swordsman, having honed his skills under Hakurou's tutelage. His blend of magical and physical combat makes him a versatile and terrifying opponent on the battlefield. Furthermore, his evolution grants him the Ultimate Skill: Flare Lord, a testament to his immense power potential. To truly appreciate the depth and destructive capacity of his powers, delve into .
Benimaru's Journey: Key Story Moments and Defining Arcs
Benimaru's story is one of survival, loyalty, and relentless growth. His journey begins in tragedy, as a survivor of the devastating Orc Disaster that annihilated his Ogre village, leaving him to lead the remaining few. His encounter with Rimuru marks the turning point, transforming him from a vengeful leader into a devoted protector and commander. He swiftly became Rimuru’s right-hand man, leading the military forces during the critical Falmuth War and demonstrating his tactical brilliance.
His bravery shone during Walpurgis, where he fought alongside his allies against powerful adversaries, and his activation of the Ultimate Skill, Flare Lord, during the conflict with the Eastern Empire and Velgrynd, solidified his status as one of Tempest's strongest. These moments are crucial for understanding his development and his unwavering commitment to his new home. For a detailed recounting of his most impactful experiences, see .
Inside the Mind of a Leader: Benimaru's Personality and Weaknesses
Benimaru possesses a personality that perfectly balances his warrior's spirit with a leader's wisdom. He is generally calm and astute, approaching situations with a strategic mind rather than impulsive aggression. His loyalty to Rimuru is absolute and unwavering, forming the core of his motivations. While often reserved, he exhibits fierce protectiveness, particularly towards his sister Shuna and the citizens of Tempest. He carries the heavy burden of responsibility with quiet dignity, always putting the needs of his nation first.
However, even the strongest leaders have their flaws. Benimaru's primary weakness lies in his occasional tendency to underestimate opponents he perceives as weaker. This can sometimes lead to him holding back or not taking a threat seriously enough until it escalates, though he quickly adapts. For a deeper psychological profile of this fascinating character, you'll find great insights in .
The Voices Behind the Crimson Ogre: Benimaru's Voice Actors
Bringing Benimaru to life on screen requires talent, and both his Japanese and English voice actors have done a phenomenal job capturing his essence. In the original Japanese, Benimaru is voiced by Yoshitsugu Matsuoka, a highly acclaimed voice actor known for his versatile range and ability to portray both intense and nuanced characters. Matsuoka's portrayal lends Benimaru a gravitas and intensity that truly embodies his leadership and power.
For English-speaking audiences, Chris Rager takes on the role, providing a voice that perfectly complements Benimaru's strong and resolute demeanor. Rager's performance captures the character's calm authority and occasional bursts of fierce determination, making him instantly recognizable. The contributions of these actors are crucial in making Benimaru the beloved character he is. To discover more about the individuals who give him a voice, explore .
Benimaru's journey from a vengeful Ogre leader to a key general in the Jura Tempest Federation is a testament to his strength, loyalty, and unwavering spirit. We hope this comprehensive hub has clarified any confusion regarding his series origin and provided a thorough understanding of his incredible character within That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. As Rimuru's right-hand man, his story continues to unfold, promising even more thrilling developments for this formidable warrior.