Arcane Season 2: Best Moments, Ranked

As a dedicated fan who has followed the League of Legends universe since its inception, I must say that the climax of Act 2 in Arcane left me utterly speechless and emotionally drained. The sacrifices made by the characters, particularly Isha’s selfless act to save her friends, was a poignant reminder of the hardships they have endured and their unwavering resilience.

The mystical series Arcane has concluded its second season, yet countless enthusiasts (including myself) refuse to accept it. With so many remarkable scenes, trying to compile them into a list seems nearly impossible, like an astronomical challenge.

Let’s reminisce about Arcane Season 2‘s triumph and Studio Fortiche’s incredible journey by recounting the scenes that made us sob in despair or leap for joy with unrestrained enthusiasm.

Majority of these topics were actively talked about, circulated, and humorously depicted as memes among fans on the very day each Act was released. If you were active on social media during that period, chances are you witnessed the fanbase discussing them extensively.

Warning: This list contains MASSIVE SPOILERS!

15. Lest Had Little Screentime

And Fans Have Already Fallen In Love

Beautiful Lest, a magical creature known as a Vastaya, often tends to Councilman Salo by applying Shimmer to his immobile legs. It’s later discovered that she was employed by Mel for the purpose of gathering intelligence on Ambessa.

Despite having limited screen time, fans found themselves captivated by her enchanting aesthetic. Unfortunate though it may be, many Arcane enthusiasts have fallen for a secondary character whose return is unlikely.

14. Caitlyn’s Villain Arc

So This Is How Liberty Dies

Caitlyn’s journey illustrates the breaking down of innocence and protection from the harsh truths of life in the world. Her unawareness of the struggles faced by Zaunites and the apathy shown towards Piltover highlights how deeply entrenched classism has become among her peers, reflecting a corrosive influence on their nature.

Due to Ambessa skillfully fueling Caitlyn’s rage against Jinx, her animosity has indirectly extended towards Zaun as well, causing her to assume a rigid, authoritative role by the close of Act 1.

This goes to show that even our most beloved characters can succumb to the ugly emotion that is hatred.

13. Ekko Saves The Day

That’s Why He’s The GOAT!!!

The decisive showdown is upon us. Victor has undergone his Magnificent Transformation. Most of our champions are ensnared by him, leaving us with little optimism. However, there’s a glimmer of hope as the Young Hero arrives to turn the tide.

Whenever needed, Ekko steps up to the plate, and this instance is no different. Utilizing his nimble hoverboard abilities, strategic use of rewinds, and courageous resolve to save the world, Ekko successfully hurls unstable time energy at Viktor, ultimately leading to Viktor’s defeat and averting a dismal future for Piltover.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but reflect on how often being a hero goes unrecognized. Take Ekko, for instance; despite his extraordinary deeds and selflessness, he seldom received the praise or recognition he truly deserved. Yet, he never seemed to crave it, instead choosing to carry on with his noble mission.

12. Warwick Attacks

Unmatched Savagery

It was expected that Vander would eventually return as Warwick, but no one anticipated the sheer terror he embodied. In Episode 4, we’re given numerous hints of the ensuing chaos from Warwick’s perspective.

When encountered, he effortlessly slices through metal and Piltovan enforcers as if they were mere sheets of paper, inflicting severe wounds on Ambessa in the process.

Warwick appears and seems to be straight out of a terrifying horror movie, with movements that are astonishingly swift for his bulk. One of the most gruesome scenes in the series unfolds here, intensified by the powerful guitar riffs from Misha Mansoor’s “The Beast.

It’s immediately followed by an emotional moment where Vander snaps out of his bloodlust, recognizing Jinx as Powder before the episode ends.

11. Maddie’s Betrayal

Et Tu?

Right as we believe Piltover might hold its ground against Ambessa’s troops, a shocking act of treachery unfolds – one that ranks among the unforeseen betrayals in the series.

In the mystery of who perpetrated such a heinous deed by our hidden betrayer, viewers instantly identify Maddie’s unsightly hairstyle. Hop aboard the Maddie criticism bandwagon!

