10 exhilarating moments in anime

Have you ever experienced a spine-tingling moment while watching an anime? We certainly have, so we're compiling a list of the most gratifying moments in anime. The primary appeal of anime is its often plot-driven nature, making it worth watching for the storyline alone, which is complemented by compelling characters and action. It's rare for most fictional series to successfully tie everything together in a satisfying way, but when anime achieves this, it can result in some of the most fulfilling moments in animated television.

10. Casca (briefly) comes back to us: Berserk

Following the devastating Eclipse, Casca's once powerful warrior mind has been reduced to that of a vulnerable young girl in the unforgiving world of Berserk. With no recollection of her companions, she harbors an apprehensive attitude towards Guts, her beloved, due to his initial mishandling of her care. After a grueling journey to Elfhelm, with the assistance of Farnese and Schierke, Casca is finally able to regain her lost memories.

Of course, the joyous moments in Berserk never last, so this fleeting instance of genuine hope for Guts and Casca is quickly overshadowed. With Casca finally returned and safe, the purpose of their quest is fulfilled, leaving Guts to ponder if pursuing Griffith is truly worth it or if they should simply live out their lives peacefully on Elfhelm. However, all hopes are dashed when Griffith suddenly intervenes, shattering everything.

9. Trunks kills the androids and Cell in his timeline: Dragon Ball Z

Trunks' narrative is a truly heartbreaking one, especially when the realization dawns that his previous battles with the Z Warriors only exacerbated the situation. Therefore, upon his triumphant return to the future timeline, he effortlessly defeats the androids and an imperfect Cell, giving the impression that he is rectifying his past mistakes.

After encountering a cyborg Frieza, Trunks struggles to match the strength of most adversaries in the Android Saga. He only engages in combat with semi-perfect Cell, much to the displeasure of his proud father Vegeta, who insists on allowing Cell to achieve his perfect form for a true challenge. Despite facing numerous challenges, Trunks finds solace in a one-sided fight and some well-deserved peace when he returns to the future.

8. UNITED STATES OF SMASH: My Hero Academia

Few superpowers in My Hero Academia can rival the strength and charisma of All Might. Even though his battles often leave him as fragile as a skeleton in his original form, he consistently risks it all to fight for justice and defend those he holds dear.

7. Gohan finally puts down Perfect Cell: Dragon Ball Z

Despite the odds stacked against him during his rematch with All for One, All Might managed to execute one final North American-themed attack so patriotic that you could almost hear the eagle cries simultaneously. The cinematic impact, the accompanying music, and the sheer force felt by everyone when the punch landed make this one of the most satisfying moments in modern anime.

Cell's arrival is marked by his grotesque appearance as he goes around absorbing people, eventually attaining his ultimate form that seems unstoppable. However, it is the pre-teen Gohan who ultimately rises to the occasion and claims his spotlight moment in the series.

6. Naruto’s welcome home: Naruto: Shippuden

Kudos to the art team for their intricate portrayal of Cell's destruction. They meticulously depict his disintegration, breaking him down to the last molecule until there's nothing left. It's a fitting conclusion to a series of hard-fought battles for the Z Warriors.

Naruto's aspiration to become Hokage is rooted in his desire to gain acceptance from the people of Hidden Leaf Village and to become a trustworthy and dependable individual in their eyes.

5. Goku turns Super Saiyan and lays the smackdown on Frieza: Dragon Ball Z

Hoping for the public to finally overlook his past mischief and his association with the nine-tailed fox, Naruto receives a hero's welcome, achieving the long-awaited fulfillment of his desires.

This scene from Dragon Ball Z is essential viewing for anyone new to anime. The buildup, the execution, it's all flawless. The Z Warriors helplessly witness Frieza's murder of Krillin, Goku's rage shaking the Namek, the music, the lightning raining from the sky, and finally Goku's transformation, with his hair and eyes changing color into a strange new form that would go on to become one of the most iconic moments in anime history. Nothing more needs to be said.

4. Ash finally becomes a Champion: Pokemon

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Any fan of Pokemon who grew up watching the television series can relate to the disappointment of seeing Ash fall short in the final championship match. However, the series wisely continues Ash's journey to the next region, giving him the opportunity to become a champion in a new setting.

In a satisfying turn of events, Ash finally achieves his dream of becoming a champion in Alola and then again in Galar. His past Pokemon watch from home, and his friends are there to witness the momentous occasion. As viewers, we also share in the excitement of seeing Ash emerge victorious. With this triumph, it is fitting for the series to introduce new protagonists and allow Ash to end on a high note.

3. Roy Mustang exacts his revenge on Envy: Fullmetal Alchemist Brotherhood

Fullmetal Alchemist is filled with deeply satisfying moments, but many of them are accompanied by the heartbreaking experience of loss for the characters in the series. Envy, in particular, suffers a devastating blow with the tragic death of Maes Hughes, who was not only one of the kindest characters in the series, but also the best friend of Colonel Mustang.

2. Scar kills Shou Tucker: Fullmetal Alchemist

Though the display of Mustang's flame alchemy is limited, the overwhelming release felt by both Mustang and the fans is so intense that he requires Riza Hawkeye to pull him back from the brink of madness. It's not just a battle; it's a gratifying retribution for one of the antagonists responsible for the most devastating tragedies in the series.

No personal grudge here, but Shou Tucker is infamous in the anime world for committing one of the most notorious crimes. He used his daughter and pet dog to create a new talking creature in order to save his job. This act of twisted cruelty immediately sparked intense hatred from every character in the scene and from fans watching.

1: Luffy punches a Celestial Dragon, One Piece

The mastermind behind one of the most heinous tragedies in anime history deserves a dreadful fate, and Scar arrives with a literal touch of death to end Tucker's life and relieve Nina from her suffering. While Tucker initially appears as a reclusive individual solely focused on his work and daughter, with the intention of aiding the Elric brothers, the situation takes a drastic turn to "This man must pay for his actions."

The direct descendants of the founders of the World Government in One Piece, Celestial Dragons hold the most power in the world. The tension builds as a Celestial Dragon callously harms one of Luffy’s friends, laughing without remorse. The atmosphere is thick with anticipation as Luffy approaches with a steely expression. Onlookers from the Worst Generation utter, “Hold on a minute,” and “Is he serious?” before the situation erupts into chaos.

Luffy faces severe consequences for his actions when a Marine Admiral targets his crew using a Pacifista, leading to their separation by Bartholomew Kuma. The feeling of satisfaction when an arrogant person who abuses their power finally gets taken down is unparalleled.

Now that you've seen our picks for the most satisfying moments in anime, which ones resonated with you the most? Looking ahead, My Hero Academia fans can expect news on the release date for the next chapter. Additionally, we suggest checking out the best fights in One Piece and the most powerful characters in Dragon Ball Z.

Editor's P/S

As an anime enthusiast, I find great joy in experiencing the exhilarating moments that the medium has to offer. The article highlights several such moments, each evoking a unique blend of emotions and leaving a lasting impact on the viewer. From the heartwarming reunion of Guts and Casca in Berserk to the triumphant return of Trunks in Dragon Ball Z, these moments showcase the power of anime to captivate and engage its audience.

The sheer intensity and emotional resonance of these moments are what sets anime apart from other forms of entertainment. The carefully crafted narratives, compelling character development, and stunning visuals combine to create an immersive experience that leaves fans yearning for more. Whether it's the epic battles, the long-awaited victories, or the jaw-dropping comebacks, anime has a knack for delivering moments that stay etched in the minds of its passionate fans.