Top 10 Most Epic Final Arcs in Shonen Manga You Need to Read Now!

Summary

Western comic heroes have ever-changing continuities, unlike manga which often end definitively.
Manga endings can be divisive, with rushed or dragged-out conclusions, but some end sweetly.
Many shōnen manga end on satisfying notes, wrapping up storylines and character arcs effectively.

Unlike western comic book characters whose histories change based on the decisions of their publishers, a manga series concludes permanently once it ends. However, there may be a chance for a revival in later years, as seen with “Kinnikuman”, or the creator might allow others to create spin-off stories. But overall, a manga is typically considered finished and closed.

It’s challenging to create a fitting conclusion for some stories because they may seem hurried, leaving loose ends unresolved. Alternatively, they might prolong the storyline excessively, as publishers prefer to keep the series going for as long as possible. However, many manga, especially shōnen manga, manage to end beautifully and satisfyingly with well-crafted final arcs.

Warning! Spoilers Ahead!

8. Sket Dance

The Mute Member Of The Team Finds His Voice

Creator: Kenta Shinohara
32 Volumes, 288 Chapters
Fan Translations only

Sket Dance, often referred to as the series that collaborated with Gintama on one occasion, revolved around the trio of Sket-dan high school club members who assisted students and faculty in resolving their issues, regardless of size. They offered their assistance selflessly without charging a penny. Despite this altruistic nature, they also grappled with their own challenges that sometimes required more than just a motivational talk to conquer.

The story ranks lower on some readers’ lists due to its abrupt ending and unclear resolution of Sket-dan’s leads Bossun and Himeko’s budding romance. However, it still shines brightest in its most impactful scenes. As for Switch, who had been selectively mute since his brother’s passing, he eventually confronts and overcomes his trauma, learning to trust himself again. This personal growth culminates in him delivering the graduation speech on behalf of Bossun and revealing his feelings to others.

7. Yu-Gi-Oh!

Yugi Finally Gets To Duel Against His Alter-Ego

Creator: Kazuki Takahashi
38 Volumes, 343 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media’s Shōnen Jump imprint

Initially, the game known as Yu-Gi-Oh, famous for being the top seller of collectible card games, had a much grimmer start than its animated versions. In these early stages, Yami Yugi’s games often resulted in harsher consequences for his opponents, even more severe than a Mind Crush. Despite this somber beginning, it continued to follow Yugi and his companions as they endeavored to unravel the enigma of the Millennium Puzzle and discover the origins of Yami Yugi. This was typically done by engaging in Duel Monsters or other games with owners of the remaining puzzle pieces.

The “Ceremonial Battle” arc in the manga sees the ordinary Yugi going head-to-head with Yami Yugi, who is revealed to be the spirit of Pharaoh Atem. If Yugi triumphs, Atem can proceed to the afterlife. However, if Atem emerges victorious, he remains a part of Yugi. This climactic duel serves as an appropriate finale since it demonstrates whether Yugi is prepared to carry on without him following their many battles against different adversaries.

6. Assassination Classroom

The Classroom’s Students Graduate And Must Fulfill Their Duty

Creator: Yusei Matsui
21 Volumes, 187 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media’s Shōnen Jump imprint

In only one manner could the story Assassination Classroom conclude, and this outcome was foreshadowed in its original concept. A powerful, octopus-like creature, going by the name Koro-sensei, imparts assassination skills to a group of troublemakers. His purpose: either they kill him, or he will annihilate Earth. The Japanese government promises a ¥10 billion reward for the successful assassin.

Initially, the students find it challenging because Koro-sensei appears unbeatable. However, as they gain knowledge about his identity, they grow emotionally attached and struggle to harm him. Yet, they had no choice but to eliminate him, or else the government would destroy them and their teacher using a satellite laser. The ending provides a neat resolution, yet it’s as melancholic as endings can be, especially when Koro-sensei delivers his final attendance roll call before it’s over.

5. Bakuman

Manga-Making Duo Finally Achieve Their Dreams

Creators: Tsugumi Ohba (story), Takeshi Obata (art)
20 Volumes, 176 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media’s Shōnen Jump imprint

Bakuman chronicles the journey of manga duo Akagi and Mashiro as they aim to break into the manga industry. Initially hesitant due to his late uncle’s tragic experience in the same field, Mashiro is inspired when he learns that his crush, Miho, intends to pursue a career as a voice actress. In response, Mashiro proposes marriage to Miho if she secures a role in their series’ animated adaptation. She accepts, under the stipulation they maintain no personal contact until then, communicating only through texts and phone calls.

It appears that day might never arrive due to setbacks – Akagi’s writer’s block, Mashiro’s hospitalization, and failing strips. However, they dared to try something new, the comic Reversi, a unique blend of Death Note and Devilman-like elements, which ultimately led to success. Mostly, Miho still faces challenges to secure the female lead role in Reversi. Yet, everything eventually falls into place, offering readers a satisfying ending after overcoming numerous obstacles throughout the series.

