Finding an anime series with a satisfactory ending can feel like a rarity. Numerous shows fall short of providing closure, often leaving fans with a sense of disappointment. There are multiple factors contributing to this trend, ranging from storytelling issues to production challenges. In many cases, animation studios may not have had enough time or resources to deliver a fulfilling conclusion. Remarkably, only a small selection of immensely popular anime has concluded in a manner that truly satisfies its audience.
The response to an anime’s ending can be complex, often resulting in polarized opinions among viewers. Some series have garnered significant acclaim yet left fans deeply divided over their conclusions. Factors contributing to this discord can include tonal shifts that alienate certain viewers, narrative choices that fail to tie up loose ends, or significant departures from the original source material. Such controversies have fostered intense discussions in online communities, some lasting for years.
8
Wonder Egg Priority
Animated by CloverWorks (2021)
Wonder Egg Priority stands out as one of anime’s greatest ‘what if’ scenarios. Launched with overwhelming acclaim, the series captivated both fans and critics with its heavy themes and striking, experimental visuals reminiscent of works like Madoka Magica. The excitement surrounding its initial episodes drew tremendous viewership, but a notable shift occurred as the series progressed.
While the first half of Wonder Egg Priority remains beloved, the latter part is often regarded with disappointment. A significant issue during production was that the team was severely understaffed. As the anime gained momentum, many creators experienced burnout, leading to a lack of resolution and clarity in the latter episodes. Consequently, fans are left to grapple with a bittersweet memory of a series that could have been phenomenal.
7
Charlotte
Animated by P.A. Works (2015)
Renowned for his contributions outside traditional anime circles, Jun Maeda has made a significant impact on the industry. As a co-founder of Key Studio, he was responsible for many influential visual novels. His vast resume includes revered works such as Kanon, Air, and Clannad. Given his legacy, expectations ran high for Charlotte, which was his first original anime following his successful visual novel adaptations.
Initially planned as a 12-episode arc, Charlotte encapsulated the hallmark emotional weight characteristic of Maeda’s narratives, blending humor with supernatural elements. However, by the time the conclusion arrived, viewers found that the story listed far too many elements to resolve adequately, resulting in a frenetic and somewhat unsatisfying finale.
6
Akame ga Kill!
Animated by White Fox & C-Station (2014)
Originally debuting in 2010, the manga for Akame ga Kill! garnered critical acclaim over its six-year run. The 2014 anime adaptation followed suit initially, captivating its audience. However, as the show neared its conclusion, signs of trouble began to surface.
Much like other popular series, Akame ga Kill! found itself running out of source material, forcing the studio to forge an original ending that diverged significantly from the manga. This change sparked considerable debate among fans, with many arguing that the latter episodes should be disregarded in favor of experiencing the original story through its manga format.
5
Elfen Lied
Animated by Arms and Studio Guts (2004)
Elfen Lied has maintained a divisive reputation within the anime community. For many viewers, it was a gateway into more mature themes in animation. Over the years, its reception has fluctuated, often dismissed as merely an edgy show featuring cute characters. Nevertheless, it gained significant popularity, particularly in Western markets, with discussions surrounding its ending still ongoing after two decades.
The anime was tasked with adapting the storyline without the manga’s complete narrative, producing a series composed of only 13 episodes. As a result, significant differences emerged between the two formats. While the manga concluded with a psychologically rich finale, the anime chose to focus more on the romantic dynamics between its protagonists. Fans generally agree that both endings serve their respective narratives, yet the debate over which is superior continues.
4
Death Note
Animated by Madhouse (2006 – 2007)
Despite its enduring popularity, Death Note presents a controversial conclusion that sparks ongoing conversations among fans. Unlike many anime adaptations, this series had the benefit of a completed manga to guide its story. However, the anime diverged from certain plot points, leading to a split among viewers regarding which version offers a better ending.
While both versions ultimately narrate a similar tale, the depiction of Light’s demise differs dramatically between the manga and anime. One version portrays him as more pitiful, whereas the other offers a slightly sympathetic angle on his character. These changes have only served to deepen the controversy surrounding Death Note’s conclusion, continually dividing opinions among its fanbase.
3
Neon Genesis Evangelion
Animated by Gainax (1995 – 1996)
Few anime finales have sparked as much discussion as that of Neon Genesis Evangelion. The series has concluded in three distinct ways, but the original TV ending remains the most controversial. While contemporary audiences have shown a greater appreciation for the ending, a significant debate lingered for nearly two decades over its coherence and quality.
Interestingly enough, while Western audiences have historically debated Episodes 25 and 26, many Japanese viewers have embraced this ending as one of the finest in anime history. Eschewing traditional action, the finale deeply explores the characters’ inner struggles and the philosophical themes of the narrative. As time passes, more fans recognize that this introspective conclusion was likely the series’ intended direction, even if it left many questions unanswered regarding the iconic mechs.
2
Tokyo Ghoul
Animated by Pierrot (2014 – 2015)
Upon its debut in 2014, Tokyo Ghoul quickly captured the hearts of fans and became a cultural phenomenon. Derived from an already beloved manga, the anime adaptation initially set the stage for what many expected to be an enduring classic. However, the second season deviated significantly from the manga despite its completion, leading to widespread confusion and discontent among the fanbase.
Rather than maintain fidelity to the source material, the anime presented an altogether original narrative for its second season. This departure left many fans unhappy, sparking calls for a re-adaptation akin to Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, which rectified its original adaptation’s shortcomings years later. Nearly a decade has passed since then, yet hopes for a remake remain uncertain, further dividing fans into those who embrace the anime and those who wished for a more faithful interpretation.
1
Erased
Animated by A-1 Pictures (2016)
Nearly 10 years post-airing, Erased is still celebrated for its engaging storyline, although discussions about its ending frequently come with caveats. The series is rich with suspense and emotional moments, yet its final two episodes ignited a fervent debate regarding its execution.
While the conclusion bears similarities to its manga, many viewers believe the finale is poorly paced and rushed. Essential character development and vital narrative depth were minimized in the anime adaptation, leading to criticisms regarding the emotional impact of the ending. Conversely, some fans maintain that the conclusion is flawless, signifying a division that represents one of the most contentious discussions within the anime community.
Over the years, anime has produced several endings that resonate deeply within fan communities, igniting passionate debates. Among them, no conclusion remains more polarizing than that of Erased, suggesting that the argument over its significance will likely continue indefinitely.
Leave a Reply