One of the most intriguing tropes in anime is when the main character (MC) appears weak, unassuming, or even outright powerless, only to reveal their hidden strength when it matters most. This type of character captivates audiences with their secret power and adds an element of surprise to every battle or challenge. Whether they’re hiding their abilities to blend in, avoid attention, or strategically wait for the perfect moment to strike, these protagonists create exciting dynamics in their worlds. If you enjoy watching characters who surprise both their enemies and allies with their overwhelming strength, here are some of the best anime where the MC acts weak but is secretly overpowered. These shows deliver not just action and thrills, but also moments of cunning strategy and jaw-dropping revelations.

1. One Punch Man

The title One Punch Man immediately hints at the overwhelming power of its main character, Saitama. After enduring three years of a brutal and simple training regimen—100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, and a 10-kilometer run every single day—Saitama becomes the most powerful human being alive, capable of defeating any opponent with just a single punch. While this might sound exciting at first, it quickly becomes a source of frustration for Saitama. His immense power has rendered every fight boring, as no opponent can withstand more than a single blow.

What makes One Punch Man stand out, beyond its jaw-dropping action sequences, is its humorous take on the superhero genre. Saitama’s quest for a worthy challenge is contrasted by his disinterest in his own abilities. Despite his power, Saitama remains a humble, somewhat lazy individual, constantly overshadowed by heroes ranked far below him. The show balances intense fights with witty commentary on power, responsibility, and the meaning of being a hero, making it an all-time favorite in the world of anime.

2. Mob Psycho 100

Mob Psycho 100, from the same creator as One Punch Man, follows Kageyama Shigeo, more commonly known as Mob. Mob is a shy, introverted middle school student who possesses incredible psychic powers. His abilities range from telekinesis to energy blasts, making him one of the most powerful espers in the world. However, Mob yearns for a normal life and avoids using his powers whenever possible, only stepping in when necessary.

Mob’s reserved nature hides the fact that his powers are linked to his emotions. As he suppresses his feelings, his psychic power builds up, and once it reaches 100%, it erupts in a display of overwhelming force. This buildup often leads to moments where Mob’s seemingly calm demeanor cracks, unleashing devastating power that even he struggles to control.

The series isn’t just about Mob’s psychic abilities but also his personal growth, friendship, and understanding of himself. The story mixes intense psychic battles with emotional character development, offering a heartfelt narrative wrapped in stunning animation. Fans of powerful yet understated protagonists will find Mob’s journey captivating.

3. Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei

In Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei, magic and technology coexist, creating a world where both are used to solve everyday problems. The series follows Shiba Tatsuya, a student at a prestigious magic high school. On the surface, Tatsuya appears to be an average or even underperforming student in terms of magical prowess, but beneath this unassuming facade lies a genius. Tatsuya is a master of magical engineering, with an ability to manipulate magical devices and advanced technology to an unprecedented degree.

While his peers dismiss him as a second-rate magician, Tatsuya’s true power lies in his analytical abilities and combat skills, making him a near-invincible force on the battlefield. Along with his younger sister, Miyuki, Tatsuya faces challenges from rival students, external enemies, and political conflicts. His calm demeanor and logical approach often mask his overwhelming strength, making him one of the most dangerous and underestimated characters in the anime.

The series combines tactical warfare, high school drama, and a touch of romance, creating a unique blend of genres. Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei excels at showcasing the contrast between Tatsuya’s low-profile personality and his hidden, overpowering capabilities.

4. Noragami

Noragami Aragoto OVANoragami tells the story of Yato, a minor god who dreams of becoming widely revered, but in reality, he’s a “Delivery God” who accepts odd jobs for just five yen. Yato is often seen as a joke among the gods, as he doesn’t even have a shrine dedicated to him. However, beneath his seemingly humble, carefree demeanor, Yato is an immensely powerful deity with a dark past.

The series takes a turn when Yato meets Hiyori Iki, a girl who saves him from a car accident, which causes her soul to become detached from her body. This accident sets off a series of events that leads to the exploration of Yato’s true identity and his capabilities as a god of calamity. As Yato works odd jobs and faces supernatural threats, viewers gradually learn about his incredible combat skills and the formidable enemies from his past.

The dynamic between Yato, Hiyori, and the other gods offers a mix of humor, action, and drama, making Noragami a must-watch for fans of fantasy anime with powerful protagonists who are more than they seem.

