**The Lasting Impact of *Mob Psycho 100***
It has been around four years since *Mob Psycho 100* wrapped up, yet the series continues to be an important part of anime conversations. Praised for its themes of friendship, determination, and the significance of recognizing the goodness in each other, the show has positioned itself as one of the notable anime in recent history. At Anime Expo 2026, Kotaku had the chance to converse with Yuzuru Tachikawa, the director of *Mob Psycho 100*, alongside voice actors Setsuo Ito (Mob) and Takahiro Sakurai (Reigen), delving into their perspectives on the conclusion of the series and the development of its characters.
*Mob Psycho 100* is inspired by a manga with the same title and centers around Shigeo Kageyama, referred to as Mob, a middle school student gifted with psychic powers. Despite his tremendous strength, Mob finds it difficult to master his emotions, leading to explosive episodes that can wreak havoc. In his journey toward self-discovery, Mob teams up with Arataka Reigen, a self-styled psychic who is essentially a fraud. Together, they face various supernatural challenges, forging a profound and poignant connection.
Reigen’s character is particularly captivating; even though he is a swindler, he becomes a cherished character in the series. He takes advantage of those in need, yet concurrently acts as a crucial fatherly figure in Mob’s life. Takahiro Sakurai, who gives voice to Reigen, elucidates the dual nature of his character, recognizing both the ethically questionable and redeeming characteristics. “Yes, at first glance, he’s a con artist, charging children for services. But concurrently, he’s just an individual trying to get by… There’s an aspect of him that’s difficult to dislike,” Sakurai articulates, highlighting Reigen’s human vulnerabilities and his attempts to aid Mob.
Mob’s psychic skills are a major driving force in the storyline throughout the series. Although he is an exceptionally powerful entity, Mob yearns for an ordinary childhood, reflecting the internal battles of his voice actor, Setsuo Ito. Ito shares the difficulty of portraying a character who must keep his emotions at bay, recalling his own challenges in the studio: “One thing I focused on and aimed to achieve was not allowing my feelings to surface.”
The finale of *Mob Psycho 100* was met with relief and satisfaction from both fans and the creative team. Over time, viewers have conveyed their appreciation for how Mob’s journey unfolded: “I found it very heartening how everyone looked out for Mob right to the very end, allowing him to be a regular middle school student,” says Ito, praising the series’ capacity to grant Mob a sense of normality.
Director Tachikawa expresses a similar viewpoint, remarking that the character’s growth was characterized by small yet significant changes rather than dramatic shifts. This subtlety reinforced the central message of the series: growth through the choices we make every day. Sakurai resonates with this, asserting that he feels Reigen’s destiny was closely linked to Mob, sensing that he was “rescued by Mob at the conclusion.”
*Mob Psycho 100* stands out as an exceptional series that skillfully merges action, humor, and emotional richness. Its distinct narrative style captivates audiences, whether they are on the edge of their seats during dramatic battles or enjoying laughter from Reigen’s shenanigans. With just three seasons encompassing 37 episodes, it presents an inviting adventure for both newcomers and veteran anime enthusiasts alike. As time goes by, the lasting legacy of *Mob Psycho 100* persists, securing its place in the hearts of many.
