The inaugural episode of "My Hero Academia: Vigilantes" explodes onto the scene with a mesmerizing bang. In the heart of China, a radiant infant emerges, heralding the dawn of a new era: the Age of Quirks. As countless individuals awaken to their extraordinary abilities, some rise to become heroes, sanctioned by the government, while others chart their own independent courses. This fresh narrative shines a spotlight on these unsung warriors—the vigilantes.
Amidst the chaos, a colossal figure terrorizes the helpless civilians, until All Might, the paramount hero of the planet, descends with unparalleled force, crushing the menace underfoot. Yet, amidst this awe-inspiring spectacle, our protagonist, Koichi Haimawari, is caught in a whirlwind of his own making—late for university. His hurried pace leads to an unfortunate encounter with a dubious trio intent on roughing him up. It's then that Koichi unleashes his quirk, Slide and Glide, skimming away from danger, albeit not quite as swiftly as he'd hoped. Embroiled in shame, he views his power as inadequate, lacking the swiftness to extricate him from perilous predicaments.
Later, Koichi catches a glimpse of Pop☆Step, a captivating singer, serenading a throng of devoted fans on the street. Though seemingly invisible to all, she catches his fleeting presence as he slips away, employing his unique ability. Later that night, while toiling as a cashier in a convenience store, fate has him reunite with the same menacing trio who previously bested him.
Their demeanor has worsened, affording him no chance to slip away. One among them, endowed with spike powers akin to Wolverine's claws, poses a menacing threat. Yet, this isn't the last he'll cross paths with them.
Post his shift, donning an All Might hoodie, Koichi ventures out to lend a helping hand, revealing his identity as a vigilante. However, his focus strays from battling villains to aiding people in finding lost items, directing them, and recycling. For his benevolent deeds, the civilians endearingly nickname him "Nice Guy."
A moniker that PopStep recognizes as she steps into his world, engaging him in playful banter. However, their lighthearted conversation is abruptly shattered by the same thugs, now turning their wrath on the singer, threatening to strip her of her dignity. Summoning his courage, Koichi stands to defend her. At this pivotal moment, another vigilante emerges from the shadows, commending his brave act.
Knuckleduster overwhelms the gangsters with sheer brute force, yet his demeanor betrays a dissatisfaction. It seems he is searching for something deeper within them. Acknowledging Koichi's valiant efforts, he conveys an understanding of what true justice entails, vowing to aid Koichi in becoming a genuine hero. This誓言, however, only fuels the protagonist's suspicion that another equally eccentric individual has entered their world.
Despite this, they forge ahead, teaming up to uncover the users of a novel drug that strips its victims of control while amplifying their abilities. The sole, eerie indication of its use? The users' tongues turning an ominous black. Meanwhile, a mysterious scar-faced man approaches the three battered thugs, offering them this perilous substance.
The next day, Pop☆Step expresses her gratitude to Koichi and Knuckleduster for their rescue. Sensing their struggle with the mission, she offers invaluable advice on tracking clues. Yet, Knuckleduster disregards her counsel, resorting to intimidating a civilian by baring his blackened tongue—a tactic as inept as it is harsh. Fortunately, for the fans of My Hero Academia, this reckless act draws the attention of Eraser Head, a formidable hero whose presence looms large in the shadows.
