MHA Arcs: Complete Guide To My Hero Academia's Story

Hey guys! Ever get lost trying to figure out where you are in My Hero Academia? Don't worry, we've all been there! With so many awesome arcs, it's easy to lose track. This guide will break down all the MHA arcs in a way that's super easy to follow. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just starting out, this is your go-to resource for navigating the thrilling world of My Hero Academia.

What are MHA Arcs?

Think of MHA arcs as mini-stories within the larger My Hero Academia narrative. Each arc focuses on specific events, character development, and overarching plot points. They help to structure the series, giving each part a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Understanding these arcs will give you a much better appreciation for the entire storyline.

Why Understanding the Arcs Matters

Following the MHA arcs helps you understand the pacing and progression of the story. Each arc builds upon the last, introducing new characters, villains, and challenges that our heroes must overcome. By understanding the arcs, you'll be able to appreciate the character development, the evolution of the plot, and the overall themes of the series. Plus, it makes it way easier to chat about your favorite moments with other fans!

List of My Hero Academia Arcs

Alright, let's dive into the list of all the My Hero Academia arcs! I'll break them down in chronological order, providing a brief summary of each so you know what to expect. Get ready to relive some epic moments!

1. Entrance Exam Arc

The Entrance Exam Arc is where it all begins! This arc introduces us to Izuku Midoriya, a young boy born without a Quirk in a world where superpowers are the norm. He dreams of becoming a hero like his idol, All Might. This arc covers Izuku's determination to enter U.A. High School, a prestigious hero academy. It showcases his initial struggles and his fateful encounter with All Might, who chooses him as his successor and grants him the Quirk One For All. The Entrance Exam Arc is essential for establishing the foundation of the series. We see Izuku's unwavering spirit, his desire to help others, and the beginning of his journey to becoming a hero. The challenges he faces in the entrance exam highlight the dangers and responsibilities that come with wielding a Quirk, setting the tone for the series' exploration of heroism and sacrifice. The introduction of key characters like Katsuki Bakugo also adds layers to the narrative, creating a complex dynamic that drives much of the early conflict and character development. This arc not only sets up the main storyline but also introduces the audience to the themes of determination, perseverance, and the power of believing in oneself, even in the face of adversity. It’s a critical starting point for understanding the world and the characters that make My Hero Academia so compelling.

2. Quirk Apprehension Test Arc

Next up is the Quirk Apprehension Test Arc, where the students of Class 1-A face their first real test under the guidance of their homeroom teacher, Shota Aizawa (Eraserhead). This arc puts Izuku's newly acquired Quirk, One For All, to the test. He struggles to control its immense power, often resulting in self-inflicted injuries. The tests designed by Aizawa aim to assess the students' understanding and control of their Quirks. This arc focuses on the importance of mastering one's abilities and working efficiently as a team. It also introduces us to Aizawa's strict and logical teaching methods, which are designed to weed out those who aren't serious about becoming heroes. The arc reveals the competitive nature of hero training and the high expectations placed on these young aspiring heroes. The Quirk Apprehension Test Arc is crucial for understanding the challenges that Izuku and his classmates must overcome to become competent heroes. It highlights the need for discipline, strategy, and self-awareness in utilizing their Quirks. The stakes are high, as any student deemed unfit could be expelled, adding tension and drama to the tests. Through these trials, the students begin to learn the importance of pushing their limits and adapting to different situations. The arc not only tests their physical abilities but also their mental fortitude, preparing them for the more significant challenges they will face in the future. It’s a pivotal moment in the series, showcasing the rigorous demands of hero training and the dedication required to succeed.

