Anime thrives on stories of betrayal and redemption, and some of the most iconic series feature protagonists who rise from the ashes stronger than ever after being wronged by their allies. These tales of revenge, survival, and overwhelming power have captivated fans around the world. Here’s our list of the top 10 magic anime where the main character is betrayed and comes back more powerful than anyone could have imagined.
Adventurers Who Don’t Believe in Humanity Will Save the World
- MC: Nick
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Comedy
After being betrayed by those they trusted most, a group of broken adventurers, led by Nick, band together to prove they don’t need anyone else. This dark yet comedic fantasy series explores themes of trust, resilience, and finding strength in unexpected places. The MC’s transformation from someone crushed by betrayal to a powerful adventurer leading an unlikely group is incredibly satisfying.
The Strongest Tank’s Labyrinth Raids
- MC: Stunk
- Genres: Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Betrayal hits hard when the main character is abandoned in the depths of a labyrinth. However, instead of succumbing to despair, Stunk rises to become the strongest tank, conquering the labyrinth’s dangerous trials with sheer grit and intelligence. This story is a testament to overcoming adversity and finding power in the face of betrayal.
Beast Tamer
- MC: Rein Shroud
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Action
Kicked out of his party for being “weak,” Beast Tamer Rein discovers his true potential when he forms bonds with powerful, mythical creatures. This anime highlights how being underestimated can lead to astonishing growth and eventual revenge against those who doubted you.
Tower of God
- MC: Bam (Twenty-Fifth Bam)
- Genres: Fantasy, Action, Mystery
Betrayal is at the heart of Tower of God, where Bam enters a mysterious tower searching for a loved one, only to be betrayed in the most shocking way. As he ascends the tower, Bam undergoes a transformation, growing stronger and uncovering powers beyond anyone’s imagination. The twists and turns in this anime will leave you breathless.
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
- MC: Lelouch vi Britannia
- Genres: Mecha, Supernatural, Drama
While not purely magic, Code Geass blends supernatural power with a gripping narrative of betrayal and revenge. Lelouch, betrayed by the very empire he sought to destroy, uses the mysterious power of Geass to become an unstoppable force. This anime is a masterclass in strategy, manipulation, and character development.
Berserk
- MC: Guts
- Genres: Dark Fantasy, Action, Adventure
Few betrayals in anime history are as heart-wrenching as the one in Berserk. Guts’ journey from a betrayed warrior to a nearly unstoppable force of vengeance is a harrowing tale of survival and growth. This dark fantasy series is not for the faint of heart but remains a classic in the genre.
Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest
- MC: Hajime Nagumo
- Genres: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Isekai
After being betrayed and left for dead in a dungeon, Hajime’s transformation is one of the most dramatic on this list. Once an ordinary student, he becomes a ruthless, overpowered fighter with a newfound purpose. Arifureta combines epic battles with a satisfying tale of revenge and redemption.
Gungrave
- MC: Brandon Heat / Beyond the Grave
- Genres: Action, Supernatural, Drama
This underrated gem explores themes of loyalty and betrayal in a story about friendship turned sour. Brandon Heat’s journey from betrayal to his resurrection as Beyond the Grave showcases his rise to unstoppable power in a gritty, magic-infused underworld.
Redo of the Healer
- MC: Keyaru / Keyaruga
- Genres: Dark Fantasy, Adventure, Action, Drama
Redo of the Healer takes betrayal to an extreme level. The protagonist betrayed and tormented by those he trusted, rewrites time itself to exact his revenge. Armed with his newfound powers, this controversial anime delves into dark themes and unapologetic revenge.
The Rising of the Shield Hero
- MC: Naofumi Iwatani
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure, Action, Isekai
Naofumi’s betrayal is one of the most infamous in anime. Framed and shunned by society, he goes from being a powerless Shield Hero to one of the most overpowered and respected warriors in the kingdom. His journey is a thrilling blend of justice, magic, and redemption.
The theme of betrayal often drives characters to uncover their true potential, making these anime incredibly engaging. Each of these series offers a unique take on the idea of being wronged and coming back stronger than ever. Which of these anime is your favorite? Or do you know another hidden gem that belongs on this list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
