'To Be Hero X': Can We Compare This Chinese Anime to 'My Hero Academia'?

Anime lovers in Spring 2025 have been treated to a thrilling new superhero saga with the arrival of To Be Hero X. It is an entirely new creation that continues the To Be Hero anthology. This Chinese-Japanese co-production is a renewed take on the superhero genre of storytelling that deserves credit. The two have prompted comparisons among themselves. Yet, the real question is—can it genuinely hold its ground against the powerhouse that is My Hero Academia (MHA)?

Yes, To Be Hero X can be compared to My Hero Academia, even though they have different origins, but similar themes. X presents a unique premise which focuses on heroism as not an innate ability, but one that is deeply intertwined with public perception. On the other hand, My Hero Academia is set in a society where nearly eighty percent of people are born with natural abilities known as Quirks.

In To Be Hero X, superpowers aren’t innate—they're shaped by how the public views each hero. The higher their "Trust Value," the stronger they become. This unique premise differs from My Hero Academia's genetic quirk system but addresses similar themes about heroism and society's expectations.

Lin Ling, the main character in X, is unexpectedly pulled into the world of heroes after seeing the tragic fall of a renowned hero named Nice. Unlike Deku from MHA, who dreams of becoming a hero, Lin Ling had abandoned such aspirations until circumstances forced him to adopt Nice's identity.

Visual Distinction Between X and MHA

What sets To Be Hero X apart is its unique mix of animation styles, skillfully combining 3D visuals with expressive 2D art to heighten the emotional resonance. This technique enhances key moments and fights as styles keep switching.

Whereas, My Hero Academia maintains a consistent 2D style throughout, focusing on dynamic action sequences and emotional character designs. Both approaches effectively serve their respective stories, with X using its visual shifts to emphasize narrative turning points.

The Power Systems in To Be Hero X & My Hero Academia

The core difference between these series lies in their power mechanics. In To Be Hero X, abilities manifest based on public belief – if enough people think a hero can fly, they gain that power. This creates an interesting dynamic where heroes become prisoners of public perception.

On the flip side, My Hero Academia relies on a biological foundation, where quirks—superhuman abilities—are inherited traits present from early life. While society influences how quirks are used, the powers themselves remain consistent regardless of public opinion.

Both series explore the challenges of heroism, but X takes this concept in a darker direction. Episode 3 reveals how Tall Man, a hero celebrated for standing tall against falling debris, is literally unable to sit or lie down because of public expectations. His power imprisons him.

My Hero Academia also examines heroic burdens but typically frames them as obstacles to overcome rather than inescapable traps. The contrast demonstrates how X subverts typical superhero narratives in ways even My Hero Academia's deconstruction doesn't attempt.

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The two portray heroism as a profession, complete with rankings and public relations. However, To Be Hero X emphasizes how public perception directly shapes abilities, creating a more symbiotic relationship between heroes and their audiences. In My Hero Academia, heroes maintain their powers regardless of popularity, though fame certainly impacts their careers.

To conclude, both To Be Hero X and My Hero Academia lie within the superhero genre. But they diverge in execution and cultural context. While comparing the two, it's evident that the first one doesn't merely mimic the latter one but stands as a unique entity, contributing its voice to the superhero anime discourse.

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