3. Battle Trial Arc

The Battle Trial Arc is where Class 1-A gets their first taste of simulated combat. Paired up in teams, they engage in mock battles within a training environment. This arc allows them to apply the skills they've learned and develop strategies for using their Quirks in real-time scenarios. This arc really hones in on teamwork and strategic thinking. Izuku is paired with Ochaco Uraraka, and they face off against Katsuki Bakugo and Tenya Iida. The dynamic between Izuku and Bakugo is particularly intense, highlighting their complicated relationship and rivalry. The arc also reveals the different strengths and weaknesses of each student, setting the stage for future growth and development. The simulated battles allow them to experiment with their Quirks, learn from their mistakes, and adapt their strategies. The instructors, including All Might, provide guidance and feedback, helping the students understand the importance of analyzing their opponents and working together effectively. The Battle Trial Arc is essential for demonstrating the practical application of hero training and the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges. It provides a glimpse into the strategic complexities of hero work and the need for quick thinking and adaptability. Through these trials, the students begin to understand the importance of relying on their teammates and utilizing their individual strengths to achieve a common goal. It’s a crucial step in their journey to becoming professional heroes.

4. U.S.J. (Unforeseen Simulation Joint) Arc

Things get real in the U.S.J. Arc when the League of Villains, led by Tomura Shigaraki, launches a surprise attack on U.A. High School's training facility. This arc marks the first major confrontation between the students and a powerful villainous organization. The students are scattered throughout different zones within the U.S.J., each facing unique challenges and villains. This arc showcases the students' ability to apply their training in a high-stakes situation, forcing them to make quick decisions and work together to survive. Shigaraki's goal is to kill All Might, and he brings with him a formidable Nomu, a bio-engineered creature designed to counter All Might's strength. The arc highlights the vulnerability of even the most powerful heroes and the ever-present threat of villainy. The students demonstrate their bravery and resourcefulness, fighting alongside their teachers to protect themselves and each other. The U.S.J. Arc is a turning point in the series, demonstrating the harsh realities of hero work and the dangers they will face. It also emphasizes the importance of preparation, teamwork, and quick thinking in the face of adversity. The arc reveals the students' determination to become heroes, even when faced with overwhelming odds. It’s a critical moment that solidifies their resolve and prepares them for the challenges ahead.

5. Sports Festival Arc

The Sports Festival Arc is a highly anticipated event where students from all departments of U.A. High School compete in various challenges to showcase their abilities. This arc serves as a platform for the students to gain recognition and attract the attention of pro heroes, who may offer internships. The Sports Festival Arc is all about competition and ambition. Izuku sees this as an opportunity to prove himself and demonstrate his progress with One For All. Bakugo aims to win and assert his dominance as the strongest in the class. The arc features a series of exciting events, including an obstacle course, a cavalry battle, and one-on-one fights. These events test the students' physical abilities, strategic thinking, and teamwork. The arc also delves into the personal motivations and backstories of several students, providing insight into their goals and aspirations. The Sports Festival Arc is essential for character development and showcasing the diverse range of Quirks and personalities within U.A. High School. It highlights the competitive nature of the hero world and the importance of standing out to achieve one's goals. The arc also explores themes of rivalry, friendship, and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a pivotal moment that shapes the students' future paths and sets the stage for new challenges and opportunities.

6. Hero Killer Stain Arc

The Hero Killer Stain Arc introduces us to Stain, a vigilante with a twisted ideology who aims to purge what he sees as false heroes from society. This arc marks a significant shift in tone, exploring the darker aspects of heroism and the moral ambiguities that come with it. Stain is a formidable opponent, with a Quirk that allows him to paralyze his victims by ingesting their blood. He targets pro heroes who he deems unworthy, leaving a trail of injured and disillusioned heroes in his wake. This arc forces the students to confront the complexities of heroism and the potential for corruption within the system. Izuku, Tenya Iida, and Shoto Todoroki find themselves in Stain's path, leading to intense battles and personal revelations. The arc also delves into Iida's desire for revenge against Stain, who severely injured his brother. The Hero Killer Stain Arc is essential for exploring the ethical dimensions of heroism and the responsibilities that come with wielding power. It challenges the students to question their own motivations and consider the impact of their actions. The arc also sets the stage for the rise of villainy and the growing threat to hero society. It’s a crucial moment that forces the students to confront the darker realities of their chosen path and to consider what it truly means to be a hero.

