The newer anime has ascended to the pedestal of legends.

 

"Attack on Titan", known in Japan as "Shingeki no Kyojin" [進撃の巨人], is undoubtedly one of the most significant cultural phenomena in the anime industry of the last decade, combining elements of drama, action, and post-apocalyptic fantasy. The complex social issues, ambivalent moral situations, and the "bloodiness" of this anime have led to its being blacklisted by censors in countries such as China, Russia, Korea, and Turkey. Already as a manga, from the moment of its debut in 2009, when the first volume by Hajime Isayama first saw the light of day, to the premiere of the anime adaptation in 2013, "Attack on Titan" has continually captured the hearts of viewers around the world, becoming a true global phenomenon.

 

The success of "Attack on Titan" can be measured not only through its immense popularity on social media and within the fan culture but also through impressive sales figures. The manga has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling series, and the increasing rate of fan growth provides a real basis to expect that it will join the ranks of such legends as Naruto (250 million), Dragon Ball (300 million), or possibly One Piece (490 million) in the near future. The anime adaptation also does not lag behind, with millions of viewers on streaming platforms and high ratings on review aggregators like MyAnimeList and IMDb.

 

"Attack on Titan" extends beyond the traditional manga and anime markets in Asia, winning the hearts of fans worldwide. Its global success is impressive, especially when compared to other giants of the medium.

 

On streaming platforms, "Attack on Titan" recorded record viewership numbers, with millions of viewers worldwide, making the series one of the most popular anime productions of the last decade. On social media, the series generated immense interest, with millions of mentions and posts from fans, further highlighting its global impact on pop culture. In the continents of Europe, the Americas, and Africa, the rapidly growing stature of Attack on Titan has placed it third, behind Naruto and Pokémon. And in Asia, it has become the number one most-watched among the most popular Japanese anime (especially in Arab countries, Indonesia, and part of Indochina). China and India do not play a significant role despite their large populations, as the anime market is not as large there. Moreover, in China, "Attack on Titan" has been blacklisted by censors and is not broadcast.

 

It's worth noting that "Attack on Titan" has gained recognition not only among viewers but also critics, winning numerous awards and distinctions for its artistic and narrative achievements, further solidifying its status as one of the most important and influential anime of our times.

 

In today's article, we will try to answer the challenging question – what is it about "Attack on Titan" that, at an unmatched pace, gains fans around the world, becoming perhaps the most important anime of the early 2020s?

 

 

 

The Author and Beginnings

 

 

Profile of Hajime Isayama, the manga's author

 

Hajime Isayama, born in 1986 in Ōita Prefecture, Japan, is the brain behind the phenomenon of "Attack on Titan". From a young age, he showed an interest in drawing and creating stories, dreaming of becoming a manga artist. He drew inspiration for "Attack on Titan" from various sources, including personal experiences of growing up in rural Japan, where isolation from the rest of the world and limited opportunities influenced his perspective and vision for creation. Other inspirations came from films and literature, including works like "Muv-Luv Alternative", which influenced the portrayal of monster invasions and the desperate fight for survival.

 

One of Isayama's key motivations was to depict human determination and complex moral dilemmas in the face of terrifying threats. He also wanted to explore themes of power, freedom, and identity within a closed community, which is reflected in the universe of "Attack on Titan".

 

 

The Story of Creation and Broadcast

 

"Attack on Titan" debuted as a manga in the "Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine" published by Kodansha in September 2009. The series quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique storyline, intense suspense, and deeply developed characters, prompting the Wit Studio to adapt the manga into an anime.

 

The anime premiered in April 2013 and immediately became a global phenomenon. Dynamic action scenes, complex character motivations, and a dark and intriguing plot attracted a wide audience, both manga fans and new viewers. The success of the first season led to a quick green light for subsequent seasons.

 

Subsequent seasons were broadcast at various intervals, with the second season in 2017, the third split into two parts, aired in 2018 and 2019, and the fourth and final season, concluding the series, began in 2020 and was divided into three parts: December 7, 2020, January 10, 2022, and the last part on March 4, 2023. Each season introduced new elements to the story, developing the world and characters, and deepening the mysteries and motivations behind the conflict between humans and Titans.

