Regardless of the type, the main characters often start weakly in anime but grow stronger later. They struggle to keep up with others, but through training or unexpected events, they develop and become powerful protagonists who can conquer any challenge.
These characters with evolving stories are easy to connect with and have some of the most compelling arcs in anime. These protagonists exceed expectations in fantasy, Isekai, sports, or slice-of-life genres.
Ranking of Kings
A standout anime from 2021, it has captivated viewers with its inspiring story. It’s widely celebrated as a classic in the fantasy genre, largely due to its portrayal of Bojji’s journey to greatness as a king.
Bojji was born frail because of a potent curse inflicted as part of a pact between his father, Bosse, and a demon. To gain strength, Bosse sacrificed Bojji’s well-being, resulting in his birth with deafness and weakness.
Rather than resenting his situation, Bojji developed intelligence, empathy, and keen awareness of his surroundings.
Despite enduring harsh treatment, he maintained a cheerful demeanor. Unlike his half-brother Daida, Bojji continually grew stronger until he triumphed against incredible odds.
My Hero Academia
Deku was born without Quirks, unlike most people with special abilities. Despite this, he dreamed of becoming a hero and admired All Might, the top hero of his time.
One day, All Might give Midoriya his One for All quirk by chance. But mastering this new power took more work than expected. Even using just 5% to 10% of the quirk caused Midoriya serious harm to his own body.
He not only struggled to master his powers but also trained his body extensively to handle more abilities. Deku tirelessly dedicated himself to becoming the best hero possible, transforming from a powerless teenager into an overwhelmingly powerful anime main character.
Solo Leveling
Solo Leveling’s Sung Jin Woo becomes an overpowering main character through fate and determination. Initially portrayed as an E Rank hunter, he is famously known as the weakest in history.
However, Sung Jin Woo’s fortunes shift dramatically and gains a second chance at life after a deadly encounter. Although his magical abilities remain at E Rank, he acquires a new leveling system that changes everything.
Completing quests and missions from the leveling system enhanced Sung Jin Woo’s basic abilities and other skills. Although it might seem like a cheat, Jin Woo had to put in a lot of effort to continue improving.
As the missions and quests became more challenging, Jin Woo’s determination never wavered. This anime protagonist, once weak, defies all obstacles to become overwhelmingly powerful.
Gurren Lagan
At the start of Gurren Lagann, Simon is a timid boy. He needs more confidence in himself once he joins Kamina on their adventures.
Despite his timidity, Simon shows a natural talent for fighting. His character undergoes a significant change after Kamina’s death and meeting Nia.
Gradually, he gains confidence, and with the crew’s support, he challenges the Spiral King. From then on, Simon’s strength continues to grow.
Mastering spiral energy, Simon transforms from a timid boy into a confident young man ready to confront the ultimate enemy in the galaxy.
Arifureta
Nagumo began as the least powerful member of the hero’s party in Arifureta. He faced constant rejection and bullying due to his “Synergist” job, which he deemed the worst in the Isekai world. Adding to his troubles, Nagumo had the lowest stats among them.
The entire level collapsed during an expedition in the Orcus Labyrinth, and Nagumo was believed to have perished.
Despite this, the underestimated anime protagonist survived and grew overwhelmingly powerful during his time in the dungeon.
As Nagumo grew more powerful, the dungeon’s challenges intensified. He faced near-death situations, pushing himself to the edge. Through perseverance, Nagumo surpassed even the Hero and his party, becoming exceptionally strong.
Black Clover
Black Clover embodies determination and persistence in a world where magic is crucial. Unlike others, he was born without any magical ability.
When all 15-year-olds received their Grimoires, Asta received a unique one with five leaves housing an Anti-magic devil.
Asta and Yuno grew up in a church after being abandoned there. His childhood was tough, and even as he became a Magic Knight, criticism followed him from his provincial upbringing.
Due to Asta’s absence of magic and struggle to control Anti-magic, he often found himself as the weakest in the Black Bulls. Despite setbacks and hardships, he consistently bounced back with a positive mindset.
Asta doubled his efforts to master his powers, enduring intense training to become a dependable squad member.
His rivalry with Yuno drove him to improve continuously. As the story progressed, so did Asta’s physical strength, transforming him into one of the kingdom’s strongest Knights.
Tsukimichi
Makoto’s journey in the new world of Isekai began on a rough note. Initially summoned by a Goddess due to his parents’ contract, he was quickly abandoned because his appearance did not meet her beauty standards.
Luckily, Makoto was saved when he fell into a wasteland by the Moon God, Tsukuyomi, who felt obligated as the intermediary of the contract. Feeling responsible for the vulnerable anime protagonist, Tsukuyomi bestowed certain blessings upon him.
Early on, Makoto faced numerous challenges. Despite his initial weakness, he showed a natural aptitude for magic.
With dedicated training and some fortunate encounters, he gathered a formidable army of powerful monsters. His magical abilities flourished as he gained more followers, making him increasingly powerful.
