Attack on Titan Final Review: A Modern Anime Masterpiece

By Live SM Team

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Attack on Titan Final Review: A Modern Anime Masterpiece

Attack on Titan has captivated audiences worldwide, cementing its place as a landmark in modern anime. With its gripping narrative, unforgettable characters, and shocking twists, the series has redefined what anime can achieve.

The final episode of this iconic series brought with it a wave of emotions and debates, leaving anime fans to ponder its legacy for years to come.

From the first season’s introduction of the colossal titan to the breathtaking conclusion in season 4, Attack on Titan has delivered an unforgettable journey.

As the story of Eren Yeager and the survey corps unfolds, its exploration of human nature, world building, and complex character development has set a standard for the best anime series of our time. This review delves into what made the attack on titan series a true masterpiece.

The Legacy of Attack on Titan Across Seasons

Attack on Titan Final Review: A Modern Anime Masterpiece
Image Credit: Crunchyroll

From the First Season to the Last Season

Attack on Titan’s journey from its first season to the last season has been nothing short of extraordinary. The anime, which began under Wit Studio, introduced audiences to a brutal yet captivating world filled with towering threats like the colossal titan.

The first season set the stage with its breathtaking animation quality and harrowing storylines, quickly grabbing the attention of both anime fans and manga readers. From the moment Eren Yeager declared his resolve to destroy all titans, the series established itself as a thrilling ride.

As the story progressed into season 3, pivotal moments began to reshape the narrative. This third season introduced new layers to the conflict, focusing on the secrets of the royal bloodline and revealing the true nature of king fritz’s regime.

It also highlighted some of the best character development in the series, especially through Erwin Smith’s unwavering determination and the growing maturity of Armin Arlert. By the time season 4 arrived, the anime transitioned to MAPPA studio, marking a shift in art style and tone.

The buildup to the final battle was intense, showcasing the complexities of war and human nature.

The final season, divided into multiple parts, brought the narrative to its climax. It explored the devastating consequences of Eren’s transformation into a mass murderer, wielding the power of the founding titan to threaten the entire world.

This shift in perspective challenged viewers to grapple with the morality of the main character’s actions, a theme that resonated deeply throughout the attack on titan series.

Comparisons to Other Popular TV Shows

Attack on Titan’s success often draws comparisons to other iconic TV shows, both within and outside the anime genre. For instance, its intricate storytelling and unforgettable plot twists echo the brilliance of Death Note and Code Geass.

Much like these series, Attack on Titan has a knack for keeping viewers on edge with its shock value and unpredictable narrative turns. From the declaration of war scenes to the jaw-dropping revelations about titan powers, no one can deny the impact of its storytelling.

Outside of anime, parallels have been drawn with Game of Thrones, particularly in the way both series handle moral ambiguity and the downfall of characters.

Also read: 15 Highest Rated Anime of All Time (Fan-Voted 2025)

Eren’s descent into villainy, much like certain figures in Game of Thrones, forces audiences to question their own understanding of heroism and justice. The series also rivals One Piece in its world building, with Paradis Island and the larger world intricately woven into the story’s fabric.

However, where One Piece thrives on optimism and adventure, Attack on Titan delves into the darker aspects of human nature and survival.

Ultimately, Attack on Titan has managed to stand alongside these titans of storytelling by forging its own identity. Its ability to balance high-stakes drama with deeply emotional moments has earned it a place among the greatest anime and TV shows of all time.

Character Development and Evolution

Attack on Titan Final Review: A Modern Anime Masterpiece
Image Credit: Crunchyroll

Main Characters and Their Growth

The character development in Attack on Titan is one of its most compelling aspects, and it is particularly evident in the growth of its main characters.

Eren Yeager’s transformation from a determined yet naïve boy into the attack titan and, ultimately, a mass murderer is both tragic and thought-provoking.

