The journey of Deku, the main protagonist of My Hero Academia, is a testament to resilience and growth over time. Initially introduced as a timid child devoid of a Quirk and seemingly destined to fail, Deku has transformed into a capable hero pursuing his dream of becoming the number one hero — much to the chagrin of his critics.
With the recently launched My Hero Academia Season 7 building anticipation for the dramatic climax of the Final War Arc slated for Season 8, fans are analyzing Deku’s unparalleled evolution and strategizing how his skills can turn the tide against formidable foes like Tomura Shigaraki. As All For One’s apprentice intensifies his powers, Deku confronts dire challenges in their battle, and the insights into his power evolution may hold vital clues for overcoming insurmountable odds.
This evaluation encompasses Deku’s developments up through Season 7 Episode 13, containing potential spoilers for the storyline leading to this juncture.
19
Quirkless Youth and the Bullying Era
Episode: S1, Ep1
In the opening segment of the series, viewers meet a young Deku, riddled with low self-esteem and inner turmoil. The painful realization of being Quirkless during his formative years subjects him to relentless bullying in middle school, creating a stark contrast to his aspirations of becoming a hero at the prestigious U.A. High School. The only true support he finds comes from his loving mother, who encourages his dreams.
Despite facing adversity, Deku possesses an unwavering dedication to heroism, highlighted through his meticulous superhero journal and insightful commentary on heroic deeds. His knack for analyzing Quirks serves not only as comic relief but also sets the stage for his future developments.
18
Meeting All Might: Initiating the Training Journey
Episode: S1, Ep3
The pivotal moment in Deku’s life occurs when he unexpectedly meets his idol, All Might, the world’s top pro hero. Hesitant yet hopeful, Deku reveals his Quirkless status to All Might and questions whether he can still aspire to be a hero. Initially, All Might dissuades him, but after witnessing Deku’s selfless attempt to save Bakugo from a villain, he recognizes Deku’s true potential.
This pivotal moment ushers in a demanding 10-month training program meant to prepare Deku physically and mentally for the challenges that lie ahead. His unswerving determination shines as he overcomes his physical limitations, proving to All Might that he is deserving of this second chance.
17
Training Complete: Deku Inherits One For All
Episode: S1, Ep3
Upon completing his rigorous training regimen, Deku is deemed ready to inherit All Might’s Quirk, One For All. The process, however, comes with an unexpected twist — consuming a strand of All Might’s hair. This ritual unveils the unique method of Quirk transfer where DNA exchange becomes the bridge for passing powers, solidifying Deku’s progression into the realm of heroes.
16
U.A. Entrance Exams: First Use of One For All
Episode: S1, Ep4
As the U.A. High entrance exams commence, Deku faces the daunting task of utilizing One For All under immense pressure. Surrounded by aspiring heroes showcasing their talents, he becomes overwhelmed. However, during a critical moment when he attempts to rescue Uraraka, Deku instinctively channels One For All for the first time.
Yet, this newfound power comes at a grave cost. The raw force of One For All is too much for his still-developing body, resulting in severe injuries that leave him with broken bones — a sobering reminder that great power demands great responsibility.
15
Sports Festival: Encounter with Shinso
Episode: S2, Ep7
Following his entry into U.A., Deku eagerly participates in the renowned Sports Festival. He faces Shinso Hitoshi, whose brainwashing Quirk poses a unique challenge. The encounter serves as a vital lesson in decision-making and control under pressure, pushing Deku to refine his skills.
14
Fight Against Muscular: Pushing His Limits
Episode: S3, Ep4
During the U.S.J. incident, the League of Villains attacks, leading to a training camp that goes awry. Deku faces the ruthless villain Muscular, whose abilities force him to unleash One For All at unprecedented levels while defending a fellow student, Kota. Tormented by the need to protect, he exceeds safe limits, resulting in grievous injuries but an unforgettable victory.
13
Full Cowling: New Fighting Style Emerges
Episode: S3, Ep14
After recovering from his extensive injuries, Deku discovers that using One For All with his arms is no longer feasible. Channeling his analytical skills, he shifts his focus to developing a new technique dubbed Full Cowling Shoot Style, which allows him to utilize powerful kicks instead of relying solely on his arms. This innovative approach is further enhanced by leg-support gear crafted by Mei Hatsume, demonstrating his adaptability.
