Anzu Mazaki, also known as Téa Gardner in some adaptations, is a central figure in the Yu-Gi-Oh! series as a childhood friend and classmate of Yugi Muto. She is a student at Domino High School and forms the heart of the close-knit group that includes Yugi, Katsuya Jonouchi, and Hiroto Honda. Her background is marked by a long-standing friendship with Yugi, having known him since their grade school days, and a deep-seated ambition that sets her apart from her peers. From a young age, Anzu has aspired to become a professional dancer, with the specific goal of studying dance in New York City. To fund this dream, she takes on part-time jobs, often secretly, as working while in school is against the rules. This determination to achieve her goal is a consistent and driving force throughout the story.

Anzu possesses a personality that is both forceful and deeply caring. At the beginning of the series, she displays a spunky, tomboyish streak, not hesitating to stand up to Jonouchi and Honda when they tease Yugi. She is strong-willed, kind-hearted, and unafraid to speak her mind, even to someone as intimidating as Seto Kaiba. Her defining trait, however, is her unwavering belief in the power of friendship. She frequently acts as the emotional anchor for her friends, offering encouragement and "friendship speeches" that remind them of what they are fighting for, especially during difficult times. She is often the glue that holds the group together, providing moral support from the sidelines. While generally sensible, she can also be quick-tempered and mischievous, and she is not afraid to show her emotions.

Her primary role in the story is that of a supportive friend and an emotional pillar for Yugi and Jonouchi. While not a primary duelist like them, she is a constant presence at their side throughout their adventures, from Duelist Kingdom to Battle City and beyond. She often sneaks into tournaments or dangerous locations simply to be there for her friends, cheering them on and offering crucial emotional support when their spirits waver. Although she rarely participates in high-stakes duels, she proves herself to be a competent player when the situation demands it. On the few occasions she does duel, she demonstrates skill and heart, most notably in her duel against Mai Valentine, where her courage and determination lead Mai to concede the match. She is also athletic and an exceptionally talented dancer, once defeating an opponent in a dance video game challenge.

Anzu's key relationships are the cornerstone of her character. Her bond with Yugi Muto is the most significant, but her feelings are complicated by the existence of his other self, Yami Yugi. She develops a romantic attraction to the mysterious and confident spirit of the Millennium Puzzle after he rescues her, captivated by his deep voice and heroic nature. This creates a romantic tension throughout the series, as she is unsure whether her feelings are for Yami Yugi or for her gentle, lifelong friend Yugi. She is clearly shown to be jealous when either Yugi or Yami Yugi interacts with other girls. Her friendships with Jonouchi and Honda are also vital; despite their rough beginnings, they become her trusted companions, and she often mediates their arguments. She is a fiercely loyal friend to all of them, and her belief in them is absolute.

Over the course of the series, Anzu undergoes notable development. Initially, she is primarily focused on discovering the true identity of her mysterious rescuer, Yami Yugi. As the story progresses, her priority shifts from this personal mystery to a more selfless concern for the safety and well-being of all her friends. She comes to accept that Yami Yugi is a separate spirit from Yugi, which deepens the complexity of her romantic feelings. Her character arc culminates in her unwavering support for both Yugi and the Pharaoh, Atem, during the final ceremonial duel, having grown from a girl with a crush into a mature young woman ready to support her friends in their most important moments, even if it means saying goodbye.

In terms of notable abilities, Anzu is not a primary fighter but has several distinct talents. Her athleticism and dance skills are exceptional, representing her true passion and career goal. As a duelist, she typically uses a Deck composed of Fairy and Spellcaster-type monsters, with cards like Shining Friendship and Dark Magician Girl being among her signature cards. While her deck is not the most powerful, she has shown strategic thinking and a surprising ability to win when her friends are counting on her. Ultimately, her greatest ability is her emotional strength and her capacity to inspire and uplift those around her through her unwavering loyalty and compassion.