Top 10 Unhinged Action Manga/Manhwa Where the MC Is the Genre

Finding main characters who just have the ‘it’ factor’ is difficult – especially when every list seems to churn out the exact same webtoons over and over. Like yes, we get it, the 37th regressor wants revenge. Cool. But where are the unhinged ones? The guys who are terrifying, clever or just fun to watch?

This is for the people who are over mid protagonists. Here are 10 action manga/manhwa where the MC is carrying the entire series on pure "I don’t care, I’ll burn the world down" energy.

NOTE: This list is not in any particular order or ranking

1. The Player Hides His Past

 

Lee Hoyeol is just some anxious dude… until the game world merges with reality and he gets stuck playing as his over-the-top noble character: Grandfell Claudi Arpeus Romeo. And once the system locks it in, he's taken over by Grandfell with his 24/7—regal speech, absurd morals and zero fear.

The twist? Inside, he’s panicking. Outside, he looks like the most terrifying, righteous powerhouse in the world. That contrast? Pure gold. He doesn’t mean to be a legend, but somehow, he is and that's what makes it so fun to read

 

2. Killer Peter

 

He’s not trying to be a hero. He’s not trying to save anyone. He’s just done. And watching him go full psycho with zero hesitation? Addictive. It’s got that gritty, “lone assassin with a purpose” vibe but with the smoothest action panels I’ve seen in a while. The way he turns from an old guy to a much younger version? The art just keeps on giving

 

3. Regressor Instruction Manual
 

Now this guy? He's not even the regressor. But he lies, manipulates, and acts his way to power like a champ. He has constant internal breakdowns and is literally winging it 24/7, but somehow still comes off as the smartest person in the room. Gaslight, gatekeep, gain power and dominate people in your own hands

4. The Dark Mage’s Return to Enlistment
 

Imagine, you're a literal archmage who fought demons, and now you’re being yelled at by a drill sergeant. That’s this manhwa. It sounds like comedy—and it is but it also has some of the most satisfying “OP character showing off” moments I’ve read. Total power trip that is a must read

5. Surviving the Game as a Barbarian

 

This guy’s whole class screams brute force, but he plays smarter than half the cast. It’s based on an RPG he knows inside out, so you get that fun insider-feel as he breaks the game’s logic, outmaneuvers bosses, and slowly reaches his true potential. Peak “brainless but actually five steps ahead” energy. Yet, there's a looming threat behind his back- will his actual identity ever get discovered?

6. Swordmaster’s Youngest Son

 

 

 

 

He’s reborn into a powerful family, but instead of taking it slow, he immediately starts shaking things up. What makes him unreal is that he knows how to move in silence and still make big plays. The sword fights go hard, and the political drama keeps things fresh. So, if you're in mood for some typical action- here goes

7. Genius Archer’s Streaming

 

You’re here for the flair. He’s a streamer playing a fantasy game, and instead of panicking, he goes viral mid-dungeon run. Every move is exaggerated on purpose, because he knows he’s being watched. It’s flashy, fast, and so satisfying when he lands those impossible shots.

8. The Knight King Who Returned with a God
 

 

The guy literally comes back to life with divine power and just starts wrecking everything. He’s got that calm “I’ve seen too much” energy and fights like someone who’s already won. It's still ongoing, but the setup is strong and the vibe? Pure domination. "Glory to the lionheart" still keeps ringing in my head

9. The Novel’s Extra
 

He’s not the MC of the world—but he refuses to be irrelevant. He min-maxes everything, hacks his own fate, and plays 4D chess with the actual protagonist. It starts off slow, but when it picks up, it picks up. You’re not even sure if he’s a good guy, and honestly? That’s half the fun.

10. Academy’s Undercover Professor

 

He’s a literal war criminal hiding in a magic school pretending to be a chill professor. Except he’s anything but chill. Think: OP in a quiet, “I don’t need to prove anything” kind of way. Magic system is detailed, the mystery is good, and the guy exudes scary competence.

If you're bored of “he gets stronger because of friendship” tropes and want MCs who manipulate gods, cheat systems, or just walk in and take over... this list is for you. These aren’t just strong characters. These are chaotic main characters who are the genre, question remains- is this genre for you?