7. Final Exams Arc

The Final Exams Arc is where the students of Class 1-A face their toughest academic and practical challenges yet. This arc tests their knowledge of heroics and their ability to apply their skills in real-world scenarios. The students must pass both written exams and practical exams to advance to the next stage of their training. The practical exams involve facing off against their teachers in simulated battles, forcing them to use their Quirks and strategies to overcome their mentors. This arc emphasizes the importance of academic knowledge in hero work, as well as the ability to think critically and adapt to different situations. The students must work together and utilize their individual strengths to succeed in the exams. The Final Exams Arc is essential for demonstrating the well-rounded education that U.A. High School provides. It highlights the need for both physical and intellectual abilities in becoming a successful hero. The arc also provides opportunities for character development, as the students learn from their mistakes and grow as individuals. It’s a crucial moment that prepares them for the challenges they will face in the future and reinforces the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.

8. Forest Training Camp Arc

The Forest Training Camp Arc takes Class 1-A to a remote location for a week of intense training designed to push their Quirks to their limits. However, their training is interrupted by the League of Villains, who launch another attack with the goal of capturing Katsuki Bakugo. The League of Villains seeks to recruit Bakugo due to his potential and rebellious nature. This arc highlights the students' growth and resilience as they face formidable villains and protect themselves and each other. Several students, including Izuku, Shoto, and Mezo Shoji, demonstrate their improved abilities and strategic thinking. The arc also reveals the League of Villains' growing influence and their determination to disrupt hero society. The Forest Training Camp Arc is essential for showcasing the students' progress and their ability to adapt to unexpected challenges. It emphasizes the importance of teamwork, quick thinking, and self-reliance in the face of danger. The arc also sets the stage for future conflicts and the ongoing battle between heroes and villains. It’s a crucial moment that tests the students' resolve and prepares them for the even greater challenges that lie ahead.

9. Hideout Raid Arc

In the Hideout Raid Arc, the heroes launch a large-scale operation to rescue Katsuki Bakugo from the League of Villains. This arc is full of action and suspense, as the pro heroes and students work together to infiltrate the villains' hideout. This arc marks a major turning point in the series. The pro heroes, including All Might, face off against the League of Villains in intense battles, while the students work to locate and rescue Bakugo. The arc culminates in a climactic showdown between All Might and All For One, the leader of the League of Villains. This battle has significant consequences, as All Might uses the last embers of One For All to defeat All For One, effectively ending his career as a hero. The Hideout Raid Arc is essential for showcasing the power and dedication of the pro heroes and the growing threat of the League of Villains. It highlights the sacrifices that heroes make to protect society and the challenges they face in maintaining peace. The arc also marks a shift in the balance of power, as the hero society grapples with the loss of All Might and the rise of new threats. It’s a crucial moment that sets the stage for the next phase of the series.

10. Provisional Hero License Exam Arc

After the events of the Hideout Raid Arc, the students of Class 1-A and 1-B take the Provisional Hero License Exam to earn their licenses to operate as heroes. This arc focuses on the students' ability to apply their skills and knowledge in real-world scenarios. The Provisional Hero License Exam is a challenging test that assesses the students' combat abilities, rescue skills, and decision-making capabilities. They must compete against students from other hero schools, including Shiketsu High School, known for its talented students. This arc emphasizes the importance of teamwork, strategy, and adaptability in hero work. The students must work together to overcome obstacles and demonstrate their ability to protect civilians and apprehend villains. The arc also explores the rivalries and friendships between the students, as they learn to respect and appreciate each other's strengths and weaknesses. The Provisional Hero License Exam Arc is essential for demonstrating the students' growth and their readiness to take on the responsibilities of being a hero. It highlights the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement in the pursuit of becoming a professional hero. The arc also sets the stage for new challenges and opportunities, as the students prepare to face even greater threats to society.

