The Hero Anime You Need to Watch After MHA

Key Takeaways

SHY is a hero anime with familiar themes to MHA, focusing on the protagonist’s insecurities and struggles with being a hero.
SHY’s world is similar to MHA with celebrity-like heroes, but the rarity of powers and societal pressures offer a unique perspective.
SHY stands out by delving deeply into the protagonist’s insecurities, offering a sometimes more thorough approach than MHA.

As a seasoned anime enthusiast who has witnessed the rise and fall of numerous series, I must admit that it takes a truly exceptional show to leave a lasting impression. And let me tell you, dear reader, Shy has certainly managed to do just that. Having immersed myself in this captivating tale, I can’t help but feel an unparalleled connection with the story’s protagonist, Teru.

As of August 5th, 2024, the last chapter of the “My Hero Academia” manga has been published in Weekly Shōnen Jump. The anime is set to conclude its run soon, and the final manga volume has already hit the shelves. Fans will be looking forward to various events, artbooks, exhibitions, and more celebrating MHA, but they’ll also be eager for a new hero story that echoes the themes of MHA without attempting to replace it. “Invincible” is currently streaming on Amazon Prime, while “The Boys” offers a different take on hero stories. So, what will be the successor to MHA in the world of hero narratives?

If you’re hunting for a fresh hero anime to satisfy your appetite, you’ll be thrilled to know that there’s one ongoing tale that has just concluded its second season. Although not as widely recognized as MHA, SHY is an anime about heroes that MHA fans might find a lot of common ground with. The themes, main character, and societal context raise many of the same questions and emotions as MHA does. However, SHY transcends merely being a tribute or imitation of MHA. First published in 2019, five years after MHA’s debut, it certainly carves its unique niche, despite the evident inspiration drawn from MHA.

If you’re not familiar with SHY, allow me to present to you a captivating tale about an exceptional hero.

Anime Seasons	2 (as of December 2024)
Manga Volumes	27 (as of December 2024)

The Story of SHY

The Introduction Should Feel Very Similar to MHA Fans

In the universe of SHY, the number of heroes is significantly less compared to that in MHA. Rare are the individuals who possess heroic abilities, and usually, one hero embodies a nation’s representation. Contrary to other countries’ heroes, who serve as national pride, Japan’s hero in SHY is not widely popular due to her reserved nature – she’s quite shy, as the title implies.

However, the term “shyness” may not fully capture the challenges faced by our protagonist. Her profound self-doubts and social apprehension make it difficult for her to embody a beacon of hope and safety for her community, a challenge that at times even hinders her heroic abilities. This difficulty stems from various factors, but one significant aspect is her youth – she is only 14 years old, whereas most heroes from other nations are typically adults.

SHY explores many aspects of insecurity, anxiety, and related concerns, often delving into the personal struggles of its characters as well. It’s these intimate portrayals that make the narrative particularly powerful and resonant.

You’re correct, even the bravest can be overpowered by fear. Truthfully, I’m absolutely terrified at the moment, my entire body is shaking. However, I really want to conquer this fear because I don’t wish for you to witness me in this awkward situation. After all, I… I am shy! – Shy

Similarities to MHA

A Unique Social Setting That Gets Explored

In SHY, the setting is akin to My Hero Academia (MHA). Right off the bat, we are immersed in a universe where superheroes have become mainstream and even attain fame. Glimpses of heroes from other countries are shown, giving insights into their accomplishments that bring honor to their homeland. Although the quantity of superheroes may not match MHA, their esteemed position should resonate as familiar.

In a similar vein, it’s been reported that as these heroes emerge, the world seems to be experiencing a period of relative peace. This sentiment echoes through the narrative of MHA too. However, just like in MHA, we are cautioned about an impending danger that may necessitate our heroes to rise to a significant challenge in the future.

Both Protagonists Share Similar Traits

From the start, Shy, or Teru Momijiyama as we know her civily, shares many parallels with Deku. In the debut episode, we’re first acquainted with her civilian persona, as she timidly rehearses her speech for an upcoming gathering. This scene recalls Deku’s hesitance in the classroom and his general unease in life.

As “SHY”, the protagonist, undergoes her transformation, the similarities grow increasingly clear. Her shyness may have left her stage presence lacking during her speech, but when it comes to action, her devotion is unwavering. At an amusement park where she was speaking, a roller coaster malfunctions and, hearing terrified cries from the passengers, SHY rushes to their aid. In a moment reminiscent of Deku’s valiant attack on the 100-point robot in the UA exam, SHY steps into the path of a runaway roller coaster car, saving a young girl while enduring significant harm herself.

Although she’s making every effort to avoid harm, the girl on board unfortunately sustains injuries despite surviving. This leaves Teru feeling frantic, as her doubts about her heroic abilities prevent her from transforming (which will be explained further). This instance mirrors Deku’s early struggles with self-worth and questioning whether he truly deserves to be a Hero.

Where it Stands Out

SHY Lingers Where MHA Sometimes Hurries

Similar to the theme in the Anime’s title, SHY significantly explores the protagonist’s shyness and her struggles with self-doubt and insecurity. If it was the captivating aspect of MHA for you, then you might find yourself drawn even more to SHY due to its profound exploration of these aspects of the heroine’s character.

Starting with the initial event at the funfair, SHY experiences a slight setback due to the aftermath of the incident. Since the girl she rescued is still seriously hurt from the accident, and dealing with the public scrutiny about her heroism, SHY decides to withdraw from social interactions. Upon a visit from a friend and fellow hero, she discloses that she’s been unable to perform heart-shifting, which enables heroes to adopt their identities in the world of SHY.

As a gamer, I find it’s more intense in this game compared to My Hero Academia, as the heart-shift mechanic makes my character’s shyness a recurring theme. When my hero’s insecurity leaves them incapable of being who they should be, these personal conversations about overcoming fear become crucial elements in the ongoing struggle of our story. As we progress from that initial incident, it becomes clear how tough it is for SHY and her team to shoulder the responsibility of protecting the public.

Why Should You Watch This Anime?

There Are More Great Heroes to See

My Hero Academia has earned legendary status in the world of anime due to its distinctive portrayal of Deku and the Hero Society. Among Japanese Manga, it truly shines, and even among hero comics it draws inspiration from, it stands out. This remarkable tale is sure to inspire future stories and authors who will carry on its powerful legacy.

“The anime ‘SHY’ seems to be among the first productions after MHA that draws obvious influences from its narrative. However, it skillfully manages to carve out its unique identity despite these similarities. It isn’t a mere copy of the captivating storyline of MHA, which makes its creation all the more impressive. If you enjoyed watching Deku conquer his shyness and discover the hero hidden within him, you will undoubtedly become enamored with Teru’s journey on a similar path.

SHY is now available to stream on Crunchyroll.