Top 17 Japanese Regression + Revenge Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

17 Novels

Japanese regression revenge novels combine time travel with payback narratives. Protagonists return to earlier points in their lives with knowledge of betrayals and injustices to come, then work to either prevent them or punish those responsible. The appeal lies in watching strategic dismantling of antagonists who don't know what's coming.

Light novel conventions mix with darker revenge themes here. Some stories go full catharsis with elaborate downfalls, others explore the moral costs of vengeance. The planning and execution phases drive most of these narratives, so expect slower buildups before confrontations.

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1
TOP PICK
Akuyaku Reijo Ni Koi Wo Shite
4.4
(997 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, fantasy
When he regained consciousness he was already in another world. There was no meeting with a God, no cheat skills, just a sudden reincarnation.
First Impressions
Akuyaku Reijo Ni Koi Wo Shite (Falling in Love with the Villainess) is a web novel that took me on a rollercoaster. It's a story that clearly evokes strong feelings, both positive and negative, from its readers. While some found it to be a diamond in the rough, others felt it was a frustrating mess. I'm somewhere in the middle, appreciating its unique aspects while acknowledging its flaws. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a protagonist reincarnated into a world seemingly governed by otome game mechanics. The early chapters promised an intriguing story of loyalty, political intrigue,...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
Rakuin no Monshou
4.4
(600 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
The countries of Mephius and Garbera have been waging a war for ten years and are trying to put an end to this long fight through a political marriage between the two royal families. Orba, who was driven from his home because of the war and was forced to become a gladiator, looks exactly like th...
First Impressions
"Rakuin no Monshou" has been quite the journey! Diving into this blend of action, adventure, and political intrigue has been a captivating experience, though not without its bumps. With its unique blend of strategy, character development, and a world teetering between fantasy and grounded realism, it's easy to see why many readers are drawn in. Initially, I was struck by the detailed world-building. The author doesn't hold back, immersing you in the history, politics, and culture of this world. Some might find it overwhelming at first, like being dropped into a history lesson, but I appreciate...
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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Akugyaku no Black Maria
4.3
(250 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
He was publicly a town physician who used healing magic, but an assassin undercover. The young man, Shizuru, had lost most of his memories seven years ago and was transported into another world, who had through the help of a blind woman helped him, taken that path in life.
First Impressions
After diving into "Akugyaku no Black Maria," I've come away with a fairly positive impression, though it's a novel with some quirks. It's definitely not your run-of-the-mill isekai, and it confidently strides into darker territory, which is a major draw for me. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise: a seemingly apathetic protagonist, Shizuru, molded into the perfect assassin, not through brute strength, but through manipulation and a disarming bedside manner as a physician. This subversion of the typical OP isekai hero is refreshing. The setting, while initially feeling familiar, quickly e...
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4
EDITORS CHOICE
Goblin Slayer
4.4
(275 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
A young priestess has formed her first adventuring party, but almost immediately they find themselves in distress. It’s the Goblin Slayer who comes to their rescue – a man who’s dedicated his life to the extermination of all goblins, by any means necessary.
First Impressions
"Goblin Slayer" is a series I approached with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The premise is undeniably intriguing: a world where goblins are a constant, brutal threat, and our protagonist is solely dedicated to their extermination. It's a dark concept, and I was curious to see how it would play out. Initially, I was hooked. The first volume throws you into the deep end, showcasing the horrific reality of goblins and the lengths Goblin Slayer goes to in order to combat them. It's gritty, unforgiving, and refreshingly realistic in its portrayal of low-level adventuring. The focus on tactic...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
The Death Mage Who Doesn’t Want a Fourth Time
4.1
(2.3K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Amamiya Hiroto is unlucky. His life consisted of misfortune after misfortune, culminating in an unlucky death during an incident on a school boat trip, trying to save a girl he barely knew.
First Impressions
"The Death Mage Who Doesn’t Want a Fourth Time" is a web novel that certainly sparks a lot of discussion, and after delving into the available information, I've got some thoughts. It's a story with a dark premise that seems to evolve in unexpected ways, which has both captivated and disappointed readers. The initial setup is undeniably intriguing. A protagonist, repeatedly screwed over by fate and a rather incompetent god, promises revenge. This revenge-driven narrative, coupled with a reincarnation theme, drew me in immediately. The early chapters paint a picture of a world where the MC faces...
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6
#6 PICK
Nidome no Yuusha (WN)
3.9
(921 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Ukei Kaito fought a desperate struggle in order to fulfill his role as a summoned hero. He defeated the Demon Lord and saved the very world, only to meet an end filled with betrayal.
First Impressions
"Nidome no Yuusha," or "Second Time Hero," is a web novel that promises a dark revenge story, and it certainly delivers on that front, though perhaps not always in the way I'd hoped. It's a divisive novel, sparking strong reactions from readers, and after diving in, I can see why. This is a story that isn't afraid to embrace its darker side. The premise is straightforward: a hero betrayed by his companions gets a second chance to exact revenge. The initial chapters immediately throw you into the MC's mindset, which is fueled by rage and a thirst for vengeance. I was intrigued by the potential ...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
Pure Love ✕ Insult Complex
4.1
(908 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, drama
I fell in love. Her name was Shirasaka Yukino.
First Impressions
"Pure Love ✕ Insult Complex" is definitely a web novel that grabs your attention, though perhaps not always in the ways you'd expect. With its blend of school life, romance, and darker elements like blackmail and psychological themes, it's a story that seems determined to carve its own path. I went in knowing this was a completed story that already had a large following and I was excited to see what it was all about. Initially, the story can feel a bit… jarring. The early chapters introduce some controversial elements, and the pacing is admittedly slow. However, I found that pushing past those...
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8
#8 PICK
Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari (WN)
4.0
(647 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Iwatani Naofumi, an uncharismatic Otaku who spends his days on games and manga, suddenly finds himself summoned to a parallel universe! He discovers he is one of four heroes equipped with legendary weapons and tasked with saving the world from its prophesied destruction.
First Impressions
"The Rising of the Shield Hero" is a web novel that's been on my radar for a while, especially with its anime and manga adaptations gaining popularity. Diving in, I was curious to see what the original source material had to offer. Overall, it's a mixed bag, with a compelling start that unfortunately stumbles along the way. The initial chapters are undeniably gripping. The premise of a hero summoned to another world, only to be immediately betrayed and ostracized, is a strong hook. I was immediately invested in Naofumi's plight and his struggle to survive in a hostile environment. The early fo...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
If You Devour Poison
4.1
(446 ratings)
Genre: adult, adventure, drama
Palcemith. A kingdom blessed by the dragons.
First Impressions
"If You Devour Poison" certainly took me on a wild ride. I went in expecting a dark fantasy revenge story, and while it delivered on that promise, it also threw in a hefty dose of political intrigue, morally grey characters, and some seriously steamy romance. It's not a novel for the faint of heart, that's for sure, but if you're looking for something different, it might just be your cup of (poisoned) tea. The initial chapters really hooked me. I was drawn in by the premise of a protagonist embracing his villainous side to avenge his daughter. The idea of a mature, calculating MC navigating a ...
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Completed
10
#10 PICK
Katahane no Riku
4.1
(525 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Riku Barusak is a hard-working child. Despite possessing an innate superior physical strength and having withstood harsh training she fails to unlock her talent as a spiritualist.
First Impressions
"Katahane no Riku" throws you headfirst into a world of demons, humans, and complex family drama. I was immediately intrigued by the premise of reincarnated siblings on opposing sides of a war, especially with the added twist of it being based on a game world. The initial chapters are rough, but stick with it; the story quickly picks up pace. The dynamic between the two main characters, Riku and Rook, is the true heart of this novel. Many readers praise Rook's character development, and I agree. He starts as a somewhat unlikeable, game-obsessed individual but undergoes a significant transforma...
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Conclusion

