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Anime Endings That Left Fans Divided

 

Anime Endings That Left Fans DividedStory pin image

Anime endings can make or break a series, and while some finales wrap up stories perfectly, others leave fans with mixed feelings. Whether due to unexpected twists, ambiguous conclusions, or controversial storytelling choices, these anime endings have sparked debate among viewers. Here are some of the most divisive anime endings of all time.

1. Neon Genesis Evangelion

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Neon Genesis Evangelion

Genre: Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi

The original ending of Neon Genesis Evangelion left many fans confused and frustrated. Instead of a traditional finale, the series shifted into an abstract and psychological exploration of Shinji’s mind. While some praised its philosophical depth, others felt unsatisfied. The later film, End of Evangelion, attempted to provide a more conventional conclusion, but it still left fans debating its meaning.

 

2. Attack on Titan

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Attack on Titan

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Drama

The final season of Attack on Titan brought years of storytelling to an end, but not without controversy. The fate of Eren Yeager and the resolution of the war between Marley and Eldia left many fans either deeply moved or disappointed. While some appreciated the tragic and poetic nature of the ending, others felt it didn’t live up to the series’ buildup.

 

3. Death Note

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Death Note

Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Supernatural

Death Note is widely regarded as one of the best psychological anime, but its ending remains polarizing. After Light Yagami’s intense cat-and-mouse game with L, the introduction of Near and Mello in the second half of the series left some fans feeling the final showdown was underwhelming. Light’s downfall was inevitable, but the way it played out divided audiences.

 

4. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

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Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Genre: Action, Drama, Mecha

The ending of Code Geass is one of the most debated in anime history. Lelouch’s self-sacrificial plan, the Zero Requiem, left many viewers emotional and impressed, while others were left questioning whether his actions were justified. The debate over whether Lelouch truly died or lived on also added to the discussion.

 

5. The Promised Neverland (Season 2)

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The Promised Neverland (Season 2)

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Sci-Fi

Season 1 of The Promised Neverland was a critically acclaimed adaptation, but Season 2’s rushed and condensed ending left fans outraged. Many key story arcs from the manga were skipped, and the anime concluded with a slideshow-style montage rather than a fully developed narrative. Fans of the source material were particularly disappointed by how the story was handled.

 

6. Darling in the Franxx

Story pin image
Darling in the Franxx

Genre: Mecha, Romance, Sci-Fi

What started as a promising mecha romance anime took an unexpected turn in its final episodes. The sudden introduction of an alien race and the fate of Hiro and Zero Two left fans with mixed emotions. While some appreciated the emotional conclusion, others felt the ending was rushed and disconnected from the earlier themes of the series.

 

7. Steins;Gate 0

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Steins;Gate 0

Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller, Drama

The sequel to Steins;Gate had big shoes to fill, and while it provided an alternate timeline to the original story, its ending left some fans unsatisfied. The emotional impact was undeniable, but some felt it lacked the depth and resolution of the first series’ conclusion.

 

8. Berserk (1997 & 2016 Adaptations)

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Berserk (1997 & 2016 Adaptations)

Genre: Action, Dark Fantasy, Adventure

Both the 1997 and 2016 adaptations of Berserk ended on frustrating cliffhangers, leaving fans longing for a true continuation of Guts’ journey. The abrupt way the anime adaptations concluded, particularly after the intense Eclipse event, remains a major point of contention among fans.

Final Thoughts

Anime endings can be subjective—what one fan finds brilliant, another may see as disappointing. These divisive finales continue to spark debate in the anime community, proving just how passionate viewers are about storytelling.

Which anime ending left you the most conflicted? Let us know in the comments!


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