The journey from zero to hero is a powerful narrative arc that resonates with many viewers in the world of anime. These stories of transformation and personal growth have become a staple in the genre, showcasing characters who rise from humble beginnings to achieve greatness against all odds. At AnimeKing, we celebrate the latest popular anime that highlight these inspiring tales, where determination, resilience, and courage ultimately lead to success.
In our ranking of the top 18 zero to hero anime characters of 2024, we delve into the lives of those who defy expectations and prove that anyone can become a hero. From unlikely protagonists to underdogs who surprise us with their strength and resolve, this list exemplifies the essence of the anime spirit. Join us as we explore these remarkable characters and their incredible journeys, which have captivated fans and secured their places in anime ranking history.
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18: Ken Kaneki
Tokyo Ghoul (2014-2018)
Ken Kaneki’s transformation from a quiet, bookish college student to a ghoul is both tragic and powerful. After a disastrous date leaves him half-dead and half-ghoul thanks to an organ transplant, Kaneki is thrust into the terrifying world of ghouls—creatures that survive by eating humans. At first, Kaneki is horrified by his new nature, unable to control his ghoulish powers or his monstrous hunger for human flesh.
But Kaneki’s character arc is one of endurance and survival. After enduring unimaginable torture, he emerges as a more driven and ruthless fighter. Kaneki’s ghoul powers make him a force to be reckoned with—he’s faster, stronger, and far more resilient than his full-ghoul counterparts. And though he fights against his darker urges, when it comes to protecting those he loves, Kaneki’s powers give him the edge to fight ghouls and humans alike.
17: Asta
Black Clover (2017-2021)
Born without magic in a world where everyone relies on it, Asta is an underdog from the start. He’s mocked and ridiculed, but his tenacity and unbreakable spirit make him stand out. Then, he receives an extraordinary power that turns the tables—anti-magic. With this ability, Asta can negate, absorb, and destroy magic, making him a nightmare for any mage who dares to challenge him.
Armed with massive swords drawn from his grimoire, Asta doesn’t just fight magic users—he crushes them. His anti-magic abilities, combined with his relentless willpower, allow him to go toe-to-toe with the most powerful beings in the kingdom. And his connection to the demon that fuels his anti-magic only makes him stronger, giving him the potential to rise to his ultimate goal: becoming the Wizard King.
16: Bojji
Ranking of Kings (2021-)
Bojji is the definition of an underdog. Born deaf and mute, this young prince is overlooked by his kingdom due to his inability to communicate, and his small stature only adds to the mockery. But what Bojji lacks in physical strength, he more than makes up for in speed, agility, and heart. He’s incredibly quick, and after finding a teacher who helps him harness his inner strengths, Bojji becomes an absolute beast on the battlefield.
His secret lies in his ability to pinpoint his opponents’ weaknesses. Instead of relying on brute strength, Bojji uses his agility and keen eye for detail to land devastating, precise attacks. And while his journey to reclaim his kingdom is filled with challenges, Bojji proves time and again that true strength comes from within—and that even the smallest hero can achieve greatness.
15: Sung Jinwoo
Solo Leveling (2024-)
At the start of Solo Leveling, Sung Jinwoo is labeled the weakest hunter in existence. Barely able to defeat even the most minor monsters, he’s mocked by his peers. But after a near-death experience in a dungeon, Jinwoo awakens to a unique power—leveling up. Unlike other hunters, Jinwoo grows stronger with every monster he defeats, gaining new abilities and increasing his stats in a video game-like system.
By the time Jinwoo hits his stride, he’s practically unstoppable. He doesn’t just become stronger than other hunters—he surpasses them entirely, eventually taking on monsters and gods alike. His journey from the weakest to the strongest hunter is a thrilling one, and fans can’t wait to see his rise to godlike power in the upcoming anime.
14: Koby
One Piece (1999-)
Koby’s growth from a timid cabin boy to a rising Marine is one of One Piece’s most inspiring character arcs. When we first meet him, Koby is serving under the tyrannical pirate Alvida, beaten down and too scared to pursue his own dreams. But everything changes when he meets Monkey D. Luffy, who inspires him to stand up for himself and follow his dream of becoming a Marine.
Under the intense training of Luffy’s grandpa, Garp, Koby transforms into a capable fighter. Though he starts as a meek, scrawny boy, Koby eventually becomes a fierce and determined Marine, rising through the ranks with speed and dedication. He may not be as powerful as Luffy yet, but his growth—both physically and emotionally—is nothing short of impressive. Koby is well on his way to becoming a major player in the One Piece world.
13: Thorfinn
Vinland Saga (2019-)
Thorfinn’s journey is one filled with tragedy, rage, and ultimately, redemption. After witnessing his father’s death at the hands of the mercenary Askeladd, Thorfinn swears vengeance. He trains relentlessly, becoming a fearsome warrior capable of taking on men much larger and more experienced than himself. Thorfinn’s strength and skill make him a deadly opponent, but his single-minded pursuit of revenge leads him down a dark path.