 

The anime adaptation of "Attack on Titan" was praised for its fidelity to the source manga material, though it also made several changes and adaptations to better fit the television series format. Thanks to the efforts of the creators, both the manga and the anime "Attack on Titan" have become iconic works that have defined a generation of fans and creators in the world of anime and manga. Sometimes, there is talk of the Dragon Ball generation, the Pokémon generation, the Naruto and One Piece generation. A new one has already emerged – the "Attack on Titan" generation.

 

 

 

Attack on Titan" Plot and World

 

 

The Setting

 

"Attack on Titan" is set in a dystopian world where the remnants of humanity live trapped inside massive, concentric walls designed to protect them from Titans – gigantic humanoids who, for unknown reasons, hunt humans. Society within the walls is divided into various classes, from the impoverished living in the outermost zones, close to danger, to the elites residing in the safe interior. In this world, the only line of defense against the Titans is the Survey Corps, elite military units specializing in studying Titans and fighting them beyond the walls.

 

Main Characters

 

▫ Eren Yeager: The main protagonist of the series, who vows to destroy all Titans as a child after witnessing his mother's death at the hands of one. His determination to fight and unwavering faith in humanity drive the plot. As the series progresses, Eren discovers the ability to transform into a Titan, placing him at the center of the conflict and mysteries surrounding the origin of the Titans.

 

▫ Mikasa Ackerman: Eren's adoptive sister, known for her exceptional combat skills. Mikasa is fiercely devoted to Eren and is prepared to defend him at all costs. Her background and life story reveal deeper layers of the conflict in the "Attack on Titan" world, including mysteries related to her family's bloodline.

 

▫ Armin Arlert: Eren and Mikasa's best friend, Armin is more reflective and prone to analysis than physical combat. His intelligence and ability for strategic thinking prove crucial for the group's survival and success multiple times. Armin's development from an insecure boy into one of humanity's most important strategic minds is one of the most moving elements of the series.

 

Now that we have all the basic information – let's answer the question:

 

 

 

What makes “Attack on Titan” so unique?

 

 

Genre Innovations

 

"Attack on Titan" stands out among other shonen anime and manga series with its unique approach to storytelling and stylistics. Several key aspects make this series groundbreaking:

 

▫ A Different Approach to the Shonen Genre: Traditionally, shonen manga and anime focus on adventures, the growth of the heroes' strength, and values such as friendship, determination, and striving for victory. "Attack on Titan" retains some shonen elements, such as young heroes and epic battles, but introduces much darker themes, including death, fear, moral ambivalence, and complex interpersonal relationships. This series does not shy away from presenting its heroes in no-win situations, forcing them to make difficult, often controversial decisions.

 

▫ Complex Characters and Moral Dilemmas: Characters in "Attack on Titan" are far from one-dimensional. Each has a rich background, motivations, and inner conflicts, adding depth to the overall narrative. The moral dilemmas faced by the heroes have no easy solutions and often require sacrifices. Such an approach to characters and plot makes viewers reflect on their own values and choices.

 

▫ Revolutionary Use of 3D Maneuver Gear in Action Sequences: One of the most distinctive elements of "Attack on Titan" is the 3D Maneuver Gear, which allows humans to fight Titans on previously impossible levels of dynamism. This innovative tool not only introduces a new quality to action scenes but also adds a unique visuality to the series. The complexity and fluidity of the animation in scenes utilizing this equipment significantly raise the bar for action animation, making "Attack on Titan" stand out among other anime productions.

 

 

 

Art and Animation Technique in "Attack on Titan"

 

"Attack on Titan" has revolutionized the anime world not only through its narrative and themes but also through its unique approach to art and animation technique. There are several key aspects that distinguish this series visually:

 

 

Visual Style and Character Design

 

The graphic style of "Attack on Titan" is characterized by sharp lines, detailed backgrounds, and intense, often dark coloring, which emphasizes the dramatic tone of the series. Character designs are both diverse and expressive, allowing for easy differentiation of characters and understanding of their personalities and emotions. The distinct variety in the design of the Titans, from grotesquely exaggerated to terrifyingly realistic, adds a layer of tension and unpredictability.

