Anime enthusiasts are no strangers to the genre of overpowered protagonists. However, there’s something incredibly intriguing about a main character who conceals their immense abilities, especially in a school setting. We can all relate to the underdogs, the characters who are bullied and underestimated until they unleash their extraordinary strengths. In this article, we explore some of the best anime where the main character is overpowered but hides it, captivating us with their hidden potential.
Table of Contents
50. Musaigen No Phantom World
We kick off our list with the fantasy anime “Musaigen No Phantom World.” Meet Haruhiko Ichijo, a seemingly weak-looking artist who enrolls at Hosea Academy. Little do his classmates know that he possesses hidden powers as a Phantom hunter. Haruhiko’s special ability, “The Book Of Darth,” allows him to summon and trap ghosts within his book. He can also copy others’ moves. Together with his allies, Mai Kawakami, Izumi Reina, and Koito Minase, they form Team “Phantom Busters” and embark on thrilling adventures while dealing with the highs and lows of school life.
49. Aesthetica of a Rogue Hero (Hagure Yuusha no Aesthetica)
In this ecchi fantasy anime, Akatsuki Ousawa is summoned to an alternate world to defeat an evil dark lord. However, upon returning to Earth, Akatsuki and Miu Ousawa, the daughter of the dark lord, are forced to join a school called “Babel.” It is here that they learn to amplify their special skills. Akatsuki, an overpowered rogue hero, hides his true nature and becomes the leader of “Scarlet Dusk,” the world’s most powerful terroristic group. While he may appear aloof and self-serving, Akatsuki’s powers and dedication to protecting his friends make him an unstoppable force.
48. Tokyo Ravens
Harutora Tsuchimikado, born into a family of supernatural specialists, lacks the magic powers expected of him. However, when he receives a visit from his cousin and heir to the family, Natsume, his life takes an unexpected turn. Harutora becomes her protective spirit and gains powers he never thought possible. To hide his newfound strength, Harutora pretends to be a clumsy and hopeless goofball in front of the school. However, as the anime progresses, Harutora’s imperial magic style increases, making him the most powerful character in the series.
47. Cheating Craft
In a world where education is everything, “Cheating Craft” takes a unique approach to hiding powers. Set in a fantasy setting, students utilize various supernatural and creative means to succeed in exams. Protagonist Mumei Shokatsu, a transfer student, excels in cheating techniques. Together with his classmates, they employ inventive methods to outsmart their opponents and excel in their studies. While the focus in this anime lies more on academic competition than hiding true powers, it offers an exciting and humorous take on exceptional abilities in a school setting.
46. Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?!
Adele von Ascham, a socially isolated high school student, is given the opportunity to be reborn in a fantasy world. Afraid of standing out, she asks the goddess overseeing her reincarnation to make her abilities average. However, the goddess takes her request quite literally, granting her powers far beyond those of any normal human. Adopting the name Mile, she tries her best to maintain an “average” image by discreetly using her powers while avoiding attention. As Mile navigates her new life as an adventurer, hilarity and misunderstandings ensue as her friends begin to suspect that she might not be as ordinary as she claims.
45. The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat
Reborn into a world of magic and swords, Earth’s famous assassin trades his lethal profession for that of an aristocrat. Known as Lugh Tuatha Dé, he must destroy a powerful hero who threatens to take over the world. Underneath his aristocratic facade, Lugh retains his knowledge and experience from his previous life, making him an overpowered assassin hidden in plain sight.
44. The Daily Life of the Immortal King
Wang Ling, a prodigy in cultivation, tries to live a quiet life during his senior year of high school. However, his plans fail as he is faced with one challenge after another while his powers gradually resurface. As Wang Ling’s imperial magic style increases, he becomes the most powerful character in the series, surprising everyone with his hidden strength.
43. Noblesse
Cadis Etrama Di Raizel, a high school student, appears innocent and unassuming. However, he is the most powerful vampire to ever exist. With unparalleled blood manipulation abilities and skills that surpass mortal imagination, Cadis is a force to be reckoned with. Crossing him or even making eye contact without showing respect could lead to dire consequences. In “Noblesse,” the anime showcases Cadis’ hidden powers and portrays him as an overpowered character hidden within the confines of a school setting.
