The Mysterious Power of Evil Eye in Dandadan: Origins, Abilities, and Legacy

Introduction to the Evil Eye in Dandadan

The Evil Eye is one of the most complex and compelling yokai in the Dandadan manga series. Initially introduced as a dangerous antagonist, the Evil Eye evolves into a powerful, tragic figure whose backstory adds a haunting depth to his supernatural strength. First appearing in Chapter 28 of the manga and in Episode 11 (flashback) of the anime, the Evil Eye begins as a spirit bound to the sacrificial house of the Tsuchinoko and later becomes a central figure across multiple arcs.

The Evil Eye’s Dual Identity: Spirit and Human

Tragic Origins of the Evil Eye

As a human, the Evil Eye was a young boy chosen by the Kito Family as a sacrificial offering to appease a volcano. Imprisoned and starved, he died wishing he could play with other children. His despair and unfulfilled desire transformed him into a powerful yokai. After witnessing another child go through the same fate, the boy’s spirit was overtaken by rage, and he reemerged in the world of the living as the vengeful Evil Eye.

Possession of Jiji: The Evil Eye’s Physical Form

Upon possessing Jiji, the Evil Eye gains a formidable physical body enhanced by spiritual power. This transformation turns Jiji’s hair white, forms a ripple-pattern third eye on his forehead, and changes his entire demeanor. It also alters his attire—most notably destroying all his clothes except for his underwear. As the Evil Eye, he becomes a lethal combatant with a terrifying presence and immense spiritual prowess.

Evil Eye’s Appearance: Terrifying Yet Tragic

The Evil Eye is tall and gangly, with vertical eyes, a devilish grin, and a bowl haircut—features that reflect the child he once was. His eerie smile and nearly naked appearance (underwear only) highlight his grotesque transformation from innocent to malevolent. While in spirit form, his appearance is healthier than his human version, but still retains the facial structure of his sacrificial past.

Evil Eye’s Personality: Childlike Wrath and Vengeance

Innocence Corrupted by Cruelty

While alive, the Evil Eye was a kind-hearted child who just wanted companionship. However, his inability to save another child from being sacrificed led to an emotional collapse. After this, he developed an aggressive, sadistic personality, viewing violence and death as “play.” His immature and impulsive behavior—especially in school settings—reinforces the idea that the Evil Eye is still a child at heart, albeit one deeply damaged by trauma.

A Misunderstood Villain?

Okarun later reveals that the Evil Eye acts much like a newborn, confusing fun with violence. His desire to “play” is not evil at its core but warped by the horrors he endured. This duality makes him one of Dandadan’s most intriguing characters.

Abilities and Powers of the Evil Eye

Yokai Powers and Curses

• Suicide-Inducing Curse: One of the Evil Eye‘s signature abilities is his cursed gaze, which can drive people to commit suicide.
• Memory Sharing: By making eye contact, he can transfer his traumatic memories to others, as seen with Jiji.
• Possession: The Evil Eye can possess human bodies to utilize their physical form and spiritual potential.

Physical Enhancements through Jiji

• Enhanced Strength: With Jiji’s athletic body, the Evil Eye can shatter objects and enemies alike. He once obliterated the Ta Komeshi exosuit and took down multiple enemies in quick succession.
• Superhuman Speed and Reflexes: Fast enough to keep up with Turbo Granny Okarun, the Evil Eye can launch sneak attacks and dodge powerful blows with ease.
• Durability: He can withstand crushing blows from elite fighters like Naki and Mr. Shrimp without significant injury.

The Cursed House: Evil Eye’s Defensive Fortress

One of the most unique techniques in the Evil Eye’s arsenal is the creation of the Cursed House using the grudges of sacrificed souls.

• Construction: A dome-like barrier that traps enemies inside and repels attacks from the outside.
• Manipulation: The Evil Eye can shrink or expand the Cursed House and can even phase through it at will.
• Limitations: Although incredibly resilient, the Cursed House can be broken with immense yokai-level force.

Grudge Ball: A Deadly, Homing Weapon

The Grudge Ball is a manifestation of spiritual grudges compressed into a fast-moving, bouncing projectile.

• Homing Capabilities: Once launched, it ricochets off surfaces and relentlessly targets the opponent, making it almost impossible to dodge.
• Multi-Ball Attack: By punching the initial Grudge Ball, the Evil Eye can split it into multiple homing balls, overwhelming his opponent.

Tactical Combat Style

The Evil Eye excels at combining melee attacks with spiritual weapons, forcing opponents to split their attention. His sadistic nature allows him to enjoy prolonged battles, especially when his Grudge Ball provides additional offensive pressure.

Trivia: The Cultural Roots Behind Evil Eye

• The term “Evil Eye” exists in many cultures as a curse cast through a malevolent glare.
• He draws visual and thematic inspiration from Japanese urban legends like the Yamanoke and Kunekune.
• His creepy, childlike desire to play may be a nod to Aphex Twin’s Come to Daddy music video.
• The character design also references the Ochonan, a guardian spirit with disturbing features from Fuan no Tane.
• His curse’s reversal via hot/cold elements is reminiscent of Ranma Saotome’s transformation in Ranma ½, an idea Jiji humorously acknowledges by singing the anime’s opening theme.

Conclusion: Evil Eye’s Enduring Impact in Dandadan

The Evil Eye in Dandadan is a fascinating blend of horror, tragedy, and action. From a cursed child to a dangerous yokai, his journey is as emotional as it is terrifying. As his character evolves through battles and relationships, the Evil Eye challenges what it means to be evil and forces readers to confront the line between innocence and vengeance.