My Hero Academia Every Season Ranked

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As a devoted fan, I can’t help but acknowledge that My Hero Academia has truly made its mark in the world of modern anime, with its thrilling fight scenes, complex character development, and an ever-evolving universe teeming with both heroes and villains. However, not every season of this cherished series has left an equally indelible impression on me.

This article compares each season of “My Hero Academia” by evaluating its strengths and weaknesses, focusing on the intensity of its conflicts, the pacing, and the handling of its large cast of characters. We rank them from least impressive to most impactful, explaining what made them successful or fall short, and why they ended up in their respective positions.

7.
Season 5

MyAnimeList: 7.35

Season 5 had a tough time not due to a lack of quality material, but because there wasn’t a solid central storyline to tie everything together effectively. This season attempted to handle multiple storylines simultaneously – the Joint Training Arc, Endeavor’s personal struggles, and the much-anticipated My Villain Academia arc – all in quick succession. However, rather than flowing smoothly as a continuous narrative, it felt disjointed instead.

The joint training exercise between Class 1-A and 1-B provided some interesting tactical fights and demonstrated Shinso’s development, but the risks involved were minimal, and it felt overly prolonged. Later, the story attempted to change direction with the Endeavor Agency Arc, which had promise, particularly as it delved into Hawks’ undercover mission and Endeavor’s path towards redemption. However, it didn’t get enough time to fully develop these aspects.

Unfortunately, the highly anticipated My Villain Academia arc from the manga was rushed in the final episodes. By hastily condensing Shigaraki’s heartbreaking past and the League’s fall into darkness, a significant portion of the emotional impact that made it so beloved among readers was lost.

In striving to handle numerous storylines, Season 5 seemed to lose its heartfelt essence. Instead of standing out as a captivating season on its own, it primarily served as a stepping stone towards more impactful events in the future.

6.
Season 4

MyAnimeList: 8.29

Season 4 is most notably recognized for the Shie Hassaikai saga, during which Midoriya engaged in a thrilling, visually stunning showdown against Overhaul. The battle was particularly impressive, as Deku utilized Eri’s Rewind ability to fight at full strength without causing damage to his own body. However, the emotional build-up preceding this climactic moment didn’t always resonate strongly.

The arrival of Eri was deeply moving. A young girl who possessed a fearsome ability, she was exploited by Overhaul, representing one of the most sinister aspects of the storyline. Mirio Togata’s almost selfless devotion to her protection reached one of the emotional high points of the season, and it could be said that his heroism outshone Midoriya’s in many ways.

Initially, the rhythm of this storyline seemed inconsistent, as certain episodes moved slowly, and Overhaul’s character failed to deliver the villainous impact that fans anticipated. After his defeat, there was a swift change in tone. The School Festival Arc then arrived, introducing a markedly different atmosphere. Despite its pleasant and heartwarming nature, this abrupt transition made the series feel like two separate productions merged into one.

The significant moments like Mirio’s loss of his power, Nighteye’s demise, the consequences of saving Eri, and their impact on the storyline, were key elements that held Season 4 together. However, structurally, the season experienced a rapid shift in tone and pace, which led to inconsistency.

5.
Season 1

MyAnimeList: 7.84

Prior to the unveiling of the intricacies of Quirks and the power plays among Pro Heroes, My Hero Academia initially told a straightforward tale about a boy lacking powers who aspired for strength.

In simpler terms, the initial season consisted of just 13 episodes, but each one was impactful. The emotional encounter between Midoriya and All Might marked the beginning, while the pivotal moment when he activated One For All after consuming a strand of hair (even though it seemed peculiar) served as the cornerstone for the series.

During this particular period, spectators were acquainted with UA High for the first time, along with its tough admission test that instantly established high standards. The initial encounter with peril in USJ marked the beginning of the series, introducing us to Shigaraki and Nomu as formidable adversaries.

What sets Season 1 apart is its ability to blend emotional depth with grandeur. We witnessed Deku shatter his arms while delivering a punch, showcasing that he was still learning to control his new abilities. It was risky, agonizing, and captivating. The storylines were centered around personal struggles rather than global catastrophes. At this point, the series hadn’t delved into complex political intrigues or power grabs by villains yet.

