If you like anime where the main characters hide their true powers, then this list is for you. From secret masterminds to psychic powers, these shows deliver powerful action, comedy, and memorable characters. In this article, we’ll talk about five of the best anime that feature powerful heroes who pretend to be weak.
1. The Eminence in Shadow
Main Character: Cid Kagenou (Shadow)
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Isekai
Why It Stands Out: Mix of Comedy and Epic Fights
Storyline
The Eminence in Shadow is the story of a boy named Cid who is obsessed with becoming a secret mastermind and controlling everything from behind the scenes. After being reborn in a magical world, he finally gets his chance. He forms an organization called Shadow Gardens and battles an evil cult… which he initially thought was a joke.
the twist?
This cult actually exists, and Cid accidentally becomes the world’s most powerful hero, hiding in the shadows.
How the MC Hides His Strength
Cid acts as a background character, distracting. But when danger comes, he becomes the Shadow, a terrifyingly powerful being who can defeat entire armies in a moment.
2. The Irregular at Magic High School – The Silent Human Weapon
Main Character: Tatsuya Shiba
Genre: Sci-Fi, Magic, School
Why It Stands Out: Tactical genius and insane magic abilities.
Storyline
Set in a science-fiction world where magic is controlled through technology, “The Irregular at Magic High School” follows Tatsuya and his sister Miyuki to attend a prestigious magic academy. The students are classified into elite and non-elite, and Tatsuya is placed in the “low-class” class due to his poor magic score.
But there is a scary truth hidden behind this ranking:
Tatsuya is a classified military weapon capable of destroying nations.
How the MC Hides His Strength
Tatsuya deliberately suppresses his abilities so that he can blend in at the academy, causing the academy to think he is a weak student. Yet his true powers include instant disintegration, reconstruction, and unmatched fighting skills.
3. The Misfit of Demon King Academy – The Reincarnated Demon King
Main Character: Anos Voldigoad
Genre: Magic & Fantasy
Why It Stands Out: Pure dominance with comedic moments.
Storyline
The great demon king, Anos, is reborn 2000 years later, but finds the world weakened and its history erased. When he joins the Demon King Academy, he is labeled a “mismatch”, despite his world-shaking magic.
How the MC Hides His Strength
Anos doesn’t hide anything—people just don’t understand his true strength. He revives enemies in a heartbeat, foils spells in the blink of an eye, and remains calm even in difficult situations. Her confidence and strength make this anime extremely fun to watch.
4. The Disastrous Life of Saiki K. – The Quiet Psychic Who Wants a Normal Life
Main Character: Kusuo Saiki
Genre: Supernatural, Slice of Life, Comedy
Why It Stands Out: Smart humor Plus unique superpowers.
Storyline
Saiki is born with every possible psychic ability, from telepathy and teleportation to time travel. He just wants to live peacefully, but due to troublesome friends, strange classmates, and sudden disasters, a normal life becomes impossible.
How the MC Hides His Strength
Saiki wears a power limiter, avoids conversations by reading minds, and solves problems behind the scenes. He constantly hides his mental abilities to avoid attracting attention.
5. Mob Psycho 100 – The Soft-Spoken Esper With Explosive Power
Main Character: Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama
Genre: Comedy, Action Supernatural
Why It Stands Out: Emotional depth and explosive action scenes.
Storyline
Mob is a shy boy who possesses immense mental strength. He suppresses his emotions because when they reach “100%”, he gains uncontrollable powers. He works under Reigen, a swindler who pretends to have psychic powers.
How the MC Hides His Strength
Mob keeps his abilities a secret, avoids fights, and tries to live in peace. But when he is pushed emotionally, he becomes one of the most powerful characters in anime.
Why do fans like anime with OP MCs who pretend to be weak ?
MC looks normal but hides incredible strength
They avoid unnecessary conflicts
They use amazing power when needed
The story builds publicity around his hidden identity
Final Thoughts
If you like stories where the hero acts innocent or ordinary and secretly overpowers every enemy, then be sure to check out these five anime. It has powerful action scenes, deep characters and plenty of comedy.
Whether you’re new to the genre or a longtime anime fan, these titles perfectly capture the thrill of powerful overpowered MCs hiding their true strength.