Ishigami from '
kaguya-sama: love is war' is such a complex character, and his loneliness really resonates with me. I think '
oregairu' shares a similar vibe—
hikigaya Hachiman's isolation and gradual connection with others mirror Ishigami's journey. Both characters start off as social outcasts but find their place through genuine relationships. 'Welcome to the NHK' also explores deep loneliness and mental health, though it's darker. 'March Comes in Like a Lion' is another great pick; Rei's struggle with isolation and his slow acceptance of warmth from others feels very Ishigami-like. The way these stories handle emotional growth is just chef's kiss.
Ishigami's arc is so relatable because it shows how vulnerability isn't weakness. 'A Silent Voice' does this too, with Shoya's redemption arc. The parallels between him and Ishigami are uncanny—both are misunderstood, both carry guilt, and both learn to open up. Even 'Orange' touches on this, with Kakeru's depression and how his friends rally around him. It's the 'found family' trope done right.