Fandom’s Most Searched Ships of 2023
Ahoy, fandom enthusiasts! As we bid adieu to 2023, it’s time to review the ships that kept us afloat during the highs and lows of our favorite stories. From friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, and even fanon or canon pairings, ships have been the lifeline for many of us. So grab your cup of tea and set sail with us as we set course for the Top 10 Most Searched for Ships of 2023! In this analysis, we dive deep into the most searched ships of 2023 and explore the factors that push these fictional pairings to the top. From social media trends to fanfiction, fan art, and conventions, we’ll identify the reasons for their massive popularity.
1. SatoSugu (Jujutsu Kaisen)
Jujutsu Kaisen secures its spot at the top with the fanon pairing of Gojo Satoru and Getō Suguru. As two best friends, their distinct perspectives on life and governance create a captivating contrast. Satoru’s self-preserving nature and Suguru’s protective tendencies led them to forge a deep bond in Tokyo Jujutsu High. With opposite hair colors and a penchant for bickering like an old married couple, SatoSugu shippers have experienced an emotional rollercoaster throughout the story of these two warriors.
2. Soukoku (Bungou Stray Dogs)
Quench your thirst for literary references with this romantic pairing of Chūya Nakahara and Osamu Dazai from Bungou Stray Dogs! Having joined forces in the mafia at just 15 years old, this dynamic duo rose quickly to fame. Their rivalry and mutual admiration sets the stage for a fiery, explosive chemistry. Despite their claims of disliking each other, Soukoku shippers know the intimacy shared between these two rivals often borderlines on romance.
3. RenHeng (Honkai)
Last but not least, the Honkai franchise brings us a much-coveted enemies-to-lovers ship: RenHeng — Blade and Dan Heng! Initially, these characters are beloved enemies from the Stellaron Hunters and Astral Express factions in Honkai: Star Rail. However, their history is far more complex, revealing that they were once best friends centuries ago! This intriguing blend of friendship, betrayal, and rivalry has RenHeng shippers eagerly rooting for the duo to reconcile and rekindle their bond.
So there you have it, the top 3 most searched for ships of 2023 that have stolen our hearts and minds! As we sail into a new year, we look forward to discovering and engaging in new and exciting pairings within the vast world of Honkai Impact 3. Who knows what kind of epic romances and heart-wrenching storylines await us? We can’t wait to find out! Keep exploring, keep shipping, and always remember: love knows no boundaries in the ever-expanding universe of Honkai Impact 3.
4. DESTIEL
Fandom Source: Supernatural
The Destiel ship, featuring Dean Winchester and Castiel, surged in popularity this year, likely due to Supernatural’s recent ending. The emotional connection between these two characters, portrayed through their unwavering loyalty, kept fans captivated throughout the series. Social media trends, such as gifsets, memes, and celebrations of Castiel’s confession in season 15, also contributed to the ship’s popularity. Furthermore, the active fanfiction community and fan art surrounding Destiel kept fans engaged beyond the series conclusion.
5. KIRIBAKU
Fandom Source: My Hero Academia
Kiribaku, the pairing of Katsuki Bakugo and Eijiro Kirishima, saw a rise in searches this year as the My Hero Academia manga and anime continued to gain traction. With the two characters featuring prominently in the series, fans admired their strong friendship, character growth, and complementary personalities. Social media discussions, fanfiction, and fan art brought visibility to their dynamic. Convention cosplays further solidified Kiribaku’s standing among popular ships.
6. HARLIVY
Fandom Source: DC Universe (specifically: Harley Quinn animated series)
Harlivy, a ship consisting of Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, became immensely popular in 2023, driven by the success of the Harley Quinn animated series. This ship’s popularity escalated as Harley and Ivy’s relationship moved from a close friendship to a romantic one in the show. The fanbase expectations were met, with many praising the healthy, supportive, and loving relationship portrayed. Social media trends, fanfiction, and fan art additionally contributed to Harlivy’s surge in popularity.
