My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is the official manga spin-off of the hugely popular My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) series, written by Hideyuki Furuhashi and illustrated by Betan Court.
First serialized in Jump Giga and later Shonen Jump+, this side story explores the rich, action-packed universe of heroes and villains from a new, street-level perspective.
It offers fans a deeper, more grounded view of what it means to be a hero in a society where rules, rankings, and fame shape everything, a world that fans of Kohei Horikoshi's original series already love.
The Setting A World of Quirks and Justice
Much like My Hero Academia, Vigilantes is set in a world where “quirks,” special superhuman abilities, have become the norm. About 80% of the population has unique powers, ranging from control over the elements to enhanced strength.
Licensed Pro Heroes patrol the streets to maintain peace and order, working alongside the police to fight villains and disasters. However, the system is not flawless.
Not everyone with a Quirk can become a professional hero due to a lack of powerful abilities, poor academic performance, or the strict legal requirements needed to obtain a Hero license.
This gap in the system is where vigilantes come in, ordinary people who take justice into their own hands without legal sanction, patrolling the streets and fighting petty crimes without recognition or official backing.
Main Characters
Vigilantes revolves around three unlicensed heroes whose loyalty and bravery shape the story:
1. Koichi Haimawari (The Crawler)
Koichi is the story's protagonist. He is a mild-mannered college student who possesses a minor Quirk called Slide and Glide, which allows him to move quickly across surfaces.
Though it doesn't seem impressive initially, Koichi's clever application of his ability and unshakable moral compass make him a compelling protagonist.
Inspired by his admiration for the legendary hero All Might, he begins patrolling his neighborhood to help others, eventually taking on the vigilante identity of The Crawler.
2. Kazuho Haneyama (Pop☆Step)
Pop☆Step is a vibrant, vivacious girl who has the Quirk Leaper, which enables her to do amazing leaps.
She uses her abilities to perform illegal street performances and distribute anti-villain messages, promoting peace and vigilance in the community.
Though initially reckless, her friendship with Koichi inspires her to use her talent for true heroism.
3. Knuckleduster (Iwao Oguro)
A former professional hero turned vigilante, Knuckleduster is a determined, battle-hardened individual who lost his official hero license.
Lacking a Quirk due to mysterious circumstances, he relies solely on his strength, tactical prowess, and sheer willpower.
Knuckleduster serves as a mentor to Koichi and Pop☆Step, teaching them responsibility, discipline, and the true meaning of being a hero outside of the legal system.
Story Overview
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is a story set a few years before Izuku Midoriya's journey in the main series. It follows Koichi and his companions as they tackle the dark, unseen corners of society that the Pro Heroes often ignore.
The series begins with Koichi using his Quirk to help people, like saving lost children or catching petty criminals. Soon, he meets Knuckleduster, who drags him into more serious vigilante activities involving street thugs, drug dealers, and evil villains.
As the story progresses, the trio faces increasing threats, including Trigger, an illegal drug that dangerously enhances Quirks. A secret organization distributing Trigger and manipulating villains.
Personal demons and moral dilemmas about crossing the line between right and wrong. Eventually, they have to face powerful enemies, rogue heroes, and corrupt elements within the legal system.
The series revolves around Koichi's transformation from a timid novice to a believable hero without a license during these difficulties.
Themes and Style
My Hero Academia: Vigilantes takes a slightly grittier, more street-level approach than the big battles of the main series. While full of humor and heartwarming moments, the series deals with topics such as:-
- Justice vs. Legality: Finding out what happens when the law does injustice to the needy.
- Heroism Without Recognition: Proving that heroism isn't about fame or titles.
- The Gray Areas of Morality: Considering options that aren't black and white.
The art style, courtesy of Beton Court, maintains the energy and expression that fans have come to expect from My Hero Academia, while adding a rougher, more urban aspect to the street-level story.
format(webp) "Koichi Haimawari")
Connections to the Main Series
Vigilantes isn't just a side story - it enriches the story of My Hero Academia by providing background details and cameos from fan-favorite characters.
- All Might regularly appears, offering advice and support.
- Eraser Head (Aizawa Shota) has a significant backstory arc here, providing insight into his past.
- Ingenium, Midnight, and Fat Gum make appearances.
- Villain organizations introduced here tie into later events in the main series.
These connections make Vigilants an essential read for hardcore fans looking to deepen their understanding of the universe.
Why You Should Read It
If you love My Hero Academia and want to explore its world beyond U.A. High School, Vigilantes is a great companion series.
It delivers entertaining, character-driven narratives, introduces memorable new faces, and tackles mature themes about justice, responsibility, and personal growth.
Whether you're here for fast-paced action, heartwarming friendships, or moral dilemmas, there's something valuable in My Hero Academia: Vigilantes.
It's a testament to the idea that heroes can emerge from anywhere, even in the shadows.
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