Since its debut in 2018, My Hero Academia has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its blend of superhero action, heartfelt character growth, and thought-provoking themes. The anime, adapted from Kohei Horikoshi's manga, has spawned a massive franchise and turned characters like Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo into household names. But what truly sets the series apart are its story arcs—each one carefully crafted to raise the stakes, deepen the lore, and push our heroes to their limits.
Horikoshi's storytelling is a masterclass in pacing and emotional payoff. Whether it's a lighthearted training exercise or a full-scale war, every arc serves a purpose, revealing new facets of the characters and the world they inhabit. In this ranking, we celebrate the arcs that have left the biggest impact, from the jaw-dropping reveal of the U.A. traitor to the hilarious chaos of the remedial course.
The U.A. Traitor Arc: A Long-Awaited Revelation
For years, fans speculated about the mole within U.A. High School, and the payoff finally came in Season 7. The revelation that Yuga Aoyama was the traitor, forced into servitude by All For One, was a shocking twist that recontextualized the entire series. Rather than turning Aoyama in, Deku and his classmates use this knowledge to their advantage, setting the stage for the final confrontation. It's a tense, character-driven arc that proves Horikoshi never forgets a plot thread.
The Remedial Course Arc: Comedy Gold
After failing the Provisional Hero License Exam, Bakugo and Todoroki are sent to a remedial course where they must win over a group of unruly elementary school kids. Watching these two vastly different personalities—one explosive, one stoic—try to manage children is pure entertainment. The arc is a welcome breather from the high-stakes drama, offering plenty of laughs while still showing growth for the characters.
The Joint Training Arc: Powering Up
Season 5's Joint Training Arc might have its filler moments, but it's also packed with significant character development. Bakugo finally learns to work as a team player, and Deku discovers the Blackwhip quirk, unlocking a new dimension of One For All. These moments are crucial for the heroes' evolution, setting the stage for the challenges ahead.
The Quirk Apprehension Test Arc: A Test of Will
Early in the series, Aizawa's Quirk Apprehension Test puts Deku's resolve to the test. With the threat of expulsion hanging over him, Deku must prove that he belongs at U.A. This arc establishes the high-pressure environment of the school and showcases Deku's determination, making it a foundational moment in the series.
These are just a few of the many arcs that make My Hero Academia a standout in the anime world. For more rankings of beloved series, check out our take on Buffy's Halloween episodes or dive into the best fantasy movies since 2010. And if you're a fan of villainous characters, don't miss our list of Mike Flanagan's most evil TV villains.
As the series heads toward its climax, fans can look back at these arcs with fondness, knowing that each one contributed to the epic saga of Deku and his friends. Whether it's the emotional weight of the traitor reveal or the simple joy of watching Bakugo struggle with kids, My Hero Academia continues to deliver unforgettable storytelling.
