Top 19 Underrated Japanese Action Novels in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Editor's Picks

19 Novels

Japanese action has plenty of light novels that never got anime adaptations to boost their visibility. These underrated entries have solid reader ratings without the mainstream recognition that comes with media tie-ins. Some have unusual premises that limited their initial audience, others just didn't catch translation momentum at the right time.

The fundamentals are still there: well-choreographed combat, power systems that make sense, protagonists worth following. What varies is execution style and why these particular novels didn't break out. For readers who've exhausted the obvious recommendations, this list offers alternatives that earned their ratings from engaged readers.

1
TOP PICK
My Death Flags Show No Sign of Ending
4.5
(2.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
When he came to his senses, Hirasawa Kazuki, a normal university student, found himself in possession of the body of a game’s character. Moreover, it was Harold Stokes, the story’s most hated character who was even given the title 『King of Tr*sh』by the players.
First Impressions
"My Death Flags Show No Sign of Ending" has been quite the ride! Jumping into this isekai adventure, I was immediately hooked by the unique premise. It's not every day you see a protagonist reincarnated as a villain, especially one with a rather… unfortunate speech impediment. The initial chapters grabbed me with their blend of humor and intrigue. The protagonist, a university student reborn as Harold Stokes, a hated character from a game he loves, immediately has to navigate a world where his words constantly betray his intentions. It's a clever twist on the usual isekai formula and sets the ...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
Kumo Desu ga, Nani ka?
4.4
(1.9K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The world where the Hero and the Demon King continue to oppose each other. The grand magic from the Hero and the Demon King cross over worlds and exploded in the classroom of a certain high school.
First Impressions
"Kumo Desu ga, Nani ka?" is a web novel that took me on quite the ride. It's a reincarnation story with a twist, throwing our protagonist into the body of a spider monster in a deadly labyrinth. While the initial premise might sound familiar, the execution is anything but typical. Initially, I was hooked by the unique perspective of a spider navigating a dangerous world. The early chapters focus heavily on survival, grinding, and skill acquisition. Some might find this part slow-paced, and even repetitive, but I found it quite entertaining, especially with the main character's internal monolog...
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3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
To Be a Power in the Shadows! (WN)
4.4
(1.6K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Just like how everyone adores heroes in their childhood, a certain boy adored those who hid in the shadows. One day, after living the mediocre life of a side character while undergoing frenzied training by night, he reincarnates in a different world and gains ultimate power.
First Impressions
I dove into "To Be a Power in the Shadows!" with a healthy dose of curiosity, and I've come out the other side with quite a few thoughts. This web novel is definitely... something. It's a wild ride that blends action, comedy, and fantasy in a way that's both incredibly entertaining and, at times, utterly baffling. Initially, I was hooked by the premise. The idea of a protagonist who's convinced he's living out a chuunibyou fantasy, only for it to actually be real, is comedy gold. The early chapters had me laughing out loud. It's a unique twist on the isekai genre, and I appreciated the author'...
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4
EDITORS CHOICE
Overlord (LN)
4.5
(1.6K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
In 21st century, world entered a new stage of VR games…and “YGGDRASIL” is considered top of all MMORPG…but, After announcing that all its servers will be off, the internet game ‘Yggdrasil’ shut down…or so was supposed to happen, but for some reason, the player character did not log out some time ...
First Impressions
"Overlord" is a web novel that really grabbed my attention, and I can definitely see why it has such a dedicated following. It's a unique take on the isekai genre, and while it might not be for everyone, it offers a compelling experience that sets it apart from the usual light novel fare. Initially, I was drawn in by the premise: a player trapped in a game as an all-powerful undead overlord. It's a classic setup, but "Overlord" quickly establishes its own identity. The main character, Ainz (formerly Momonga), isn't your typical hero. He's a complex character, still clinging to his human past w...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
The Lazy King
4.5
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, comedy, fantasy
By the time I realized it, I had reincarnated into another world. I kept sleeping, and at some point I became a Demon Lord.
First Impressions
"The Lazy King" is definitely a web novel that sticks with you long after you've finished reading. With a solid 4.5/5 rating from over a thousand readers, it clearly has a special something that resonates. I went in expecting a lighthearted romp, but what I found was a surprisingly deep and thought-provoking story. Initially, the premise seemed straightforward: a reincarnated demon lord whose power grows the more he sleeps. The cover might give you the wrong idea, suggesting a more action-oriented story, but the reality is far more nuanced. The main character, Liege, embodies sloth, and much o...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
Apotheosis of a Demon – A Monster Evolution Story
4.5
(798 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
A back-to-basics(? ) monster evolution novel.
First Impressions
"Apotheosis of a Demon – A Monster Evolution Story" promised a unique take on the isekai genre, and after diving in, I can say it mostly delivers, though not without a few stumbles along the way. The story follows Shedy's journey from abused human to demon goddess, and it's a wild ride. I was immediately drawn in by the premise. A protagonist who isn't afraid to get her hands dirty and doesn't bother with "righteous" justifications? Sign me up! The initial chapters are compelling, and I found myself eager to see how Shedy would navigate this new, dangerous world....
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
The Girl Who Ate a Death God
4.8
(812 ratings)
Genre: action, fantasy, mature
What happens when one eats Death? Personally, I don’t really know.
First Impressions
"The Girl Who Ate a Death God" is a dark fantasy war story that really sunk its teeth into me. It's not always a comfortable read, but it's a compelling one, following a unique protagonist through a brutal and unforgiving world. Initially, I was a little hesitant. The first few chapters felt somewhat dry, focusing heavily on military formations and the political landscape, which made it difficult to connect with the story. However, I'm glad I stuck with it, because as the story progressed, I found myself increasingly invested in Schera's journey and the world around her....
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8
#8 PICK
Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear
4.4
(983 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Yuna, a 15 years old girl started playing the world’s first VRMMO. She has earned billions of yen in stocks.
First Impressions
"Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear," or "Bear Bear Bear Bear" as the title hilariously translates to, is a web novel that I approached with cautious optimism. The premise is undeniably cute: a girl transported to another world with a bear suit that grants her immense power. But does the novel deliver beyond its initial charm? My first impression mirrored that of many other readers: it's a lighthearted and easy read. The writing style is simple, and the story doesn't demand much from the reader. It's perfect for when you're looking for something to unwind with, a literary equivalent of comfort food. The conc...
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Completed
9
#9 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
10
#10 PICK
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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Conclusion

Underrated Japanese action often means novels that didn't get anime adaptations. That's not a quality judgment, just visibility luck. The entries here work for readers who found them. If popular lists aren't showing you what you want, try these.

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

My Death Flags Show No Sign of Ending

First Impressions

Kumo Desu ga, Nani ka?

First Impressions

To Be a Power in the Shadows! (WN)

First Impressions

Overlord (LN)

First Impressions

The Lazy King

First Impressions

Apotheosis of a Demon – A Monster Evolution Story

First Impressions

The Girl Who Ate a Death God

First Impressions

Kuma Kuma Kuma Bear

First Impressions

Akuyaku Reijo Ni Koi Wo Shite

First Impressions