My Hero Academia: 10 Main Anime Characters with More Development Than Deku

My Hero Academia has recently concluded, yet it still faces considerable criticism regarding the series’ ending, with particular focus on the protagonist, Izuku “Deku”Midoriya. Following an eight-year time skip, many fans found Deku’s resolution divisive, and a prevalent sentiment emerged that his character did not grow or evolve significantly throughout the narrative, which remains a primary concern.

Throughout My Hero Academia, Izuku grapples with self-worth and confidence issues that are never adequately resolved. This is particularly evident post-time skip, as he eagerly dons a mechanical suit to embrace his hero role once again without any second thoughts. In contrast to Deku, numerous anime main characters, whether they occupy protagonist or deuteragonist roles, showcase more meaningful character development, making their conclusions feel profoundly satisfying.

Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for all series mentioned.

10 Anime Main Characters with Superior Development Compared to Deku from My Hero Academia and Why

1. Yusuke Urameshi (Yu Yu Hakusho)

Yusuke definitely had more development than the My Hero Academia protagonist (Image via Studio Pierrot).

Yu Yu Hakusho is considered one of the premier battle shonen series, largely due to the compelling nature of Yusuke Urameshi as a protagonist. He begins as a delinquent with no will to live, causing chaos for those around him, but his evolution into a Spirit Detective challenges him and facilitates his growth into a mature individual. This contrasts with Deku’s path in My Hero Academia, where his development appears underwhelming.

Ultimately, Yusuke’s character culminates in a display of maturity and self-acceptance after the tournament of the Three Kings arc, which starkly contrasts with the general disappointment surrounding Deku’s ending in the series’ epilogue.

2. Thorfinn (Vinland Saga)

Thorfinn has one of the best character developments in anime (Image via MAPPA).

Thorfinn exemplifies one of the most compelling character arcs in anime, notably when compared to Deku’s journey in My Hero Academia. His evolution in Vinland Saga revolves around reconciling his pursuit of revenge against a backdrop of embracing pacifism, illustrating profound personal growth. Unlike Deku, who fails to address his flaws, Thorfinn embarks on a rigorous path to rectify his shortcomings, showcasing the depth of his character.

3. Guts (Berserk)

Arguably the finest character development in manga and anime (Image via Young Animal).

Guts’ character arc is among the most acclaimed in manga and anime history, primarily due to the harrowing experiences he endures throughout Berserk. His journey encompasses a myriad of traumas that he must confront, challenging him to grow into a better person—a narrative that is incredibly inspirational. While Deku and Guts both face adversity, Guts’ story allows for reflection and personal growth that Deku’s character arc lacks.

4. Hanamichi Sakuragi (Slam Dunk)

A stronger character arc than the My Hero Academia protagonist (Image via Toei Animation).

Although Hanamichi Sakuragi doesn’t face world-threatening situations like Deku, his journey in basketball, as portrayed in Slam Dunk, showcases remarkable transformation. Initiating his basketball journey driven by the desire to impress a girl, he later develops a genuine love for the sport, sacrificing his health for his team’s success. This evolution highlights a level of dedication and discipline seldom seen in Deku’s character.

5. Vegeta (Dragon Ball)

One of the most iconic character arcs in anime (Image via Toei Animation).

Vegeta represents another character who demonstrates substantial development throughout his arc in Dragon Ball. Transitioning from a ruthless Saiyan warrior to a noble fighter, his journey encapsulates redemption and a pursuit for self-improvement that far surpasses the growth seen in Deku’s arc.

6. Jolyne Cujoh (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure)

Another character arc that was more developed than the My Hero Academia protagonist (Image via David Production).

Jolyne Cujoh, featured in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure’s sixth part, Stone Ocean, reflects a character arc that indeed surpasses Deku’s development in My Hero Academia. She evolves from a vulnerable girl imprisoned and struggling with her identity, to an audacious individual confronting formidable challenges. Unlike Deku’s reliance on multiple Quirks, Jolyne beautifully showcases her growth through her mastery of her Stand, demonstrating a stronger character evolution.

7. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter X Hunter)

Another very well-received character (Image via Madhouse).

Killua Zoldyck stands out as a highly regarded character in Hunter X Hunter due to his ongoing character evolution. Initially introduced as a remorseless assassin, his friendship with Gon significantly alters him, guiding him toward becoming a better individual. In contrast to Deku’s friendship with Bakugo, which distorts his character arc, Killua’s bond with Gon leads to genuine growth and development.

8. Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)

Another solid arc, although in a different direction (Image via MAPPA).

Not every character arc surpassing Deku’s in My Hero Academia follows a positive trajectory. Eren Yeager from Attack on Titan exemplifies how experiences can lead a character down a darker path. Starting as an optimistic individual yearning for freedom, Eren’s transformation into the series’ villain illustrates a robustly executed arc that highlights the impact of narrative events on character development, in direct contrast to Deku’s journey toward heroism.

9. Light Yagami (Death Note)

Light's character arc was straight to the point (Image via Madhouse). — Light’s character arc was straight to the point (Image via Madhouse).

Light Yagami serves as another example of a character with a more defined arc compared to Deku. His descent into darkness, spurred by the power of the Death Note, illustrates a chilling yet captivating evolution showcasing ambition and morality’s complexities. This stark contrast emphasizes the superior storytelling and character consistency present in Light’s arc in comparison to Deku’s.

10. Katsuki Bakugo (My Hero Academia)

Ironically, Bakugo got a better character arc than Deku in My Hero Academia (Image via Bones).

Ironically, the character most influenced by Deku in My Hero Academia, Katsuki Bakugo, has undergone a more substantial character arc. Initially portrayed as a bully with cooperation issues, he gradually learns valuable lessons regarding teamwork and personal growth, culminating in a character arc that feels more complete compared to Deku’s.

Final Thoughts

There are undoubtedly numerous anime protagonists who boast more compelling arcs and greater development than Deku from My Hero Academia. This observation highlights the mixed reception of the series’ conclusion and illustrates that Izuku’s character arc is often viewed as one of its weaker components.

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