5. Saiki Kusuo no Psi-nan

Saiki Kusuo no Psi-nan follows the life of Saiki Kusuo, a high school student born with a multitude of psychic abilities. From telepathy to teleportation, Saiki has an endless arsenal of powers that would make him nearly omnipotent. However, far from enjoying his abilities, Saiki finds them more of a burden than a blessing. All he wants is a normal life, free from the chaos that his powers often bring.

The anime thrives on its comedic tone, with Saiki constantly trying to avoid using his powers but inevitably being dragged into absurd situations that require them. His deadpan reactions to the bizarre antics of his classmates and family add to the humor, making it a lighthearted and hilarious watch. Despite his overwhelming powers, Saiki’s desire for a quiet, unremarkable life makes him a relatable and endearing character.

6. Classroom of the Elite

Classroom of the Elite is set in a prestigious high school where students are ranked based on their academic achievements and personal merit. Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, the protagonist, is placed in Class D, which is considered the worst class in the school. Despite appearing unmotivated and laid-back, Ayanokouji hides an exceptionally sharp intellect and strategic mind.

Throughout the series, Ayanokouji subtly manipulates events from the shadows, helping his classmates improve their standing while avoiding drawing attention to his own abilities. His low-key nature contrasts with the other students who openly vie for power and recognition. As the series progresses, Ayanokouji’s hidden talents come to light, revealing just how overpowered he truly is, despite his best efforts to remain under the radar.

7. Ansatsu Kyoushitsu

In Ansatsu Kyoushitsu (Assassination Classroom), the seemingly whimsical and goofy Koro-sensei is actually a near-unstoppable being. With a body shaped like a yellow octopus and the ability to move at speeds up to Mach 20, Koro-sensei becomes the target of an assassination plot by his own students. The catch? Koro-sensei is also their teacher, tasked with educating the class on how to kill him within a year, or he’ll destroy the Earth.

Despite his playful demeanor, Koro-sensei is incredibly powerful and intelligent. He possesses a wide array of abilities, from superhuman speed to regenerative powers, making him almost impossible to kill. His bond with his students adds depth to the story, as they grow to respect and care for him, even while attempting to assassinate him.

8. Nanatsu no Taizai

Nanatsu no Taizai (The Seven Deadly Sins) follows the adventures of Meliodas, the captain of the legendary Seven Deadly Sins. Although Meliodas appears to be a small, carefree, and mischievous boy, he is actually one of the most powerful beings in the world. As a member of the demon clan, Meliodas has incredible strength, immortality, and the ability to unleash devastating magical attacks.

The anime’s plot revolves around the reuniting of the Seven Deadly Sins and their battle against corrupt Holy Knights. As the series progresses, Meliodas’s true powers are revealed, and his past as the former leader of the Ten Commandments comes to light. His cheerful and laid-back personality belies his immense strength, making him a quintessential example of an OP character who doesn’t look the part.

9. Gintama

Gintama is known for its absurd humor and outrageous parodies, but beneath the comedy lies a protagonist who is far more powerful than he appears. Gintoki Sakata, the main character, is a former samurai who now spends his days lazing around and doing odd jobs. Despite his lazy and carefree attitude, Gintoki is a highly skilled swordsman with incredible strength and agility.

The anime blends slapstick comedy with intense action sequences, often showcasing Gintoki’s true abilities in moments of danger. Whether he’s fighting aliens, rogue samurai, or corrupt government officials, Gintoki’s laid-back demeanor hides the fact that he’s one of the strongest characters in the series.

10. Ao no Exorcist

Ao no Exorcist is set in a world where humans coexist with demons, and the story follows Rin Okumura, a seemingly normal teenager who discovers that he is the son of Satan. Upon learning of his demonic heritage, Rin gains the ability to wield incredible powers, transforming him into a terrifyingly strong force when he taps into his true potential.

Despite his demonic lineage, Rin strives to become an exorcist and fight against the very demons that threaten humanity. His struggle to control his powers and his desire to protect his friends make for a compelling narrative, filled with action-packed battles and moments of emotional depth. Rin’s journey of self-discovery and his determination to overcome his demonic nature drive the series forward, making Ao no Exorcist a thrilling and heartfelt anime.