If you are still deciding on an anime to watch next or add to your watch list, consider checking out My Hero Academia. Boku No Hero Academia, more commonly known as My Hero Academia, is an anime series adaptation of the famous manga of the same title. This anime series is set in a modern world where superpowers, or “quirks,” as they are known, have become the norm. However, this does not mean that everyone has a quirk. Although having a quirk has grown more common, a few individuals are born without these oddities. Surprisingly, the series’ primary protagonist is unremarkable yet aspires to be a great hero capable of taking on supervillains head-on, much like the pro heroes he adored as a child.
With Seasons 1 through 7 (2024) already released and the Final Season now airing (2025-2026), there’s a substantial backlog to binge. If you need more than a brief synopsis of what this anime is about to persuade you to start binge-watching it, here are 11 reasons you should begin watching My Hero Academia immediately.
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- 1. It contains all the elements that make a Shounen classic
- 2. The anime adaptation stays true to the manga series
- 3. It has an inspiring and relatable story
- 4. It’s both funny and heartwarming
- 5. The characters have unique superpowers
- 6. Its cast is unique and diverse
- 7. The animation and soundtrack are amazing
- 8. It’s full of jaw-dropping fight scenes
- 9. Full of (relevant) plot twists that will blow your mind
- 10. It knows when to take it easy with its relaxed fillers
- 11. My Hero Academia’s quirky reflections and burdened heroes
1. It contains all the elements that make a Shounen classic
Over time, we’ve encountered many excellent shounen series that have left a mark on us. Popular ones such as Naruto, Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, and the like are all well-loved anime by many. Despite each being vastly different from the others, they all share the similarity of being classified as shounen classics.
Shounen anime is usually filled with action sequences and familiar tropes such as strong friendships, tragic flashbacks, and training arcs. My Hero Academia falls under the same category but remains uniquely different from the cliché with its own twists. It takes inspiration from common tropes without making them overly repetitive for the audience. If the anime mentioned above are some of the shows you enjoy watching, My Hero Academia might be up your alley.
2. The anime adaptation stays true to the manga series
Many readers constantly worry about the original story being altered in any adaptation. Despite this, My Hero Academia has always remained true to the manga’s series of events. A great thing about the anime adaptation is that it expounds on some aspects of the manga, allowing the audience to better grasp what’s happening.
Although there are times when the anime condenses some story points, manga readers can attest to these changes enhancing the experience. Experiencing My Hero Academia through the anime adaptation feels much more exhilarating because you can see the events unfold and appreciate the plot more.
3. It has an inspiring and relatable story
While superpowers are merely a pipe dream, seeing the manifestation of real-life occurrences in an anime helps us relate better to the series’ characters and plot. My Hero Academia takes you through the journey of the weak and powerless protagonist, Izuku Midoriya or “Deku”, who aspires to be a hero that can save others from villains. Despite being “quirkless”, this never hindered Deku as he constantly studied the heroes and their quirks.
Aside from Deku’s tear-jerking origin story, the anime showcases how life is unequal and unfair. Similar to Deku’s situation, some people are born with quirks; those without are treated and seen differently by society. Also, the anime shows how even heroes don’t have it easy. While we may think those with great power are living life in the best way possible, My Hero Academia makes it a point that they have their own struggles too.
Even the pro heroes have weaknesses and face adversities like everyone else. These are some of the many occurrences in the anime that mirror real-life events and allow us to connect with the anime and its characters beyond pure admiration, even inspiring us in different ways. The series also tackles themes of friendship, determination, and the pursuit of one’s dreams, making it an uplifting and inspiring watch.
4. It’s both funny and heartwarming
In addition to its inspiring and relatable plotline, My Hero Academia is well-balanced with its touching and comedic scenes. Some scenes pull on your heartstrings, requiring you to stock up on tissues. From Deku’s origin story to the other characters’ story arcs, you’re in for quite the tear-jerking ride.
On the flip side, the anime also sports some wacky and comedic scenes that balance its melodramatic nature. Overall, My Hero Academia shouldn’t be too overwhelming or emotional for you, but it may be quite the rollercoaster ride you need right now.
5. The characters have unique superpowers.
In the bustling halls of U.A. High School, where aspiring heroes train to protect a society teetering on the edge, the characters possess more than mere courage — they wield quirks, extraordinary abilities that define their very existence.
Shoto Todoroki
Shoto Todoroki, the enigmatic half-and-half hero, epitomizes this uniqueness. His quirk, “Half-Cold, Half-Hot”, grants him control over both ice and flames. One side of his body wields crystalline frost, the other ablaze with heat. His hair and eyes mirror this elemental duality. Todoroki’s presence is a living paradox and a testament to the show’s ingenuity.
Tenya Iida
Tenya Iida, the speedster with a twist, has the quirk “Engine”, which transforms his legs into roaring turbines, propelling him at breakneck speeds. When he dashes, the ground trembles and the wind howls in awe. Iida’s design embodies pure velocity.
Tsuyu Asui
Tsuyu Asui, affectionately known as “Froppy”, has a frog-like quirk that grants her a long tongue, enhanced jumping, and the ability to cling to walls. Her wide eyes and mannerisms are amphibian-like, but her combat prowess is sharp and efficient.
Momo Yaoyorozu
Momo Yaoyorozu, the brilliant strategist, wields the “Creation” quirk. From her exposed skin, she can materialize any non-living object she imagines. When Momo crafts a shield or a grappling hook, we witness her intelligence and resourcefulness unfold.
