When you think of My Hero Academia, it’s easy to picture iconic names like Deku, All Might, or even Endeavor. But there’s a lesser-known, brilliantly crafted side story that deserves just as much love—My Hero Academia: Vigilantes. If you've ever wondered what happens in the shadows of hero society or what the world looked like before Izuku Midoriya’s rise, this spin-off is your next must-read.
Let’s dive into this underground gem, blending storytelling and insight with just enough nerdy passion to keep you turning the pages (or scrolling panels).
Who Are the Vigilantes?
In the world of My Hero Academia, not everyone with a Quirk gets a license to be a hero. Some take justice into their own hands, operating outside the law to protect their communities. These are the vigilantes, and their stories are just as compelling—if not more—than the official pros.
Set years before the main series, Boku no Hero Academia: Vigilantes introduces a cast of characters who are far from typical but 100% unforgettable.
Koichi Haimawari – The Crawler
Koichi isn’t your usual hero material. He's a college student with a humble Quirk—he can slide across the ground. But what he lacks in flashy power, he makes up for with heart. Over time, he grows from a Quirk enthusiast to a full-on streetwise protector. Honestly, Koichi Haimawari The Crawler deserves a standing ovation for his journey alone.
Pop☆Step – The Idol with a Mission
Pop Step idol hero brings a unique blend of pop culture and vigilante action. Kazuho Haneyama (her real name) uses her platform and agility-focused Quirk to rally fans and fight crime, giving us a look at what being a hero means beyond brute force. She’s fun, fierce, and flawed—just how we like our vigilantes.
Knuckleduster – The Mentor We Didn’t Know We Needed
The gritty heart of the team, Knuckleduster vigilante doesn’t even have a Quirk—but that doesn’t stop him. He’s like the Batman of the MHA universe: old-school, no-nonsense, and full of punches. His past adds emotional weight and a raw, realistic angle to the story.
Why This Manga Matters
At first glance, Vigilantes spin-off might seem like extra content for die-hard fans, but it offers so much more:
- Backstories Galore: Want to know what All Might young years looked like? Curious about Eraser Head’s origin? This is where you find out.
- Fresh Perspective: It explores how normal folks cope in a world dominated by superpowered celebrities.
- Underground Society: You get a real look at the underground hero society MHA hints at but rarely shows.
Standout Characters You Can’t Ignore
While Koichi, Pop Step, and Knuckleduster are the heart of the story, other cameos make longtime fans giddy:
- Captain Celebrity MHA: A flashy, controversial American hero who makes big waves in Japan.
- Present Mic Backstory: You’ll gain a new respect for Yamada Hizashi after learning about his early days with Aizawa.
Tips: How to Start Your Vigilante Journey
If you’re new to the series, here are a few quick pointers:
- How to read My Hero Academia Vigilantes online legally: Official sites like Viz Media and Shonen Jump App have it available for subscription or per-chapter reading.
- Complete reading order My Hero Academia and Vigilantes: You can start Vigilantes after chapter 70 of the main series or read it after season 4 of the anime for maximum context.
- Is My Hero Academia Vigilantes worth reading after main manga? Absolutely—especially for fans craving character depth and a different pace.
Final Thoughts: Vigilantes Deserve the Spotlight
My Hero Academia Vigilantes isn't just filler—it’s an emotionally rich, deeply human, and action-packed expansion of the MHA universe. It adds color to characters we thought we knew and shines a light on those often overlooked in the spotlight-driven world of heroes.
If you love character-driven stories, moral grey areas, and world-building that feels raw and real, you owe it to yourself to read this spin-off.
Ready to suit up?
Whether you're already a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into hero society, Vigilantes is your backstage pass to one of anime’s most vibrant worlds. Dive in—and don't forget to share your favorite character with fellow fans!