In the ever-growing Isekai genre, where ordinary individuals are transported from mundane lives to fantastical parallel worlds, global audiences remain captivated by the protagonists who embark on perilous and adventurous journeys. Most Isekai protagonists start off as unlucky individuals, burdened with desires, wishes, and regrets. However, their new lives and worlds offer them a chance to start afresh and embrace a more exciting or serene existence.
A defining characteristic of Isekai protagonists is their possession of extraordinary abilities that are unique to the world they find themselves in. Whether it be mastering potent magic spells, possessing unparalleled strength, or showcasing exceptional swordsmanship, these protagonists exhibit levels of power that set them apart from the inhabitants of their new realm. Their abilities serve as a source of fascination and admiration, captivating viewers and readers, and sparking their imaginations.
Despite the criticism the genre receives, the year 2023 has seen some notable additions to the Isekai pool. In the realm of summer's Isekai anime releases, here are the protagonists who stand out as the strongest.
5 Luciel – The Great Cleric
The Great Cleric immerses viewers in the enchanting realm of Galdardia, where gods and fate are intricately intertwined. At the heart of this story is Luciel, a former office worker from Earth who defied his predetermined destiny and found himself reborn in Galdardia. Endowed with the extraordinary talent of holy attribute magic and fueled by an unwavering desire for a tranquil existence, Luciel embarks on a profound journey that will redefine his very being. As the protagonist of this series, Luciel initially grapples with adapting to his unfamiliar surroundings. Unacquainted with the customs and norms of this world, he faces skepticism and is seen as naive by those around him.
Yet, it is through his unwavering determination that Luciel's true potential is unveiled. Upon officially joining the Healer's Guild, he undergoes rigorous training that leaves others astounded. Even as he transitions to the Adventurer's Guild, Luciel continues to surpass his limits, guided by the experienced adventurer Brod. Through a divine wager between Earth's God of Destiny and Galdardia's Chief God, Luciel is bestowed with the power of Good Luck, a skill that becomes a vital asset in his survival in this new world. Additionally, Luciel regularly consumes Substance X, also known as 'God Lament,' which aids in mana recovery and amplifies his abilities.
4 Pastry Mille Morteln – Sweet Reincarnation
After tragically passing away before crafting the world's greatest pastry, Pastry is granted a second chance when he reincarnates as a nine-year-old boy. Fueled by his unwavering determination, Pastry combines his culinary expertise with magical abilities to achieve his lifelong ambition. With the memories of his previous life intact, Pastry possesses an impressive mana capacity, enabling him to delve into the realm of magic. Through his talent for 'transcription,' he can replicate spells, objects, and movements, granting him a diverse range of possibilities such as transferring wounds and mimicking combat techniques. Moreover, Pastry's past life as a skilled pastry chef adds another layer of depth to his character, as his passion for creating delicious treats serves as a driving force throughout the story.
3 Ryouta Satou – My Unique Skill Makes Me OP Even at Level 1
Ryouta Satou embarks on a journey following his demise due to overworking in a suffocating company, only to find himself reborn in an unfamiliar world. However, a major obstacle stands in his way - his level remains fixed at the lowest possible level. Despite this setback, Ryouta possesses a special ability that enables him to create advantageous items using defeated monster materials. Determined to surpass his limitations, he exploits this skill to its maximum potential, enhancing his abilities and equipping himself with formidable gear, even at such a low level.
Although his level remains stagnant, Ryouta experiences a gradual increase in parameters with each monster he conquers and the subsequent acquisition of power-enhancing seeds. This consistent growth propels him to possess an unconventional status filled with extraordinary rankings. Furthermore, Ryouta masters the martial art form known as 'Gun fu' through self-training, equipping himself with a wild west handgun as his weapon of choice. This allows him to effectively combat the various monsters he encounters in this new world.
2 Hart Zenfis – Am I Actually the Strongest?
Am I Truly the Strongest? follows the journey of Hart Zenfis, also known as Reinhart Orteas. After being abandoned by his royal parents as a powerless baby, Hart defies their expectations and proves his strength. Despite a difficult beginning, Hart is unwavering in his pursuit of power.
Hart wields Barrier Magic, granting him the ability to create a multitude of barriers. He can manipulate their shape, control objects within them, and even change their colors. Whether crafting small, needle-like structures or expansive enclosures that fill entire rooms, Hart's mastery of Barrier Magic allows him to utilize it for various purposes. He can use it to fly, conceal objects, manipulate the environment, and even create a miniature internet by reflecting the outside world within his barriers. This enables him to communicate, gather information, and more.
1 Pride – The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: From Villainess to Savior
In the anime Pride Royal Ivy, the spotlight is on Pride. At first, Pride is portrayed as the ultimate villain and final boss in the game 'To a Beam of Light With You.' However, the story takes an interesting twist when a high school student is reincarnated as Princess Pride, who is only eight years old. Determined to survive and become kinder, Pride sets out to rescue her father and save the kingdom from impending destruction.
Pride possesses exceptional intelligence and combat skills, making her a formidable opponent even at such a young age. In her first encounter, she effortlessly defeats her swordsmanship teacher, despite it being her first time wielding a sword. Similarly, she showcases a natural instinct for fighting and swiftly overpowers knights using a sword and gun, weapons she had never used before.