Series & First Appearance
Yuusuke Nisaka appears in the manga and anime series Kiss Him, Not Me. The character was created by Junko, and his first appearance is in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was serialized starting in 2013, and later adapted into an anime by the studio Brains Base, premiering in 2016.
Profile at a Glance
Yuusuke Nisaka is a handsome and charming high school student, typically portrayed in the age range of 16-17 years old. He serves primarily as a co-protagonist within the series and is affiliated with the same high school as the main character, Yukari Nejima. Known for his captivating looks and charisma, he has a reputation for being popular among girls, yet his growing affections are directed toward Yukari.
Personality & Motivations
Yuusuke’s personality is characterized by his laid-back demeanor and natural charm, which attracts both friends and romantic interests. He is often seen as cool and collected, which contributes to his popularity. His motivations center around his feelings for Yukari, which he navigates while managing his relationships with other students. Notably, he also demonstrates moments of protectiveness and sincerity that reveal a deeper side to his character. Although he can be casually flirtatious, his commitment to Yukari shows his loyalty and depth of feeling.
Abilities / Powers
While Yuusuke does not possess any supernatural abilities, his standout skills are primarily social. He showcases impressive charm and charisma, enabling him to interact effortlessly with others, particularly girls. His confidence and physical appearance distinguish him in social settings, allowing him to maneuver through various romantic entanglements. His primary limitation arises from his struggle to express his true feelings for Yukari, leading sometimes to misunderstandings and emotional conflict.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Yuusuke’s character development is significantly influenced by the evolving dynamics of his relationship with Yukari. Initially introduced as a seemingly typical high school heartthrob, his narrative arc begins to shift as he learns more about Yukari’s personal struggles, including her body image challenges and social anxiety. Key turning points occur when he decides to openly support her, showcasing his willingness to understand her as more than just a romantic interest. This development reinforces themes of acceptance, friendship, and the complexities of love as high school life unfolds.
These dynamics culminate in pivotal moments, such as when he finds himself caught between his affections for Yukari and the expectations of those around him, leading to moments of introspection and growth.
Notable Relationships
Yuusuke’s most significant relationship is with Yukari Nejima, characterized by a blend of admiration, friendship, and burgeoning romance. He also interacts with other characters, including rivals and friends, which enriches his narrative. His ties with other male characters showcase competition for Yukari’s affection, yet also highlight camaraderie in navigating their own feelings.
Key figures include:
- Yukari Nejima: His close friend and the object of his affections; their relationship serves as the central focus of his development.
- Other love interests: Characters like Nanashima and others contribute to the love triangle aspects of the story, challenging Yuusuke’s feelings.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Chapter 12 when Yuusuke stands up for Yukari during a difficult time, asserting his feelings in a heartfelt scene that resonates with fans. A poignant line that encapsulates his dedication to her is, "I want to be someone you can rely on," showcasing the depth of his feelings and solidifying his role as a supportive figure in her life.
This scene illustrates his transition from a shallow love interest to a more complex character whose motivations stem from genuine care and understanding.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Yuusuke Nisaka has garnered significant popularity within the fandom, consistently ranking in fan polls as a favorite character from Kiss Him, Not Me. His cool attitude and handsome design make him a standout figure in the series. The character is voiced by Takahiro Sakurai in the Japanese version of the anime, known for his versatile roles in various series, adding depth to Yuusuke’s character through vocal performance. His magnetism and charm have made him a topic of cosplays and fan art, further emphasizing his impact on the series.
In summary, Yuusuke Nisaka represents the archetype of the charming high school heartthrob, but his journey towards understanding deeper emotional connections offers viewers much more than mere surface-level appeal. As a character, he intertwines themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth—elements that resonate profoundly with the audience.