11. Shie Hassaikai Arc

The Shie Hassaikai Arc introduces a new and dangerous villainous organization led by Overhaul, who has the power to disassemble and reassemble matter at will. This arc focuses on the heroes' efforts to stop Overhaul from using a Quirk-destroying drug on a young girl named Eri. The Shie Hassaikai Arc is intense and emotional. Izuku and his classmates work alongside pro heroes to infiltrate the Shie Hassaikai's headquarters and rescue Eri. The arc features intense battles and showcases the students' improved abilities and strategic thinking. It also explores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the importance of protecting the innocent. The arc culminates in a climactic showdown between Izuku and Overhaul, with Eri's Quirk playing a crucial role in the battle. The Shie Hassaikai Arc is essential for demonstrating the students' growth and their determination to protect others, even in the face of overwhelming odds. It highlights the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of standing up against injustice. The arc also sets the stage for future conflicts and the ongoing battle between heroes and villains. It’s a crucial moment that tests the students' resolve and prepares them for the even greater challenges that lie ahead.

12. Remedial Course Arc

The Remedial Course Arc focuses on Izuku, Katsuki, and Shoto, as they attend a special course to improve their skills and address their weaknesses. This arc is designed to help them obtain their Provisional Hero Licenses after failing the initial exam. The Remedial Course Arc emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and continuous improvement. The students must work together and learn from their mistakes to pass the course and earn their licenses. This arc also explores the personal growth and development of each character, as they confront their flaws and strive to become better heroes. The Remedial Course Arc is essential for demonstrating the importance of humility and perseverance in the pursuit of excellence. It highlights the need for heroes to be constantly learning and adapting to new challenges. The arc also provides opportunities for character development, as the students learn from each other and grow as individuals. It’s a crucial moment that prepares them for the challenges they will face in the future and reinforces the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.

13. U.A. Cultural Festival Arc

The U.A. Cultural Festival Arc provides a brief respite from the intense battles and challenges, as the students of U.A. High School prepare for and participate in the annual cultural festival. This arc is a lighthearted and fun-filled celebration of the students' creativity and talents. The U.A. Cultural Festival Arc is a welcome break from the serious storylines and allows the students to relax and enjoy themselves. The students of Class 1-A put on a spectacular performance, showcasing their teamwork and creativity. This arc also explores the relationships and friendships between the students, as they work together to create a memorable event for the entire school. The U.A. Cultural Festival Arc is essential for demonstrating the importance of balance and relaxation in the lives of heroes. It highlights the need for heroes to have outlets for their creativity and to connect with their communities. The arc also provides opportunities for character development, as the students learn to appreciate each other's talents and to work together towards a common goal. It’s a crucial moment that reinforces the importance of friendship, community, and celebrating the achievements of others.

14. Joint Training Arc

The Joint Training Arc sees Class 1-A and Class 1-B engaging in a series of battles to improve their skills and teamwork. This arc allows the students to test their abilities against each other and learn from their strengths and weaknesses. The Joint Training Arc is competitive and action-packed. The students of Class 1-A and Class 1-B demonstrate their improved Quirks and strategic thinking. This arc also explores the rivalries and friendships between the students, as they learn to respect and appreciate each other's talents. The Joint Training Arc is essential for demonstrating the students' growth and their ability to adapt to different combat situations. It highlights the importance of teamwork, strategy, and self-reliance in hero work. The arc also sets the stage for future conflicts and the ongoing battle between heroes and villains. It’s a crucial moment that tests the students' resolve and prepares them for the even greater challenges that lie ahead.

