Arguably one of the most classic tropes in JRPGs, the tsundere archetype is as old as JRPGs, with many iconic characters embodying the personality type either partially or entirely throughout the years. The term is derived from the Japanese phrases "tsuntsun" and "deredere," which mean bittersweet and lovey-dovey respectively.
A character that falls under the tsundere label seems very hot-blooded and aloof on the surface. However, the character becomes far more loving and accepting as time passes. Although very prominent in female characters, male characters also make up a huge bulk of the tsunderes in JRPGs, with these seven standing out as the best of the best.
7 Natsukage Suoh (1bitHeart)
One of Nanashi's first friends upon leaving his house, Natsukage lives in the lively Blue Sun Street with his sister Sakuma, who happens to be a tsundere herself. Known athletically as Orca, his incredibly aggressive Sky-Sea-Run playing style raises concern among the residents, including his friend Miumi.
When first meeting Nanashi, Natsukage regarded him as a sheltered idiot he wanted nothing to do with. Deep down, however, he truly cares for Nanashi and his friends, often assisting them in investigating the strange happenings caused by hackers despite his seeming disinterest.
6 Lon'qu (Fire Emblem: Awakening)
A Myrmidon from Regna Ferox, Lon'qu is a man of few words who is perfectly content to hone his swordsmanship and follow the strongest side. Usually calm and collected, he becomes rather uncomfortable and curt when he finds himself near women.
Though his attitude towards women may seem rude, it is actually a result of his severe gynophobia, which stemmed from an incident in which his friend Ke'ri was killed after getting close to him. Upon getting married, Lon'qu can suppress his discomfort around his wife and express love toward his future child, though he is still very reserved.
5 Xiao (Genshin Impact)
Known as the Vigilant Yaksha, Xiao appears to be very imposing in the eyes of people meeting him for the first time. Due to his prestigious Yaksha title, he seems to look down on mortal beings, not wanting to be involved with them in any way and taking their pity as a slight.
After getting acquainted with the player, however, Xiao becomes far less distant, even making an effort to learn more about mortal life. As an Anemo character, Xiao delivers devastating wind attacks by wielding his spear and wearing his Yaksha mask.
4 Squall Leonhart (Final Fantasy 8)
One of two gunblade users in the militaristic Balamb Garden, Squall is infamous for his cold personality and his emotional detachment toward those around him. This can be evident in how he coldly brushes off Quistis when she tries to confide in him and in his staunch belief in relying solely on himself.
However, his cold personality is revealed to be a facade for the emotional trauma he harbors. Initially annoyed with Rinoa's naive personality, Squall ultimately falls in love with her and vows to protect her, noticeably becoming more open around her in the process.
3 Kanji Tatsumi (Persona 4)
On the surface, Kanji looks and acts like the stereotypical delinquent. He frequently gets into fights with numerous gangs and presents himself with an intimidating aura, though he still finds himself getting flustered from time to time, especially when someone expresses romantic feelings towards him.
Deep down, however, Kanji is actually quite sensitive and feminine, especially in regard to his rather domesticated hobbies. Though he is passionate about his hobbies, which include sewing and cooking, he fears rejection from his peers because of them, which led him to develop his delinquent facade.
2 Silver (Pokemon HeartGold/SoulSilver)
Silver may be a prime example of the violent version of the tsundere archetype; every time the player defeats him, Silver will often react by insulting, shoving, or even kicking the player out of anger before storming off. His sole interest is becoming the best Trainer of all time, treating his Pokemon as nothing more than weapons of war, as another Trainer puts it.
It is only after he is defeated by Lance that Silver starts to slowly learn the error of his ways. As a result, he starts to become less aggressive toward those around him, including the player. The rival battle at Victory Road even sees Silver healing the player's Pokemon, and even his starter Pokemon begins to follow him around as proof of his change in personality.
1 Asch (Tales of the Abyss)
As the commander of the Oracle Knights' sixth division, Asch maintains a cold front, holding his duty in high regard and coming across as a downer to everyone he meets. Even his smile is more than likely considered to be a callous smirk than a genuine grin.
In reality, Asch's love for the country of Kimlasca is second to none, going as far as to secretly turn against his supposed master Van in order to ensure peace to his kingdom. He was initially cold towards Natalia, the princess of Kimlasca, during his time with Van, but this was also a front for his unyielding romantic feelings toward her, which stemmed from a promise to marry Natalia when the two of them were children.