How to Act Like Near in 15 Easy Steps

Near

L was the single greatest detective across the entire globe. However, after his demise, it was up to the staff of Wammy’s House to provide replacements in the world’s direst hour for its battle against Kira. What became of L’s death was a brilliant pair of young minds being thrust onto the scene. Nevertheless, the first of these two youthful geniuses, Mello, decided not to pursue this course of action, and the world was left with one detective on the straight and narrow: Near.

He combines both the playfulness of a child with the cold and calculating determination of the original L. Many times, he even took this mischievous demeanor to a dangerous and deadly level. To replicate his actions would take skill and a shrewd nature. However, with these tips you can start your journey on the road to following the only individual who was truly able to unwrap the plans of the alleged God of the New World.

1) Have a collection of several finger puppets. Near always used these to plot out scenarios that he postulated about while on the Kira investigation. In fact, one might begin to wonder whether or not Near had some sort of lust for power he was fulfilling with the idea that he could control the puppets.

2) In addition to finger puppets, have a collection of several classic toys. Near was seen on multiple occasions with a toy robot that appeared to be out of the golden era of pulp fiction.

3) Learn a hobby such as darts or running a domino rally. Both were favored pastimes of the sometimes apparently idle-minded Near.

4) Find insight in all things. Near worked out the solutions to visual games, such as jigsaw puzzles, when his mind was on other topics.

5) Remain calm at all times and allow cooler heads to prevail. In many ways, Near was more level headed than Ryuzaki.

6) Read the Death Note manga and, likewise, indulge in the anime series. Both provide the vital clues that Near sought after in his investigation.

7) If cosplaying as Near, a set of clothes that err on the large side could be very useful. His usual manner of dress was similar to a large set of men’s sleepwear.

8) A white wig may be of use, as well, if you are trying to cosplay as the character. Near’s hair is messy, though not as extreme as the original L. Likewise, he has a tousled effect to it, however not as extreme as Mello. One wonders whether this was intentional by Takeshi Obata to demonstrate Near as the [next to the last] penultimate character.

9) Make sure to acquire as much Death Note memorabilia as possible so that you will always be reminded of the series that Near calls home.

10) Understand your own weaknesses and learn to work around them. Near understands that his social networks are small, and relies on his team to work with him when such skills are needed.

11) Never give up when faced with adversity. Near wanted results more than anything else.

12) Sometimes, when appropriate, display a bit of a wry sense of wit. Near was described as being somewhat cheeky.

13) Always be able to plan ahead. At the beginning of his final showdown, Near brought a mask (ironically of Ryuzaki’s visage) to protect him from the power of Kira.

14) Develop your own natural intellect. Near was never one to stop learning and adapting to new situations.

15) Balance out immature and mature aspects of your personality. In many ways, Near is a child with the brain of a research scientist.

Want more? Check these out:

• Become Grimmjow Jeagerjaques in 15 Easy Steps
• 15 Ways to Be Like Mello
• Becoming Light Yagami aka Kira