However, Vinland Saga is not just about strength in battle—it’s about inner strength as well. After being sold into slavery, Thorfinn begins to question his thirst for revenge and his place in the world. His journey from a rage-fueled warrior to a more introspective, peaceful individual is powerful, showing that sometimes, the greatest strength lies in choosing not to fight.
12: Rimuru Tempest
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime (2018-)
You wouldn’t expect a slime to be powerful, but Rimuru Tempest defies all expectations. After being reincarnated into a fantasy world, Rimuru starts off as a humble slime with minimal abilities. However, thanks to his absorption power, he quickly begins to accumulate abilities from every monster he encounters. Rimuru’s strength skyrockets as he absorbs and integrates new skills, allowing him to become one of the most overpowered beings in his world.
His journey from a simple slime to a Demon Lord is filled with political intrigue, epic battles, and world-building on an epic scale. Rimuru doesn’t just become strong—he builds a nation of monsters, defeats demon lords, and takes on enemies that most characters would never dream of facing. He may be a slime, but he’s one of the most formidable and lovable protagonists in the isekai genre.
11: Armin Arlert
Attack on Titan (2013-2023)
At the start of Attack on Titan, Armin Arlert is not exactly the picture of strength. He’s small, physically weak, and constantly relying on his friends to protect him. But Armin’s true power lies in his mind. As the series progresses, Armin’s intelligence and strategic thinking make him an invaluable asset to humanity’s fight against the Titans.
His evolution doesn’t stop there. Armin eventually gains the power of the Colossal Titan, a massive, destructive force that makes him a devastating presence on the battlefield. Despite his newfound strength, Armin remains humble and thoughtful, using his power
to protect those he loves and uncover the truth behind the Titans. He’s a perfect example of how strength isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional, too.
10: Kenichi Shirahama
Kenichi: The Mightiest Disciple (2006-2007)
Kenichi may start out as a bit of a punching bag, but his journey to becoming the “Mightiest Disciple” is one of sheer determination. After being inspired to protect those he cares about, Kenichi trains at the Ryozanpaku Dojo, where he learns a variety of martial arts styles from some of the world’s greatest masters.
Though he begins as a scrawny underdog, Kenichi’s perseverance pays off, and he becomes a skilled fighter capable of taking on opponents much larger and more experienced than him. His humility, combined with his unwavering dedication, makes Kenichi a character that’s easy to root for. He may not have superpowers, but his hard-earned martial arts skills make him one of the toughest fighters in anime.
9: Shu Ouma
Guilty Crown (2011-2012)
Shu Ouma starts off as an emotionally detached and aloof high school student, burdened by a traumatic past. He’s reluctant to engage with the world around him until a fateful encounter with the mysterious and talented singer, Inori Yuzuriha, pulls him into the resistance group known as Funeral Parlor. This is where Shu’s journey truly begins, as he awakens to a unique power called the “Power of the King”.
With this power, Shu can extract the “Void” from others—the manifestation of their heart or soul—turning him into a one-man army capable of wielding an array of personalized weapons and tools. While Shu initially joins the resistance largely due to his feelings for Inori, he quickly grows into his role, becoming a pivotal figure in the fight against a dystopian regime. His transformation from a passive teenager to a decisive leader is one of the most compelling aspects of Guilty Crown, as he learns to shoulder immense responsibility and the painful consequences that come with power.
8: Bell Cranel
Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? (2015)
Bell Cranel starts as an earnest and wide-eyed adventurer, dreaming of making a name for himself in the perilous dungeons of Orario. His early days are filled with fumbling missteps, where his lack of experience is evident, but what Bell lacks in skill, he more than makes up for in determination. With the guidance and support of the goddess Hestia, Bell’s journey from novice to hero is full of heart and ambition.
Bell’s most defining trait is his unwavering kindness. His humility and innate goodness earn him the loyalty and admiration of many, including powerful allies and, of course, Hestia herself. Despite being constantly surrounded by strong and beautiful women—some of whom show clear romantic interest—Bell remains remarkably humble, often too focused on his goal of becoming a great adventurer to even notice their affections.
7: Tsunayoshi “Tsuna” Sawada
Reborn! (2006-2010)
Tsuna Sawada might be the most unlikely mafia boss you’ll ever meet. Timid, clumsy, and lacking in self-confidence, Tsuna starts out as the quintessential underdog. He’s not particularly good at anything, and his lack of talent and friends makes him an easy target for bullies. But everything changes when Reborn, a hitman in the body of a baby, comes into Tsuna’s life and informs him that he is the heir to the Vongola mafia family.
With Reborn’s tough (and often comedic) training, Tsuna begins to awaken his hidden potential. His transformation is nothing short of remarkable. From a fearful and insecure boy, Tsuna grows into a brave and capable leader, especially after unlocking his “Dying Will Mode”, which taps into his full potential when his life is on the line. This mode enhances his physical abilities and sharpens his determination, allowing him to take on opponents that far exceed his initial skill level.
