When Does My Hero Academia Vigilantes Take Place? Revealing the Dark Prequel Timeline

Summary

My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is a prequel that offers a grittier, rawer perspective on the same universe.
The story follows unlicensed heroes operating outside the law, exploring vigilante justice and darker themes.
The timeline places Vigilantes 5–6 years before Deku’s journey at U.A., featuring key timeline clues about All Might’s health and the smuggling of Trigger.

In the same universe as “My Hero Academia,” we find the storyline of “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes.” This series brings back some beloved characters from the original series, including All Might, Endeavor, Midnight, and Eraserhead. These character appearances lead many fans to ponder when and how this spin-off’s tale unfolds, as well as its position within the broader storyline timeline.

In “My Hero Academia,” the story revolves around Izuku Midoriya after he assumes the role of All Might’s successor. Conversely, “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” delves into the rougher, more realistic aspects of this universe, primarily focusing on Koichi Haimawari – a former hero aspirant turned vigilante. Accompanying Koichi in his vigilante life are characters like Knuckleduster, who bears a resemblance to All Might, and Pop Step, an unconventional underground idol.

My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Is a Prequel to the Original Series

The Story Exists in the Same Universe

There’s no denying that “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” serves as a crucial precursor to the main “My Hero Academia” series. It’s not simply a side story, but rather a tale set in the very universe and quirk-infused society we’re familiar with, yet it delves deeper into the gritty, raw aspects of life that aren’t always under the heroic limelight. Unlike the narrative focusing on the new generation of heroes at U.A. High School, “MHA: Vigilantes” provides a more intimate perspective, enriching our understanding of the world we’ve come to love.

The main character of this new series is Koichi Haimawari, a first-year college student who uses the alias “The Crawler” when performing heroic acts. However, Koichi isn’t officially licensed as a hero, making him an illegal vigilante. His public use of his quirk often promotes vigilantism. Together with his fellow unlicensed heroes, Knucleduster and Pop Step, this trio carries out their activities in secret and outside the boundaries of the law.

“Saying I want to be a hero was a mistake! I’ll never say it again!”—Koichi Haimawari

The Story Has a Different Perspective

In contrast to “My Hero Academia,” where heroes work within an established system, “MHA: Vigilantes” concentrates on individuals who act independently and disregard legal restrictions. It portrays a world that isn’t always just, revealing the flaws in the system for those striving to become heroes despite their lack of qualifications. Additionally, it underscores the significance of doing what’s right without official approval, as vigilantes often go unacknowledged and are dismissed as misguided by the very heroes they aim to emulate.

Intriguingly, the spin-off series, MHA: Vigilantes, delves deeper into raw themes such as substance abuse, questionable vigilante actions, and emotional turmoil, contrasting starkly with the original series that maintains a hopeful and uplifting tone, even in its darker scenes. This new adaptation offers richer backstories for established characters like Eraserhead, offering fans a deeper appreciation of their personalities and growth trajectories.

I’m going to put on the suit I have with me, and then I’ll really make use of my special ability, feeling completely rejuvenated afterwards.” (Koichi Haimawari)

When Does My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Takes Place?

Timeline Clues Explained

The story of MHA: Vigilantes takes place five to six years before Deku attends U.A.
MHA: Vigilantes drops timeline clues from All Might’s health, Erasurehead’s hero work, and Trigger’s debut.

From what I’ve gathered, the precise placement of “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” within the timeline isn’t explicitly stated, but hints in the manga suggest it occurs about five to six years prior to the main series by Kohei Horikoshi. Essentially, the events in “MHA: Vigilantes” are set a few years earlier than the original storyline. This chronology is reinforced by a mention in the first episode of the anime – either from the narrator or Koichi himself – specifying that the events take place several years before Izuku Midoriya’s tale begins.

It’s evident that the storyline of “My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” unfolds prior to Deku’s encounter with All Might, his enrollment in U.A. High School, and their subsequent roles as teachers within the school. At this point, characters such as Midnight and Eraserhead are still actively working as heroes, without having taken on the additional responsibilities of teaching at the school yet.

Moreover, the society, known for its quirks, remains at a time when most admire All Might greatly, except for a few adversaries and villains who dare to challenge his sway. However, it’s clear that the main hero and emblem of peace is grappling with the long-term consequences of his wounds sustained during the fierce battle against All For One. This struggle is evident in the time restriction placed on using One For All, hinting at the early stages of his deterioration.

Koichi Haimawari stated, “I am entirely unrelated to the law, yet I will give it my all.

In addition, delving into the captivating world of “MHA: Vigilantes,” I find it intriguing how the introduction and early distribution of the quirk-inducing drug, Trigger, forms the basis for future storylines. This menacing substance resurfaces and takes center stage in the “My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission” film, where Izuku, Rody Soul, and a united force of Pro Heroes collaborate to thwart the detonation of the Trigger Bomb. This deadly device is the brainchild of Humarise, a sinister cult led by the formidable antagonist, Flect Turn.

Essentially, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes is not merely an extra or side tale; it offers significantly more background information and lore. The characters’ pasts, the emergence of clandestine villainous groups, and the brave actions that transpire beyond legal boundaries enable fans to delve deeper into the workings of the world before Izuku Midoriya and the upcoming generation of heroes take center stage.

2025-04-18 19:08