Surprising elements in an anime are something a viewer would never deny after all, the little revelations and plot twists keep the fans on the edge of their seats. Anime where MC hides his true powers is one such intriguing plot device that adds an element of mystery and suspense to the narrative.

Whether the main character is hiding their powers for good or for bad, it always draws the attention of the fans. In today’s article, we’ll take a look at some notable anime series featuring protagonists who keep their abilities hidden until the right moment. So, without any further ado, let’s get started.

10. World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated As An Aristocrat

The greatest assassin on Earth knew only how to live as a tool – until his brotherhood of assassins betrayed him, but faith has different plans! By the grace of the goddess, he’s given a chance at life once again on the condition that he has to eliminate the hero who will bring about the end of the world he’s reincarnated into.

Agreeing to the goddess’ terms, he is reborn as Lugh Tuatha Dé, the heir to an assassin aristocratic family. Using his skills and knowledge from his previous life and learning new magical abilities, Lugh sets out on a journey to reclaim his title of the greatest assassin world ever known.

9. Darker Than Black

Darker Than Black is a supernatural sci-fi anime set in an alternate present-day where a spatial anomaly identified as Hell’s Gate appears in Tokyo, altering the sky and landscapes. As gates came to the surface, individuals known as “Contractors” acquired supernatural abilities in exchange for their humanity.

The series follows the exploits of Agent Hei, an elite Contractor skilled in combat and infiltration. Recognized as one of the most terrifying figures in the world going by the alias “Black Reaper”, Hei sets off to uncover the secrets of Hell’s Gate while saving his sister from potential threats.

8. The King’s Avatar

Chinese anime or donghua is a rising trope in the anime circle and The King’s Avatar is a well-known series, particularly among esports lovers. The story revolves around Ye Xiu who’s widely accepted as the best player of the multiplayer online video game “Glory”.

However, after being forced to resign from his team, he ends up working at an internet cafe. Despite losing his virtual identity as a pro gamer, Ye Xiu starts over from scratch and continues playing to pursue the championship and the title of the best esports player in the world.

7. Eminence In Shadow

Eminence in Shadow is a dark fantasy novel turned anime series that’s made quite a name since its debut in 2022. Praised for its over-the-top comedy and action, the story follows an ordinary high school student Cid Kagenou who is the incarnation of the strongest vampire to ever live, Cadis Etrama Di Raizel.

Reborn in a fantasy world with magic, he sets up a secret organization called Shadow Garden and begins to work from the shadows to influence the course of events in the world. Along the way, a harem of beautiful and busty girls join him to fight evil and protect the innocent.

6. Disastrous Life Of Saiki K

Disastrous Life of Saiki K certainly does fall in the anime with an overpowered main character trope but its premise offers a slightly different take on this genre. Opposed to the idea of glorifying superpowers, the titular protagonist of the series is burdened by his abilities as he attempts to live a normal life.

Saiki Kusuo was born with psychic powers making him able to do anything from reading minds to controlling the weather. However, he hates using his powers as it gets in his way of living an ordinary life. Through its absurd humor, the anime follows Saiki’s everyday exploits in a school setting.

5. Noragami

Noragami follows the adventures of a rookie god trying to earn a following in the rough-and-tumble world of Japan’s spiritual marketplace. As a god of war born from a wish, Yato was a powerful deity who eventually became sick of it and decided to change his ways for good instead of destruction.

In his voyage, he’s joined by his weapon partner, Yukine, and a teenage girl who has become a “half-phantom” after saving Yato from a car accident. Together, they solve various problems for humans and gods alike, while Yato also tries to regain his lost powers.

4. Devil Is A Part-Timer

Based on a light novel of the same name, Devil is a Part-Timer is a fantasy-comedy anime series that follows the life of Demon King Satan who is forced to flee his homeworld following his near-defeat at the hands of Emilia, a hero from Ente Isla.

He arrives in modern-day Japan and takes on the identity of Sadao Maou, working as a part-timer at a fast-food restaurant. Powerless in a world without demonic powers, Sadao quickly emphasizes climbing the corporate ladder and becoming the ruler of Earth.

3. Mob Psycho 100

Mob Psycho 100 is a blend of supernatural, action, and comedy presented with one of the strongest kids in anime. The story follows Shigeo Kageyama, nicknamed Mob, a 14-year-old esper who struggles to keep his psychic powers in check around the people.

In order to help learn how to control his abilities, Mob works as an assistant to Arataka Reigen, a self-proclaimed spirit medium. Together, they solve various supernatural cases while helping Mob in living a normal life just like those around him.

2. Classroom Of The Elite

Classroom of the Elite is home to one of the smartest anime characters. The series follows the lives of students of the prestigious Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High Schools who are given a great deal of freedom – only if they can win, barter, or save enough points to work their way up the ranks!

In a system where only the best are allowed to graduate, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka is a seemingly average guy who pays zero interest in school activities. However, Kiyotaka is not as ordinary as he seems, and as the situation begins to change he starts to display his unrivaled intelligence.

1. Irregular At Magic Highschool

Irregular at Magic Highschool takes place in an alternate history where magic is polished through modern technology. The story follows Tatsuya Shiba who is enrolled in First High School which segregates its students based on their magical abilities.

Tatsuya is found magically inept in the entrance exam and is placed in the lowest class. However, his technical knowledge, combat abilities, and unique magic techniques cause people to view him as an “irregular” to the school’s standardized rankings.

Which one of the following powerful anime gods is your favorite? Feel free to comment down your thoughts and make sure to recommend some other characters like the ones listed above, also don’t forget to share this article with your fellow otaku friends.

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