Top 19 Japanese Action Novels with Cunning Protagonist in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

19 Novels

Cunning protagonists in action novels solve problems through strategy rather than pure power. This creates different story dynamics where preparation and planning matter as much as combat ability. The satisfaction comes from watching schemes unfold.

Japanese cunning protagonists often appear in isekai or academy settings where they exploit knowledge advantages. The intelligence manifests through tactical combat and social manipulation rather than just puzzle-solving.

Completed
1
TOP PICK
Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (WN)
4.2
(1.5K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
A man is stabbed by a robber on the run after pushing his coworker and his coworker’s new fiance out of the way. As he lays dying, bleeding on the ground, he hears a voice.
First Impressions
Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken, or Slime Isekai as it's often called, is a web novel that I dove into with a good deal of anticipation, given its popularity and numerous adaptations. Overall, I found it to be a mixed bag, with some truly enjoyable elements weighed down by some frustrating shortcomings. The initial premise – a salaryman reincarnated as a slime – is undeniably intriguing. The early chapters are engaging, and I was quickly drawn into Rimuru's efforts to build a life and community in this new world. The idea of a slime, of all things, becoming a powerful leader and nation-builder ...
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2
RUNNER UP
Genjitsushugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki
4.2
(1.3K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
“O, Hero! ” With that cliched line, Kazuya Souma found himself summoned to another world and his adventure–-did not begin.
First Impressions
"Genjitsushugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki" (Realist Hero) is a web novel that promised a unique spin on the isekai genre, and after diving in, I have mixed feelings. It's a story that aims for thoughtful kingdom-building and political intrigue, but whether it hits the mark depends heavily on your expectations. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise: a summoned hero tasked with rebuilding a kingdom, not through combat prowess, but through practical, modern-day knowledge. The idea of a protagonist tackling famine, economics, and governance was a refreshing change from the typical overpowered h...
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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Clearing an Isekai with the Zero-Believers Goddess – The Weakest Mage among the Classmates (WN)
4.2
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Makoto Takatsuki is a normal high school student and a hardcore RPG player. However, “normal” goes out the window when his whole class is involved in a bus crash and whisked away to another world!
First Impressions
This title is a mouthful, but after diving in, I found a surprisingly enjoyable isekai story. It's not without its flaws, but overall, it's a refreshing take on a well-trodden genre. Initially, I was wary. Another weak-to-strong isekai? I've read my fair share. However, what immediately grabbed me was the lack of the usual isekai tropes. The MC isn't bullied or abandoned, and his classmates don't suddenly become enemies. Instead, there's a sense of normalcy, which is a welcome change. He's weak, yes, but he's also not a complete idiot, and that already puts it ahead of some others....
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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
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
5
EDITORS CHOICE
Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku o!
4.5
(625 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Kazuma Satou is a shut in who loves games, and his life ended suddenly… appearing before him is a beautiful girl claiming to be a goddess. Kazuma, who was transported into another world, worked hard to earn a living!
First Impressions
"KonoSuba" has been on my radar for a while, and diving into this isekai comedy was quite the experience. It's definitely not your typical power-fantasy, and that's precisely where its charm lies. The novel gleefully subverts tropes, and I found myself chuckling at the sheer absurdity of the situations our protagonist, Kazuma, finds himself in. The premise itself is hilarious: a NEET dies a pathetic death and is offered a second chance in a fantasy world, with the option to bring one item or ability. In a moment of spite, he chooses the goddess Aqua, and that's where the real chaos begins. My ...
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6
#6 PICK
I Reincarnated as a Noble Girl Villainess But Why Did It Turn Out This Way? (WN)
4.2
(684 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Eliza Kaldia, who reincarnated as a noble girl villainess in a fantasy otome game, was stuck in a world that seemed far from her image of how noble girls should be living, as the fated events of the game were still far off while she remained a child. In the first place, it was suspected if she c...
First Impressions
This web novel is quite the surprise! The title suggests a lighthearted villainess story, but it quickly subverts those expectations. What I found instead was a complex narrative focused on military strategy, political intrigue, and the psychological impact of trauma on a young protagonist. It's definitely not your typical fluffy otome game reincarnation. Initially, I was thrown off by the rapid pace and the dark subject matter introduced so early on. The protagonist, Eliza, makes some shocking decisions in her early childhood, and it takes a while to adjust to the bleak tone. However, I was i...
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7