6: Subaru Natsuki
Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World (2016-2021)
Few characters in anime suffer as much as Subaru Natsuki. Transported into a fantasy world without any warning, Subaru quickly discovers that his life has become a never-ending nightmare. Whenever he dies—and he dies a lot—he’s resurrected at a previous point in time, forced to relive events and witness his friends’ deaths over and over. This ability, known as “Return by Death”, is both a blessing and a curse. While it gives Subaru the chance to change the future, it also comes with deep psychological scars.
Despite experiencing horrific deaths and overwhelming despair, Subaru’s ability to persevere through unimaginable trauma is what defines him. His resilience and determination to protect the people he loves, especially Emilia, are at the heart of his character. Subaru may not have the physical strength or magical powers of the heroes around him, but his sheer willpower and intelligence make him a formidable force.
5: Atsuko “Akko” Kagari
Little Witch Academia (2017)
In a world where most witches come from prestigious magical backgrounds, Atsuko “Akko” Kagari stands out as a determined underdog. With no natural talent for magic and hailing from a non-magical family, Akko faces constant challenges at Luna Nova Magical Academy. But what she lacks in skill, she makes up for in her unyielding spirit. Inspired by her childhood idol, Shiny Chariot, Akko dreams of becoming a great witch who spreads joy and wonder through magic.
Akko’s journey is one of hard-earned progress. Despite being considered one of the worst students at Luna Nova, she never gives up on her dream. Her resilience and positivity often push her through tough situations where more talented witches might falter. And while her spells may not always work the way she intends, Akko’s creativity and resourcefulness frequently save the day.
4: Saitama
One Punch Man (2015-2019)
Saitama’s rise from an ordinary, uninspired office worker to the strongest hero in the universe is one of the most unique stories in anime. Unlike most protagonists who struggle to grow stronger, Saitama already has absolute power—he can defeat any enemy with a single punch. His strength is so overwhelming that he’s become disillusioned with the very idea of being a hero. For Saitama, there’s no longer any excitement in battle because no opponent can challenge him.
But while Saitama’s physical strength is unmatched, it’s his inner journey that makes him so compelling. He may be the most powerful being on Earth, but he still struggles with feelings of isolation and frustration. Saitama just wants to be recognized for his heroic deeds, but because of his unimpressive appearance and low rank within the Hero Association, he’s often overlooked and underestimated by his peers.
3: Ippo Makunouchi
Hajime no Ippo (2000-2014)
Ippo Makunouchi’s story is one of grit, determination, and an incredible fighting spirit. As a shy, bullied teenager, Ippo lacked the confidence to stand up for himself. But after being saved by a professional boxer and invited to train at the Kamogawa Gym, Ippo discovers a passion for boxing that changes his life forever.
Under the guidance of his coach, Ippo undergoes a transformation from a timid boy to a powerhouse in the boxing ring. His relentless work ethic and willingness to endure pain make him a formidable competitor. What sets Ippo apart is his incredible ability to take a beating and still get back up. His iron will, combined with his signature move, the Dempsey Roll, allows him to take on opponents who seem far out of his league.
2: Izuku Midoriya
Izuku Midoriya
My Hero Academia (2016-)
Izuku Midoriya, also known as Deku, begins his journey as a quirkless boy in a world where almost everyone has a superpower, or “quirk.” Despite being born without powers, Izuku idolizes the No. 1 hero, All Might, and dreams of becoming a hero himself. His relentless determination catches the eye of All Might, who decides to pass on his quirk, One For All, to Izuku.
Izuku’s journey is one of relentless perseverance. He starts off barely able to control his newfound power, often injuring himself in the process. But through rigorous training and sheer willpower, Izuku gradually masters One For All, unlocking new abilities and pushing the limits of his body. His growth is marked by constant struggles, both physically and emotionally, as he learns what it truly means to be a hero.
1: Simon
Gurren Lagann (2007)
Simon’s journey in Gurren Lagann is one of the most epic transformations in anime history. At the start, Simon is a timid, uncertain boy who lives in the shadow of his charismatic older brother figure, Kamina. But when Kamina dies in battle, Simon is forced to step up and become the leader of Team Dai-Gurren, carrying the weight of humanity’s survival on his shoulders.
Simon’s growth is nothing short of monumental. He evolves from a scared child into a confident and determined leader capable of piloting Gurren Lagann, a mecha that grows in power alongside its pilot. By the end of the series, Simon’s strength and resolve are so great that he leads the charge against the Anti-Spiral, piloting a mecha the size of a galaxy in one of the most mind-blowing finales in anime history.
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conclusion
the journey of the Top 18 Zero to Hero Anime Characters serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, determination, and the transformative nature of personal growth. Each character on this list has faced adversity, overcoming obstacles to emerge stronger and more capable, inspiring viewers along the way. From the humble beginnings of My Hero Academia‘s Izuku Midoriya to the remarkable evolution of Fairy Tail‘s Natsu Dragneel, these stories resonate with audiences and highlight the potential for greatness within everyone. As we look forward to new releases and latest popular anime, these characters will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain fans. Their journeys not only entertain but also remind us that anyone can rise from humble beginnings to achieve greatness. Embrace your own hero’s journey and enjoy the adventures that unfold in these incredible series!