This list collects Japanese regression revenge novels with solid reader ratings. The tone ranges from darkly satisfying to morally complex. Some protagonists remain sympathetic throughout, others become harder to root for as their revenge progresses. If you want pure escapist payback or something more nuanced, check individual descriptions to find the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our rankings consider multiple factors: reader ratings (40%), popularity and reading lists (25%), review quality (20%), and editorial assessment (15%). We update regularly to reflect new releases and changing reader preferences.

We update our rankings monthly to ensure they reflect the latest reader ratings and new novel releases.

How We Create Our 2026 Rankings

Our 2026 novel rankings are created through a comprehensive, data-driven process that combines quantitative metrics with qualitative editorial review. Here's how we ensure our rankings reflect the best novels available today.

Data Collection

We aggregate reading data, ratings, and engagement metrics from thousands of readers across multiple platforms, updated regularly throughout 2026.

Community Input

Reader ratings and reviews form the foundation of our rankings. We weight votes based on verified reading history to ensure authenticity.

Quality Scoring

Each novel receives a composite score based on average rating, vote count, reading list additions, and reader retention metrics.

Editorial Review

Our editorial team reviews top candidates for writing quality, translation accuracy, and overall reader experience.

Regular Updates

Rankings are refreshed quarterly to reflect new releases, updated ratings, and shifting reader preferences in 2026.

Transparency

We publish our methodology openly so readers understand exactly how novels earn their positions in our rankings.

Our 2026 Ranking Criteria

40%Reader Rating Score (weighted by vote count and recency)
25%Popularity Metrics (reading list additions, active readers)
20%Engagement Score (comments, reviews, recommendations)
15%Editorial Assessment (writing quality, translation, completeness)

Last updated: January 27, 2026 | Rankings reflect data collected through 2026

Ranked Novels

Akuyaku Reijo Ni Koi Wo Shite

First Impressions

Rakuin no Monshou

First Impressions

Akugyaku no Black Maria

First Impressions

Goblin Slayer

First Impressions

The Death Mage Who Doesn’t Want a Fourth Time

First Impressions

Nidome no Yuusha (WN)

First Impressions

Pure Love ✕ Insult Complex

First Impressions

Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari (WN)

First Impressions