The fan-made project Attack on Titan Requiem has sparked widespread interest and debate within the anime community. Following the conclusion of Hajime Isayama's 11-year manga series Attack on Titan in April 2021, some dissatisfied fans took it upon themselves to create their own version of the story's ending.
Dubbed Attack on Titan Requiem, this alternative ending has divided fans, with some preferring it over Isayama's original conclusion. The main point of contention lies in the fate of the series' protagonist, Eren Yeager, and his companions.
Differences between Attack on Titan Requiem and the original version
The music video for Akatsuki no Requiem by Linked Horizon inspired the creation of Attack on Titan Requiem, a doujinshi that rewrites the final three chapters of Attack on Titan. Linked Horizon, the band known for writing the opening and ending themes for the original anime, hinted at a tragic and dark series finale in both the scenes and lyrics of the music video. This raised speculation among some fans that it was an official tease for the manga's finale. However, many fans were ultimately disappointed with the perceived inconsistency, rushed, and unsatisfying ending of the manga.
In the initial conclusion, Mikasa, Eren's childhood companion and romantic interest, ends his life and lays his head to rest beneath a tree. Despite the Titans being vanquished, global conflict persists, and the fate of Paradis Island remains uncertain. However, in a fan-created ending, Eren emerges victorious and achieves the Rumbling, wiping out nearly all of humanity.
Attack on Titan Requiem takes a different path from the original ending, altering the outcome of the final battle and the resolution of the Eldian conflict with the rest of the world. It also delves into themes of PTSD, discrimination, oppression, and war, giving the series a more somber and tragic tone.
The purpose of Attack on Titan Requiem is to provide an alternative conclusion that aligns more closely with the themes and atmosphere of the manga's earlier chapters and the music video. Created by a diverse group of global fans who are dedicated to Isayama's art, the project aims to showcase their love and appreciation for the series through their unique interpretations. The official website emphasizes that the goal is to offer a different perspective and explore a "what if" scenario, without diminishing or replacing the original ending.
You can access AoT Requiem for free on their official website. Currently, three parts or chapters are accessible, with more on the way. Additionally, they have a Patreon page to gather funds for the project.
Additionally, a fan-run animation group called Studio Eclypse has plans to produce an anime adaptation of the doujinshi, with a scheduled release in the fall of 2024, as announced on their X account.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I am intrigued by the concept of Attack on Titan Requiem, a fan-made project that offers an alternative ending to the popular anime series. The idea of exploring a "what if" scenario and delving deeper into themes such as PTSD, discrimination, oppression, and war resonates with me. I appreciate the dedication and passion of the global fans who have come together to create this project, showcasing their love and appreciation for the original series.
However, I also understand that Attack on Titan Requiem has sparked controversy and divided the anime community. Some fans may feel that it undermines or disrespects the original ending crafted by Hajime Isayama. It is important to remember that Attack on Titan Requiem is a fan-made project and should be viewed as an alternative interpretation rather than a replacement for the official ending. Ultimately, it is up to each individual fan to decide whether or not they want to explore this alternative take on the Attack on Titan story.