Dan Kuso, originally named Danma Kuso in the Japanese version, stands as the central protagonist throughout the Bakugan anime series. Starting as a 12-year-old from Wardington, he relocates to Bayview during Gundalian Invaders and ultimately settles in Bakugan City for Mechtanium Surge. His parents are Miyoko and Shinjiro Kuso, with his father echoing Dan's impulsive nature. Physically, Dan possesses tan skin, brown hair, and crimson eyes. His signature goggles evolve in shape: hexagonal during Battle Brawlers, elliptical in Gundalian Invaders. His attire transforms significantly: a red overcoat over a yellow sleeveless shirt in season one; gold-trimmed long sleeves with white pants in New Vestroia; a red jacket with rolled sleeves (plus temporary knight armor) in Gundalian Invaders; and a red jacket with black accents in Mechtanium Surge, sometimes switching to sportswear for jogging. Initially hot-headed and impulsive, Dan prioritizes raw power and victory in Bakugan battles. This approach strains his bond with his partner, the Pyrus Dragonoid Drago, culminating in Dan discarding Drago into a river after a reckless defeat. A subsequent loss to Ryo sparks introspection, leading Dan to embrace strategy over brute force. While he matures across seasons—demonstrating improved patience and leadership in Gundalian Invaders—he regresses in Mechtanium Surge, growing overconfident and dismissive of friends under Mag Mel's psychic influence. Core traits endure: fierce determination, loyalty to allies, and a belief in redemption for former enemies like Spectra or Ren Krawler. His foundational bond with Drago evolves from early friction into profound mutual trust, exemplified when Dan enters the Doom Dimension to stay with his partner. Their connection intensifies with the "Switch Code" destiny link in Mechtanium Surge, enabling Mechtogan summoning but also rendering Dan susceptible to Mag Mel's control. Dan's relationships extend to childhood friends Runo Misaki (sharing mutual romantic tension) and Shun Kazami, alongside allies Marucho Marukura, Julie Makimoto (his Bayview neighbor), and Jake Vallory. Dan's combat journey mirrors his personal growth. Beginning as an unranked brawler, he rises to become Earth's #1 ranked by season one's end. He pioneers tactics like Double Abilities in Gundalian Invaders and masters new systems such as Bakugan Interspace. Key achievements include liberating New Vestroia from the Vexos, aiding Neathia against Gundalia, and thwarting Mag Mel. He holds records for most Bakugan Traps (seven) and Battle Gear (six). During Mechtanium Surge, his link to Drago grants temporary psychic abilities, manifesting as visions and telepathy. His journey concludes with recognition as Earth's greatest brawler, continuing adventures alongside Drago. Concrete information regarding his appearance remains confined to the main series across all documented media.