Episode 4 of My Hero Academia: Vigilantes, titled “Top Runner,” aired on April 28, 2025, and offered a blend of character development, action, and suspense, furthering the overarching narrative. The episode is available on Crunchyroll, with the first three episodes being available for free and ad-free viewing with a premium subscription.
Synopsis
“Top Runner” shifts between the perspectives of Koichi, Knuckleduster, Pop Step, and the pro-hero Tensei Iida, also known as Ingenium. The episode sees the vigilante team continuing their fight against Trigger-enhanced villains, while also introducing Ingenium into the mix as he deals with his own villainous threat. The episode also dives deeper into the Trigger drug and the mysterious mastermind behind its distribution.
Key Events and Story Beats
Vigilante Antics
The episode starts with the vigilante group tackling everyday crime, apprehending a trio of villains harassing women. This scene underscores their commitment to protecting the innocent, even with Knuckleduster’s brutal methods. Koichi notices Knuckleduster acting strangely since their last encounter with a villain, and he mentions a “bee tamer,” foreshadowing the larger plot involving the villain Kuin, also known as Bee.
Ingenium’s Debut
“Top Runner” introduces Tensei Iida, Ingenium, the older brother of Tenya Iida from the main My Hero Academia series. Ingenium is shown chasing a villain known as the Bat Villain, who proves to be a challenging opponent due to his speed and aerial abilities. Despite his best efforts and those of his team, Ingenium is initially outmatched.
Koichi and Ingenium’s paths cross
While Koichi is training, Ingenium takes an interest in his quirk and helps him learn how to better control his movements at high speeds. Ingenium recognizes Koichi’s potential and invites him to join his hero team, Team Idaten, after graduation.
The Trigger Plot Thickens
Kuin is shown meeting with her boss, a shadowy figure who criticizes her reckless use of Trigger. He instructs her to focus on individuals with strong wills and powerful Quirks to maximize the drug’s effectiveness. Following these instructions, Kuin injects three Trigger syringes into a random man, turning him into a monstrous villain.
A Team-Up
Koichi and Pop Step find themselves in the middle of the chaos caused by the Trigger-enhanced villain and work to evacuate civilians. Knuckleduster arrives to confront the villain, while the vigilante trio also end up assisting Ingenium in finally capturing the Bat Villain. Koichi reveals his identity to Ingenium, who is impressed by his dedication.
A Change of Heart?
The next morning, Ingenium meets Koichi again, thanking him for his help. He initially offered Koichi a business card to join his agency, but then asks for it back, seemingly suggesting that Koichi is better off continuing his vigilante work.
Character Development
- Koichi Haimawari: Koichi’s growth continues as he learns to better control his quirk with Ingenium’s guidance. The episode also touches on his desire to become a hero and the potential conflict between his vigilante activities and his aspirations.
- Tensei Iida/Ingenium: The episode provides a glimpse into Ingenium’s early days as a hero, showcasing his dedication, leadership skills, and commitment to teamwork. His interaction with Koichi highlights his ability to recognize potential in others.
- Kuin/Bee: Kuin’s actions become more calculated and organized, hinting at a larger plan orchestrated by her mysterious boss. The episode establishes her as a key antagonist in the Vigilantes storyline.
Themes
- The Hero vs. Vigilante Dichotomy: The episode explores the complex relationship between pro heroes and vigilantes, questioning whether they can work together and the legitimacy of vigilante activities.
- The Allure and Danger of Power: The Trigger drug serves as a metaphor for the corrupting influence of power, highlighting how it can transform individuals into monstrous versions of themselves.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Ingenium’s role as a mentor to Koichi emphasizes the importance of guidance in shaping young heroes and helping them realize their potential.
Production Value
Reviewers noted that Studio Bones Film maintained and, in some ways, elevated the overall production quality in episode 4. The action scenes are particularly striking, featuring fluid motion, sharp choreography, smooth transitions, and dynamic compositions. The addition of comic-book-style effects adds a distinctive flair to the visuals. The voice cast delivers consistently impressive performances, and the sound design enhances the immersive quality of the episode.
Reception
Critics generally received “Top Runner” positively, praising the character development, action sequences, and the introduction of Ingenium. Some felt the episode lacked depth or that the ending was weak, but overall, it was considered an enjoyable installment that moves the story forward.
Final Thoughts
“My Hero Academia: Vigilantes” Episode 4, “Top Runner,” successfully balances action, character development, and plot progression. The introduction of Ingenium adds depth to the My Hero Academia universe, while the continued exploration of the Trigger drug and its distributors creates a sense of unease and anticipation for future events. The episode leaves viewers wondering about Koichi’s future and the role he will play in the larger conflict.
