Anime With The Most Controversial Endings

Anime With The Most Controversial Endings

Key Takeaways

  • Not all anime endings are bad; some are just controversial, sparking heated discussions in the community.
  • Endings in anime like Oreimo, Tokyo Ghoul, and Soul Eater have left viewers with mixed feelings and unmet expectations.
  • Controversial endings like the one in School Days may be brutal but ensure that the anime remains a hot topic of discussion.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the vibrant world of anime, I can confidently say that these controversial endings are as much a part of the genre as the stunning animation and captivating storylines. Each one leaves a lasting impression, sparking heated debates among fans and serving as a testament to the power of this medium to evoke strong emotions.

One of the most difficult things in storytelling is ‘sticking the landing.’ A masterpiece of a story can be ruined by a bad ending. But sometimes, the ending isn’t really bad; it’s just controversial.

In the realm of anime, it’s common for viewers to grapple with certain conclusions due to the diverse narratives that the medium presents. As previously stated, these endings might not be inherently flawed, but they have sparked intense debates within the community, with some adoring them and others finding fault.

Spoiler Warning: This list contains spoilers for the end of many of the anime being discussed.

10. Oreimo

An Unsatisfying End

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Many people might easily dismiss Oreimo as a show centered around sibling romance. However, it’s important to note that those who gave Oreimo a chance were captivated by its compelling narrative, well-developed characters, and the taboo theme that still intrigued many.

Instead of leaving viewers with a clear sense of satisfaction, the conclusion to this anime stirred a variety of emotions. The main character, Kyousuke, chooses none of the women who have feelings for him, most notably Kuroneko, and instead pursues his sister, Kirino. To make matters more complex (or perhaps more intriguing, depending on one’s viewpoint), they don’t end up together in a lasting way but only briefly. Consequently, Kyousuke is left without a romantic partner, leading to a somewhat debatable ending for the anime.

9. Darling In The Franxx

A Master Class In How To Ruin An Ending

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In the year 2018, Darling In The Franxx held the crown as the most-watched series. Some found the way mecha were piloted in the show debatable, but many simply shrugged it off as a quirk of anime.

As a devoted viewer, by the time Episode 15 of Darling in the Franxx unfolded, I had high hopes that it would join the ranks of all-time anime classics. However, the hasty conclusion and an unexpected deluge of information left many of us disgruntled. The anticlimactic ending, where Hiro and Zero 2 selflessly sacrificed themselves only to be ‘reincarnated,’ left a sour taste in our mouths. This twist was so divisive because it had the potential to be far more compelling.

8. Tokyo Ghoul: Root A

A Divergent Story Done Wrong

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In 2014, Tokyo Ghoul was extremely popular. The captivating tale revolved around ordinary guy, Kaneki Ken, who nearly met his end at the hands of a ghoul during a date, only to find himself transformed into one himself. The storyline concluded with a harrowing torture sequence, and Kaneki discovering his true potential.

As a dedicated fan, I must admit that my anticipation ran high for the second season, “Tokyo Ghoul: Root A.” However, the series seemed to veer quite distinctly from its manga origins, leaving viewers somewhat perplexed. The production itself fell short, as it failed to provide satisfactory answers and instead, fueled our curiosity even further. The climactic scene, where Kaneki carried Hide’s lifeless body through the snow while the credits rolled, served only to encapsulate the collective frustration of the audience.

7. Claymore

An Anime With No Real Ending

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As a devotee, let me tell you about the enigmatic race called Claymores – they are beings of human-demon heritage, forged solely to eliminate malevolent entities known as Yoma. I am one such Claymore, and my life’s path intertwined with a young boy named Raki, who I allowed to join me on my quest. Our journey together is focused on hunting down a specific Yoma, as I seek vengeance for reasons only we understand.

The show Claymore offers an engaging narrative, but its conclusion is met with controversy due to being hastily wrapped up. Similar to many series that deviate from their manga source, the ending of Claymore was underwhelming and disappointing for viewers, as it included a death that wasn’t desired. Furthermore, there has been no continuation of the story, and fans have waited close to two decades without any resolution. This lack of closure leaves a sour aftertaste.

6. Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

The Bittersweet End Was Not Everyone’s Cup Of Tea

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The acclaimed anime series, “Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood,” is often hailed as one of the best ever made. However, its emergence seems to overshadow its equally well-crafted predecessor from 2003, simply known as “Fullmetal Alchemist.

Initially, the first adaptation of FMA deviated from the manga’s storyline, leading to a distinct ending compared to the brighter conclusion in Brotherhood. The idea that Edward would retrieve his brother’s body but at the cost of their separation affected some viewers deeply. In contrast, the cheerful finale of Brotherhood often overshadows the original. Regrettably, despite its controversial nature, the 2003 version of FMA offers an impressive viewing experience.

5. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

A Melodramatic End That Left A Sour Taste

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Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann revolves around themes of perseverance and overcoming insurmountable odds. The protagonist, Simon, is a character who has experienced great tragedy, having lost his home, possessions, and even his mentor Kamina due to war. Despite these losses, he must rise above and lead his companions towards victory.

When Simon triumphantly defeated the anti-spiral despite overwhelming odds, it was a poignant disappointment for him not to be with Nia, his cherished partner. Her untimely demise shortly after their marriage was heartbreaking for many, and to add insult to injury, Simon didn’t choose to stay among the people he had valiantly fought to protect.

4. Death Note

It Ended With L’s Death

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The conclusion of Death Note wasn’t primarily controversial; it was more of a letdown. The series was largely celebrated for the intriguing cat-and-mouse game between the murderous Kira and the detective genius, L. The twist in the middle, where L fell into Kira’s trap and perished, was startling, but there was potential for what followed that could have been more satisfying.

Nevertheless, the storyline of Death Note concluded when Near and Mello, L’s successors, managed to apprehend Kira and his death-inducing activities. This ending stirred debate among fans since many readers were left unsatisfied, either by not witnessing L capture Kira or by missing the anticipated clash between the two leading characters that would have resulted in their mutual demise.

3. Soul Eater

A Rushed Ending Robbed The World Of A Truly Remarkable Shonen

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Many viewers hold Soul Eater in high regard as one of those unsung series that can compete with the best. The story revolves around Maka and her weapon, Soul, who work together to transform Soul into a death scythe, suitable for use by the Grim Reaper himself.

Initially, the television series “Soul Eater,” comprising 51 episodes, was well-received. However, when viewers discovered that the source manga had a significantly longer run, ending in 2013, four years after the anime, opinions began to shift. For some, “Soul Eater” didn’t receive the finale it deserved. Given that “Fire Force” is set within the same world as “Soul Eater” and has since concluded, many continue to view “Soul Eater” as unfinished, with hopes of a potential comeback.

2. Neon Genesis Evangelion

An Ending So Controversial, They Had To Make Another One

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For those deeply connected with anime, watching Neon Genesis Evangelion is highly recommended. It’s often praised as an indispensable visual journey that offers a unique and profound experience for viewers.

Instead, the anime notably concludes with a unique twist, as Shinji comes to terms with himself and is celebrated by those who matter most to him in a poignant inner-monologue scene. This ending sparked much debate among fans, who felt it overlooked the gravity of the world’s predicament and seemed somewhat anticlimactic given the ominous buildup towards a potentially grim denouement. The more accepted conclusion was presented in the 1997 film, The End of Evangelion.

1. School Days

One Of The Most Infamous Endings In Anime Of All Time

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Almost every anime fan has heard of School Days, and while they might not even know a single thing about the series, they have most likely heard about the ending. School Days is about Makoto Itou, a regular high school student who gets involved with the girl he likes, Kotonoha Katsura, and it follows how things devolve from there.

The animated series “School Days” was based on a game of adult-themed visual novels, and the creators opted for the darkest plotline where Makoto’s friend, Sekai, who had been involved with him in an affair, ultimately ends up killing him violently in a gruesome stabbing scene. Many viewers found this to be the most intriguing aspect of the show, and it remains one of the primary reasons why discussions about the anime continue. However, it is undeniable that the ending stirred considerable controversy within the anime community.

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2024-12-06 05:37