My Hero Academia has established itself as a standout anime series, with the students of Class 1-A playing a pivotal role in its success. Each member of this class showcases a distinct quirk and personality, contributing to the rich narrative of the show. While they all aspire to be pro heroes at UA High, it’s interesting to ponder which students might be better suited to the life of a vigilante.
The recent release of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes has ignited discussions about the potential of various Class 1-A students taking on the role of vigilantes instead of traditional heroes. While some characters could likely excel in this capacity, others might struggle significantly. Below, we explore five characters who could thrive as vigilantes, and five who would falter in that role.
Disclaimer: This article represents the author’s views.
Potential Vigilantes from Class 1-A
1) Izuku Midoriya
Izuku Midoriya, the central character of My Hero Academia, literally donned the role of a vigilante during the Dark Deku arc. Pressured by the belief that he was the sole individual capable of defeating All for One and protecting society, Midoriya took it upon himself to operate outside official channels.
His determination to protect others drives him to take preemptive action against villains, often acting before traditional heroes can respond. This sense of responsibility highlights his potential as a vigilante who operates from the shadows.
2) Tenya Iida
Tenya Iida has already demonstrated his vigilante potential during his intense fight against Stain, where he acted outside the law to pursue justice. His strong moral compass guides him, and when the legal system fails to uphold his ideals, he isn’t afraid to step outside its boundaries.
With his quirk, Engine, allowing for swift movements and evasive maneuvers, Iida can enforce his version of justice, reaching villains ahead of professional heroes.
3) Shoto Todoroki
Shoto Todoroki’s complex relationship with his father, Endeavor, creates a loner persona that often leads him to prefer solitary actions. He frequently takes initiative to administer justice independently, wielding his formidable abilities with pride.
As a vigilante, Shoto would embody a calm demeanor, but his strong sense of justice could prompt him to take drastic measures if he perceives the hero system as failing.
4) Yuga Aoyama
Yuga Aoyama, who initially presents a bubbly disposition, surprised everyone with a shocking betrayal that underscored his cunning nature. Though seemingly innocent, Aoyama’s tumultuous past with manipulation could serve as a catalyst for vigilantism.
Now fueled by resentment against those who exploit the vulnerable, he may employ his charm to deceive villains, only to strike when they least expect it.
5) Eijiro Kirishima
Eijiro Kirishima, known as Red Riot, embodies the spirit of a vigilante with his fierce demeanor. His enthusiasm for heroism and willingness to step up in dire situations make him a compelling candidate for this role.
As a vigilante, Kirishima would resonate with a street-fighter ethos, creating an intimidating presence against wrongdoers in the shadows.
Class 1-A Students Ill-Suited for Vigilante Life
1) Minoru Mineta
Minoru Mineta would struggle to find success as a vigilante. His quirk, Pop Off, remains largely underutilized in combat, and his anxious disposition hinders his ability to tackle challenges independently.
Mineta’s emotional dependence on others makes him ill-prepared for the morally ambiguous choices required of vigilante work.
2) Fumikage Tokoyami
Despite a compelling appearance, Fumikage Tokoyami would likely face significant challenges as a vigilante. While his stealthy characteristics suit the role, his quirk, Dark Shadow, tends to be too loud, compromising his stealth capabilities.
In combat situations, his quirk’s tendency to chatter might inadvertently reveal his position, making it difficult for him to operate discreetly.
3) Ochaco Uraraka
Although Ochaco Uraraka is driven by a desire to help others, her emotional nature could jeopardize her effectiveness as a vigilante. She may become overwhelmed by feelings of empathy, especially towards villains with complicated backgrounds.
While her quirk is beneficial, it could also result in unwittingly drawing attention, thereby hampering her covert operations.
4) Katsuki Bakugo
Katsuki Bakugo may resemble a vigilante, but numerous factors hinder his suitability for that lifestyle. Primarily, his commitment to becoming a renowned pro hero and his staunch adherence to rules illustrate his dedication to the hero system.
Furthermore, his quirk, Explosion, is far from discreet, often creating significant noise that could alert authorities and compromise his activities.
5) Koji Koda
Koji Koda is characterized by his gentle and peaceful demeanor, which makes him ill-suited for the harsh realities of vigilantism. Given the discrimination mutants face, it is unlikely that he would willingly adopt the dangerous path of a vigilante when the opportunity for a pro hero exists.
Even if he were to try, using animals in tight spaces like alleys to apprehend criminals may not provide the most discreet means of escape, leaving evidence behind.
Conclusion
The advent of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes offers an intriguing glimpse into how beloved characters might navigate the morally complex world of vigilantism. While some heroes exhibit qualities that align well with this lifestyle, others clearly lack the temperament and capability for such roles.
As the narrative of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes unfolds, it provides an opportunity to explore the heroes’ motivations, showcasing their commitment to their beliefs, often at great personal cost.