Series & First Appearance
Arataka Reigen is a primary character from the anime and manga series Mob Psycho 100, created by ONE. The series first debuted in Young Ace magazine in 2012, with the anime adaptation aired from July to September 2016, produced by Studio Bones. Reigen makes his first appearance in Chapter 1 of the manga and Episode 1 of the anime, where he is introduced as "the greatest psychic of the 21st century."
Profile at a Glance
Arataka Reigen is a 29-year-old self-proclaimed psychic who operates a small business offering psychic consultations and exorcising evil spirits. He serves as Mob’s mentor and boss, acting as a significant influence in the young esper’s life. Renowned for his active personality and eclectic set of skills from various jobs, Reigen employs these abilities to navigate challenges in the spiritual realm and in dealing with clients.
Personality & Motivations
Reigen is characterized by his charismatic and affable demeanor, often masquerading as a confident and knowledgeable psychic despite his limited actual powers. He is highly resourceful, often using cunning and persuasion to solve problems. His primary motivation is to provide for himself and his clients, though he genuinely cares for Mob and aims to help him understand his powers and emotions. Noteworthy quirks include his penchant for motivational slogans and a catchphrase often centered around the empowerment and support of his clients: "The spirit is always with you."
Abilities / Powers
Reigen does not possess any supernatural abilities; his strength lies in his intelligence and ability to manipulate situations to his advantage. He utilizes practical skills learned from various jobs, such as negotiation tactics and psychological insights, to deal with paranormal encounters. While he initially relies on bluffing to maintain his facade as a powerful psychic, he demonstrates significant growth in emotional intelligence and interpersonal relationships. Reigen’s limitation is his lack of genuine psychic abilities, which, while posed as a humorous element, also introduces deeper themes of authenticity and self-acceptance in the narrative.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Reigen’s development is largely tied to his relationship with Mob. In key arcs, such as the “Italian Restaurant” arc (Episode 8) and the “The Conflict” arc (Episode 10), Reigen faces moral dilemmas that force him to reassess his role and the nature of his influence over Mob. One pivotal moment occurs when he is confronted by the true nature of psychic powers during the battle with the Claw organization, leading him to acknowledge his vulnerability and the importance of genuine support over superficial confidence. Throughout the series, Reigen embodies the struggle between pretense and sincerity, ultimately emerging as a mentor who recognizes the value of honesty in relationships.
Notable Relationships
Reigen’s most significant relationship is with Shigeo "Mob" Kageyama, his apprentice. Reigen serves not only as Mob’s mentor but also as a father figure, providing guidance during Mob’s struggles with his immense psychic powers. Their dynamic showcases the evolving mentor-student relationship, with Reigen gradually becoming more attuned to Mob’s emotional needs. Additionally, Reigen interacts with other characters such as Ritsu Kageyama, Mob’s brother, as well as various clients and antagonists throughout the series, further adding depth to his character.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Reigen’s most memorable scenes occurs in Episode 4 when he confronts a class of high school students, demonstrating his unorthodox methods of tackling their fears with humor and inspirational advice. His impactful line, "All you need to do is try your best!" encapsulates the show’s theme of personal growth and perseverance. Another significant moment arises during the "Fifth Division" arc, where he steps in to face a powerful foe, showcasing the depth of his commitment to his students’ well-being and growth.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Reigen is voiced by Takahiro Sakurai in the Japanese version and by Chris Sabat in the English dub, both well-respected voice actors with extensive backgrounds in anime. Reigen’s character has garnered popularity, ranking among the top favorites in various fandom polls, with over 39,805 members indicating their fondness for him. The character’s relatable struggle between imposter syndrome and the desire to be a worthy mentor resonates with many fans, making him an enduring figure in the anime community. His distinctive personality has also been highlighted in merchandise and cosplay, reflecting his impact within the Mob Psycho 100 franchise.
Arataka Reigen stands out as a multifaceted character embodying humor, integrity, and growth, providing viewers with a nuanced portrayal of mentorship and self-discovery in the fantastical world of Mob Psycho 100.