Fumikage Tokoyami
Lastly, Fumikage Tokoyami commands “Dark Shadow”, a sentient shadow companion that emerges from his body. In battle, it swoops, slashes, and envelops foes in darkness. Tokoyami’s design and ability conjure both awe and unease.
As the Final Season unfolds, we revel in these quirks — each one a distinct brushstroke on the canvas of heroism.
6. Its cast is unique and diverse
Each of the My Hero Academia characters is uniquely different. Given that shounen anime typically follows certain tropes, this anime breaks free from the norm by diversifying the characters, allowing each one to stand out. My Hero Academia promotes inclusivity by including a wide range of character types, from characters with different backgrounds and personalities to those without remarkable abilities. Because of this, fans grew to appreciate the anime more for the various representations it includes.
In addition, each character has their own story arc that allows fans to better understand and grasp their personality. The story arcs show how the character came to be and their reasons for their goals, which highlights how each has their own purpose. Whether you’re a main or side character, everyone has a stage to display their skills and let the audience know them more through each episode.
Katsuki Bakugou and Ochako Uraraka are two main characters that show how diversified the cast is. Bakugou has consistently been recognised and praised for his strong quirk, but his personality is similar to that of a ticking time bomb. Uraraka, on the other hand, is known for her kawaii looks and zero gravity quirk and is bubbly and innocent. They’re polar opposites, but both are just as strong as the rest of the cast of My Hero Academia.
The English dub cast has fans of its own. Justin Briner (Deku), Jason Liebrecht (Dabi), Zeno Robinson (Hawks) and Elizabeth Maxwell (Midnight) are all signing at AnimeCon London at Olympia on 3 and 4 October 2026.
7. The animation and soundtrack are amazing
While the manga is known to have outstanding artwork, the anime adaptation really stands out with its amazing animation. From the detailed aspects of the fight scenes to the cinematic scenery, the team put in so much effort to make the overall experience of watching the anime worth it. Even the soundtrack complements the animation, matching each track’s vibe with the emotion of the scene.
The songs are timely and in tune with the current event, giving the audience a well-rounded cinematic experience as they watch.
8. It’s full of jaw-dropping fight scenes
Amidst the comedy and sorrow, fierce fighting is seen throughout the series. In addition to the strong storytelling, My Hero Academia also boasts excellent animation and action scenes. Combat sequences in the show are lively and visually striking, and there are many memorable moments that will stay with viewers.
The characters’ wide range of unique quirks is displayed in creative and spirited ways during battles. The abilities of each character are distinct and are portrayed in a manner that feels authentic to the individual’s personality and skills. The series also depicts how the characters put this to use in combat and how they may combine their talents to unleash devastating attacks.
The battle sequences are well orchestrated, with a compelling blend of action and strategic planning. The animation is fluid and polished, creating a stunning visual experience.
9. MHA is full of (relevant) plot twists that will blow your mind
There isn’t much anime that can keep you on the edge of your seat with each new twist in the storyline like My Hero Academia does. It’s a big part of what keeps you watching through all the fluff and repeats. The show always manages to make you care about the characters, no matter how little time they actually spend on screen, so when something unexpected happens, it really hits home.
Some reveals are hidden in plain sight the whole time, and once they land, they make perfect sense. Other twists become the driving force in the character development of our heroes. Meanwhile, the identities and choices of some antagonists give you trust issues and make you question who is on which side. Most twists are not just there to elicit emotion — there is a purpose behind them. My Hero Academia’s writing and narrative are top-notch because of the show’s uncanny ability to sneak in surprising moments that the audience is unprepared for, yet that feel earned.
10. It knows when to take it easy with its relaxed fillers
Filler episodes have a bad reputation for including unimportant subplots that drag out the story. My Hero Academia is one of the last of its kind in that regard, with many episodes that are optional to fully understand the story. But amidst the high-octane action sequences that give you no room to breathe, these slow-paced, “healing” episodes are a welcome change of pace that give you time to relax and appreciate the show’s various characters.
The show’s self-awareness and willingness to poke fun at itself are vital ingredients in making this concept succeed. As much as we have emotional tear-jerking moments and unbelievable plot twists sprinkled throughout, it knows what it is at its core — a superhero story targeted towards young teens. It’s nice to watch our favourite characters go out for dinner and enjoy one another’s company to take a break from the stresses of deadly battle every once in a while.
11. Hero Society Critique
MHA stands as more than a mere anime. MHA goes beyond superhero spectacle to question what hero culture actually costs. As the sun rises over Musutafu City, it illuminates the cracks in hero society’s facade. For every All Might, there is a burden carried by those who dare to save.
We delve into the hearts of heroes, their quirks reflecting their inner conflicts: Shoto Todoroki’s icy flames and complicated family, Tenya Iida’s sense of duty, and more. Beyond the spectacle lies the truth that power and responsibility shape them in different ways. Endeavor’s inferno scorches not only villains but his own soul. Ochaco Uraraka floats toward her dreams while wrestling with financial pressures. And Midoriya grapples with the weight of One For All and what it means to be a true hero.
Through the years, My Hero Academia has amassed quite a fanbase, and it’s easy to see why there’s so much hype. Ultimately, it’s a great anime that is worth watching or adding to your anime watch list. If you’ve held off on MHA because of its length, the Final Season is the moment to start: the story now has a clear endpoint, and the eight-season arc rewards the commitment.