4. Slam Dunk

The Final Game Offers More On The Line Than Gold

Creator: Takehiko Inoue
31 Volumes, 276 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media’s Shōnen Jump imprint

In sports narratives, it’s quite typical for the underdogs to claim victory in major competitions, but still, nothing seems more appropriate than this triumphant ending. It feels somewhat disheartening when the main character or leading team reaches the pinnacle only to lose. However, such a loss becomes bearable if they possess a greater narrative beyond the quest for gold. For instance, recall when Shochiku High faced off against Sannoh High in the concluding chapters of ‘Slam Dunk’. This match spanned numerous volumes as both teams scrutinized each other’s strategies and attempted to outmaneuver one another throughout their game.

The story demonstrates the significant transformation of its main character, Sakuragi, from his rebellious youth, when he despised basketball. Moreover, it highlights how much he is willing to sacrifice for his team’s success, even at the risk of a spinal injury to give Shohoku the edge. Although this risk ultimately has negative consequences in the long term, it allows them to prove their worth against Sannoh and showcase the individual players’ athletic abilities. As Sakuragi works towards recovery, we can anticipate more games filled with his determination and skill.

3. Ashita no Joe

Boxer Gives His All To Prove Himself

Creators: Ikki Fujiwara (story), Tetsuya Chiba (art)
20 Volumes, 171 Chapters
Available in English via Kodansha USA’s Vertical Comics imprint

Prior to “Megalo Box” and “Hajime no Ippo”, there existed “Tomorrow’s Joe”. This is one of Japan’s most recognized sports manga series, particularly renowned for its boxing themes. Its legend stems from its timeless underdog narrative, as Joe Yabuki climbs out of juvenile detention to become a top-tier boxer. Another aspect that adds to its fame is its exploration of themes, challenging the exploitation of the less fortunate by those in power and wealth for their amusement.

However, a significant aspect of its legendary standing is rooted in its climactic finale. In this encounter, Joe manages to secure a chance to battle world champion Jose Mendoza, despite being diagnosed with CTE. Mendoza’s manager, Yoko, attempted to halt the match and express her affection for him, but Joe was resolute on demonstrating his full capabilities. Although he lost on points, the outcome of his life might still have been uncertain (the ending has sparked debate among fans for over 50 years). Yet, he achieved a moral triumph by compelling Mendoza to fight the entire 15 rounds, outperforming him in the later stages, and leaving Mendoza visibly shaken at the end of the contest.

2. Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 4: Diamond Is Unbreakable

Serial Killer Gets Their Just Deserts In Life And Death

Creator: Hirohiko Araki
18 Volumes, 174 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media

It’s possible that the distinct characters and settings in each part of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure contribute to its ability to wrap up parts effectively. However, some fans might argue that the most impressive final arc was found in Part 4: Diamond is Unbreakable. Even though Yoshikage Kira believed he had a fresh start as Kosaku Kawajiri using his Stand’s “Bites the Dust” ability, he ultimately fell victim to his own “son,” Hayato. After a grueling battle with Josuke, Kira was left badly beaten and eventually unmasked before all of Morioh as a criminal.

He believes he might return through the “Bites the Dust” power, but it backfires, trapping him in Ghost Alley alongside his initial murder victim, Reimi Sugimoto. He attempts to replace her, resulting in a gruesome end as he’s torn apart and dragged into nothingness. The manga subtly dampens the celebratory atmosphere by disclosing that the family members of Kira’s victims won’t find resolution, because they won’t learn the truth. However, no other town residents will experience their same destiny, and Kira himself will never know tranquility in the afterlife. A just retribution for such a wicked antagonist.

1. Fullmetal Alchemist

The Ultimate Sacrifice Sees Everyone Win Out

Creator: Hiromu Arakawa
27 Volumes, 116 Chapters
Available in English via Viz Media

As a passionate manga enthusiast, I’d never dream of overlooking the masterful final arc in “Fullmetal Alchemist”. This series is frequently hailed as the epitome of a well-executed finale, and for good reason! The Promised Day arc encapsulates the culmination of Father’s multi-century plot to control divine power. In an eerie twist, it almost succeeds, with Father momentarily grasping absolute power at the expense of Amestris’ 50 million souls. Even as the Elric Brothers and their allies valiantly resist Father’s forces, this chilling sequence highlights just how close he came to achieving his goal.

Due to the strategies implemented by Van Hohenheim and Scar, the souls of Amestris were restored, enabling the Elrics and their companions to regain their alchemy abilities. However, they still had one more crucial battle ahead, where they took significant risks to permanently defeat Father. Initially, it appeared that the outcome would be a mix of joy and sorrow, as Alphonse surrendered his soul to restore Edward’s arm. Yet, Edward had vowed at the beginning of their journey to return Alphonse’s physical body, and he forfeited his alchemy abilities to make good on that promise. It was a considerable sacrifice they made to live contentedly in the future.

2025-02-03 09:07