8 Shonen Anime Where Underdogs Become The Strongest

Summary

My Hero Academia: Deku’s journey to heroism portrays friendship and never losing sight of the right path.
Black Clover: Asta’s rise from no magic to the strongest Magic Knight is a wild ride with great friends.
Naruto: A perfect example of underdog to top-dog story in the Shonen genre filled with growth and compassion.

In the realm of Shonen anime, I’ve always been captivated by the thrill of the underdog stories – those where ordinary individuals rise to extraordinary heights. While countless series explore this theme, a select few have truly mastered it and stand out as the cream of the crop for diverse reasons.

These series stand out from the rest in their genre due to their relatable characters, strong portrayals of friendship, and exceptional storytelling. This collection highlights top-notch shonen Anime featuring underdog protagonists who ascend to power.

8. My Hero Academia

The Story Of A Young Man Relentlessly Pursuing His Dream

In my observation, the tale of this character, who yearned to become a hero, bravely persevered and molded his determination amidst endless challenges, is truly inspiring. Although the final season’s reception among fans wasn’t favorable, it holds immense value for the Shonen genre culture.

With unforgettable personalities, heartwarming friendships, and a strong moral: as long as you stay true to your course, rely on those whom you consider friends, all will turn out well for you.

7. Black Clover

A Boy With No Magic Becomes One Of The Strongest Magic Knights

Black Clover serves as an excellent demonstration of how an unassuming protagonist can rise to prominence without relying on external factors. Initially unable to perform magic, Asta transformed into the mightiest Magic Knight within the Black Bulls and defender of the Kingdom of Clover. His journey has been nothing short of exhilarating.

It’s fortunate that he never lacked loyal companions to guide him through the perils, betrayals, and unexpected turns that Yūki Tabata crafted for him. His journey, though fraught with difficulty, is a compelling watch for enthusiasts of the Shonen genre.

6. Naruto

An Orphan, Shunned And Despised By Everyone, Becomes A Hero

In some opinions, is Naruto the ultimate Shounen? Debates may persist, but there’s no denying that this series stands as an exceptional illustration of a character rising from underdog to champion. From its simple start as an ostracized Chūnin to ascending the position of Hokage (in Boruto), viewers have been captivated by Naruto’s transformation, and it has proven to be a remarkable journey.

In this anime, there are hardly any other characters who can boast about concluding a brutal conflict among ninja clans without a scratch, even defeating some of the most terrifying entities that aim to obliterate their world. Remarkably, he manages all this while maintaining his identity as a loyal friend and compassionate, altruistic individual, never failing to keep a cheerful demeanor, despite carrying the burden of grief.

5. Saint Seiya

The Most Underestimated Protectors Of Justice Challenge The Gods

The tale of Seiya and the Bronze Saints is steeped in myth: they were cast out by the institution that molded them, faced allegations of treachery, vanquished deceitful (and formidable) adversaries, including resurrected deities, all while safeguarding their cherished Athena and the camaraderie born on the battlefield.

Regardless of their limitations, they possess tenacity, determination, and resilience. They stand firm against any adversary, be it the Leader, the Sea Deity, or even the Deity of the Underworld. This heartwarming tale of an underdog is ideal for fans who appreciate romantic fantasy shōnen from a bygone era.

4. Demon Slayer

The Journey Of Two Siblings, Survivors Of A Terrible Tragedy

Demon Slayer” or “Kimetsu no Yaiba” is a series that commences with a heartrending event, and the relentless consequences of this catastrophe reshape everything. Two siblings, a brother and sister, survive an assault by demons: one fated to transform into a demon, the other, ordained to eliminate them all.

Regardless of their underdog status and the immense hurdles they encountered, they persevered through it all, remaining unified until the very end. Their story is a moving one, filled with both poignant and sweet instances, as well as moments that provide a glimmer of hope amidst adversity.

3. Haikyuu!!

A Small Framed Boy Who Dreamed Of Flying Sky High

A sports anime can be quite dramatic, especially if it falls under the Shonen genre, where we follow the journey of a young, undersized protagonist striving for greatness, reminiscent of the storyline in Haikyuu!!. It’s a captivating series that showcases exceptional narrative development. The plot revolves around the theme of self-realization within the context of overcoming obstacles, featuring characters that resonate with viewers and moments of camaraderie that leave lasting impressions.

This account of a youngster establishing his very own volleyball team, proving naysayers wrong who claimed he wasn’t fit for the game he adored, offers an engaging and heartening portrayal of determination and athleticism.

2. Blue Lock

An Underestimated Player Becomes A Top Striker

In bygone days, when Captain Tsubasa rose to become a renowned anime among the greatest of all time, it was unimaginable that another captivating story about football players triumphing over hardships together would emerge. That was until the arrival of Blue Lock, at which point the landscape underwent a significant transformation.

Yoichi Isagi’s story is an exhilarating journey of self-exploration and determination, featuring a hero who never yields, even in life’s toughest moments. He consistently puts his heart into every moment, powerfully striking the ball with unwavering resolve, pausing only when the referee signals victory.

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2025-01-30 07:34