10 anime series with the most satisfying endings

Anime’s distinct animation style, imaginative plots, and intricate characters have enticed viewers from all corners of the globe.

The most impactful anime endings leave fans with a sense of satisfaction instead of disappointment. They provide a sense of conclusion after a lengthy and engaging journey, while also leaving room for fans to speculate about the future. While saying goodbye is never easy, a well-crafted finale serves as a reminder to fans of the reasons why they became enamored with the series.

Please note that this article contains spoilers for the mentioned animes and reflects the writer’s personal opinions.

Top 10 anime series with satisfying endings

1. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (Image via Bones)

After 64 thrilling episodes, the final installment of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood marks the end of the Elric brothers’ arduous yet uplifting journey to reclaim their physical forms, which were forfeited in a botched effort to bring their deceased mother back to life using alchemy.

Despite the bittersweet tone, the ending concludes with the brothers parting ways – Al finally regains his human form while Ed sacrifices his alchemy in order to restore Al’s body to its original state.

After years of subtle hints at their deeper connection, Winry and Ed finally confess their feelings for each other and officially begin a romantic relationship. The ending is both emotional and conclusive, while still allowing fans to imagine what the future holds for these beloved characters.

Cowboy Bebop

The conclusion of the beloved sci-fi series Cowboy Bebop is marked by tragedy but also carries significant depth. The main character, Spike Spiegel, who exudes a calm and collected persona and is skilled in combat, ultimately faces his fate in a final showdown against his archenemy Vicious, the notorious leader of the Red Dragon Syndicate.

The anticipated conclusion to their final confrontation catches both characters and fans by surprise with its emotional impact. After facing his past, Spike bravely but wearily embraces the uncertain future and collapses with a smile to the tune of Blue by Yoko Kanno.

Despite causing great disappointment among fans, Spike’s conclusion flawlessly encapsulates the essence of this elegant, thought-provoking, and genre-defying masterpiece.

3. Steins;Gate

Despite numerous attempts, protagonist Rintaro Okabe is unable to change the fate of Makise Kurisu’s death in the popular sci-fi thriller Steins;Gate. However, in a satisfying conclusion, Okabe ultimately finds a way to outsmart time and bring about a future where both Kurisu and Mayuri can survive. This brings his intense journey through time to a complete circle.

The conclusion of Steins;Gate brings an emotional reunion between Okabe and his childhood friend Mayuri, as well as hinting at the future of his strong bond with Kurisu. The finale, with its themes of sacrifice and hard-earned triumph over the constraints of space and time, has made a lasting impression on the anime industry.

4. Gurren Lagann

The final battle in the grand space opera Gurren Lagann is a remarkable and symbolic event in anime history. Simon, the main character, engages in an epic confrontation with the Anti-Spiral, resulting in the destruction of universes but also the creation of new ones.

Despite losing his beloved Nia, Simon bravely embarks on the never-ending journey of spiral power that was meant for him. Through Simon’s composed and wise embrace of both happiness and sadness, the conclusion perfectly captures the central themes of resilience and personal growth in the aftermath of heartbreak.

Just like the series Gurren Lagann, the finale maintains a grand scale while still staying grounded in its humanity.

5. Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Image via Gainax)

Despite leading viewers on a trippy exploration of its characters’ psyches for more than twelve episodes, the groundbreaking mecha anime Neon Genesis Evangelion concludes with a surreal yet strangely uplifting finale that hits the mark.

The last two episodes of the show heavily center on protagonist Shinji Ikari’s psyche as he grapples with understanding himself and his purpose. The finale sparked significant discussion and even prompted alternate versions, such as films that offered more resolution.

Many fans believe that the intense introspective dive of the original show captures the true essence of Evangelion as an anime that surpasses its medium and genre. However, some argue that the movie The End of Evangelion presents the definitive ending.

Yu Yu Hakusho

Despite facing numerous crises in the Spirit World, Demon World, and Human World, Yusuke’s ultimate choice brings about peace and harmony among the three realms.

The previous punk icon concludes this stage of his journey by residing with humans, rekindling his romance with Keiko after settling the dispute in the Demon World. Yu Yu Hakusho leaves its audience with both tears and smiles, concluding the coming-of-age story of an unforgettable anime hero in a poignant and suitable manner.

7. Samurai Champloo

The conclusion of Samurai Champloo reunites the eccentric yet lovable trio of Mugen, Jin, and Fuu for a heartfelt farewell. Their journey to find the enigmatic samurai with a sunflower scent culminates in the group’s discovery of his whereabouts, prompting Jin’s ultimate showdown with Kariya Kagetoki, a shogunate member.

Despite Jin emerging victorious in the duel, he chooses to show mercy to his defeated opponent, hinting at the transformation he has undergone during his journey with Fuu. Even after going their separate ways, the friends come together once again for a final meal that perfectly encapsulates the unique ‘chanbara hip-hop’ spirit that made this series so impactful and unforgettable.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

After two seasons of strategic political tactics, intense battles between mechas, and significant personal risks, Code Geass concludes with a finale that both fulfills and challenges viewers’ expectations. With the cunning mastermind Lelouch trapped in a difficult situation, he seizes a chance to bring the world together by sacrificing himself as a tyrannical martyr.

In a climactic ending, he orchestrates his own public death by having his friend Suzaku, disguised as Zero – the once beloved symbol of revolution now despised conqueror – carry out the assassination.

Despite sacrificing his life and legacy, Lelouch was able to secure the peaceful future that his sister Nunnally always desired but had often seemed unattainable.

Clannad After Story

Despite the emotionally devastating first half, the magical realist Clannad After Story ultimately provides a heartwarming ending that rewards the investment of fans.

Despite the immense emotional toll of losing his beloved wife Nagisa during childbirth, Tomoya finds solace in a mystical opportunity to save both her and their daughter. In order to seize this chance, he must reconcile with his estranged father before it’s too late.

The conclusion provided a sense of closure for Tomoya’s journey and numerous fans who had accompanied him on this tumultuous adventure. It continues to be one of the most satisfying endings in the world of anime.

10. Hunter x Hunter

Although it faced several breaks in its release, the exciting shonen series Hunter x Hunter concluded its emotional journey in its anime adaptation, while the manga continued to progress.

Following the intense Election arc that resulted in the loss of supporting characters and foreshadowed future dangers, main character Gon is finally reunited with his father, Ging Freecss. This long-awaited reunion brings a sense of finality to Gon’s personal journey.

Prior to concluding, viewers are treated to glimpses of the current status of important characters and hints of potential future clashes. Despite the possibility of further exploits, this final message of appreciation serves as a heartfelt tribute to dedicated fans who have followed author Yoshihiro Togashi’s complex universe and dynamic characters for more than ten years.

Summary

Memorable anime endings effectively wrap up loose threads and evoke strong emotional responses that stay with fans long after the final credits have ended.

Anime has the ability to revisit worlds that we previously bid farewell to years ago. This includes remakes of beloved classics like Evangelion, as well as ongoing fan-favorites like My Hero Academia, which continuously releases new seasons.

Fans can continue to revisit these endings at any time to relive their love for the characters and stories that make anime more than just a niche, but a widely celebrated international art form.