Fans of My Hero Academia have caught glimpses of Tensei Iida, but now it’s time to delve into the character who once bore the esteemed title of Ingenium.
Tensei, the elder brother of Tenya Iida—who is both a friend of Midoriya and the representative of Class 1-A—has a pivotal role in the narrative. As many viewers will remember, Tensei faced a grave threat when he was assaulted by the notorious Hero Killer, Stain. This attack not only marked the end of his heroic endeavors but also set Tenya on a path fueled by vengeance. During a tense encounter with Stain, Tenya was on the brink of succumbing until he was rescued by Midoriya and Todoroki. Although the trio ultimately defeated Stain, Tensei’s severe injuries left him unable to return to heroics, compelling him to pass the Ingenium mantle to his younger brother.
The Original Ingenium: A Remarkable Hero
Ingenium: A Professional Hero in Every Aspect
Preview footage for episode 4 indicates that Koichi will meet Tensei in his civilian attire, fostering a more personal discussion rather than a typical hero-vigilante exchange. Tensei appears to recognize Koichi from his past persona as “Nice Guy”and may share valuable insights on vigilantism. Tensei first appeared as Ingenium in episode 3, where he was the initial hero to confront the Instant Villains spawned by Kuin Hachisuka, providing fans with their first real look at his capabilities, since he was introduced well after his career-ending injury.
Tensei leads his own hero agency, Team IdaTen, employing several sidekicks, and primarily operates within the Naruhata district, the same area where Koichi and his team reside. His demeanor is notably more relaxed compared to his serious younger brother, making him a relatable and admired figure. This aspect of his personality underscores why Tenya idolizes him and explains the shock surrounding his defeat by Stain. Tensei embodies the qualities of a true hero, prioritizing the well-being of others and consistently providing comfort to those he assists.
Discovering Tensei’s True Character
Tensei: A Hero Defined by Kindness and Empathy
Until now, fan perceptions of Tensei have largely been shaped by Tenya and Stain’s contrasting views. The upcoming episodes promise to showcase the original Ingenium in action, providing audiences the opportunity to form their own judgments about his character. While Stain portrayed Tensei as a self-serving hero, he is far from the flawless figure Tenya holds him to be. Ultimately, Tensei is a man committed to heroism, willing to put himself in harm’s way for the greater good. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes will at last offer a well-rounded introduction to this important character, allowing fans to contemplate whether he truly deserved his tragic fate.