42. Reincarnated as a Sword
A young girl named Fran finds herself in possession of a talking sword. To escape from evil kidnappers, she requests the sword’s help, and it transfers all of its powers to her, turning her into a formidable warrior. Unbeknownst to others, the sword is not just any ordinary weapon; it is one of the strongest intelligence weapons out there. Fran embarks on a thrilling adventure, freeing the oppressed and exacting justice on those who deserve it, while keeping her true powers hidden from the world.
41. Tsugumomo
Kazuya Kagami carries his mother’s Obi (a type of sash) wherever he goes. One day, the Obi transforms into a girl ready to kick some serious spirit butt. Together, Kazuya and the girl, Tsukumogami, clean up the town, showcasing his hidden powers when faced with challenging situations.
40. To Be Hero
Ossan, a middle-aged man granted superpowers by an alien princess, takes a comical approach to heroism. Ossan’s powers allow him to transform into a handsome young man with incredible abilities, but at the cost of his physical appearance as his regular self. This anime humorously subverts the traditional hero trope while featuring a protagonist who possesses powers but doesn’t fit the usual heroic mold.
39. War God System! I’m Counting On You!
Antling, the main character, acquires a powerful God of War system that sends him into a supernatural world. Although he starts off weak due to his lack of understanding in cultivation, he quickly discovers his powers and becomes an overpowered cultivator. As he embarks on an adventure to receive legendary weapons and equipment, he strives to become a fake mighty cultivator, hiding his true powers from those around him.
38. Plunderer
In a world where every human has a number that determines their status, Licht Bach is an overpowered character with a negative count. Hiding his true nature, Licht becomes entangled in a conspiracy that concerns the entire world. As the story unfolds, Licht’s hidden abilities and true powers are revealed, captivating us with his strength and determination.
37. Hellsing
Sir Integra Hellsing, a descendant of Van Helsing, is the head of an organization that eliminates threats to the Queen. Alucard, a vampire bound to serve the Hellsing family, possesses immense power and is feared by all. Additionally, Seras Victoria, a vampire struggling to accept her true nature, hides her powers as she tries to cope with her existence. In “Hellsing,” hidden powers and the supernatural collide, making it an enthralling watch.
36. The Rising of the Shield Hero
Izuku Midoriya, born without any supernatural powers in a world where the majority possesses them, dreams of becoming a powerful superhero. Despite his lack of powers, Izuku’s determination and quick thinking lead him to acquire a unique power that propels him on a journey to become a hero. In “The Rising of the Shield Hero,” Izuku’s growth as an overpowered character hidden within a school setting captivates viewers.
35. Parasyte: The Maxim
Shinichi Izumi, a high school student, finds himself in a battle against alien zombies that invade Earth. When a parasite tries to invade Shinichi’s brain, it lands on his right hand instead. With his newfound abilities, Shinichi becomes a formidable opponent, concealing his true powers as he fights to protect himself and those around him.
34. One Punch Man
Saitama, the protagonist of “One Punch Man,” is an overpowered superhero with a unique ability – he can defeat anyone with a single punch. Despite his immense strength, Saitama struggles to find worthy opponents and longs for the thrill of a tough fight. In this anime, Saitama’s hidden powers and humble personality make him a captivating and hilarious character.
33. In/Spectre (Kyokou Suiri)
Kurou Sakuragawa possesses a unique skill set that allows him to mediate between the real and supernatural world as the “God of Wisdom.” Concealing his powerful abilities, Kurou uses his intelligence and analytical skills to solve supernatural problems. In this anime, the hidden powers of Kurou make him an intriguing and distinctive character.
32. The “Hentai” Prince and the Stony Cat
Youto Yokodera struggles with being misjudged by those around him. Seeking help from a mystical cat, he asks for his true persona to be revealed. However, the cat’s powers backfire, leaving Youto only able to speak the truth. Youto’s attempt to hide his true nature leads to comedic situations and trouble, captivating us with his struggle to be understood.
