Ranma ½

Ranma ½ centers on Ranma Saotome, a proud teenage martial artist whose training trip to China leaves him cursed by the springs of Jusenkyo: cold water turns him into a girl, and hot water restores him. His father Genma suffers a similar curse, and the two return to Tokyo to live at the Tendou family dojo. There, an old promise arranges Ranma's engagement to Akane Tendou, a strong-willed martial artist who initially wants nothing to do with him. Their reluctant partnership anchors a large ensemble of rivals, suitors, and eccentric martial artists, each with bizarre techniques and transformations, turning everyday school life and dojo disputes into chaotic battles.

As the series grows, Ranma and Akane's relationship develops amid constant misunderstandings, while new challengers and cursed acquaintances expand the cast and the world beyond the Tendou home. The manga's long run supports a 1989 anime, theatrical films, OVAs, and later specials; a 2024 anime remake reintroduces the story to new audiences and continues across multiple seasons. Across versions, the core appeal remains the blend of slapstick romantic comedy, martial arts action, and flexible gender-swapping premise, with Ranma trying to manage his curse, his engagement, and an ever-growing circle of opponents and friends.