Unbelievable Anime Endings That Revolutionized Their Source Material

When an anime surpasses the manga it is based on, it becomes necessary to significantly alter the source material in order to continue the series. Ideally, this results in some of the most satisfying endings in anime. However, if not executed properly, this involves adding numerous filler episodes unrelated to the main plot, simply to allow the manga to catch up. In some cases, anime will opt for completely original storylines, providing a completely different conclusion.

While filler and non-manga content are often criticized, anime fans should not underestimate the potential creativity found in show-original stories. These stories often take advantage of the freedom granted to them, allowing exploration of characters, creating thrilling spectacles, and sometimes even offering a more satisfying conclusion than the manga. Both the best and the worst changes spark discussions among fans, continuing long after the episodes have aired.

10 Magi: The Labyrinth Of Magic (2012)

The content of the two seasons of Magi is divided equally between the Zagan Arc and the Magnostadt Arc. To heighten the excitement, the climax of the Zagan Arc is prolonged in the first season. In this season, a significant portion is dedicated to the Balbadd Arc, where Alibaba faces the difficult task of protecting both his kingdom and his loved ones. Throughout this arc, he is forced to confront the reality that he cannot save everyone.

Alibaba's failures and his admiration for stronger king candidates like Sinbad make him vulnerable to corruption by al-Thamen. Although this aspect is not explored in the manga, the anime utilizes it, ultimately leading to Alibaba succumbing to depravity and becoming one of the final challenges in Zagan's dungeon. Only with the combined powers and love from his friends is he able to be liberated.

9 Soul Eater (2009)

Atsushi Ohkubo's manga continues with multiple story arcs following the ending of the anime. It introduces new characters, strengthens both heroes and villains, and ultimately brings the entire cast together to face off against Asura in a final battle. The anime deviates from the manga around the BREW Arc, showcasing approximately fifteen episodes of original content.

Although the anime's final arc lacks some of the character development present in the manga, the strong admiration for the cast and their journey remains evident. Notably, Crona, who had one of the most tragic backstories in anime, is given a happy ending, overcoming their abusive mother. Additionally, Maka's solo victory against Asura, utilizing dormant weapon blood and a courageous spirit, contrasts with the show's emphasis on partnership, but highlights the theme of triumphing over fear.

8 Blue Exorcist (2011)

Blue Exorcist fans eagerly await the release of a third season, but in the meantime, they can enjoy the first two seasons. However, anime-only viewers may find themselves perplexed by the second season's opening, which contradicts the previous few episodes of the first season. The final nine episodes of the first season tell an original story, introducing a unique perspective on what happens after Rin reveals his demonic powers to his classmates.

In the second season, adapted years later, the "Impure King" arc explores how Rin's friends react to his demonic heritage. They initially struggle to accept him, torn between their love for Rin and their fear of demons. In contrast, the first season's ending depicts Konekomaru as the only one who hesitates to embrace Rin, as the other characters swiftly overcome their doubts. This paves the way for a different storyline to unfold, delving into the complex relationship between Rin and his twin brother, Yukio.

7 Trigun (1999 and 2023)

All anime adaptations of Trigun vary from Yasuhiro Nightow's original manga to some extent. The original 1999 anime focuses mainly on Vash and his companions' episodic adventures, with only a few episodes directly related to the manga's plot. The movie spinoff, Badlands Rumble, introduces an entirely new story featuring exciting action scenes, but it portrays Vash with unfortunate womanizing tendencies that are not present in the manga.

Trigun Stampede takes even more creative liberties with the source material, while also incorporating manga elements that were excluded from the original anime. The timeline is significantly altered, with the July Incident becoming the climax of season 1 rather than being hidden within Vash's tragic backstory. Additionally, Vash and his twin Knives' relationship is explored more extensively, given more prominence instead of being condensed into the final few episodes as in the original anime.

