Game of Thrones Botched Its Ending, But No Finale Can Top Attack on Titan’s Controversial Close

Few television finales have sparked as much debate and disappointment as Game of Thrones and Attack on Titan. The former, once hailed as the greatest fantasy series of all time, stumbled in its last season, leaving fans disillusioned. Meanwhile, Attack on Titan delivered an ending that was both narratively ambitious and emotionally devastating, but it divided its audience in a way few anime have ever done before. While Game of Thrones suffered from rushed storytelling and character arcs that felt unearned, Attack on Titan raised profound philosophical questions, leading to a finale that was as unforgettable as it was contentious.

Despite their differences, both finales left a lasting impact on their respective fandoms. However, while Game of Thrones was widely panned for failing to live up to its potential, Attack on Titan started a discourse about war, morality, and fate that lingers to this day. This article examines why Attack on Titan’s ending is so controversial, how it compares to Game of Thrones, and why its thematic depth cements its legacy despite fan backlash.

The Divisive Nature of Attack on Titan’s Ending

A Controversial Finale That Shook the Fandom

Few anime have built up as much anticipation for their finale as Attack on Titan. Hajime Isayama’s masterpiece spent years crafting a complex world filled with political intrigue, shifting alliances, and shocking betrayals. By the time the final season arrived, expectations were sky-high. However, instead of a triumphant resolution, the series ended in a way that left many questioning the story’s ultimate message.

One of the most divisive aspects of Attack on Titan’s ending was Eren Yeager’s fate. Throughout the series, Eren is transformed from a vengeful boy to a revolutionary leader willing to commit genocide to secure freedom for his people. Yet, his final moments revealed a broken, conflicted individual who regretted his actions. His death at the hands of his closest friends was tragic but necessary, forcing the audience to grapple with the consequences of his choices. Many fans found this unsatisfying, arguing that it undermined his character’s development.

Another major difference is how each series handles character development. Game of Thrones sees beloved characters acting out of character for the sake of plot convenience, Daenerys Targaryen’s abrupt descent into tyranny being the most infamous example. On the other hand, Attack on Titan remained true to its characters, even when their choices were morally ambiguous. Eren’s descent into darkness, Armin’s struggle with diplomacy, and Mikasa’s unwavering loyalty all felt earned, making the tragedy of the ending hit even harder.

Game of Thrones Ending Vs. Attack on Titan’s Ending

Staying True to the Story Versus Betraying Expectations

Comparing Game of Thrones to Attack on Titan highlights a fundamental difference in storytelling approaches. Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire, was initially praised for its intricate political drama and morally complex characters. However, when the series surpassed the source material, it faltered under the weight of its own ambition. The final season felt rushed, with major character arcs condensed into just a few episodes, leading to unsatisfying payoffs.

In contrast, Attack on Titan remained consistent in its vision. While the ending was divisive, it was carefully foreshadowed and thematically coherent. Isayama took his time unraveling the mystery of the Titans, the history of Eldia and Marley, and the truth behind Eren’s actions. While many fans may have disliked the resolution, it was undeniably a natural progression of the story’s core themes of freedom, destiny, and sacrifice.

Another major difference is how each series handles character development. Game of Thrones sees beloved characters acting out of character for the sake of plot convenience, Daenerys Targaryen’s abrupt descent into tyranny being the most infamous example. On the other hand, Attack on Titan remained true to its characters, even when their choices were morally ambiguous. Eren’s descent into darkness, Armin’s struggle with diplomacy, and Mikasa’s unwavering loyalty all felt earned, making the tragedy of the ending hit even harder.

The Legacy of Attack on Titan’s Ending

Why Attack on Titan’s Ending Still Sparks Debate

Despite its controversy, Attack on Titan’s ending cemented its place as one of the most thought-provoking anime conclusions ever. Its willingness to tackle difficult themes and force audiences to confront uncomfortable truths sets it apart from other mainstream series. While some may wish for an alternate ending, there is no denying that its conclusion sparked conversations that will last for years to come.

One of the most important aspects of Attack on Titan’s legacy is its exploration of war and morality. Unlike traditional shōnen anime that often depict clear distinctions between good and evil, Attack on Titan blurred these lines. Eren’s transformation from hero to antagonist forced viewers to question whether his actions were justified or if he had become the very monster he once fought against. This ambiguity made the finale all the more powerful, as it resisted offering simple answers.

Additionally, the series’ finale reinforced the idea that history is cyclical. Even after Eren’s sacrifice, war and hatred persisted, echoing real-world conflicts. This bleak yet realistic portrayal of human nature resonated with many fans, even as others wished for a more hopeful resolution. In this sense, Attack on Titan dared to defy expectations, choosing a conclusion that was thematically appropriate rather than conventionally satisfying.

While Game of Thrones will likely be remembered as an example of how not to end a beloved series, Attack on Titan’s finale will be discussed for its philosophical depth and narrative boldness. Though divisive, it challenged audiences to think critically about its themes, ensuring that it remains a landmark in anime storytelling. Love it or hate it, Attack on Titan’s ending solidified its place in history, proving that sometimes the most controversial conclusions are the ones that have the biggest impact.