#7 PICK
Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival (LN)
4.5
(414 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
A girl Alicia lived as an orphan in a world of sword and magic Ciel. One day, she learned that she was an “otome game’s heroine”.
First Impressions
"Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival" certainly grabbed my attention with its intriguing premise. We're thrown into a world that initially feels like a typical otome game setting, but quickly veers off the beaten path. Alicia, our heroine, isn't interested in romance; her primary focus is survival. I was immediately drawn in by the promise of a protagonist who prioritizes strength and skill over capturing the hearts of potential love interests. What I appreciated most was the subversion of otome game tropes. Instead of the usual focus on romance, we get a hardcore leveling-up story. Alic...
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Completed
8
#8 PICK
Oukoku e Tsuzuku Michi
4.1
(935 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
This is the story of a young s*ave gladiator in an underground arena. He doesn’t know about his past or how he got to where he is, only that his name is Aegir, and that he is strong.
First Impressions
"Oukoku e Tsuzuku Michi"… where to even begin with this one? It’s a wild ride, that's for sure. This novel definitely isn't for everyone, but if you're looking for something unapologetically… adult, it might just scratch that itch. Initially, I was intrigued by the premise: a former slave aiming to become king for the sake of his vampire love. It sounded like a power fantasy with a clear goal. However, I quickly realized that the path to that goal is paved with… well, a lot of other things. Let's just say the protagonist, Aegir, is very proactive in certain aspects of his life....
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9
#9 PICK
Isekai Mahou wa Okureteru! (LN)
4.1
(341 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Felmenia Stingray was a genius mage. She quickly became the most distinguished mage of the Astel Kingdom after her discovery of white fire magic, which had the power to burn anything.
First Impressions
"Isekai Mahou wa Okureteru!" definitely had my attention with its premise – a protagonist summoned to another world who doesn't immediately jump on the "hero" bandwagon. That's a refreshing change of pace in the isekai genre. The initial setup, with Suimei's desire to study magic and find a way home, intrigued me. I went in hoping for a clever, strategic MC who uses his modern knowledge to his advantage. Many readers seem to agree that the world-building is a strong point. The magic system, while sometimes dense, is internally consistent, and the world feels like it exists beyond the MC's imme...
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10
#10 PICK
Kanna no Kanna
4.0
(210 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Kamishiro Kanna was summoned to another world to be a hero, but the one who summoned him was a scheming princess, and when his mana measurement showed 0, he was to be gotten rid of. Together with an half-elf kyonyuu silver haired bishoujo he met in the palace’s prison, they escaped on a dragon s...
First Impressions
"Kanna no Kanna" is a web novel that immediately grabbed my attention with its unique take on the isekai genre. It's not a perfect story, but it's a refreshing read that kept me engaged. While it has it's flaws, I found it to be a worthwhile read. Right off the bat, I appreciated that the main character, Kanna, isn't your typical overpowered or dense isekai protagonist. He's clever and resourceful, and his initial goal of simply returning to Japan felt grounded and relatable. The story dives right in, but the initial world-building feels a little lacking. I was immediately curious to see how K...
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Completed
11
#11 PICK
Ecstas Online
4.0
(265 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
The bottom of the school caste, Doumeguri Kakeru, is transmigrated into the one who reigns as the strongest in the VR game 《Exodia Exodus》, the Demon Lord Hellshaft. Moreover, he has even obtained the “forbidden power” (adult mode)!
First Impressions
"Ecstas Online" is definitely a wild ride, a blend of genres that somehow manages to be both ecchi and surprisingly engaging. Diving into this VRMMORPG world, I found myself hooked by the unique premise and the potential for character growth, even if the execution occasionally stumbles. My initial reaction was a mix of amusement and skepticism. The setup is certainly... unique. A socially awkward MC, trapped in a game as the Demon Lord, tasked with preventing his classmates from beating the game to save their lives? It's a lot to take in, and I could see how some might find the premise convolu...
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Conclusion

These rankings favor demonstrated cunning over claimed intelligence. Protagonists who actually outthink opponents rate higher than those who just get called smart. If you want action with genuine strategic depth, these entries deliver.

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

Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (WN)

First Impressions

Genjitsushugi Yuusha no Oukoku Saikenki

First Impressions

Clearing an Isekai with the Zero-Believers Goddess – The Weakest Mage among the Classmates (WN)

First Impressions

Akuyaku Reijo Ni Koi Wo Shite

First Impressions

Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku o!

First Impressions

I Reincarnated as a Noble Girl Villainess But Why Did It Turn Out This Way? (WN)

First Impressions

Otome Game no Heroine de Saikyou Survival (LN)

First Impressions

Oukoku e Tsuzuku Michi

First Impressions

Isekai Mahou wa Okureteru! (LN)

First Impressions