There is rarely an Anime around that does not portray some type of 'Dere' character, who is instantly recognizable by their deep infatuation and generally cute personae. The Dorodere (also spelled Doredere) takes this trope one step further, by predicting what love could look like from a psychopathic point of view. Usually a quite unstable character, the Dorodere can be particularly intimidating, as their concept of love gets twisted in their heads.
There are some differences of opinions regarding the threat status of Doredere characters. Some fans believe that the danger posed by Dorordere is all internal, as their sinister and violent thoughts are not put into action. Others, however, are more inclined to believe that these characters are fully capable of causing physical harm to those they desire, as the lines between love and hate are constantly blurred.
Difference between Dorodere and Yandere
The Yandere trope is quite a popular one in Anime, and, at surface value, seems to follow the same basic structure as the Dorodere do. There is, however, a vast difference between the two personality types.
Although generally viewed as very cute and sweet characters, both the Dorodere and Yandere take their infatuation to the level of unhealthy obsession, and both are also potentially dangerous to those around them. The Yandere, however, will only ever pose a problem to anyone who gets in the way of their love story, whereas the Dorodere may eventually harm (or consider harming) the one they love.
Himiko Toga : My Hero Academia
As one of the most classic examples of a Dorodere, Himiko Toga makes it to the top of the list. As one of the most sadistic members of the League of Villains' Vanguard Action Squad, Himiko has a strange obsession with blood, and for some reason has linked love with violence in her head. In Himiko's mind, sucking the blood from a loved one's body is the equivalent of a tender kiss. So naturally, she needs to slice open those who pique her interest in order to adequately show her affections.
A clear demonstration of her mental instability can be seen in her relationship with Izuku Midoriya, who she first meets in episode 54. Himiko appears to possess genuine feelings for Deku and is often caught admiring the Hero, however, is unable to conceptualize the appropriate way to express her feelings, and instead goes straight for blood.
Ren Yamai: Komi Can't Communicate
Although Ren Yamai is officially classified as a Yandere in Komi Can't Communicate, some fans believe that she shows ample potential to develop into a Dorodere. Ren is completely infatuated with Shouto Komi and threatens anyone who competes for the Class Goddess' attention, turning from 'sweet and innocent' to scary and intimidating in a heartbeat. However, Ren's lustful actions send out some strong sexual assault vibes, as she continuously forces her affections on the unconsenting Komi.
In "It's just the Pool," Ren shamelessly crosses boundaries by attempting to peek at Komi's naked body, and even tries her best to cop a feel, before luring Komi away on a shopping trip, away from watchful eyes. In the Manga, Ren goes so far as to try and coerce a relationship from Komi whilst holding a knife; the threat never stated, but strongly implied. She may hold no ill intent towards Komi at the moment, however, repeated rejection might stir up some violent animosity from the already unstable girl, possibly putting Komi's safety (and virtue) on the line.
Alluka Zoldyck: Hunter X Hunter
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Due to unknown circumstances, there were complications during Alluka Zoldyck's birth, and she was subsequently possessed by a demon, causing her to be ostracized by her family. The evil entity, Nanika, became an alternate personality, one which wreaks havoc whenever holding the reins of Alluka's body. According to the Zoldyck family, Alluka is more than deserving of the Dorodere title because Nanika is deadly and cannot be reasoned with, however, her relationship with Killua says otherwise.
Alluka is not even considered a human by her family, let alone capable of possessing emotions. However, Kullia refuses to believe the Zoldyck's propaganda and is the only one who bothers to get to know his sister. It turns out that Alluka has no sinister intentions, and any damage Nanika may have caused is due to other people abusing her powers, and having to deal with the magical consequences of the wish-making deals struck in Hunter X Hunter.
Chi-Chi and Bulma: Dragon Ball
On a more comical note, it would not be entirely wrong to pop Chi-Chi and Bulma into the Dorodere category, as these human ladies are capable of scaring the wits out of their outrageously powerful Saiyan husbands. It is thoroughly entertaining to watch Goku and Vegeta courageously take on the most formidable foes, only to buckle to the whims of their angry wives once back at home.
Both Chi-Chi and Bulma can be very kind and gentle mother figures, however, when it comes to the men they love, well that's a whole other ball game! When angered, a ferocity is drawn out of the depths of their souls, and these ladies flick a switch and resort to intimidation tactics to get their husbands in line - and fans don't doubt that Bulma and Chi-Chi can still pack a potent punch. Hell hath no fury as a woman scorned!
All jokes aside, the Dorodere typically portrays the darkest places that mental instability can take people, as these characters are not always aware that they are causing harm. Due to a supposed chemical imbalance, wires are crossed in the Dorodere's brain that causes discord between their intentions and their actions. In a twisted internal battle between love and hate, reality is warped to fit the Dorodere's lovestruck desires. Most of these ladies are the heroes of their own stories, and can't understand why their affections are not being reciprocated. Not that this excuses their violent actions, but a little empathy can go a long way.