Maddie’s motive for betraying Piltover remains unclear, with no single correct explanation. Regardless of the reasons, it can be said that Maddie received the consequences of her actions when Mel’s intervention caused her bullet to hit her own head.

Nobody mourned Maddie, not especially Caitlyn. Damn, that’s cold.

10. Glorious Evolution

Viktor Achieves His Final Form

With Singed’s assistance in transferring Vander’s regenerative blood into Viktor’s chrysalis, Viktor’s metamorphosis is now complete. Everybody affected by Viktor’s magical influence starts to levitate and transforms into the porcelain puppets that Jayce had envisioned.

In sync with the poignant tune of “The Line” by Twenty One Pilots, this particular scene stirs an overwhelming sadness within us, not just due to the irrecoverable loss of Vander, but also because Viktor seemingly surrenders whatever remnants of his humanity that he had, symbolized by Sky.

Viktor’s face contorts, exposing a blank, impassive visage, which underscores the notion that he has abandoned all he once cherished in his relentless pursuit of delivering the world his conception of redemption.

9. Singed’s Identity Revealed

We Hate Him

In Episode 5, Ambessa and Caitlyn enlist the help of Singed to locate Warwick. Acting like a seasoned investigator, Caitlyn thoroughly checks Singed’s past and figures out that he is actually Dr. Reveck, a once-respected chemist who was disgraced from the academy.

It’s been widely anticipated by many viewers, given that the series has subtly suggested this theory. Visual clues and dialogue point towards Singed’s enigmatic daughter potentially being Orianna, a character who transforms into a machine and is a champion in League of Legends.

With this confirmation, fans are vindicated and excited to see what lore might change in the game.

8. Jayce Goes Insane

Hammer Time

In the heart-wrenching scene where Vi, Jinx, and their transformed dad shared an emotional reunion, it was swiftly followed by a shocking twist: Jayce’s unexpected appearance and his brutal act of taking down Salo, all unfolding in episode 5, from my gaming perspective.

A multitude of spectators were taken aback by Jayce’s behavior, yet it was evident that he was resolute in repeating similar actions against Viktor.

Jayce destroyed Viktor, which led to the demise of every follower of the Herald. This tragic event not only prevented Jinx and Vi from reuniting with their father but also prompted Isha to sacrifice herself to protect her newly found family.

This prompted many raised pitchforks, sparking a widespread, week-long debate among fans about whether Jayce knew something we didn’t.

The popularity was so immense that even the official League of Legends TikTok account updated its profile photo to engage in the discussion.

7. To Ashes And Dust

2v2? More Like 2v2.5

Among all the battle sequences in Season 2, the climactic fight in episode 3 stands out as the most impressive. Pursuing Jinx relentlessly, Vi and Caitlyn encounter her and Sevika within the antiquated Shuriman ruins, which were once inhabited by followers of Janna.

The fight was intense, paralleled with Jayce and co’s disappearance into the Arcane disrupting Hextech, forcing our combatants to fight even more creatively.

With the melodious tune of Woodkid’s “To Ashes and Dust” playing in the background, the Shuriman chants harmoniously align with Act 1’s storyline as it reaches its climax. At the critical juncture, Isha steps in, demonstrating how critical the situation has become.

6. Viktor Performs A Miracle

Giving People Salvation

In Season 2, Viktor’s transformation was akin to undergoing a deeply spiritual journey. His attire, his revival, the shepherd’s staff, and his act of healing the drug-addicted character Huck in Episode 2 echo religious symbols and motifs reminiscent of Biblical tales.

The powerful music and striking imagery contribute significantly to the metamorphosis, and it’s clear that Viktor appears drained following his efforts in healing Huck. (Paraphrased)

In that instant, it becomes clear to Viktor that he now serves the role of a savior. As subsequent events unfold, it’s evident that Viktor sincerely thinks he’s assisting others (though unbeknownst to him, he’s actually manipulating them instead).

5. Black Rose Exposed

Secrets Uncovered

In Episode 5, we delve deeper into the Black Rose’s activities, providing further evidence of LeBlanc’s role. Through Mel’s cleverness, it’s revealed that the Black Rose is interested in recruiting Mel due to her natural magical abilities.

