Mary Saotome is one of the standout characters in the anime Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler, and honestly, it’s hard not to be intrigued by her. Right from the start, Mary Saotome grabs attention as a central figure in the series—initially stepping in as a primary antagonist but eventually shifting into an unexpected ally for Yumeko Jabami, the show’s main protagonist. There’s just something about Mary Saotome that keeps viewers hooked: her sharp mind, fearless gambling tactics, and layered personality.
When we first meet Mary Saotome, she’s already at the top—literally. She holds the title of queen within the student council, which, in the twisted world of Hyakkaou Private Academy, means she essentially rules the school’s high-stakes gambling scene. At this point, Mary Saotome comes across as cold, calculating, and more than a little ruthless. She doesn’t shy away from targeting weaker students, exploiting their insecurities, and using every trick in the book to stay on top. Greed? Check. Ambition? Absolutely. But there’s more beneath the surface.
What makes Mary Saotome such a compelling character isn’t just her skill or dominance—it’s her vulnerability. Behind the confident facade is a girl burdened by her family’s financial struggles. Her relentless pursuit of money isn’t just about power; it’s about survival and responsibility. This inner conflict adds depth to Mary Saotome, making her far more than just another antagonist. It’s this complexity that allows audiences to empathize with her, even when her actions cross moral lines.
Over time, Mary Saotome evolves. She begins to question her values, faces defeats that shake her confidence, and slowly starts forming genuine connections. Her development throughout Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler is one of the most dynamic arcs in the series. Watching Mary Saotome grow—from a self-serving manipulator to someone capable of loyalty and introspection—is incredibly satisfying. Fans often cite her journey as one of the highlights of the show.
Now, if we dive into personality types, Mary Saotome fits the INTJ profile almost perfectly. Known as “The Mastermind,” INTJs are strategic, independent thinkers who thrive on planning and logic—and Mary Saotome embodies all of that. She’s introverted, yes, often keeping her emotions locked away, but her mind is always working, analyzing opponents, predicting moves, and staying ten steps ahead. That intuitive side of hers lets her spot patterns others miss, while her thinking preference means she makes decisions based on cold, hard reason rather than emotion. And let’s not forget her judging trait—she’s organized, goal-driven, and never loses sight of her long-term objectives. In short, Mary Saotome’s INTJ nature is a huge part of why she’s such a formidable gambler.
Then there’s her Enneagram type, which points strongly toward Type 3—the Achiever. Mary Saotome is driven, ambitious, and obsessed with success. She wants to win, not just for the money, but for the recognition. Her image matters deeply to her. She crafts a persona of control and superiority, partly because she needs others to see her as flawless. But that same need for validation can be her downfall. When she fails, it cuts deep—because for Mary Saotome, failure isn’t just losing a bet; it’s a threat to her entire identity.
All in all, Mary Saotome stands out as one of the most intricate and well-developed characters in Kakegurui – Compulsive Gambler. Whether it’s her tactical brilliance, emotional layers, or psychological depth, she brings so much to the table. Her INTJ mindset and Type 3 motivations don’t just define her—they elevate her. And while she starts off as someone you love to hate, by the end, Mary Saotome earns both respect and sympathy. Truly, Mary Saotome is a character you won’t forget.
What's life without a little risk?