7. RuiKasa (Project SEKAI)
Popularity Factors: Fans love the chemistry between Rui Kamishiro and Tsukasa Tenma, who bring out the best in each other both as friends and as artists. The unique dynamic of the sun and the moon further adds to their appeal. Fan works often depict them in emotionally charged scenes, such as their Romeo and Juliet rehearsal during the Kamiyama High Festival.
Fandom’s Expectations: Fans eagerly await more content featuring Rui and Tsukasa, hoping for a romantic progression in their relationship, whether it happens in the game or in side stories.
8. Luffy Harem (One Piece)
Popularity Factors: The Luffy Harem ship is fueled by the undeniable charm of Monkey D. Luffy, with fans amused by his apparent collection of obsessed female admirers. The unconventional nature of this polyamorous ship, involving multiple beloved characters, attracts attention and discussion within the One Piece community.
Fandom’s Expectations: While the Luffy Harem is mostly seen as a meme, fans are always on the lookout for any interactions between Luffy and his many potential love interests for further evidence or discussions.
9. Fyolai (Bungou Stray Dogs)
Popularity Factors: Fyodor Dostoyevsky and Nikolai Gogol’s complicated relationship has captured fans’ hearts. This ship, despite its non-canonical status, garners massive support due to the emotionally intense dynamic between the characters, fueled by Nikolai’s murderous intentions and Fyodor’s twisted admiration.
Fandom’s Expectations: Fans eagerly follow the development of Fyodor and Nikolai’s relationship and speculate on the possibility of a deeper connection between the characters, rooted in romance and emotional vulnerability.
10. Bronseele (Honkai)
Popularity Factors: Drawing from the Honkai game series, Bronseele is a femslash ship that has gained immense popularity due to childhood friends and eventual lovers, Bronya Zaychik and Seele Vollerei’s profound emotional connection. A powerful storyline, full of loyalty, love, and sacrifice, has made this ship a fandom favorite.
Fandom’s Expectations: Fans continue to seek content exploring Bronya and Seele’s relationship further, particularly in fanfiction and fan art. As the games progress, gamers are eager to see the promise of their reunion fulfilled.
The fandom also expects creators to remain true to the emotional depth of their connection and not just rely on surface-level romance.
Why People Ship It: Bronseele holds a special place in fans’ hearts because of its combination of unbreakable loyalty, childhood friends-to-lovers trope, and an emotionally charged storyline. The characters are both complex and multifaceted, making them relatable and endearing. Fans are drawn to their unwavering support for each other, even in the darkest of times.
Impact On Esports Community: The popularity of Bronseele has had a significant impact on the Honkai Impact community within esports. Fans have created dedicated social media accounts, fan sites, and participate actively in discussions about the ship. Tournaments and events have even seen an increase in attendance and engagement when Bronseele is involved. This ship has brought together fans from different backgrounds, creating a strong sense of community within the esports scene.
Why It Works In Esports: One of the main reasons Bronseele works so well in the esports world is because it showcases a healthy and supportive relationship between two powerful characters. In a highly competitive environment, where winning is everything, having a ship that promotes teamwork, trust, and respect is refreshing for fans. It also adds another layer to the game’s narrative and gives players more depth to their gameplay experience.
In addition, Bronseele’s popularity has opened up discussions about representation within esports. Fans appreciate seeing diverse relationships represented in their favorite games and it sends a message of inclusivity and acceptance within the community.
Moreover, Bronseele’s strong sense of partnership and teamwork has inspired players to improve their own relationships with their teammates. It sets a positive example for how players should treat each other and work together towards success.
This ship has also become a symbol for the larger esports community, representing the bonds formed between players, fans, and teams. It shows that esports is not just about competition, but also about building connections and creating a strong sense of community.
Overall, Bronseele’s popularity in the esports scene goes beyond being an entertaining ship for fans. It serves as an important representation of healthy relationships, diversity, and camaraderie within the world of competitive gaming. Its impact on the community and players alike proves that even in a highly competitive environment, kindness and teamwork can lead to victory.