12
Confrontation with Overhaul: New Alliances
Episode: S4, Ep13
As Deku engages Overhaul, a formidable antagonist, he struggles initially. However, with the assistance of Eri, whose unique Quirk allows him to revert to a state of health, the duo eventually manages to utilize One For All without consequences, revealing the strategic value of alliances in battle.
11
Heroes Rising: Transferring Power
Film: My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
In the high-stakes film My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising, Deku makes a monumental decision to transfer half of his One For All power to Bakugo during a life-or-death confrontation against Nine, a villain equipped with multiple Quirks. This act not only emphasizes trust and teamwork but showcases the potential to combine strengths to triumph over adversity.
10
Aftermath of Nine: One For All Returns
Film: My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising
Post-battle with Nine, Deku discovers a curious twist: One For All mysteriously returns to him, illustrating the enduring bond with the Quirk and the vestiges of previous users, hinting at greater complexities in his journey ahead.
9
Joint Training Battle: Blackwhip Manifestation
Episode: S5, Ep 10
As the threat escalates with the League of Villains, Deku participates in a Joint Training Battle, where his Quirk signals its evolution. Under pressure, he unintentionally manifests the Blackwhip, a Quirk belonging to a previous One For All user, marking a significant advancement in his abilities.
8
Shigaraki Reunion: Activation of Float
Episode: S6, Ep 9
In a dramatic standoff against a resurrected Shigaraki, Deku unlocks the Float Quirk, enabling him to maneuver in mid-air. This new ability gives him a tactical advantage in combat while escaping Shigaraki’s disintegrating touch.
7
Paranormal Liberation War: Ingenious Blackwhip Usage
Episode: S6, Ep 13
Deku’s proficiency with Blackwhip increases significantly during the Paranormal Liberation War, showcasing his adaptability in combat situations. His innovative thinking allows him to employ Blackwhip creatively, even without the use of his arms, effectively navigating threats against Dabi by summoning the Quirk from his tongue.
6
Bakugo’s Injury: Activation of Danger Sense
Episode: S6, Ep 13
In a startling moment during battle, Deku experiences a visceral awakening of Danger Sense when Bakugo sustains a grievous injury. This newfound Quirk enables him to perceive imminent threats, adding another layer to his combat abilities and emphasizing the importance of instinct in dire situations.
5
Overwhelmed by All For One: Temporary Paralysis
Episode: S6, Ep 18
Deku’s relentless dedication pushes him beyond physical limits during an intense confrontation with Shigaraki and Dabi, leading to the overextension of his new Quirk abilities. Experiencing severe overstimulation, he temporarily immobilizes himself—highlighting the reality that every Quirk comes with its own set of risks.
4
Reunion with Muscular: Introduction of Smokescreen
Episode: S6, Ep 19
Following the increase in villain activities orchestrated by the League of Villains, Deku, now operating as a masked vigilante, confronts Muscular again. He successfully employs his Smokescreen Quirk, allowing him to shroud the area in purple smoke and gain a tactical advantage in battle while discreetly defending civilians.
3
Confrontation with Lady Nagant: Awakening of Fa Jin
Episode: S6, Ep 21
The intense showdown with Lady Nagant prompts Deku to activate the long-anticipated Fa Jin Quirk. By skillfully utilizing Smokescreen and precise movements, Deku can effectively release built-up kinetic energy, propelling him at astounding speeds and amplifying his overall fighting capabilities.
2
Confronting Shigaraki: Discovery of Gearshift
Episode: S7, Ep13
Once again facing Shigaraki, Deku harnesses the remarkable Gearshift Quirk, allowing him to manipulate acceleration, execute quick maneuvers, and launch rapid strikes. This weaponization of speed opens a new dimension of combat strategies, showcasing his mastery of Quirks.
1
Confronting Shigaraki: Enhancing Ultimate Moves with Gearshift
Episode: S7, Ep13
In the heat of combat, Deku strategically employs Gearshift to augment his already formidable arsenal. By combining various Quirks with increased speed, he executes devastating attacks like Transmission and Detroit Smash: Quintuple, surprising even seasoned opponents, and reaffirming his evolving prowess as a hero ready for any challenge.
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