The following contains spoilers for My Hero Academia season 7, episode 13, “A Chain of Events Through Time,” now streaming on Crunchyroll.

The final battle against the Paranormal Liberation Front rages in My Hero Academia Season 7 Episode 13. For now, the anime focuses primarily on Tomura Shigaraki – and to great effect. The last few episodes thrilled and horrified anime viewers with Mirio and Bakugo’s battle against Tomura, which ended with the UA’s big three suffering a major blow and Bakugo being pushed to the brink of death. All hope seemed lost, but Izuku Midoriya is finally on the scene.

“A Chain of Events, Across the Ages” keeps the action going with plenty of style, Deku finally fights against his long-time arch enemywithout either side holding back. Although MHA Season 7, Episode 13 takes a little too long to actually get to the fight between Deku and Tomura. The duel is already one of the best in the anime, featuring some fascinating strategies and themes on both sides. Deku may have mastered his quirks, but the fight feels eerily similar to the fight between All For One and All Might, which adds a certain tension to the episode.

The slow start of episode 13 holds back an otherwise fantastic episode

“A Chain of Events Through Time” goes through the steps and sets the stakes of the episode

Considering the explosive ending of episode 12, episode 13 takes a little too long to get things going. Frustratingly, episode 13 starts with a recap that nobody really needed, explaining Once again that the villains have been scattered across Japan and the surrounding islands to give the heroes a chance. Episode 13 simply doesn’t need a recap, especially one that breaks up the fast pace that underscores Deku’s final battle with Tomura. This isn’t the sequel that Episode 12’s strong cliffhanger ending needed. As the actual story picks up steam, Deku takes a moment to think things through before he even attempts to trade more blows with Tomura Shigaraki.

Deku sees the mortally injured Bakugo trying to stave off death itself and flies into a horrified rage. His reaction is an important reminder of how connected Deku is to his classmates, but it still eats up more time than it should. At least Mirio Togata is there to help Deku stay calm and focus on the mission while Deku sees the first seven users of One For All. While all of this may be important for the finale, it feels like filler to extend the runtime. A Chain of Events, Across the Ages is basically halfway over by the time Deku gets into action. The action is 100% worth the wait, but that much downtime wasn’t necessary.

Deku vs. Tomura Shigaraki raises the bar for MHA fights

This is Deku’s best fight in the entire anime

Episode 13 really picks up when the fight actually begins. It becomes immediately clear that Deku will hold nothing back in this highly anticipated fight – and he is not alone either. Deku has fully mastered All for One, which is immensely satisfying to see in action. Blackwhip, Float, Fa Jin, and Danger Sense are all on full display here. Best of all, Deku creatively combines and juggles all his quirks with the power of One For Allwhich leads to a spectacular fight. Deku has a clear advantage over Tomura Shigaraki – at least for now – and doubly so, since Tomura still can’t use his own quirks.

Not even Tomura’s vast array of meaty hands can match Deku’s explosive power or speed, and Deku has even more tricks up his sleeve. Watching him strategically use quirks like Gear Shift, Smoke Screen, and Danger Sense is as exciting as it is rewarding. Deku outsmarts Tomura and delivers blow after blow, perfectly showcasing his clever mind. Deku’s best asset has always been his mind, which helps him stand out from other shonen protagonists and is one of the My Hero AcademiaThe best battles of all time.

Deku and Tomura Shigaraki swap roles and increase the tension

The tide has turned for the heroes

On the surface, Deku has a clear lead over his opponent and the fight seems to be as good as won. Unfortunately, the episode ends before Deku can deliver the final blow, because Tomura begins something from his chest that could turn the tables. It’s ironic that the heroes are now relying too much on the raw power of their Quirks. Deku’s fight is visually stunning, but somehow feels a little off. This is ultimately a clever way to make fans realize that the “final” fight is far from over. The question remains how Deku will defeat Tomura using more than just Quirks. It’s effective preparation for everything that comes next.

By the end of episode 13, other villains are ready for more, from Himiko Toga to Dabi to All For One himself. “A Chain of Events, Across the Ages” ends on a suspenseful and balanced note, with the villains having enough energy to keep fighting. It’s smart that episode 13 gives the heroes enough strength to keep hope alive, while also giving the villains enough bite to make this a fair fight where anything can happen. With such a strong second half and ending, episode 13 easily leaves fans wanting more for episode 14.