31. When Supernatural Battles Became Commonplace
Andou July, a high school student who comes across as arrogant, possesses an extraordinary power called Dark and Dark. However, at first, his power seems useless. As the anime progresses, Andou’s control over Dark and Dark grows, surprising everyone with his hidden potential as he burns everything and anyone in his path.
30. I’m Quitting Heroing!
In this anime, Leo Demonheart is a mysterious MC who possesses insurmountable power as a hero. However, he chooses to hide his extraordinary capabilities and live a quieter life, making him a hidden overpowered character. Despite being blessed with immense strength, Leo faces disdain and rejection from his own people, who fear the potential consequences of his power. Nonetheless, Leo’s abilities remain crucial, as he employs his hidden strength to solve problems and uncover the reasons behind a war initiated by Demon Queen Echidna.
29. My Hero Academia
Izuku Midoriya, born without any supernatural powers in a world where the majority possesses them, dreams of becoming a powerful superhero. Despite his lack of powers, Izuku’s determination and quick thinking lead him to acquire a unique power that propels him on a journey to become a hero. In “My Hero Academia,” Izuku’s growth as an overpowered character hidden within a school setting captivates viewers.
28. Code:Breaker
Rei Oogami, a transfer student, appears kind and likable. However, he hides a dark secret – he is a cold-blooded murderer. Possessing blue firepowers, he can burn people to ashes. Though he seems to lack distinction between innocent civilians and brutal criminals, there is a reason behind his explosive use of power.
27. 07-Ghost
Teito Klein, a slave soldier, conceals his emotions to survive a cruel existence. However, his hidden powers eventually surface, surprising everyone around him. As Teito showcases his various abilities, including the power to fly and slay monsters, he becomes the most powerful character in the series.
26. Hinomaru Sumo
Hinomaru Ushio joins the school Sumo club to become the top wrestler in Japan. Initially hiding his true strength, Hinomaru reveals his overpowered abilities when he challenges and easily defeats the leader of a gang of thugs. As his foes witness his strength, they begin to realize the true extent of his powers.
25. To Be Heroine Season 2
Futaba Hanaya accidentally calls upon her spirit and gains new incredible powers. As she discovers her hidden abilities, Futaba becomes a fierce warrior and fights assassins sent by baby bosses. This insane plotline leads to an unexpectedly good anime, showcasing the main character’s journey as she unknowingly uncovers her incredible powers.
24. Sword Art Online
In the virtual reality game “Sword Art Online,” players find themselves trapped, unable to log out until they complete the game. Kirito, the main character, possesses incredible swordsmanship skills and embarks on a journey to clear all one hundred floors of the game’s castle. Kirito’s hidden powers and formidable abilities captivate viewers as he fights to survive in the virtual world.
23. Alderamin on the Sky
Ikta Solork, a military prodigy, disguises his true abilities beneath a mask of laziness and indifference. Despite his potential to become a great military leader, Ikta hides his true talents as he seeks to avoid responsibility and combat. As the story delves into themes of leadership and friendship, Ikta’s personal growth becomes a central focus, all while he endeavors to maintain his facade of indifference.
22. Death March To The Parallel World Rhapsody
Ichirou Suzuki, an overworked IT worker, falls into a deep sleep. When he wakes up, he finds himself in a fantasy world, where he discovers newfound powers and abilities. To hide his true strength, Ichirou takes up a job at a nearby internet cafe. However, when a new server opens in the game “Glory,” Ichirou decides to try his luck once again, using his powers to navigate the game while keeping his true abilities hidden.
21. By the Grace of the Gods
Ryouma, a soul-crushed IT worker, is given a second chance at life when he wakes up in a fantasy world with magical powers. Hiding his immense abilities, Ryouma lives a simple life as an isolated forest child. Using his powers for good, he sets up a successful laundry business while trying to blend in with the people around him.
