Vigilante – Boku no Hero Academia Illegals [Season 2 Episode 1]

Alright, let’s dive into the first episode of Vigilante – Boku no Hero Academia Illegals Season 2. If you’re a fan of the My Hero Academia universe, this spin-off has been a long-awaited return, and Episode 1 doesn’t waste any time getting back into the gritty underbelly of hero society.

First off, the production quality feels consistent with the first season—Studio Bones brings that same polished animation style we know and love, though some fans might argue the opening theme (OP) lacks the catchy energy of Season 1’s “Koichi no Kento.” One commenter even called it a “let down,” missing the danceable vibe of the original. Fair point, but let’s not judge a season by its OP alone.

The episode kicks off with a quick recap, which some viewers found unnecessary since the last season ended less than a year ago. But hey, it’s a nice refresher for anyone who might’ve forgotten the details. We’re immediately thrown back into Koichi Haimawari’s world—our “sliding” vigilante who’s still balancing his illegal heroics with a mundane civilian life. The opening scene shows him rushing to catch a train, only to miss it because he’s too busy buying a bento. Relatable, right? Even vigilantes need snacks.

What’s great about this episode is how it reintroduces the core cast. Eraser Head is back, as stoic as ever, solving cases like it’s just another Tuesday. Pop Step (Kazuho Haneyama) is still flipping between her idol persona and hero outfit, which adds that fun, chaotic energy. And let’s not forget Fat Gum—he’s a fan favorite for a reason. His appearance here is a highlight; whether he’s overseeing Kazuho’s idol event or cracking jokes, he brings that larger-than-life presence that lightens the mood.

The plot centers around an idol event, which seems like a harmless setup until villains start stirring behind the scenes. It’s classic Vigilante—mixing everyday life with high-stakes crime. The episode teases a new threat, though we don’t get too deep into it yet. The pacing is steady, with enough action to keep things interesting without overwhelming the character moments.

Fans on MyAnimeList have mixed feelings. Some love the return of the gang and the familiar dynamic, while others are critical of the recap taking up too much screen time. One user noted, “Sucks that it took up most of the episode but at least first episode in and we already got our boy Fatgum!” Another praised the show for not “doing anything too crazy” yet, suggesting it’s building up to bigger conflicts.

What makes Vigilante stand out from the main MHA series is its focus on the “illegals”—those who use Quirks outside the law. Koichi’s struggle to do good without official hero status is still the heart of the story. This episode hints at deeper themes, like the tension between legal heroes and vigilantes, and how the line between right and wrong blurs in a world obsessed with hero rankings.

Visually, the animation is solid. The fight scenes are smooth, and the character designs stay true to the manga. The new characters introduced (like the unfamiliar faces at the idol event) add mystery, making you wonder what their roles will be this season.

If there’s one complaint, it’s that the episode feels a bit slow at times, especially with the recap. But considering it’s the first episode back, it’s understandable that the writers want to ease viewers into the story. The cliffhanger from last season is addressed, but we’re left with new questions—what’s the villain’s plan? How will Koichi’s group handle the new threats?

Overall, Vigilante – Boku no Hero Academia Illegals Season 2 Episode 1 is a solid return. It balances humor, action, and character development, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling season. Whether you’re here for the gritty take on hero society or just to see Fat Gum chow down on snacks, this episode has something for everyone.

So, grab your bento, skip the recap if you want, and get ready—Koichi and the gang are back, and the streets of Musutafu are about to get a whole lot more chaotic.

Rating: 7.5/10 – A strong start that leaves you wanting more, even if the OP isn’t as catchy as before.

P.S. – Keep an eye out for those villainous hints—they’re probably leading to something big! 🦸♂️💥