The trope of one character making a significant sacrifice is a common theme in many anime series. However, there are certain sacrifices in the medium that are widely considered the greatest of all time. It is no surprise that popular series like Naruto, One Piece, and Fullmetal Alchemist have some of the most memorable and impactful sacrifices in anime history.
Despite not being considered mainstream, having one of the greatest anime sacrifices of all time is not dependent on popularity. In fact, many lesser-known series showcase exceptional examples of sacrifice. While it may be challenging to objectively compare these sacrifices, there is undoubtedly a suitable ranking for some of the most remarkable sacrifices in the medium.
Disclaimer: The Following List Reflects the Opinions of the Author and Their Opinions Only
Greatest Anime Sacrifices
Dimple – Character from Mob Psycho 100
Fans of Mob Psycho 100 witnessed a shift in the character of Dimple in the first half of season 3, as he took on a more antagonistic role. This ultimately led to a significant showdown between Dimple and Mob, but the conflict soon shifted to Dimple’s fight against the Divine Tree, which had gained sentience.
Throughout the ordeal, Dimple makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect Mob and ensure his survival. Despite knowing he will not make it through the upcoming battle, he promises to reunite with his friend later. In the end, Mob’s unwavering faith in Dimple leads to the spirit’s revival at the end of the third season. The intense tension and thrilling moments make it a truly remarkable sacrifice in the world of anime.
Inuyashiki Last Hero
At the beginning of Inuyashiki Last Hero, the main character, Ichiro Inuyashiki, is portrayed as an aging, exhausted, sickly, and undervalued husband and father who is nearing death. However, after an unexpected encounter with a UFO, his circumstances drastically change and he is able to reconnect with his family and feel their love once more.
Despite his strong desire to protect his family, Inuyashiki’s ultimate sacrifice is necessary to save the planet from a massive meteor that threatens to destroy it. In the final scene of the series, viewers are left heartbroken as they witness Inuyashiki willingly sacrifice himself, knowing that his actions will ensure his family’s safety. It is without a doubt one of the most powerful and memorable sacrifices in anime history.
8) Plot Summary of Greed in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Despite being the embodiment of greed, this Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood character’s act of self-sacrifice stands out for its powerful impact and contrast to their previous actions. Throughout the series, Greed had used his host Ling Yao’s body for his own desires, but their relationship eventually evolves into a genuine friendship.
Near the conclusion of the series, Father, the leader of Greed and the other Homunculi, attempts to forcefully absorb Greed back into his body. His plan is to take on Ling’s physical form as well. Despite having enough strength to possibly resist Father, Greed makes the selfless decision to protect Ling instead, resulting in one of the most impactful sacrifices in the anime.
Neji Hyuga – Character from Naruto
Neji Hyuga’s sacrifice during the Fourth Shinobi World War arc of Naruto is widely recognized as one of the most unforgettable and iconic moments in anime. Despite their initial rocky relationship, Neji and his cousin Hinata Hyuga had grown to care for each other deeply. When an attack threatened to harm Hinata, Neji selflessly jumped in front of her to protect her, mirroring her earlier act of bravery when she had put herself in danger to save the main character.
The moment was filled with intense emotions and had a great impact, not just on their relationship but also on Neji’s sense of identity as a member of the branch clan. His entire life was dedicated to protecting the main family, making this sacrifice even more significant. Neji’s final words to Naruto further solidify his selfless act, solidifying it as one of the most remarkable sacrifices in anime history.
Eren Yeager (Attack on Titan)
Despite being a memorable sacrifice in anime, Eren Yeager’s act is overshadowed by the controversy surrounding it, making it challenging to place it among the top anime sacrifices. However, it still deserves recognition in this list for the sacrifices Eren makes to protect his friends and enable them to live without fear.
Despite the criticism surrounding Eren’s actions and the belief that there may have been alternative methods to achieve his goals, his decision to make himself the enemy of the world rather than Paradis was crucial in paving the way for the freedom of Eldians worldwide. This legacy is carried on by his friends even after his death. However, some argue that his ultimate sacrifice in the anime was somewhat circular in its cause and effect, leaving room for debate about whether there were other paths he could have taken.
Lelouch Lamperouge/Vi Britannia – Main Character of Code Geass
Throughout the entirety of Code Geass, Lelouch is portrayed as a strategic genius. The fact that his sacrificial death at the end of the series is so shocking only further solidifies its place among the greatest anime sacrifices in history. Despite some criticism regarding Lelouch’s thought process leading up to the sacrifice, the decision itself remains impactful and unexpected.
Similarly, the sacrifice holds great significance in a canonical sense as Lelouch’s plan to end the animosity between Britannia and Japan was ultimately successful in the world of the series. Like Eren, Lelouch’s main drive was to safeguard his loved ones and he ultimately achieved this goal, despite facing obstacles throughout his journey.
Character Profile: Vegeta from Dragon Ball Z
One of the most iconic sacrifices in anime is Vegeta’s during the Buu Saga of Dragon Ball Z, appropriately listed at the top half of the greatest anime sacrifices ever. Its impact and significance are undeniable, as it has left behind a lasting legacy and is often considered the definitive sacrifice in anime by many.
One of the main reasons why it is so adored is due to the dialogue that accompanies this selfless act, in which Vegeta finally embraces his humanity and identifies as an Earthling. In doing so, he expresses his love for his wife Bulma, his son Trunks, his rival Son Goku, and all the other people he has encountered during his journey thus far on Earth.
Erwin Smith (Attack on Titan)
Despite Eren’s foresight and belief in the success of his sacrifice, Erwin Smith of Attack on Titan chose to make the ultimate sacrifice without the certainty of its impact. Although fans now know that his sacrifice was indeed meaningful, the fact that Erwin was willing to risk his life without any confirmation elevates his sacrifice above Eren’s in the ranking of greatest anime sacrifices.
Despite the full, harrowing context of Erwin’s sacrifice, it is undeniable that his selfless act involved giving up his lifelong dream of uncovering the truth about the world. On the other hand, Eren’s sacrifice directly led to the fulfillment of his own dreams and goals. This solidifies Erwin’s sacrifice as one of the greatest in anime history.
Character Profile: Portgas D. Ace (One Piece)
In contrast to Erwin’s sacrifice, which signifies the end of his dream, Ace’s death in One Piece holds great significance as he dies with his greatest wish fulfilled. This is evident in his final words before passing away with a smile, where he expresses gratitude to those who loved him and even fought against the world to save him.
Despite the sudden and unexpected nature of Ace’s sacrifice, it remains impactful and memorable. Although his rescue from the World Government seemed certain at the time, when considering Ace’s entire character, his origins, and the circumstances surrounding his capture and rescue, it is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable sacrifices in anime history.
Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)
However, it is safe to say that Naruto’s Itachi Uchiha holds the top spot as he sacrificed his reputation and became one of his world’s most despised enemies in order to protect his younger brother, Sasuke. Itachi even went as far as purposely being hated by Sasuke in order to maintain his cover and ensure his brother’s safety and survival.
Upon understanding that Itachi was faced with the difficult decision of choosing between his family and clan and the Hidden Leaf Village, his sacrifice becomes even more devastating. In light of the fundamental values and themes of the Naruto narrative, Itachi’s sacrifice can undoubtedly be considered one of the most monumental sacrifices in all of anime, if not the greatest one overall.
In Summation
In Summation
Despite the numerous sacrifices seen in the world of anime, the ones that truly stand out as the greatest often exhibit similar characteristics. Although there may be exceptions to these patterns, it is evident that these qualities are crucial in creating a profound and impactful anime sacrifice.
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