20. Demon King Daimao (Ichiban Ushiro no Daimaou)
Akuto Sai, a transfer student in Constant Magic Academy, is predicted by an oracular spirit to become a demon king. Despite his best efforts to dispel this prediction, Akuto’s actions and immense power make him an overpowered character hidden within a school setting. Unbeknownst to his fellow students, Akuto possesses the ability to absorb magic and upset the natural world.
19. The Asterisk War (Gakusen Toshi Asterisk)
Amagiri Ayato seeks meaning in his life as a student at a prestigious academy. While he appears to be an ordinary student, Ayato hides his true nature as one of the most powerful swordsmen. With various techniques and the power of Shiki, he amplifies his powers and fights to maintain his hidden strength while maneuvering through the complexities of school life.
18. Elfen Lied
In a world where humans and Diclonius, a special group of people with supernatural powers, coexist, the main character Lucy hides her immense powers. After escaping from a research facility, Lucy encounters two college students who unknowingly bring her into their house, becoming entangled in a dark conspiracy. As Lucy’s true powers are revealed, her hidden strength captivates viewers.
17. The Misfit of Demon King Academy
Anos Voldigoad, the demon king, chooses to hide his extraordinary capabilities and live a quieter life. Disguised as a high school student, Anos faces disdain and rejection from his own people, who fear the potential consequences of his power. However, Anos employs his hidden strength to solve problems and strive toward his goal of establishing himself as the true Demon King.
16. Chrome Shelled Regios
Layfon Alseif, a powerful swordsman, conceals his true strength while attending the military academy to fight against beasts. To hide his power, Layfon pretends to be clumsy and weak, surprising everyone when he reveals his hidden abilities. As Layfon’s true power is unveiled, he becomes an unstoppable force in the anime series.
15. Beyond the Boundary (Kyoukai no Kanata)
Akihito Kanbara, a seemingly ordinary high school student, conceals his immense powers as half-human and half-Youmu (demon). With telekinetic abilities and a pair of horns, Akihito hides his true nature beneath a humble and calm exterior. As he saves Mirai Kuriyama from death, their paths intertwine, leading to thrilling adventures and the uncovering of hidden powers.
14. The Legend of the Legendary Heroes (Densetsu no Yuusha no Densetsu)
Ryner Lute, a seemingly lazy and incompetent student, hides his true powers as a hero within the confines of an academy. As his hidden strength is revealed, Ryner becomes an unstoppable force, surprising everyone with his immense power and abilities.
13. Hyouka
Houtarou Oreki, a self-proclaimed energy-saving high school student, conceals his analytical skills and intelligence from those around him. Despite his desire to remain unnoticed, Houtarou’s hidden powers and quick thinking captivate viewers as he and his friends solve mysteries and navigate the complexities of school life.
12. Haven’t You Heard? I’m Sakamoto (Sakamoto Desu ga?)
Sakamoto, a stylish and attractive high school student, conceals his immense powers and cool demeanor. Despite his extraordinary abilities, Sakamoto maintains a humble personality, captivating viewers with his slick moves and effortless coolness.
11. The Eminence in Shadow (Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute!)
In “The Eminence in Shadow,” the main character Kagano hides his overpowered abilities within his delusions. As the leader of the secret organization Shadow Garden, Kagano navigates a world where his imaginary enemies are all too real. Kagano employs his hidden powers and intelligence to plot and manipulate situations, captivating viewers with his hidden strength and cunning tactics.
10. Sky Wizards Academy (Kuusen Madoushi Kouhosei no Kyoukan)
Kanata Age, a former member of the military, disguises his true potential as an overpowered magician within the confines of the Sky Wizards Academy. Despite being classified as a low-class student, Kanata reveals his immense strength and magical abilities, surprising everyone with his true power.
9. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K.
Saiki Kusuo, a psychic with a wide range of abilities, hides his powers from those around him. Despite possessing incredible powers such as telepathy, telekinesis, and mind control, Saiki’s main goal is to live a quiet life and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to himself. His struggle to conceal his true nature while navigating high school life captivates viewers with its humorous and relatable storyline.
8. Trigun
Vash the Stampede,
