10 Risky Anime Transformations That Carry Dangerous Consequences

Anime transformations are often the highlight of the medium, particularly in the shonen genre. Fans eagerly anticipate their favorite characters achieving a new level of power, especially when it comes with great risk. The added element of danger creates an extra layer of excitement, leaving viewers curious about how far the character can push themselves.

This has become a common theme in anime, leading to numerous transformations that come with severe consequences. While some are executed better than others, the potential for narrative development is a major draw for audiences. With that in mind, here are ten anime transformations, listed in no particular order, that come with significant risks.

Final Getsuga Tenshou and nine other anime transformations that come with terrible risks

1. Final Getsuga Tenshou (Bleach)

One of the definitive anime transformations in Bleach (Image via Shueisha).

Aizen appeared unbeatable as the final boss in the Fake Karakura Town arc of Bleach, forcing the main character Ichigo Kurosaki to undergo one of the riskiest anime transformations - the Final Getsuga Tenshou. Not only is this one of author Tite Kubo's most celebrated character designs, but it also provides a valuable opportunity to analyze Ichigo's character.

The Final Getsuga Tenshou, a technique belonging to the Shiba Clan - to which Ichigo's father Isshin also belongs - allows Ichigo to achieve a supreme level of strength. However, his Shinigami powers will soon disappear as a result. Despite this, Ichigo was able to swiftly defeat Aizen after he merged with the Hogyoku, demonstrating the incredible power of this form despite its fleeting nature.

One of the most iconic anime transformations and Ichigo using it led directly to the following arc: the Fullbringer one or the Lost Agent one.

2. Kaio-Ken (Dragon Ball Z)

Possibly the pioneer of anime transformations with significant dangers (Image via Toei Animation).

Dragon Ball is a series that introduced many tropes that have become fundamental in the shonen genre, and anime transformations with high stakes can be traced back to the Kaio-Ken. This is one of the main reasons why it remains one of the most popular transformations in the entire series, as it added urgency to Goku's battles.

Goku mastered the Kaio-Ken technique under King Kai's tutelage in the afterlife and showcased it for the first time during his battle with Vegeta in the Saiyan Saga. Despite its ability to significantly boost his power, the strain it placed on his body proved to be increasingly damaging, particularly during his confrontations with Vegeta and Frieza.

Although Goku ultimately abandoned the Kaio-Ken in favor of the more advantageous Super Saiyan transformation, the technique remains a legendary and iconic anime transformation.

3. The eight gates at full display (Naruto)

Another legendary one among anime transformations (Image via Studio Pierrot).

Madara Uchiha effortlessly fought against the entire Shinobi Alliance during the Fourth Great Ninja War, with taijutsu being the only effective method to harm him. This led to Might Guy, a beloved character, unlocking the Eight Gates and engaging in a remarkable battle with the renowned Uchiha leader.

Similar to the Kaio-Ken in Dragon Ball Z, unlocking the Eight Gates grants the user immense power, allowing them to confront and wound even the formidable Madara, but at the cost of their own life. Guy was on the brink of death, but Naruto intervened just in time to save him.

4. Baryon Mode (Boruto)

A recent addition to this list (Image via Studio Pierrot).

Boruto may have strayed from being Naruto's story, but that didn't stop him from having his moments to shine. His battle against Isshiki was arguably the best fight in the entire sequel. The Baryon Mode played a huge role in this, as it required Boruto's character to make a significant sacrifice.

With the Baryon Mode, Naruto reached an unprecedented level of power, making him arguably the strongest he has ever been in the entire franchise. However, this came at the cost of Kurama, making it one of the most memorable anime transformations for better or worse. This sacrifice has left a lasting impact on viewers' minds.

5. Shinigami Eyes (Death Note)

An underrated pick among anime transformations (Image via Madhouse).

Death Note may not be the first anime series that comes to mind when thinking about transformations, but the concept of the Shinigami Eyes is a perfect fit for this list. The ability to see people's names above their heads makes using the notebook much easier, but at the cost of sacrificing half of the user's lifespan.

Protagonist Light Yagami considered this at one point in the story but ultimately decided against it due to the consequences for his lifespan. However, characters like Misa Amane made the Shinigami Eyes deal twice, which had lasting effects on her.

6. Berserker Armor (Berserk)

The very definition of anime transformations with terrible risks (Image via Young Animal).

Guts has always faced challenges in his life, and even with his power-up, the Berserker Armor, things are still tough for him. The classification of the Berserker Armor as a power-up is up for debate, as it doesn't necessarily make Guts stronger but instead gives him an advantage in combat.

The Berserker Armor operates in the following way: Guts becomes impervious to pain and can fight without restraint, regardless of any injuries he sustains in battle. However, this comes at the cost of Guts losing control of his mind temporarily and being unable to distinguish between friend and foe, making him an extremely perilous opponent when he is wearing the armor.

7. Ultimate Gon (Hunter X Hunter)

One of the most dangerous anime transformations (Image via Madhouse).

Few anime transformations embody the theme of sacrifice as deeply as Gon's Forbidden Nen against Pitou in Hunter X Hunter. Driven by intense rage and grief following Kite's death, Gon makes the decision to sacrifice all of his Nen in order to exact vengeance on Pitou.

This transformation exemplifies the concept of short-term power for long-term consequences, a reality that Gon's actions ultimately bore out. While he gained immense strength and easily defeated Pitou, he lost all of his Nen and progress, coming dangerously close to death before being saved by Killua's sister.

8. Demon Slayer Mark (Demon Slayer)

A very peculiar cost (Image via Ufotable).

The Demon Slayer Mark stands out among anime transformations due to its unique cost - instead of sacrificing lives or enduring constant bodily harm, users are fated to die at the age of 25. This sets it apart from similar transformations, making it a distinct case. Only the series' most powerful character, Yoriichi, has managed to defy this fate.

9. Gear 2 (One Piece)

One of the most popular anime transformations (Image via Toei Animation).

Gear 2 had a significant impact on the One Piece series, transforming the character of Luffy and making the series more battle-focused. It provided Luffy with a much-needed power-up to compete with the CP9 during the Enies Lobby arc. Similar to the Kaio-Ken, Gear 2 enhances Luffy's strength and speed, making him much more powerful. However, it comes with the downside of shortening his lifespan and weakening him, although author Eiichiro Oda has yet to fully explore the consequences of this transformation.

10. Claymore Awakening (Claymore)

A very underrated choice (Image via Madhouse and Shueisha).

The Claymore series is often overlooked, and the anime adaptations are no exception, especially when it comes to the Awakened Beings transformation. These are former Claymores who pushed past their 80% limit and mutated into strange creatures, losing some of their humanity and control in the process. The transformation comes with significant risks, adding to the tension of the series.

Final thoughts

There are numerous anime transformations that carry significant risks, and several others have not been included here. However, these are universally recognized as some of the top and most iconic in the industry, with a significant influence.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am fascinated by the concept of risky anime transformations that carry dangerous consequences. These transformations add an extra layer of excitement and suspense to the already thrilling world of anime. The Final Getsuga Tenshou from Bleach is a prime example of such a transformation, as it grants Ichigo immense power but at the cost of his Shinigami powers. This creates a sense of urgency and raises the stakes, making the battle even more captivating.

Another transformation that stands out is the Kaio-Ken from Dragon Ball. This technique allows Goku to significantly boost his power, but it also puts a tremendous strain on his body, potentially causing severe damage. The fact that Goku ultimately abandons the Kaio-Ken in favor of the Super Saiyan transformation adds to the significance and impact of this risky transformation.