4.
Seadon 3

MyAnimeList: 8.01

Season 3 marks a turning point in emotional intensity for My Hero Academia, starting with the Summer Training Camp arc where we’re introduced to the Vanguard Action Squad of the League of Villains and the kidnapping of Bakugo. However, everything leading up to this moment felt like preparation for the epic showdown that would forever alter the course of the series: All Might versus All For One.

In the climactic battle of Kamino Ward, All Might, who was already feeble due to aging, gave one final heroic effort, exceeding his limits for the last time. As he vanquished his arch-nemesis with the dwindling power of One For All, he uttered “You’re next.” This pivotal instant marked not only the demise of the Symbol of Peace but also the emergence of a new era.

In the second half of this gaming season, we delved deep into the Provisional Hero License Exam, a thrilling arc that showcased some fantastic team interactions and character progression, particularly for Todoroki and Bakugo. However, despite its engaging pace and humorous moments, nothing quite compared to the heavy emotional impact of All Might’s retirement.

Season 3 marks the beginning of a darker tone for the series.

3.
Season 2

MyAnimeList: 8.08

It’s no wonder that spectators frequently label Season 2 as the standout point in the series. The UA Sports Festival transformed what might have been an ordinary tournament storyline into a pivotal moment for several characters, particularly Todoroki.

The fight between Todoroki and Midoriya remains one of the most memorable in the series. It wasn’t just about displaying their powers; it delved into their personal identities. Toruchi (Todoroki) had long been reluctant to use his fire abilities due to his bitter past with his abusive father. However, Deku encouraged him to embrace every aspect of himself. The pivotal moment when Todoroki ignited his flames for the first time in combat marked a significant change in his character arc.

After the festival, the Hero Killer: Stain storyline significantly altered the mood. It presented a villain driven by ideology, which is relatively uncommon in shonen anime. The contempt of Stain towards “phony heroes” struck a chord with the audience and sent shockwaves through the Pro Hero community. Later, his impact would inspire the League of Villains, demonstrating how profoundly his words affected them.

Season 2 didn’t seem insignificant or filler content; instead, each plotline, event such as festivals, internships, and exams, carried substantial importance and impact.

2.
Season 7

MyAnimeList: 8.07

Although it’s only recently begun, Season 7 is already sowing clues suggesting its significant influence. The storyline continues directly from Season 6, with the world in turmoil and people losing faith in their heroes.

In this new anime series, Star and Stripe finally appear, marking the beginning of an exciting season that features one of the manga’s most buzzworthy storylines. The significant battle between Star and Shigaraki isn’t just crucial; it’s symbolic, demonstrating how far the villain has progressed to become a global menace. Star’s unique ability, New Order, and her decisive counterattack have a profound impact on Shigaraki’s development, leaving lasting marks on his physical and psychological growth.

During this particular season, Midoriya and his companions start gearing up for the ultimate battle. This phase involves strategic planning, the creation of tentative partnerships, and contemplation on the essence of heroism in a world gradually losing its optimism.

1.
Season 6

MyAnimeList: 8.28

This is the long-awaited time for fans, as the Paranormal Liberation War arc marks a shift towards the series’ grittier and more ominous mood, leaving behind any lingering traces of innocence.

The times are calling for repercussions. Hawk dives headfirst into covert operations, Dabi unveils himself as Toya Todoroki in truth, and Shigaraki morphs into something far more fearsome than a mere villain—an elemental force to be reckoned with. Assisted by the doctor, Shigaraki undergoes an untimely awakening, incompletely embodying All For One’s powers, yet still leaving a path of destruction in his wake.

The conflict encompasses numerous installments and presents some of the most dramatic scenes in this animated series. Ranging from Mirko’s unstoppable assault on the lab, to Midnight’s sorrowful demise, to Bakugo shielding Deku, the tension was palpable, and the consequences were permanent.

Following that, the storyline known as the Aftermath Arc unfolded, featuring a wrecked city, a fractured hero community, and Deku taking matters into his own hands. His vigilante days, marked by a tattered cloak and haunted gaze, packed an emotional wallop. He was isolated, filthy, and slipping away. The decisive action of his classmates to reach out to him, particularly Uraraka’s heartfelt public appeal, underscored the importance of these characters beyond their unique abilities.

Season 6 marked the zenith for My Hero Academia; it was a whirlwind of intensity, emotion, and daring to shatter its own universe in order to birth something more powerful from the embers.

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2025-05-11 17:54