When I first got into this trope, I instantly loved it. There’s something insanely satisfying about watching an MC who looks average, acts weak, gets underestimated by everyone — and then suddenly proves he’s completely overpowered.
As an anime fan, I actively search for anime where MC pretends to be weak but is OP because these stories give the best payoff moments. The reactions, the shock, the silent flex — it never gets old.
In this article, we’ll explore the best anime where MC pretends to be weak, this list is based on anime I personally enjoyed watching.
Anime Where MC Pretends to Be Weak
This trope works so well because the MC hides power for reasons like survival, strategy, or simply not wanting attention. Below are the best anime where the MC pretends to be weak, but is secretly unstoppable.
1. The Eminence in Shadow
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Isekai
This is one of the best anime where MC pretends to be weak but is OP.
Plot (Fan Viewpoint)
Cid Kagenou wants to be a “background character” while secretly acting as a shadow mastermind. In public, he pretends to be weak, clumsy, and irrelevant. But in reality, he’s insanely powerful and manipulates everything from behind the scenes.
What makes this anime special is that everyone underestimates him, while the audience knows the truth.
Why it fits this trope
- MC is absurdly overpowered
- Acts weak on purpose
- Massive gap between appearance and power
2. Classroom of the Elite
Genre: Psychological, Drama
If you like anime where MC is overpowered but pretends to be weak, this is a must-watch.
Plot
Ayanokoji enters an elite school where students are ranked based on ability. He intentionally scores average marks, avoids attention, and pretends to be normal. But behind the scenes, he manipulates people, strategies, and outcomes effortlessly.
He’s not OP in strength — he’s OP in intelligence, which makes it even better.
Why anime fans love it
- Mastermind MC
- Calm, emotionless manipulation
- Always one step ahead
Also Read : Anime Like Lord of Mysteries
3. The Irregular at Magic High School
Genre: Magic, Sci-Fi
This is a classic anime where MC is OP but pretends to be weak.
Plot
Tatsuya Shiba is labeled as a “low-class” student due to flawed testing methods. While others look down on him, he’s actually one of the strongest magic users alive, with abilities that break the system itself.
Watching people disrespect him — only to later regret it — is pure satisfaction.
Why it belongs here
- MC hides true power
- Underestimated by society
- Completely broken abilities
4. Chivalry of a Failed Knight
Genre: Action, Romance, Fantasy
This anime perfectly fits anime where the MC pretends to be weak at the start.
Plot
Ikki Kurogane is known as the weakest knight due to poor magic capacity. Everyone mocks him, ignores him, and underestimates him. But through skill, discipline, and hidden strength, he proves that raw power isn’t everything.
As an anime fan, this one feels rewarding because you watch him earn respect.
Why it works
- MC labeled as weak
- Actually highly skilled
- Emotional growth + action
5. The Misfit of Demon King Academy
Genre: Fantasy, Action
This is one of the best anime where MC pretends to be weak, even though he’s literally the strongest being.
Plot
Anos Voldigoad is the reincarnation of the Demon King. Despite being ridiculously OP, he acts casual and doesn’t care about proving himself. Society underestimates him, rewrites history, and doubts his identity — which leads to legendary flex moments.
This anime is pure power fantasy done right.
Why fans love it
- MC is god-level strong
- Doesn’t show off unless needed
- Iconic one-liners
6. Mob Psycho 100
Genre: Action, Supernatural, Comedy
This is a unique anime where MC is overpowered but pretends to be weak emotionally and socially.
Plot
Mob is an extremely powerful psychic who hates using his abilities. He tries to live a normal life, hides his power, and avoids attention. But when emotions build up, his true strength explodes.
As a fan, this anime hits harder because it focuses on emotional control, not just power.
Why it’s special
- OP MC who avoids power
- Emotional storytelling
- Beautiful animation
FAQs – Anime Where MC Pretends to Be Weak but Is OP
What does “anime where MC pretends to be weak” mean?
It refers to anime where the main character hides his true strength and acts weak or average, even though he is actually overpowered.
Which is the best anime where MC pretends to be weak but is OP?
Some of the best anime where MC pretends to be weak but is OP include The Eminence in Shadow, Classroom of the Elite, and The Misfit of Demon King Academy.
Why do MCs pretend to be weak in anime?
In many anime, the MC pretends to be weak to avoid attention, survive in dangerous environments, manipulate situations, or enjoy a peaceful life.
Is Classroom of the Elite an anime where MC is overpowered but pretends to be weak?
Yes. While not physically OP, Ayanokoji is mentally overpowered and pretends to be average, making it a perfect anime where the MC pretends to be weak.
Final Thoughts (From an Anime Fan)
The reason I love anime where MC pretends to be weak but is OP is simple — the payoff is unmatched. Watching underestimated characters silently dominate never gets boring.
If you’re searching for:
- anime where mc pretends to be weak
- anime where the mc pretends to be weak
- best anime where mc pretends to be weak
These six anime are the most satisfying, popular, and fan-approved choices.
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