Introduction

Many fans of the anime series Death Note have debated over who deserved to win the epic battle between Light and L. In this article, we will examine the arguments in favor of both protagonists, with a focus on why L, in my opinion, should have emerged victorious.

Why L Should Have Won

Although L's victory was not an automatic outcome, his strategic genius should not be underestimated. If he had faced the series under normal circumstances, without the intervention of a Death Note and shinigami, L would likely have won. His exceptional intelligence allowed him to deduce that Death Note-related killings were being carried out, and his ability to locate the killers based on their living areas showcased his remarkable investigative skills.

However, the arrival of Rem, a shinigami, on the scene dramatically altered the game. While writing one's name in the Death Note could have secured L's victory, this move would have eliminated his chance of defeating Light. As the story progressed, this scenario seemed inevitable due to the predetermined nature of the plot.

The Flaws in Light's Strategy

Throughout the series, Light demonstrated numerous strategic blunders. For instance, he could have leveraged Misa more effectively. Utilizing Misa's knowledge to track L's movements and gather intelligence could have provided Light with a significant tactical edge. Unfortunately, Light's overconfidence and lack of foresight nearly cost him the game.

Furthermore, Light's decision to rely too heavily on his father's position and the Death Note itself gave him an unfair advantage over L. Light's untraceable weapon, his close ties to the investigation, and his mind control powers created a near-unassailable position. It is precisely these advantages that made the final confrontation with L so disastrous for Light, despite the latter's legitimate brilliance.

Would Light Have Won Without Additional Advantages?

Light's victory against L can be interpreted as a result of his initial advantages rather than his true intellectual superiority. If Light had not had access to the Death Note and its god, his strategic plans would have been severely limited. The series itself suggests that L possessed a greater or equivalent level of intelligence, as evidenced by his near success in apprehending Light. In a fair fight, where neither had an unfair advantage, L would likely have triumphed.

Moreover, L's strategic acumen extended beyond mere intellect. He was capable of outmaneuvering some of Light's most resourceful moves. Despite having a nearly unbeatable hand, Light's final gambit relied heavily on chance and unpredictable events, ultimately leading to his downfall.

The True Nature of the Competition

While it is true that the series was heavily tilted in Light's favor due to his initial advantages, the true competition would have been far less dramatic if L had those same advantages. Light's success can be attributed not only to his brilliance but to the arbitrary interventions that favored him. If the roles had been reversed, L's superior intellect and strategic prowess would have surely led to his victory.

In conclusion, while Light's victory was dramatic and engaging, it is arguable that L's intelligence and strategic acumen were the truest hallmarks of the series's conflict. Without the external factors that gave Light the advantage, L would have won, lending further weight to the theory that the final outcome was not a true test of equal skill.

Final Thoughts

The debate over L or Light remains a fascinating and polarizing topic among fans of Death Note. While Light's victory was exciting, an unbiased examination reveals that L's strategic brilliance and initial circumstances set him up for the ultimate triumph. It is this complex interplay of factors that makes the series a standout in the realm of anime and fiction.