The My Hero Academia franchise has expanded into a massive universe with several anime seasons, movies, and spin-offs. If you’re new to the series—or if you want to rewatch it—following the correct watch order will help you fully enjoy the story of Izuku Midoriya and his journey to becoming the greatest hero.
This guide provides the recommended order to watch the anime seasons and films so that you won’t miss any important moments. We’ll also highlight where each movie fits within the storyline, even though they are considered side stories and don’t directly impact the main plot.
What Is My Hero Academia About?
Created by Kohei Horikoshi, My Hero Academia (Boku no Hero Academia) first debuted as a manga in Weekly Shonen Jump in 2014. Since then, the series has become one of the most popular franchises in both manga and anime, spanning multiple seasons and movies.
The story follows Izuku Midoriya, a young boy living in a world where 80% of the population has superpowers known as “Quirks.” Unfortunately, Izuku is born Quirkless, making his dream of becoming a hero seem impossible. However, his fate changes when he meets All Might, the world’s greatest hero, who chooses Izuku as his successor. Through hard work, determination, and a series of intense challenges at U.A. High School, Izuku begins his transformation into a hero worthy of inheriting All Might’s legacy.
Watch Order for My Hero Academia: Seasons and Movies
To make the most of your My Hero Academia experience, it’s recommended to follow the chronological order. This will allow you to enjoy the narrative without confusion, as the films fit between specific seasons. While the movies offer side stories, they are still packed with exciting action and character moments that enrich the viewing experience.
Recommended Watch Order for My Hero Academia
- Season 1 (2016)
The journey begins with Izuku Midoriya’s struggles as a Quirkless boy. He meets All Might, trains to join U.A. High, and begins his first steps as a hero-in-training. - Season 2 (2017)
In this season, students face off in the U.A. Sports Festival, where new friendships, rivalries, and hero rankings develop. This season also introduces the Hero Killer, Stain, who poses a real threat to society. -
My Hero Academia: Two Heroes (2018)
Timeline: After Season 2
This movie takes place on the futuristic I-Island. Midoriya and All Might are invited to the island’s Expo, but a villainous plot threatens to take over. It’s an exciting addition with heartwarming moments between Midoriya and All Might. - Season 3 (2018)
The students face their toughest challenges yet, including villain attacks and survival camp training. The season also reveals crucial details about All Might’s powers and introduces the villain group, The League of Villains. - My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising (2019)
Timeline: Between Seasons 4 and 5
In this movie, Class 1-A is sent to an isolated island to perform hero work, only to be confronted by a new villain named Nine. While non-canon, the film offers some of the most exhilarating action scenes in the series. - Season 4 (2019)
This season focuses on the intense confrontation with Overhaul, a villain with dangerous powers. Midoriya also gains a new ally in Eri, a young girl central to the season’s storyline. - Season 5 (2021)
Midoriya begins to learn more about the mysterious power he inherited from All Might, known as One for All. Meanwhile, the League of Villains gains strength, and new rivalries emerge within U.A. High. - My Hero Academia: World Heroes’ Mission (2021)
Timeline: During Season 5
In this high-stakes movie, Midoriya, Bakugo, and Todoroki must stop a global terrorist group called Humarise, which aims to eliminate Quirk users. Although not essential to the main plot, the film is filled with spectacular action and teamwork. - Season 6 (2022)
The story reaches a pivotal point as heroes face an all-out war against the Paranormal Liberation Front. This season dives deep into the dark side of the hero society and tests Midoriya’s resolve to protect his friends and the world.
How the Movies Fit Into the Story
The three My Hero Academia films—Two Heroes, Heroes Rising, and World Heroes’ Mission—are not necessary to follow the main storyline but provide extra content that fans will enjoy. They introduce new villains, showcase epic battles, and highlight character development that adds emotional weight to the series. Watching these movies between the appropriate seasons allows viewers to experience the franchise in the most engaging way possible.
Where to Watch My Hero Academia
You can watch My Hero Academia on popular streaming platforms, many of which offer dubbed and subtitled versions:
- Crunchyroll – Features all seasons and films.
- Funimation – Provides access to both subbed and dubbed episodes.
- Netflix – Some regions offer the first few seasons.
- Hulu – Streams several seasons and the movies.
Why You Should Watch My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia combines thrilling action with emotional storytelling. The series explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and what it truly means to be a hero. Every character, from the main protagonist to the supporting cast, has a personal journey that contributes to the overall narrative.
This anime appeals to a wide audience—whether you’re a fan of action-packed superhero stories or enjoy character-driven narratives, My Hero Academia delivers on both fronts.
Final Thoughts
Watching My Hero Academia in the right order will give you the most immersive experience, as you’ll follow Izuku Midoriya’s journey from the very beginning. The movies add extra excitement, but the heart of the story lies in the seasons that detail the challenges, triumphs, and growth of each hero-in-training.
So, grab some popcorn, pick a streaming platform, and dive into the heroic world of My Hero Academia!