 

Innovations in Action Animation

 

The use of 3D Maneuver Gear by characters required the series' creators to develop innovative animation techniques to convey the dynamics and fluidity of the characters fighting the Titans. The animation studio responsible, Wit Studio in the earlier seasons and later MAPPA in the final ones, employed a combination of traditional 2D animation with CGI elements to create breathtaking action sequences that have become some of the most iconic moments of the series. The characters' movements are not only fluid but also realistically convey the physics and limitations of human body, which makes battle scenes feel more authentic and intense.

 

The Use of CGI

 

Although the use of CGI (computer-generated imagery) in anime can be controversial, "Attack on Titan" is often cited as an example where these technologies have been used effectively and judiciously. CGI allowed for more complex scenes with Titans and expanded backgrounds while maintaining aesthetic consistency with the rest of the series. The integration of CGI with traditional 2D animation in "Attack on Titan" has set a new standard for the industry, demonstrating how these two techniques can complement each other to create spectacular visual effects.

 

Scenography and World

 

The world presented in "Attack on Titan" is characterized by immense attention to detail – from the architecture of the city-engulfing walls to the diversity and intricacy of environments beyond them. Every element of the set design has been crafted to enhance the atmosphere and depth of the portrayed world. The use of shading and lighting in particular accentuates the dramatic mood of the series, distinguishing "Attack on Titan" from other anime productions.

 

 

Innovations in Storytelling

 

"Attack on Titan" stands out in the anime world thanks to its storytelling innovations, which refresh the shonen genre and introduce elements rarely seen in this form of entertainment. This unique blend of factors has contributed to the series being recognized as one of the best anime works of all time.

 

 

Constant Narrative Pressure

 

"Attack on Titan" is known for its unconventional narrative approaches. It avoids unnecessary fillers, focusing on a continuous, coherent, and dynamic story. This narrative discipline keeps the tension and viewer interest from beginning to end of the series, ensuring that every episode is significant to the main plot.

 

 

Packed with Surprising Twists

 

The series also distinguishes itself with its approach to plot twists, which are a key element in keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. "Attack on Titan" does not shy away from challenging expectations and presenting surprising plot developments that often completely change the direction of the story. Such bold and daring turns not only surprise but also draw viewers even deeper into the presented world.

 

 

Characters and Their Development

 

The series also centers on character development, especially that of Eren Jaeger, whose journey from a determined hero to a character balancing on the edge of hero and anti-hero, poses important questions about the nature of heroism and sacrifice. This complex portrayal of characters, combined with their moral dilemmas, creates a rich and layered narrative that distinguishes "Attack on Titan" from other series.

 

 

Genre Fusion

 

"Attack on Titan" combines various genres – from dystopia to historical fiction and mecha – creating a unique blend that appeals to a wide audience. This ability to blur genre boundaries allows the series to explore a variety of themes and ideas, making it one of the most innovative and influential anime in recent years.

 

 

 

Message and Themes of "Attack on Titan"

 

 

Addressed Social and Political Issues

 

"Attack on Titan" significantly engages viewers in reflection on deeper social and political issues. The story presented in the series shows a complex network of relationships between different factions of humanity, as well as internal conflicts within a society trapped behind walls.

 

 

▫ Segregation and oppression: The series shows how social segregation and oppression can be tools of power, used to control and manipulate the masses. Humanity is divided into classes depending on the distance of their homes from the outer walls, directly affecting their safety and social status. This social structure reflects real issues of inequality and discrimination.

 

▫ Freedom: A central theme of "Attack on Titan" is the concept of freedom and the limits heroes are willing to cross to achieve it. The fight for freedom from the terror of Titans and corrupt internal power structures becomes the driving force for many characters, especially for Eren, who symbolizes the desperate struggle for liberation.

