Top 21 Martial arts Novels with Weak To Strong in 2026

2026 Edition

Updated January 27, 2026

Specialized Lists

21 Novels

Martial arts weak-to-strong novels follow protagonists who start without combat ability and develop it over time. The genre emphasizes training, breakthrough moments, and gradual mastery of techniques. Most draw from Chinese wuxia or xianxia traditions.

The appeal lies in earned power—characters struggle, fail, and eventually succeed through effort. Quality varies in how well novels maintain this tension as protagonists become stronger. Some keep raising stakes, others lose narrative momentum once the protagonist becomes powerful.

Completed
1
TOP PICK
The Legendary Moonlight Sculptor
4.3
(1.8K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The man forsaken by the world, the man a s*ave to money and the man known as the legendary God of War in the highly popular MMORPG Continent of Magic. With the coming of age, he decides to say goodbye, but the feeble attempt to earn a little something for his time and effort ripples into an effe...
First Impressions
"The Legendary Moonlight Sculptor" is a web novel that I finally decided to dive into after hearing about it for years. It's a sprawling story, and while I found aspects to enjoy, I also encountered some frustrations along the way. It's a mixed bag, but one that has some real gems hidden inside. Initially, I was hooked by the VRMMORPG setting and the promise of adventure. The main character, Weed (also known as Lee Hyun), is certainly unique. He's driven by a need for money, stemming from a difficult past, and his single-minded focus creates some genuinely funny situations. The early chapters ...
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Completed
2
RUNNER UP
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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Completed
3
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Stellar Transformation
4.2
(1.3K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
In a galaxy far away, there is a kid without the innate ability to practice internal techniques. So, in order to gain the respect of his father, he resolutely chooses to follow the more difficult and painful path of practicing external techniques.
First Impressions
"Stellar Transformation" is a xianxia novel that I found to be a mixed bag, although overall, the experience was worthwhile. It’s one of those stories that really benefits from going in with the right expectations. Initially, I was a little put off by the pacing. It definitely starts slow, focusing on Qin Yu's early life and struggles. Some readers might find this tedious, but I appreciated the character building. It allowed me to connect with Qin Yu and understand his motivations, which are initially driven by a desire to earn his father's approval and help his family. This is a refreshing ch...
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Completed
4
EDITORS CHOICE
SSS-Class Sui**de Hunter
4.3
(1.2K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
I am dying to have a Class S Skill! ..
First Impressions
SSS-Class Suide Hunter… what a title! I dove into this web novel with a mix of curiosity and trepidation, given the rather intense premise. It's a story that seems to polarize readers, with some hailing it as a masterpiece and others finding it deeply flawed. So, what did I think? Initially, I was a bit overwhelmed. The early chapters are a whirlwind of information, and the main character, Kim Gong-ja, isn't exactly the most likeable guy. He's envious, obsessive, and driven by a desire for revenge. However, I stuck with it, and I'm glad I did because the initial chaos gives way to something fa...
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Completed
5
EDITORS CHOICE
Chronicles of Primordial Wars
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, martial arts
Shao Xuan joins a friend in his expedition to a recently discovered archaeological cave. After he picks up an ordinary looking stone he is teleported to a different world and wakes up in the body of a small orphan child.
First Impressions
"Chronicles of Primordial Wars" is a web novel that took me by surprise. With a solid 4.5/5 rating and a slew of glowing reviews, I had high expectations going in, and for the most part, it delivered. It's a unique blend of action, adventure, and xuanhuan set in a primordial world, and the story's originality is definitely one of its strongest points. Initially, the pacing is slow. The story eases you into this ancient, tribal setting. We follow our protagonist as he adapts to life in the body of a young orphan in this harsh, Stone Age world. It's a far cry from the typical cultivation novel, ...
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Completed
6
#6 PICK
Thousand Autumns
4.5
(1.0K ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, drama
Yan Wushi had walked a path full of blood and corpses. He did not believe in the good nature of humanity.
First Impressions
"Thousand Autumns" has been quite the ride! Diving into this wuxia world felt like stepping into a meticulously crafted tapestry of ancient China, martial arts, and complex characters. I found myself completely absorbed in Shen Qiao's journey, and even though the romance took a backseat for much of the story, I was invested in the overall narrative. Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a kind-hearted MC, and Shen Qiao definitely delivered. He's not your typical overpowered protagonist; instead, he's a strong, principled character who faces betrayal and hardship with unwavering resolve. ...
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Completed
7
#7 PICK
Picked up by the Protagonist of a Tormented! MC Novel
4.2
(656 ratings)