His journey is a testament to the series’ exploration of human nature, as Eren’s actions are driven by a mix of desperation, trauma, and a warped sense of justice. Eren’s death in the series finale adds a layer of finality to his tragic arc, leaving fans to ponder the cost of his decisions.

Mikasa Ackerman, on the other hand, represents unwavering loyalty and strength. Her relationship with Eren and her role in the final battle highlight her emotional depth and resilience.

Meanwhile, Armin Arlert emerges as a beacon of hope and leadership within the scout regiment. His strategic mind and ability to see the humanity in others make him one of the best characters in the entire series.

Together, these three characters form the emotional core of the story, each influencing the fate of the world in their own way.

Beyond the main characters, side characters like Erwin Smith and Hange Zoe add layers of complexity to the narrative.

Erwin’s sacrifice during the battle of heaven and earth remains one of the most heartbreaking moments in the series, while Hange’s curiosity and courage bring a sense of optimism amidst the chaos.

These characters, along with others like Levi Ackerman and Historia Reiss, prove that no one in the attack on titan series is without purpose or depth.

The Beast Titan and Other Major Titans

The various titans in the series serve as both physical and symbolic representations of the story’s themes. The beast titan, with its terrifying presence and intelligence, plays a crucial role in many of the series’ battles.

Also read: Naruto vs One Piece: Which Anime Is Better?

Its wielder, Zeke Yeager, embodies the complex relationship between the Eldians and Marleyans, often blurring the lines between hero and villain. His dynamic with Eren further highlights the conflicting ideologies that drive the series.

The warhammer titan, though short-lived, leaves a significant impact with its unique abilities and the shocking twist of its defeat. Similarly, the jaw titan plays an important role in the final battle, showcasing the brutal realities of war.

However, it is the founding titan that stands at the center of the story’s conflict. Its connection to Ymir Fritz and the history of titan powers reveals the deeply rooted struggles of an entire world shaped by fear and oppression.

Through these titans, the series not only delivers incredible action sequences but also delves into the moral and existential dilemmas faced by its characters.

Each titan, from the attack titan to the colossal titan, contributes to the narrative’s richness and complexity, making them unforgettable elements of the attack on titan series.

World Building and Real-Life Parallels

One of Attack on Titan’s most remarkable achievements is its intricate world building, which immerses viewers into a society fraught with conflict, isolation, and survival.

The series begins with the isolated world of Paradis Island, where humanity’s remnants live behind towering walls, shielded from the threat of titans.

As the story unfolds, the truth about the world outside the walls and the larger geopolitical landscape is gradually revealed, adding new dimensions to the narrative.

Paradis Island’s isolation serves as a mirror to real-world issues, such as xenophobia, propaganda, and the fear of the unknown. The islanders are manipulated into believing they are humanity’s last hope, unaware of the vast world beyond their borders.

This revelation comes with the introduction of Marley, a militaristic nation that oppresses the Eldian people while exploiting titan powers.

The themes of oppression, civil war, and cyclical hatred resonate deeply, drawing parallels to human history and modern conflicts. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and society.

One of the most poignant aspects of the series is its exploration of Stockholm syndrome and the psychological toll of war. Characters like Reiner Braun struggle with their identities as they are torn between their allegiance to Marley and their bonds with the people of Paradis.

These moments provide a stark reminder of the emotional scars that conflict leaves behind, making the story all the more impactful.

Additionally, the series touches on themes of morality, freedom, and the cost of survival. Eren Yeager’s transformation into a mass murderer reflects the darker aspects of human nature, raising questions about whether the ends justify the means.

The final season’s depiction of the battle of heaven and earth underscores the futility of violence and the cyclical nature of hatred. These elements of world building elevate Attack on Titan beyond a simple action series, making it a thought-provoking reflection of the real world.