 

▫ Mikasa Ackerman as a symbol of strength and independence: Mikasa Ackerman is one of the most vivid examples of a strong female character in "Attack on Titan". From the early episodes of the series, her determination, combat skills, and loyalty to Eren place her at the center of many key plot moments. Mikasa not only surpasses most of her male counterparts in physical abilities but also often plays a caring and protective role, especially towards Eren. Her character transcends traditional gender roles, demonstrating that strength and independence are not attributes reserved exclusively for men.

 

Mikasa and other female characters in "Attack on Titan," such as Historia Reiss or Ymir, are complex and have their own independent goals and motivations, further enriching the narrative and highlighting the importance of women in the fight for freedom and justice. By showing female characters as key players in the conflict, "Attack on Titan" challenges stereotypical gender representations and points to the diversity of experiences and the impact women can have on the course of history.

 

 

 

Reception and Controversies of "Attack on Titan"

 

 

Controversies Among Fans

 

"Attack on Titan" was enthusiastically received by both fans and critics, earning cult status in the anime and manga world. However, the ending of the series sparked divided opinions among the audience and critics, becoming one of the most controversial moments in the entire history of the series.

 

For many fans, the ending was unexpected and deviated from previously developed expectations and theories, leading to discussions about a satisfying resolution to the complex narrative threads. Some praised the series for its bold and unpredictable conclusion that left a lasting impression, while others expressed disappointment, feeling that not all threads were adequately resolved.

 

 

Controversies in Light of Censorship

 

"Attack on Titan" encountered censorship and broadcasting bans in some countries for various reasons. The controversies often concerned the depiction of violence, political and social allegories that could be seen as sensitive or inappropriate by some governments or social groups.

 

▫ Broadcasting Ban in Some Countries: For example, in China, "Attack on Titan" was placed on a list of banned anime series due to its depiction of violence, fear, and certain political content deemed inconsistent with the norms and values promoted by censorship. Similar cases occurred in other countries, where content considered controversial or inappropriate led to restrictions on access to the series.

 

▫ Other Controversial Issues: The series was also the subject of debates regarding its portrayal of war, nationality, and history, which in some cases were interpreted as commentary on real conflicts and historical tragedies. These deeply rooted themes prompted discussions about the responsibility of creators for the content presented and the potential impacts it could have on viewers.

 

 

 

Summary

 

"Attack on Titan" is a work that undoubtedly set new standards in the anime world, combining innovative storytelling, deep social and political themes, a revolutionary approach to graphics and animation, and exciting character stories. Over the years, it has become not only one of the most recognizable titles in popular culture but also a reference point for critics, creators, and fans worldwide.

 

The series' impact on the anime industry is undeniable. Through its bold approach to narrative and style, "Attack on Titan" has inspired a new generation of creators to explore challenging topics and experiment with form. Fans are drawn to its unique blend of emotion, action, and philosophy, making the series more than just entertainment – it becomes a source of reflection on human nature and society.

 

"Attack on Titan" has left a legacy that will resonate in the anime industry for many years. Its ability to engage viewers in complex moral, social, and political discussions while delivering a series of thrilling and well-executed action scenes is proof that anime can be as influential and significant as the highest-quality films and literary works.

And for many years to come, people will ponder and seek answers to the difficult question: what made this anime so special? Just as I have in this article. The answers they find in the future may determine how "Attack on Titan" will shape the next anime titles of the latter half of the 2020s.

 

 

 

>> SEE ALSO OTHER ARTICLES

 

Journey through the diverse worlds of anime: A compendium of genres and sub-genres

 

Anime versus Cartoons: How do they differ from each other?

 

Poland and Poles in Japanese Anime: How do Japanese Otaku See Us? And Why Does Spike Spiegel Hold a Bottle of Polish Rectified Spirit?

 

Reassessing Morality in Death Note: Unraveling the True Nature of Light Yagami

 

Akihabara - The Insane Epicenter of Otaku, Retro Gaming, and Just Plain Weirdness