Mello used chaos to challenge Kira, building a criminal empire and uncovering Death Note rules. His bold actions ultimately exposed Mikami's hidden notebook.
Near, L's successor, patiently dismantled Light's empire, avoiding emotional pitfalls. His strategic notebook swap led to Kira's final, unavoidable checkmate.
Light, as Kira, orchestrated a global criminal operation, manipulating everyone around him. His genius allowed him to evade capture for years, even while on the task force.
L, the world's greatest detective, used pure reason to identify Kira and corner Light. He nearly won an impossible game against an opponent with supernatural powers.