In Episodes 8 and 9, we witness significant scenes involving Mel and the sorceress, strongly indicating that the series plans to delve deeper into Mel’s narrative as she unearths the mysteries surrounding Noxus.

As her mother has passed away and mysteries surrounding her newly discovered abilities are mounting, it seems likely that we will uncover if another series similar to Arcane is in store.

4. Timebomb Explodes

Pretend Like It’s The First Time

Episode 7 was a crazy journey where we get to see what happened to Ekko, Heimerdinger, and Jayce.

It’s common knowledge among fans that Ekko and Powder, also known as Jinx, share an intimate bond. The fandom has coined their relationship “Timebomb,” and the excitement surged when it was revealed that they are in a romantic relationship in the preferred timeline. I practically shouted with joy when they shared a kiss.

It’s equally sad when Ekko suggests pretending it’s their first encounter, as we understand that he won’t remain in this reality and will miss out on re-living this moment again.

As a gamer, I’d put everything on the line, even my own happiness across all realms, to ensure the safety of my timeline. And let me tell you, it was a treat to witness Timebomb in action during the climactic battle.

3. Cait/Vi Intimate Moments

And The Crowd Goes Wild!

Fans are thrilled with any tender scene featuring Caitlyn and Vi, but they’re eagerly asking for extended sequences where Caitlyn and Vi engage in a more intense interaction.

Fortunately for numerous CaitVi fans, the beloved lesbian romance in the series unexpectedly intensifies with a spicy scene, following Jinx’s escape and suicide declaration in episode 8.

From a gamer’s perspective, it was refreshing to finally witness the blossoming of Caitlyn and Vi’s relationship, a heartfelt moment amidst the usual chaos of battle and carnage. It’s significant too, as it offers representation for queer relationships in our gaming world.

Arcane’s writers are experts at teasing character romances to where fans are just begging for more.

In addition, this setting is complemented by the tune “Fantastic” from renowned LGBTQ+ figure, King Princess. She is particularly recognized for her music that delves into themes of queer romance and sorrow.

Based on a discussion between YouTube content creator Necrit and the show’s producer, Christian Linke, it appears that an extended and more passionate romantic scene was initially planned but ultimately toned down. It goes without saying that fans of CaitVi found this truncated version disappointing.

2. “He’s Your Dad Too”

I’m Not Crying, You’re Crying!

As for me, episode 5 concluded in a heart-wrenching manner as Vi, Jinx, and Vander were brought back together.

Following Vander’s release from his frenzy, viewers are privy to a heartfelt flashback revealing the backstory of Vi and Jinx’s mother. Moreover, this moment is made even more exciting as it showcases a long-awaited meeting between Vander (the father) and not just his two daughters, but also Isha.

In this particular scene, there’s a sweetness that we haven’t witnessed among this family since Season 1, and it comes as quite an emotional punch. The touching moment when they all hug Vi while reinforcing their bond with Jinx serves as a powerful trigger, making the show feel like it’s ready to set off a tearful response from viewers.

The harshness of the world has so drastically transformed the trio, it’s as if they’re completely different people compared to their Season 1 selves.

1. Isha’s Sacrifice

We’ve Run Out Of Tissues

Is it shocking to you that this one ranked so highly on the list? The emotional climax of Act 2 left everyone in tears, unwilling to accept that Isha gave her life to protect everyone.

Her charm has made such an impact on us that fans have felt the full range of emotions, from shock and denial to anger and bargaining, as they’ve coped with the sadness of her selfless act to protect everyone, which resembles their journey through the five stages of grief.

Between Act 2 and 3, some enthusiasts speculated that Ekko might manipulate time, whereas others laid the blame for the misfortunes of that particular episode squarely on Jayce’s shoulders.

The song that came along only intensified our tears further. Sung by renowned Hong Kong artist Eason Chan, the Chinese lyrics conveyed Isha’s heartfelt appreciation towards Jinx and her selfless act as a way to repay her kindness.

Read More

2024-12-06 14:39