“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” Episode 4, titled “Top Runner,” delivers a compelling mix of character development, action, and suspense. The episode, which aired on April 28, 2025, continues to follow the vigilante trio – Koichi (The Crawler), Knuckleduster, and Pop Step – as they navigate the complexities of their roles in a world of heroes and villains.
Episode Summary
The episode opens with the vigilante group stopping three brothers who are sexually harassing women. Later, the team continues tracking victims of the Trigger drug. Koichi undergoes hand-to-hand combat training with Knuckleduster, who seems distracted following the recent breakout of instant villains. Meanwhile, Kuin is in contact with a shadowy mastermind supplying Trigger, orchestrating events from behind the scenes, and selects a new subject, a deranged individual who becomes the most dangerous instant villain seen so far.
Ingenium’s Introduction
A significant portion of the episode features the Turbo Hero: Ingenium (Tensei Iida), the older brother of Tenya Iida from the main “My Hero Academia” series. Ingenium is seen chasing a villain with incredible speed, but the villain manages to escape. The next morning, Ingenium encounters Koichi while he’s training with his Quirk.
Koichi and Ingenium’s Interaction
Ingenium observes Koichi’s “Slide and Glide” Quirk and offers guidance on how to improve control and braking during high-speed movement. Impressed by Koichi’s potential and ideals, Ingenium invites him to join his hero agency, Team Idaten, after graduation. This offer marks a pivotal moment for Koichi, who aspires to be a hero.
Trigger Villain Rampage
Later, Kuin injects three Trigger syringes into a strange man, transforming him into a monstrous villain with immense strength. Koichi and Pop Step find themselves in the middle of the chaos, working to evacuate civilians. When a civilian falls, Koichi bravely steps in to save them.
Teamwork and Resolution
Ingenium reappears, attempting to catch the Bat Villain, but struggles until Koichi, Knuckleduster, and Pop Step intervene. Together, they manage to bring the villain down. Ingenium thanks Koichi for his help and acknowledges his vigilante activities, recognizing that Koichi is “right where he belongs.”
Key Characters in This Episode
- Koichi Haimawari (The Crawler): The protagonist, a former vigilante with the “Slide and Glide” Quirk. He aspires to be a hero and is dedicated to helping others.
- Knuckleduster (Iwao Oguro): A vigilante and former pro hero known for his strength and combat skills. He acts as a mentor to Koichi.
- Pop Step (Kazuho Haneyama): A former vigilante and freelance idol with the “Leap” Quirk. She is resourceful and supports the team with her abilities.
- Ingenium (Tensei Iida): A pro hero with a speed-based Quirk. He is the older brother of Tenya Iida from the main series.
- Kuin Hachisuka: A key villain who is distributing the Trigger drug and creating instant villains.
Story and Themes
The Hero-Vigilante Duality
The episode explores the complex relationship between heroes and vigilantes. Ingenium, a pro hero, acknowledges the work of the vigilantes and even works alongside them. This highlights the idea that both heroes and vigilantes can contribute to society, even if they operate under different rules.
Character Development
Koichi’s character undergoes significant development in this episode. He gains confidence in his abilities and receives validation from a pro hero. The offer from Ingenium and subsequent acknowledgement of Koichi’s chosen path contribute to his growth and journey.
The Dark Underworld
The introduction of the mastermind behind Kuin adds depth to the antagonist’s plot. The episode suggests a larger, more organized criminal element at play, raising the stakes for the vigilantes.
Production and Style
Studio Bones Film continues to impress with the animation quality, featuring fluid motion, sharp choreography, and dynamic compositions. The addition of comic-book-style effects adds a unique flair to the series. The sound design effectively amplifies the immersive quality of the episode.
Analysis and Review
Pacing and Balance
“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” Episode 4 maintains a steady narrative pace, balancing action, humor, character development, and growing suspense. The episode effectively combines different elements to create an engaging viewing experience.
Ingenium’s Role
The episode’s highlight is the introduction of Ingenium, which expands the world beyond the main characters and provides insight into a familiar character from the main series. The interaction between Ingenium and Koichi sheds light on Ingenium’s personality and his commitment to teamwork.
Thematic Depth
While the episode is entertaining, it lacks considerable depth. However, the focus on the main antagonist and the inclusion of other heroes feels like a step in the right direction. The episode sets the stage for future conflicts and explores the complexities of vigilantism.
Potential Conflicts
The episode hints at potential conflicts, such as Koichi’s illegal vigilante activities and the choice between helping people now versus waiting to become a legal hero. These conflicts could add depth and complexity to the story.
Final Thoughts
“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” Episode 4 is a well-executed and enjoyable installment that enhances production quality and shines spotlight on Koichi’s development. The reveal of the mastermind behind Kuin adds suspense, while Koichi’s encounter with Tensei stands out as a key narrative moment. The episode balances action, character development, and suspense, making it another great entry in the series.
