Ending any story is an art form, and anime is no exception. A perfect ending can elevate the reputation of an entire anime series (sometimes even surpassing the original plot crafted by the creators). While a good ending can raise an anime to new heights, it also has the potential to disappoint fans.
Below is a list of the 10 most perfect endings in the entire history of anime:
Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Known as one of the most intelligent main characters in all of anime, the ending of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion aligns perfectly with Lelouch’s far-reaching vision and cleverness. Throughout the series, viewers see Lelouch gradually descend into a path of bloodshed. Until the very end, he stands as a pivotal character in the story, even as the brilliant minds around him turn against him.
However, when no one could reach him, Lelouch openly committed suicide, dying as a symbol of the evil that could potentially bring peace to a war-torn world.
Death Note
Similar to Lelouch, Light is also a brilliant main character in his quest to change the world. However, the key difference between the two is how Light ultimately relinquishes the Death Note. This decision leads Light to gradually lose control of his own fate, ultimately having to accept his downfall.
In the series finale, Matsuda shot Light. He was subsequently forced to flee the scene, as Ryuk wrote Light’s name in the Death Note, concluding the story with a haunting reminder of his demise.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Although the series has many tragic moments, the ending is one of the most heartwarming memories. Despite his love for alchemy, the main character Edward Elric sacrificed it for the sake of his brother, choosing to abandon the power and knowledge over life instead.
In the end, this is a fitting resolution, bringing the story full circle. Ed’s determination to accept the laws of life regarding the death of a human led to his profound realization that he was merely a human and chose to live a humble life with the woman he loved.
Samurai Champloo
While most anime stories feature the main characters staying together and finding happiness in the conclusion, Samurai Champloo takes a different approach. After 25 episodes, Mugen, Jin, and Fuu go on their journey, and the series finale sees the trio part ways, each walking their own path. Clearly, the end of Samurai Champloo does not feel like a conclusion but rather the beginning of individual journeys for each character.
However, these are the journeys that we will likely never witness, leaving us to wonder about the bittersweet nature of life. With the iconic phrase “happiness is fleeting,” Samurai Champloo reminds us that life continues, regardless of where we are or who we are with.
Cowboy Bebop
Set in a future world where crime is rampant, the main character of Cowboy Bebop – Spike Spiegel, lives by bounty hunting. He had built a team while working in this field. However, when his dark past as a member of the Red Dragon Crime Syndicate catches up with him, Spike must bear the heavy burden of his past.
In a face-off with the Syndicate’s leader, Vicious, who is also responsible for the death of Julia (Spike’s love), Spike’s final battle becomes deeply personal. Here lies a poignant yet fitting end as Spike faces the consequences of his actions. Ultimately, he meets his demise after avenging his beloved.
Mob Psycho 100
As a powerful psychic yet emotionally suppressed teenager, Mob navigates life in a constant state of numbness. Finally, when he opens his heart to his crush – Tsubomi Takane, he ends up getting hit by a car while trying to confess his feelings. In a state of emotional turmoil, the injury causes him to express his true feelings.
Unaware of the devastation he is causing, Mob is met with love and support from his friends as he struggles through his emotional journey. Yet, his mentor – Reigen Arataka – helps him realize his worth, allowing Mob to break free from his anxieties. Mob continues to embrace his emotions while gradually growing closer to those around him.
Monster
When Dr. Kenzo Tenma saves a young boy who was shot, he unwittingly sets off a chain of events that leads him to confront a chilling psychopath, Johan. In a story filled with tension, Johan challenges Tenma’s moral decisions and ultimately tests his resolve. As the narrative unfolds, Tenma’s attempt to escape from Johan becomes a desperate struggle.
Instead of escaping, a secondary character takes action against Johan during the climax of Monster. In a masterful use of narrative device, Tenma must confront Johan once again. This time, however, he is determined to save the innocent child within Johan. As Johan escapes from the hospital in the series finale, he does so without harming anyone.
Naruto: Shippuden
The ending of Naruto: Shippuden encompasses everything fans could have hoped for and more. While the manga concluded the story of Naruto and Sasuke after their reunion, the anime extended this moment into Naruto’s wedding day. This arc is particularly satisfying, especially as it encapsulates the entire journey of Naruto and his friends who have supported him throughout.
Naruto’s acknowledgement of Iruka as a father figure is one of the most touching moments in the anime, resonating deeply with viewers who have followed the characters from the very beginning.
Steins;Gate
After accidentally inventing a device capable of time travel, Rintarou Okabe finds himself trapped in a time loop, where he is forced to make choices to save his friend Mayuri from dying. The only way out is to jump to another timeline. However, doing so risks losing his feelings for Kurisu Makise, the girl he loves.
Ultimately, when he successfully saves Mayuri and Kurisu, Okabe discovers a plan that allows Kurisu to live but forget everything about him. However, the anime takes a surprising turn as Okabe and Kurisu meet again at the series finale. When Kurisu realizes the name Okabe gave her touches her heart from different timelines, it becomes the happiest ending that fans could have ever hoped for.
