10 Anime Where the MC Becomes a King in Another World
Have you ever dreamed of waking up in a fantasy world and being handed a crown? Yeah, we’ve all been there—fantasizing about leading armies, ruling kingdoms, and living the high life in a magical land. That’s what makes “isekai” anime so thrilling, especially when the main character doesn’t just survive in another world… they dominate it.
In this list, we’re diving into 10 anime where the MC becomes a king (or ruler) in another world, climbing from the lowest rungs to the highest throne.
Let’s get into it—anime countdown style, from 10 to 1!
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#10: How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom
Let’s kick things off with a brainy take on isekai royalty. How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom doesn’t throw us into flashy battles (at first), but instead focuses on economic reforms, political alliances, and practical leadership.
So what’s the deal? Kazuya Souma gets summoned to another world to be a hero, but ends up becoming the acting king after impressing the current ruler with his knowledge of politics and economics. Instead of charging into war, he starts fixing the kingdom from the ground up.
It’s like SimCity meets Game of Thrones, with a protagonist who actually reads the fine print. Kazuya might not swing a sword often, but his mind is his weapon—and his rule is smart, stable, and surprisingly entertaining.
#9: Arifureta: From Commonplace to World’s Strongest
Now we shift gears into something grittier. Hajime Nagumo starts off as your typical bullied kid who gets summoned to a fantasy world with his classmates. But after a betrayal and a horrifying dungeon experience, he evolves into a ruthless powerhouse.
What makes this royal-worthy? Hajime doesn’t get crowned king in the traditional sense, but his strength and actions turn him into a leader of his own powerful group. He builds alliances, protects cities, and becomes someone even nations fear and respect.
Think of Hajime as the lone wolf who ends up leading the pack—not because he wants power, but because his sheer might demands it.
#8: The Rising of the Shield Hero
Naofumi Iwatani’s story is one of betrayal, revenge, and redemption. Summoned as the Shield Hero, he’s framed for a crime he didn’t commit and cast out of the kingdom. But instead of folding, Naofumi grits his teeth and builds his own path.
Why is he king material? Throughout his journey, Naofumi gathers loyal allies, protects the innocent, and slowly gains political power. He’s not handed a crown, but earns it through grit and compassion.
Naofumi’s leadership is about justice and loyalty. He might not sit on a golden throne, but in the hearts of his people, he’s a true king.
#7: Tsukimichi: Moonlit Fantasy
When Makoto Misumi is abandoned by the goddess who summoned him, you’d expect his story to be one of despair. Nope. Instead, he creates his own community filled with demi-humans and monsters, far from the human cities.
The twist? Makoto becomes a leader by necessity, not choice. His overwhelming magical power makes him a natural ruler, and his compassion earns him loyal followers. He crafts a society where all races can live together in peace.
Makoto’s rise feels organic—it’s not about power for power’s sake, but about creating a place where people belong. That’s kingly behavior if you ask me.
#6: The 8th Son? Are You Kidding Me?
Talk about a glow-up. Shingo Ichinomiya wakes up as Wendelin, the eighth son of a poor noble family. But thanks to insane magical talent and a bit of ambition, he quickly rises through the aristocratic ranks.
Why does this count? Wendelin doesn’t just gain riches—he becomes a respected and powerful noble with influence over the kingdom’s politics and military.
This one’s a classic rags-to-riches story with magic and medieval flair. Wendelin’s charm is that he’s not power-hungry, but still ends up ruling in style.
#5: Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?!
Okay, this one’s a bit cheeky. Mile (aka Adele) asks to be average in her next life and ends up with insane power—typical, right?
How does she become a ruler? While not a queen in name, Mile unintentionally becomes the heart and soul of her team. Her leadership skills and immense magical ability put her in control of many situations, guiding others and solving crises.
It’s like she’s trying not to be queen, but fate has other plans. Her kingdom? Anywhere her friends need her most.
#4: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Rimuru Tempest starts as a literal blob of jelly. Not exactly king material. But don’t be fooled—this little slime evolves into one of the most powerful beings in the world.
How does it happen? Through kindness, diplomacy, and crazy combat skills, Rimuru forms the Jura Tempest Federation—a thriving, multi-species nation where peace and progress are the norm.
This anime is a perfect example of “power with purpose.” Rimuru doesn’t rule with an iron fist—he builds a kingdom where everyone has a place. That’s some wholesome monarchy right there.
#3: Overlord
Ainz Ooal Gown is not just a king—he’s an undead overlord. After being stuck in a game world, he embraces the role of supreme ruler of the Great Tomb of Nazarick.
What makes this scary good? Ainz blends raw magical power with cold strategic thinking. He’s got loyal NPCs as generals, conquers territory, and keeps everyone guessing whether he’s benevolent or terrifying.
If you love morally gray kings who keep their enemies (and friends) on their toes, Ainz is your guy. Just… don’t get on his bad side.
Related:
Top 10 Anime Like Overlord
#2: Saga of Tanya the Evil
Imagine a reincarnated salaryman stuck in the body of a little girl… in a war-torn magical world. That’s Tanya Degurechaff. Despite her size, Tanya commands armies and crushes enemies with brutal efficiency.
So what’s the royal link? Tanya climbs the military ranks fast, becoming a symbol of fear and authority. While not crowned, her power and control over the empire’s strategies make her a true ruler in everything but name.
She’s not your average Disney princess—more like a terrifying, cigar-smoking general who’ll rule the battlefield.
#1: The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat
At the top of our list is a masterclass in cunning. The MC gets reincarnated as Lugh Tuatha Dé, a noble with one mission: kill the Hero before he destroys the world. But in the process, Lugh builds influence, allies, and a powerful noble household.
How does he rule? Through calculated moves and unmatched assassin skills, Lugh becomes a kingmaker—controlling politics from behind the scenes. He’s like the chess player who sees ten moves ahead.
His reign isn’t public, but his reach is undeniable. Lugh proves that the smartest ruler doesn’t always sit on the throne—they control the throne.
Conclusion
There’s just something epic about watching an underdog rise to become a king in a new world. Whether they start as a slime, a schoolboy, or even an assassin, these characters prove that leadership isn’t about birthright—it’s about power, strategy, and heart.
So if you’ve ever dreamed of ruling your own kingdom, these anime are your perfect escape. Who knows? The next throne might be yours.