15. Meta Liberation Army Arc

The Meta Liberation Army Arc shifts focus to the villains' side, showcasing the rise of the Meta Liberation Army, a powerful organization led by Re-Destro who advocates for the unrestricted use of Quirks. This arc explores the motivations and ideologies of the villains and their growing threat to hero society. The Meta Liberation Army Arc is dark and intense. The villains demonstrate their ruthless tactics and their determination to overthrow the hero system. This arc also delves into the personal stories and motivations of the villains, providing insight into their backgrounds and their reasons for joining the Meta Liberation Army. The Meta Liberation Army Arc is essential for understanding the complexities of the villainous side of the My Hero Academia universe. It highlights the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of standing up against injustice. The arc also sets the stage for future conflicts and the ongoing battle between heroes and villains. It’s a crucial moment that tests the students' resolve and prepares them for the even greater challenges that lie ahead.

16. Paranormal Liberation War Arc

The Paranormal Liberation War Arc is a massive conflict between the heroes and the combined forces of the Meta Liberation Army and the League of Villains, now known as the Paranormal Liberation Front. This arc is the culmination of many storylines and features epic battles and significant character development. The Paranormal Liberation War Arc is intense and action-packed. The heroes and villains clash in a series of epic battles that test their abilities and push them to their limits. This arc also explores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the importance of standing up for what is right. The Paranormal Liberation War Arc is essential for demonstrating the ultimate battle between good and evil. It highlights the sacrifices that heroes make to protect society and the challenges they face in maintaining peace. The arc also marks a shift in the balance of power, as the hero society grapples with the aftermath of the war and the rise of new threats. It’s a crucial moment that sets the stage for the final phase of the series.

17. Tartarus Escapees Arc

The Tartarus Escapees Arc focuses on the aftermath of the Paranormal Liberation War, as several powerful villains escape from Tartarus, a high-security prison. This arc sees the remaining heroes struggling to maintain order and protect society from these escaped villains. The Tartarus Escapees Arc is dark and suspenseful. The heroes must face formidable opponents and make difficult decisions in order to protect the innocent. This arc also explores the themes of resilience, hope, and the importance of rebuilding after a major crisis. The Tartarus Escapees Arc is essential for demonstrating the challenges that heroes face in the wake of a major disaster. It highlights the sacrifices that they make to protect society and the importance of never giving up hope. The arc also sets the stage for the final battles and the ultimate resolution of the series.

18. Star and Stripe Arc

The Star and Stripe Arc features America's number one hero, Star and Stripe, as she arrives in Japan to aid the struggling hero society. This arc is action-packed and introduces a powerful new player to the conflict. The Star and Stripe Arc is intense and showcases the strength and determination of America's top hero. Star and Stripe faces off against Shigaraki in an epic battle, demonstrating her incredible Quirk and strategic thinking. This arc also explores the themes of international cooperation and the importance of standing together in the face of adversity. The Star and Stripe Arc is essential for demonstrating the global impact of the My Hero Academia universe and the challenges that heroes face in maintaining peace on a global scale. It highlights the sacrifices that they make to protect society and the importance of working together to overcome obstacles. The arc also sets the stage for the final battles and the ultimate resolution of the series.

19. U.A. Traitor Arc

The U.A. Traitor Arc has All Might exposing the identity of the U.A. Traitor, the person who was feeding information to All For One and the League of Villains. Toru Hagakure, better known as the Invisible Girl, was confirmed to be the U.A. Traitor. She didn't do it out of her own will, but instead was coerced to doing so by All For One.

20. Final Act Arc

The Final Act Arc encompasses the remaining chapters of the manga and brings the series to its ultimate conclusion. This arc features the final battles between the heroes and villains, as they fight for the future of hero society. The Final Act Arc is epic and emotional. The heroes and villains clash in a series of intense battles that test their abilities and push them to their limits. This arc also explores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the importance of never giving up hope. The Final Act Arc is essential for demonstrating the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It highlights the sacrifices that heroes make to protect society and the importance of standing up for what is right. The arc also provides closure for the characters and brings the series to a satisfying conclusion.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! A comprehensive guide to all the MHA arcs in My Hero Academia. I hope this helps you keep track of everything and gives you a deeper appreciation for this amazing series. Keep watching, keep reading, and keep being awesome! Plus Ultra!