Genre: action, adult, adventure
A suffering MC novel—the main character must be forced to suffer, be oppressed until they’re hovering between life and death, dying and living here and there. They can have a golden finger, but before getting it they must pay the price.
First Impressions
"Picked up by the Protagonist of a Tormented! MC Novel" is a story that's been on my radar for a while, and after diving in, I've got some thoughts. It's a unique blend of genres, and while it might not be perfect, it definitely offers a worthwhile reading experience. The initial premise is definitely intriguing. Our MC transmigrates into a novel as a baby, adopted by the tormented protagonist. The setting is a gritty, pseudo-Western fantasy world, and the early chapters focus on the bond between these two as they struggle to survive. This beginning really hooked me, drawing me into their worl...
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Completed
8
#8 PICK
Female General And Eldest Princess
4.2
(470 ratings)
Genre: action, drama, martial arts
In order to survive in troubled times; in order to get revenge for loved ones; in order to claim justice for all 118 people who died undeservedly in the village. Lin WanYue took the residence registration of her younger brother Lin FeiXing to join the army, and was determined to kill the Huns al...
First Impressions
"Female General And Eldest Princess" promised a blend of action, political intrigue, and yuri romance set in ancient China, and after diving in, I can definitely see why it has such a dedicated following. It's a compelling story, though not without its flaws. The initial chapters hooked me immediately. The premise of a woman disguising herself as her twin brother to join the army and seek revenge is classic Mulan territory, but the addition of a cold, scheming princess throws a fascinating wrench into the works. I was eager to see how their relationship would unfold amidst the backdrop of war ...
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Completed
9
#9 PICK
Childhood Friend of the Zenith
4.2
(475 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
Gu Yangcheon commited a lot of evil while serving the Heavenly Demon. But now Heavenly Demon was dead and Yangcheon became a prisoner of ‘Celestial Sword’ Wi Seol-Ah, the heroine who vanquished his master.
First Impressions
"Childhood Friend of the Zenith" promised a blend of martial arts, regression, and a touch of the demonic, so I dove in eager to see what it offered. After spending some time with it, here are my impressions. The initial premise is definitely intriguing. We have Gu Yangcheon, a former subordinate of the Heavenly Demon, reborn with a chance to rewrite his past. The regret and drama hinted at in the early chapters definitely grabbed my attention, and the idea of a protagonist grappling with past sins while navigating a new life is compelling. I was hooked immediately into the story....
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10
#10 PICK
Return of Mount Hua Sect
4.5
(448 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, comedy
The 13th generation disciple of the Great Mount Hua Sect. One of the Three Great Swordsmen.
First Impressions
"Return of Mount Hua Sect" is a wild ride through the wuxia world, and I can definitely see why it's garnered so much love. It's a story about Chung Myung, an old ancestor reincarnated into the declining Mount Hua Sect, and his hilarious, often chaotic, journey to restore it to its former glory. Initially, I wasn't sure what to expect. The premise is familiar – reincarnation, martial arts, a fallen sect – but the execution is what sets this novel apart. It’s a blend of action, adventure, and laugh-out-loud comedy, with a surprising amount of depth lurking beneath the surface. The first few cha...
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11
#11 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
12
#12 PICK
Mysteries of Immortal Puppet Master
4.2
(104 ratings)
Genre: action, adventure, fantasy
In the heart of a volcano lies a mystical Mechanized Palace, a relic left behind by ancient sages, patiently awaiting its successor. In a desperate bid for its treasure, a mother sacrificed her life to claim the palace’s sacred seal, entrusting it to her son, Ning Zhuo, in her final moments.
First Impressions
Alright, let's dive into Mysteries of Immortal Puppet Master. I've been following the discussions, and I'm ready to share my take on this Xianxia novel. My first impression is that this is a novel for readers who appreciate a slow burn. The world-building is intricate, and the initial chapters are dedicated to setting the stage. It might feel a bit dense at first, but trust me, it pays off as the story progresses. The protagonist, Ning Zhou, isn't your typical righteous hero, and that's what makes him so interesting....
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Conclusion

This list gathers martial arts novels with weak-to-strong progression ranked by reader ratings. The training systems and power frameworks differ across entries—cultivation, traditional martial arts, hybrid approaches. Check individual descriptions to find the specific style of progression that interests you.

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

The Legendary Moonlight Sculptor

First Impressions

Tensei Shitara Slime Datta Ken (WN)

First Impressions

Stellar Transformation

First Impressions

SSS-Class Sui**de Hunter

First Impressions

Chronicles of Primordial Wars

First Impressions

Thousand Autumns

First Impressions

Picked up by the Protagonist of a Tormented! MC Novel

First Impressions

Female General And Eldest Princess

First Impressions

Childhood Friend of the Zenith

First Impressions

Return of Mount Hua Sect

First Impressions