Top 10 Anime Series Featuring the Most Controversial Endings

Understanding Controversial Anime Endings

Anime endings can ignite passionate debates, with many viewers expressing divided opinions.
Popular series such as Oreimo, Tokyo Ghoul, and Soul Eater have provided notable endings that often leave fans feeling unfulfilled.
Some endings, such as that of School Days, while brutal, ensure the anime remains a hot topic long after its conclusion.

Crafting a satisfying conclusion to a story is a complex challenge. A well-told narrative can be overshadowed by an unsatisfactory ending. However, not all endings that stir debate are inherently “bad”—they often provoke extensive dialogues within the fan community.

This is particularly evident in the world of anime, where diverse storytelling can lead to mixed receptions for various conclusions. While some audiences embrace these endings, others vehemently oppose them, revealing a rich tapestry of opinions.

Spoiler Warning: This article discusses the endings of several anime series, which may contain spoilers.

10. Oreimo

Oreimo often receives criticism as the anime about taboo familial love—specifically, the relationship between a brother and sister. Despite its controversial theme, viewers who delved into the series discovered compelling storytelling and character development.

The finale, however, left viewers divided. Kyousuke, the main protagonist, spurns all romantic interests, including the beloved Kuroneko, opting instead for a fleeting relationship with his sister, Kirino. The outcome ultimately rendered him without a partner, making it a notably controversial conclusion in anime history.

9. Darling In The Franxx

A Master Class In How To Ruin An Ending

In its prime, Darling In The Franxx captivated audiences, particularly with its unique mecha piloting concept. Expectations soared, especially leading into Episode 15. However, the rushed final act, filled with unnecessary exposition, disappointed many fans, particularly with the endings of Hiro and Zero Two. Their abrupt ‘reincarnation’ felt unearned and left viewers yearning for a more satisfying conclusion.

8. Tokyo Ghoul: Root A

A Divergent Story Done Wrong

Tokyo Ghoul presented an engaging narrative through Kaneki Ken’s transformation into a half-ghoul following a harrowing encounter. Expectations skyrocketed for its sequel, Tokyo Ghoul: Root A, but fans were taken aback by its significant deviations from the source material. This second season raised more questions than answers and concluded on a bleak note with Kaneki carrying the deceased body of his friend Hide, reflecting audience discontent with the ending.

7. Claymore

An Anime With No Real Ending

Claymore tells the story of half-human, half-demon warriors on a quest for vengeance against monstrous beings known as Youma. Unfortunately, its conclusion left much to be desired, particularly as it diverged from the manga. With many fans still craving a continuation, the series left a bitter taste in the mouths of viewers and sparked discussions about its rushed finale.

6. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

The Bittersweet End Was Not Everyone’s Cup Of Tea

While Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is often hailed as a masterpiece, the original Fullmetal Alchemist (2003) has its devoted fans. This first series constructed a unique narrative after diverging from the manga, ultimately leading to a bittersweet conclusion. The emotional weight of the ending, where Edward sacrifices his chance for happiness to restore his brother’s body, left many viewers with troubled feelings, especially contrasted against Brotherhood’s happier finish.

5. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

A Melodramatic End That Left A Sour Taste

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann is an inspiring tale of resilience against overwhelming odds, led by Simon, who must overcome personal loss and lead a rebellion. However, the poignant ending, marked by Nia’s untimely death after her marriage to Simon, left many viewers feeling disheartened, questioning the narrative direction and Simon’s subsequent role in the story.

4. Death Note

It Ended With L’s Death

The conclusion of Death Note saw the demise of beloved characters L and Kira, leading to polarization among fans. Many expected a showdown between L and Kira, with L triumphing over the anti-hero, yet the ending subverted those expectations, leaving viewers feeling robbed of closure.

3. Soul Eater

A Rushed Ending Robbed The World Of A Truly Remarkable Shonen

Regarded as an underrated gem, Soul Eater follows Maka and her weapon, Soul, as they strive to craft a legendary weapon fit for their master. Despite its popularity, the anime ended prematurely, diverging from the manga’s lengthy continuation. This rushed conclusion left fans yearning for a resolution, particularly with the wider universe of Fire Force offering supplementary stories.

2. Neon Genesis Evangelion

An Ending So Controversial, They Had To Make Another One

Many consider Neon Genesis Evangelion a pivotal anime that deeply explores psychological themes and human emotions. However, its abstract ending left a significant part of its audience confused, prompting the creators to release The End of Evangelion film to provide a more conclusive narrative. Fans felt the original finale undermined the show’s complex themes and instead offered a rather convoluted and introspective resolution.

1. School Days

One Of The Most Infamous Endings In Anime Of All Time

School Days is notorious for its shocking conclusion that renders it unforgettable. The series follows Makoto Itou as he navigates complicated romantic entanglements, culminating in a brutal finale where one of his lovers avenges their broken heart by killing him. This shocking twist has cemented School Days as one of the most discussed endings in anime, inciting both horror and admiration among viewers.

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