Plot Twists, Shock Value, and the Manga Ending

Attack on Titan Final Review: A Modern Anime Masterpiece
Image Credit: Crunchyroll

The Biggest Surprises in the Series

Attack on Titan is renowned for its ability to deliver shocking plot twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. One of the most memorable twists is the revelation of Eren Yeager’s true motives and his decision to unleash the rumbling.

This act of mass destruction, driven by his desire to protect Paradis Island, transforms Eren from a hero into a complex and controversial figure. The impact of Eren’s death in the series finale further cements his legacy as one of the most polarizing characters in anime history.

The time travel twist, involving Eren’s ability to influence past events through the power of the founding titan, is another game-changing moment.

This revelation redefines the entire series, showing that Eren’s actions were not only driven by his own will but also shaped by the memories and decisions of others. It adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, forcing viewers to reevaluate the events of the entire series.

The end credit scene of the final episode also sparked significant discussions among anime fans and manga readers.

Its connection to the manga’s conclusion provides closure while leaving room for interpretation, ensuring that the series continues to be a topic of debate and analysis. These twists, combined with the series’ shock value, make Attack on Titan a masterclass in storytelling.

Fan Reactions to the Series Finale

The series finale of Attack on Titan has elicited a wide range of reactions from fans and critics alike. While many praised it as a perfect ending that stayed true to the manga’s vision, others expressed disappointment, particularly regarding the pacing and certain narrative choices.

The debates surrounding the finale are reminiscent of other divisive conclusions, such as those of Game of Thrones and Code Geass.

Some anime fans appreciated the thematic depth and emotional weight of the ending, highlighting its exploration of sacrifice, forgiveness, and the possibility of breaking the cycle of hatred.

For these viewers, the final battle and its aftermath offered a fitting conclusion to the series’ overarching themes. Others, however, felt that certain elements, such as Eren’s death and his motivations, could have been handled better.

Despite these differing opinions, it is undeniable that the series finale left a lasting impact on its audience.

The voice acting performances by Yuki Kaji, Yui Ishikawa, and Marina Inoue brought the characters to life with incredible emotional depth, enhancing the power of the story’s conclusion.

Hiroyuki Sawano’s music also played a crucial role in elevating key moments, with tracks like “Ashes on the Fire” and “YouSeeBIGGIRL” becoming iconic parts of the anime’s identity.

Ultimately, the manga ending and its anime adaptation have solidified Attack on Titan’s status as one of the greatest anime of all time. Its ability to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and spark conversation ensures that it will be remembered for generations to come.

Whether fans view the finale as a triumph or a missed opportunity, the attack on titan series has undeniably left an indelible mark on modern anime.

Final Thoughts on Attack on Titan’s Impact

Attack on Titan has left an undeniable legacy as one of the greatest anime of its time, with its impact resonating far beyond the anime community.

The series masterfully combined stunning animation quality, a gripping narrative, and unforgettable characters to create a cultural phenomenon.

From the haunting melodies of Hiroyuki Sawano’s soundtrack to the powerful performances of voice actors like Yuki Kaji, Yui Ishikawa, and Marina Inoue, every aspect of the anime was crafted with precision and care.

One of the key elements that set Attack on Titan apart was its ability to tackle profound themes, such as human nature, morality, and the cost of freedom.

The exploration of these themes, coupled with the series’ world building and shocking plot twists, elevated it beyond entertainment to a thought-provoking reflection of the real world.

Its comparisons to modern anime classics like Code Geass, Death Note, and even globally renowned TV shows like Game of Thrones highlight its widespread influence and ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with storytelling giants.

As anime fans continue to revisit the series and debate its intricacies, the attack on titan series remains a benchmark for future creators. It not only set new standards for anime adaptation but also proved that anime could tackle complex narratives with the same intensity as any other medium.

Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer, the series serves as a testament to what anime can achieve when it pushes the boundaries of storytelling and art.

Live SM Team

Live SM Team loves anime and shares easy guides, rankings, and reviews to help fans find what to watch next. Whether you are new or experienced, the team makes anime fun and simple to explore.

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