Max is a minor but pivotal character in the anime adaptation of Ninjala. He is introduced in the episode Awaken, Young Van! as the father of Van, one of the eight main characters. Prior to the events of the story, Max served as an agent of the World Ninja Association, the organization that governs ninja activity and develops Ninja Gum. His background as a WNA agent establishes him as a trained ninja with practical experience in field operations. His personality is not extensively detailed, but his actions show a protective and selfless father. When he is attacked by the antagonist Hebimaru, Max is trapped inside a burning shed along with his son Van. In his final moments of consciousness, he forces Van to chew a piece of Ninja Gum, awakening the boy’s dormant ninjutsu genes and enabling both of them to escape the fire. This act demonstrates his quick thinking and willingness to sacrifice himself for his child. After the attack, Max falls into an indefinite coma and is placed under the protection of Master Genryusai, a high‑ranking ninja mentor. Max’s role in the story is primarily that of a catalyst: his incapacitation drives Van’s motivation to enter the Ninjala tournament, train under Genryusai, and work as a vigilante against the Space Ninjas. His key relationships include his son Van, who longs for his father’s return and is inspired by his legacy; Hebimaru, the enemy who defeated him; and Genryusai, who safeguards him and later becomes Van’s teacher. Max does not undergo any character development within the anime, as he remains in a coma throughout the series. His notable abilities are not specified in detail, but as a WNA agent he possesses the standard ninja skills associated with the setting, and his knowledge of Ninja Gum is significant enough to pass it to his son at a critical moment. Overall, Max serves as the emotional anchor for Van’s journey and represents the prior generation of ninjas whose legacy continues through the protagonist.