6 Ouran High School Host Club (2006)

Ouran is an anime that definitely deserves a second season. Bisco Hatori's original manga delves deeper into the characters' backgrounds and growth, providing a satisfying conclusion to Haruhi's romantic choices. Despite having only two episodes to address Tamaki's family situation compared to the manga's ample time, the show handles it exceptionally well.

Furthermore, it beautifully highlights the show's themes of friendship and love conquering all obstacles. When Tamaki's grandmother sets up his engagement with a character exclusive to the anime, effectively disbanding the Host Club and forcing him to leave Japan, Haruhi and the other hosts go above and beyond to rescue him. Tamaki was the one who brought them together, brightening their lives, and they would never allow him to be unhappy.

5 Hellsing (2001)

Kouta Hirano's original manga was published from 1997 to 2008 and has been adapted into two anime series. The first anime, which shares the same name, is still appreciated for its dark and psychological horror elements. However, it has been criticized for deviating significantly from the original manga's storyline.

In 2006, Hellsing Ultimate was released and remained true to the source material. This adaptation faithfully captures the manga's violent and gruesome content, showcasing the brutal vampire Alucard and introducing intriguing antagonists. Moreover, its ending is not only action-packed but also carries a more poignant tone, particularly in relation to the complex dynamic between Alucard and Integra.

4 Bunny Drop (2011)

Daikichi takes on the responsibility of caring for Rin, his late grandfather's illegitimate child, when no one else steps up. The anime centers around their strong familial bond and explores Daikichi's newfound understanding of parenthood, similar to the first portion of the manga. Fortunately, it concludes before the time jump that delves into the second half, where a teenage Rin develops romantic feelings for Daikichi and he willingly reciprocates.

3 Black Butler (2008 - 2014)

With news of another season of Black Butler on the horizon, fans are reminiscing about the series' origins. The faithful and well-received Book of Circus and recent movie adaptations come to mind, while opinions on the earlier seasons' deviations from the source material remain diverse.

2 Noragami (2015)

In Season 1, Sebastian and Ciel face off against Ash-Angela, a deranged and fiery archangel whose demeanor sharply contrasts with the cool and composed duo. Season 2 takes a fresh approach with the introduction of Alois and Claude, an entirely new master and demon butler pair, ultimately bringing Sebastian's pursuit of Ciel's soul to a definitive conclusion. While some fans applaud the show's inventiveness and find the villains fascinating, others criticize the nonsensical and purposeless nature of their storylines.

To avoid an abrupt interruption in Noragami's first season, a secondary storyline featuring a uniquely created antagonist was introduced. While Rabo may not possess the same depth as other members of the diverse Noragami ensemble, his appearance compels Yato to confront his personal history prior to his father's involvement in the narrative.

Millennia ago, Yato and Rabo were fellow Gods of Calamity, and Rabo longs for the days of unrestrained slaughter they once shared. While Yato strives to be acknowledged and ascend as a God of Fortune, Rabo has resigned himself to obscurity, desiring only to be dispatched by Yato. By defeating Rabo and safeguarding his bond with Yukine and Hiyori, Yato confirms his determination to transform and progress.

1 Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)

Hiromu Arakawa's Fullmetal Alchemist underwent a memorable departure from the original manga, featuring one of the most iconic alternate endings in anime history. Following a series of filler episodes, Edward and Alphonse Elric find themselves entangled not only in a family-related conspiracy but also in the very origins of alchemy. Ultimately, they must make the ultimate sacrifice for one another. This remarkable conclusion also led to the creation of a standalone movie, Conqueror of Shamballa. Set amidst the backdrop of World War II brewing, it chronicles Ed's efforts to return to his home dimension, while Al diligently works in Amestris to finally reunite with his brother.

Rewriting:

Adapting an unfinished manga can pose challenges, but surprisingly, certain filler endings can be exceptional and even outshine the original content. The most remarkable anime endings often emerge when the source material's foundations are disregarded entirely.