The popular anime and manga series Attack on Titan has left fans with mixed feelings about its ending. What started as a gripping tale of survival and mystery turned into a complex story, value of freedom, war, and morality. While some fans appreciate the series’ bold conclusion, others have voiced disappointment. Here’s a closer look at why Attack on Titan‘s ending divided its loyal audience.
One major point of debate is the fate of the main character, Eren Yeager. Throughout the series, Eren transforms from a passionate young hero fighting to protect his people into a complex figure willing to commit extreme acts to achieve freedom. His decision to activate the “Rumbling” and cause mass destruction shocked fans.
In the final chapters, Eren’s journey ends tragically. He sacrifices himself in an attempt to secure peace for his friends and the Eldian people. Some fans saw this as a fitting conclusion to his arc, portraying him as a tragic hero. Others felt that his death was unsatisfying and didn’t match his earlier determination to fight for freedom.
The Ambiguous Resolution
Another reason for the divided opinions is the ambiguous resolution of the story. After Eren’s death, peace is not fully achieved. Although the immediate threat to the Eldians is removed, tensions between nations remain. Some readers appreciated this realistic portrayal, as true peace is rarely simple. However, many fans wanted a more definitive and hopeful ending.
Additionally, the portrayal of Mikasa, Armin, and other key characters in the aftermath left some viewers unsatisfied. Mikasa’s grief and longing for Eren were seen by some as a poignant expression of love, while others believed it undermined her personal growth.
One of the strengths of Attack on Titan has always been its exploration of complex themes, such as sacrifice, morality, and freedom. The ending continued this exploration but took it in a darker direction. Some fans praised the series for staying true to its thought-provoking nature, while others felt overwhelmed by its bleak tone.
Hajime Isayama, the creator of Attack on Titan, has spoken about the challenges of ending such a beloved series. He admitted feeling pressure to meet fans’ expectations and acknowledged that not everyone would be happy with the conclusion. Despite the backlash, he expressed gratitude for the fans who supported his vision.
The ending of Attack on Titan will likely remain a topic of debate for years to come. Some fans admire its daring storytelling and realistic approach, while others mourn the loss of the hopeful tone present in earlier arcs.
Regardless of opinions on the ending, Attack on Titan has left an undeniable mark on the world of anime and manga. Its legacy as a thought-provoking, action-packed series is secure, even if its conclusion divided its loyal fanbase.
