I’m writing this because I’ve personally found Arataka Reigen to be one of the most unexpectedly endearing characters in anime. Despite claiming powers he doesn’t have, he remains the guiding light for Mob’s journey. Let’s examine what makes “Arataka Reigen” both a fascinating conman and a principled mentor.
Spoiler Alert: This article contains significant spoilers for “Mob Psycho 100,” including key plot details and character developments. If you haven’t experienced the anime or manga yet, read on at your own discretion.
Early Days: The Origins of a “Psychic”
Arataka Reigen runs a small business called “Spirits and Such Consultation Office” (introduced around Volume 1, Chapter 2). Ostensibly a place to handle ghostly occurrences, it often tackles more ordinary problems. Although Reigen claims to be a top-tier psychic, the truth is he possesses no genuine supernatural abilities. Instead, he relies on:
- Exceptional Conversation Skills: He frequently outtalks clients—and even threats—to resolve issues (Volume 3, Chapter 15).
- Creative Solutions: Whether it’s editing a “haunted” photo in a graphics program or using martial arts against ghosts, Reigen finds innovative ways to fulfill his promises.
His approach might be called “small-scale fraud,” but he remains surprisingly benevolent. He keeps prices low and diligently solves clients’ troubles, even if the “evil spirit” turning out to be a mundane problem.
Meeting Mob: A Life-Changing Encounter
Reigen’s fateful connection with Mob (a middle-schooler gifted with actual psychic powers) began roughly a year after he started his consultation office (Volume 2, Chapter 10). When Mob, then just an elementary school student, approached Reigen in search of guidance, Reigen seized the chance to recruit him as a “part-time helper”:
- Master and Pupil: Though Reigen pays Mob a meager wage, he offers vital advice on how to handle psychic powers responsibly (Volume 4, Chapter 19).
- A Surrogate Guardian: Concerned with Mob’s emotional well-being, Reigen discourages him from using powers for violence, emphasizing empathy over force (Volume 5, Chapter 30).
Despite the deception about his own psychic abilities, Reigen’s genuine care for Mob solidifies their bond as something deeper than a mere employer-employee relationship.
What Is Arataka Reigen’s “Power”?
Readers often wonder if Reigen is truly powerless. While he lacks authentic psychic energy, he’s armed with an array of self-invented “techniques”:
- “Salt Splash,” “Cursed Punch,” and “Cheeseburger Tornado”: These sound like special attacks, but they’re typically physical maneuvers backed by his quick wit (Volume 6, Chapter 35).
- Superior Survival Instinct: His boldness under fire repeatedly saves him—even in the face of powerful evil spirits. By chance or cunning, he navigates danger with uncanny luck (Volume 7, Chapter 46).
The Bonds He Forges
Reigen’s strongest tie is with Mob, but he also shows compassion for other adolescents. For instance, he arranges summer outings for a lonely teenager and protects a friend possessed by a spirit when others hesitate (Volume 5, Chapter 33). He mentors these young people, not by wielding real psychic power, but by being a sensible and caring adult.
When asked “Who married Reigen Arataka?” the simple answer is that canonically, there’s no indication of him marrying anyone. Fans often speculate, but the series never confirms any romantic partner for Reigen.
Is Reigen Actually Strong?
In physical confrontations, Reigen sometimes surprises even the mightiest foes:
- Fending Off Knife Threats: He can deliver a swift uppercut before the attacker realizes what’s happening (Volume 8, Chapter 61).
- Keeping His Cool Against Psychics: In the “Claw” Seventh Division arc (Volumes 9–10), Reigen effortlessly distracts superpowered enemies with high-stakes bluffing and quick thinking.
Though he lacks real psychic prowess, his resourcefulness and moral code make him effectively formidable.
Reigen’s Role in Mob’s Journey—and Beyond
During pivotal moments like the Seventh Division infiltration (Volume 9, Chapter 70), Reigen prioritizes Mob’s well-being over easy victory. He outsmarts formidable psychics, takes on responsibility for the group’s safety, and even at one point temporarily gains Mob’s powers. Such episodes highlight Reigen’s paradoxical nature: a conman whose heart is in the right place—even if his business model is questionable.
FINAL THOUGHT
I’ve always admired the contrast between Reigen’s confident attitude and his very human vulnerabilities. For me, it’s those inconsistencies that make Arataka Reigen such a multifaceted and riveting character.
Arataka Reigen stands out as an unconventional figure: a shrewd conman who pretends to be a psychic, yet often proves to be the best role model in “Mob Psycho 100.” Whether he’s fending off evil spirits with clever ruses, guiding Mob through emotional turmoil, or simply offering a friendly ear, he illustrates that real power isn’t just about psychic energy—it’s about genuine empathy, compassion, and a knack for thinking on your feet.
Reference
- Wikipedia Japanese: モブサイコ100 主要キャラクター
- Mob Psycho 100 Official Website: https://mobpsycho100.com/character/reigen/
Thank you for joining me in exploring “Arataka Reigen.”
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