Isekai Anime That Kills Off Important Characters

Summary

Major character deaths in Isekai series fuel plot twists and character development.
Deaths of important characters raise stakes, making plots memorable for viewers.
Isekai series like Sword Art Online, Jobless Reincarnation, and Re:Zero feature impactful character deaths.

Although Isekai genre is known for its vibrant fantasy setting and generally positive tone, several series delve into darker narratives where the demise of crucial characters happens frequently. These deaths not only introduce significant plot changes but also foster character growth and evoke strong feelings among viewers worldwide.

Important character deaths are usually sudden and not pleasurable, especially when they involve allies of the main character. Such deaths increase the tension and leave lasting impressions because they often mark significant turning points in the series. For some dedicated viewers, these shows become nail-biters due to the unpredictable nature of the storylines – even beloved characters can be taken out at any moment.

10. Sword Art Online

Unexpected Losses That Pushed The Journey Forward

In the initial Sword Art Online, participants found themselves trapped in a deadly game. The demise of several players served as a driving force behind Kirito’s transformation, leading him to take on a solitary role and rescue others. Contrary to popular belief that Sword Art Online is not excessively brutal with character deaths, significant characters – both good and bad – have been eliminated throughout the storyline to advance the plot.

As an observer, I found the demises of notable figures such as Kayaba Akihiko, Eugeo, Quinella, Sachi, and even members of the Moonlit Black Cats guild to be startling and impactful, given their significant contributions to the storyline.

9. Grimgar: Ashes And Illusions

A Leader’s Sacrifice

In a magical realm with harsh conditions, individuals from our world find themselves, without any memories of their past lives. To endure this new existence, they must unite into a group, or a party, to combat fearsome creatures and stay alive. Among them stands Manato, an appealing and dependable figure who assumes the role of a priest and leader. He frequently offers healing and backup during conflicts.

During a goblin-hunting expedition, Manato’s team encountered an unexpected attack, leaving Manato, their leader, wounded in the back. Despite his injuries, he prioritized the safety of his comrades before passing away. The loss of Manato was deeply felt by the group, and Haruhiro took on the mantle as their new leader due to Manato’s significant role within the party and his supportive nature. His untimely demise came as quite a shock, to put it mildly.

8. Jobless Reincarnation

A Father’s Sacrifice In The Face Of Danger

Following years filled with little significance, a 34-year-old individual identified as NEET tragically meets an accidental end. Subsequently, he is reborn and resolves to spend this fresh chapter of existence purposefully and cultivate stronger bonds with those close by, particularly his father, Paul Greyrat.

I once witnessed a heartwarming tale, where a father named Paul, who was both nurturing and accident-prone, motivated his son, Rudeus, to strive towards being a noble man. Unfortunately, during a selfless rescue mission to save his wife and Rudeus’ mother, they encountered the fearsome Manatite Hydra. In the end, they managed to overcome it, but alas, Paul was fatally severed by the hydra in an abrupt, understated conclusion that only amplified the emotional impact of his demise.

7. That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime

The Inevitable Farewell Of An Ally

Rimuru Tempest is deeply moved by the loss of life among his friends, evident in his intense anger over Shion’s death and his efforts to bring her back to life, as well as reviving his subjects. Yet, despite his immense power, there are some deaths that Rimuru simply cannot prevent.

Shizue Izawa’s demise aptly demonstrates this, as Rimuru is compelled to cope with it while maintaining her body and carrying on. Despite his nature, Rimuru doesn’t typically resort to killing or allowing death, but the That Time I Got Reincarnated As A Slime anime series has proven that it’s capable of eliminating significant characters to advance the plot.

6. Re: Creators

The Conviction And Death Of Mamika’s Idealism

In a unique twist of events, an assortment of characters hailing from diverse fictitious realms are suddenly whisked into our actual world, becoming entities we refer to as creations, each with their existence managed by human “authors.” Mamika Kirameki is a magical girl originating from a made-up anime dimension within the Re: Creators universe; her character exudes warmth and high-mindedness.

In the fierce conflict between Mamika and Altair, Mamika falls, yet manages to convey vital details about Altair’s scheme and capacity to influence others before her demise. This selfless act of Makima ultimately bonds the main characters together, enabling them to devise a strategic approach against Altair.

5. Re:Zero

Endless Loss Despite Subaru’s Power

When discussing Isekai anime with a somber tone, Re:Zero is certainly worth mentioning. This show delves into the tumultuous existence of Natsuki Subaru, who repeatedly witnesses his friends meeting unfortunate ends in various plots, all while attempting to utilize his “return by death” power to alter the course of events and save them.

Regrettably, despite Subaru’s exceptional talent, he has frequently seen his companions – crucial figures within the storyline – perish on numerous occasions. However, not every character revives, even when his “power to reverse death” is invoked, as some demises are irreversible.

4. Saga Of Tanya The Evil

The Cost Of War Comes With The Fall of Heroes

In many anime shows, it’s been depicted that there’s no clear-cut distinction between absolute good and evil. This becomes even more complex when discussing wars, such as those where Tanya Von Degurechaff participates. Interestingly, the series is told from Tanya’s perspective, often casting her enemy empire in a negative light, with their powerful figures being eliminated.

In the captivating tale of “Saga of Tanya the Evil,” I witnessed characters such as Anson Sioux and his daughter portray significant roles. They showcased remarkable military prowess, yet found themselves in opposition to the story’s main character. Consequently, their fate was sealed by the hands of the protagonist.

3. Faraway Paladin

The Passing Of Strong Parent Figures

In this anime show, we follow young William who’s nurtured by three supernatural beings – a formidable warrior, a compassionate priestess, and an enlightened sorcerer. Over time, William learns about his past and the connection he shares with these figures. It appears, though, that William is destined to be involved in their future demise.

In a poignant and heart-wrenching manner, this anime series eliminates certain characters who were not only close companions but also the dearest individuals to William’s life. This act underscores the idea that few, if any, characters are irreplaceable in driving the story forward.

2. No Game, No Life

Gave Everything For A Victory They Never Saw

The animated series “No Game, No Life” is renowned for its intricate storylines and captivating characters. In the film “No Game No Life: Zero”, it demonstrated that it can also evoke powerful emotions, such as sadness, as significant characters meet their untimely demise.

In this scenario, we find Schwi and Riku, characters with striking similarities to Sora and Shiro in behavioral traits. They were the ones who tirelessly strove to bring an end to the devastating Great War within the realm of Disboard. Regrettably, they did not survive long enough to see their efforts bear fruit and the war come to a close.

1. Log Horizon

A Unique Death That Breeds Emotional Turmoil

In terms of significant character deaths, Log Horizon does indeed have its share, yet it distinguishes itself from other isekai series that often resort to shocking death scenes. Instead, the unique environment of the series results in characters who seemingly die but actually lose their memories of their previous lives, as they are now confined within a game world.

In the world of Log Horizon, the way death occurs presents a terror that surpasses the fear of death itself. This is especially true for characters who retain their original identities as the only factor separating them from non-playable characters (NPCs). The emotional distress caused by this simulated “death” becomes all the more intense.

2025-01-14 08:04