Attack on Titan: The Best Anime Reveal in History?

Despite its flaws, Attack on Titan remains a masterpiece. Through Hajime Isayama’s brilliant storytelling and world-building skills, he has given us a work of art that will be cherished for years to come. The series delves into thought-provoking themes of conflicting philosophies in character growth, making it a one-of-a-kind story.

In addition, the series gained recognition for its astonishing revelations. Each one left audiences shocked and was cleverly executed in an unexpected manner. Specifically, this article will delve into the reveal of the Armoured Titan and the Colossal Titan’s identities. The way in which this reveal was presented sets a high standard that few modern anime can hope to match.

Please note: This article contains spoilers for Attack on Titan and reflects the writer’s personal opinions.

Attack on Titan: Unmatched with One of Anime’s Best Reveals

In Attack on Titan, it was revealed that Reiner Braun and Bertholdt Hoover were titan shifters – specifically, Reiner was the Armored Titan and Bertholdt was the Colossal Titan. This reveal was foreshadowed by subtle hints and clues throughout the series, as is typical for major plot twists.

However, unlike previous cases, there was no build-up leading to this moment. The reveal occurred after the Cout Regiment regrouped on top of Wall Rose. It was then that Ymir’s Titan powers were exposed and Historia pleaded with Hange, assuring her that she was not a danger to humanity. Meanwhile, a short distance away, Reiner recounted his second encounter with a Titan, which had left him visibly distressed. Eren sympathized with him, understanding the toll that being away from his hometown for an extended period of time can take.

As the rest of the Regiment prepared to leave, Reiner took Eren aside and revealed their true identities as the Armored and Colossal Titans. This prompted Mikasa to try and attack them, but her efforts were in vain. Both Reiner and Bertholdt transformed, and Eren followed suit in order to face them in battle.

Bertholdt and Reiner Braun (Image via Wit Studio)

Despite the passage of time, this scene will undoubtedly continue to hold its place as one of the greatest reveals in anime. The sheer randomness of every element in this scene is what truly sets it apart and makes it a masterpiece. Notably, the way it seamlessly shifts between Hange’s theories and Reiner’s muted confession adds to its brilliance, almost as if the audience should disregard it and pay attention to the scouts instead.

This particular scene effectively creates a sense of cognitive dissonance, preventing viewers from suspecting Reiner and Bertholdt. It is puzzling to see these two characters, who have formed a strong bond with the protagonist, revealed as Titans. It is also unexpected for them to be the ones responsible for a major plot twist. These questions deflect attention away from them. However, it was this very aspect that Isayama used to surprise everyone.

The reveal of Reiner and Bertholdt will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in anime history. Reiner’s tense confession, Mikasa’s swift response, and the dramatic transformation of the pair, all accompanied by a perfectly fitting soundtrack, made for an absolutely phenomenal scene. It is highly improbable that any recent anime could match the impact of this moment, as it takes something truly extraordinary to create such a powerful scene, a feat that perhaps only Isayama could achieve.

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