The best endings in shonen manga
Conclusions: a fundamental pillar for succeeding in any anime plot
No matter the quality of an anime, its conclusion can completely change the viewers’ perception. A clumsy or disappointing ending risks ruining the overall experience, causing frustration and disillusionment among fans.
Sometimes, a failure in the resolution can go beyond simple disappointment, even pushing viewers to abandon the anime altogether and reject the franchise despite a deep attachment to the previous episodes. This phenomenon is particularly common in the shonen genre, where, due to the constraints inherent in the Japanese animation industry, many series are stretched out in length, diluting their dramatic intensity to often end with finales criticized for their lack of impact.
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Fortunately, some shonen series manage to maintain constant momentum, offering memorable endings that faithfully respect the entire story while providing a satisfying conclusion. Among these cult finales, which one stands out the most for its emotion and narrative coherence?
10. A moving and coherent conclusion in Yu Yu Hakusho
The finale of Yu Yu Hakusho stands out by its touching simplicity, fully in line with the atmosphere of this cult series. Adapted from Yoshihiro Togashi’s anime, it tells the story of Yusuke Urameshi, a rebellious teenager who becomes a detective of the spirit world after a heroic sacrifice. Animated by studio Pierrot in 1992, the anime ends with a heartbreaking episode, "Towards the Future," which gathers the heroes on a beach at sunset, symbolizing Yusuke’s transformation into a respected and surrounded young man.
This ending, though gentle and fair, is sometimes perceived as too subdued by part of the fanbase, which explains its more modest ranking in our selection of the best shonen anime conclusions.
9. Naruto: an emotional conclusion around an awaited wedding
The Naruto and Naruto: Shippuden series, based on the famous anime by Masashi Kishimoto, trace the rise of an orphan determined to become an honored ninja. With 720 episodes produced by studio Pierrot, the final installment, called "The Message," offers a warm ending centered on Naruto and Hinata's wedding. This moment, the result of careful development, brings a rewarding conclusion, symbolizing the well-deserved reward after many trials endured by the hero.
8. Dragon Ball Z: Goku passes the torch with dignity
The Dragon Ball Z phenomenon, adaptation of Akira Toriyama’s anime, is a cornerstone of anime culture. With 291 episodes, this series follows Goku in his battles and personal quest. The final episode, "Goku’s Next Journey," features Goku facing Uub, the reincarnation of Kid Buu. By deciding to train this young prodigy, Goku closes his story symbolically, preparing the succession and providing a coherent end to the main narrative arc.
7. Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters and its unforgettable final duel
Released in 2000 and directed by Studio Gallop, Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters presents a final episode titled "The Final Duel - Part 4," sealing the decisive showdown between Yugi and Atem. This significant fight combines the series’ most iconic moments, blending strategy and emotion. The bittersweet victory perfectly reflects Yugi’s dilemma, who both loses a precious friend and wins, offering a spectacular and poignant conclusion.
6. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, a shocking but perfectly controlled ending
Produced by Sunrise in 2006, Code Geass traces the fate of Lelouch, a fallen prince seeking to overthrow a tyrannical empire using his mysterious power, the Geass. Season 2 ends with “Re,” a bold final episode where Lelouch creates a world empire before being assassinated, paving the way for fragile peace under his sister Nunnally’s rule. This conclusion, though contested, remains extremely faithful to the series’ essence and brilliantly illustrates the protagonist’s complexity.
5. Inuyasha: The Final Act offers an emotional and hopeful ending
The animated adaptation of Inuyasha by Sunrise found an epilogue in 2009 with The Final Act, concluding the story interrupted by the initial series. The final episode, “Towards Tomorrow,” celebrates Inuyasha and Kagome’s romance three years after their adventure, while evoking the fate of other characters. This tender and thoughtful resolution provides real satisfaction to fans awaiting the conclusion of this epic quest.
4. Mob Psycho 100: a subtle, complete, and moving conclusion
Adapted from One’s webcomic, Mob Psycho 100 (2016-2022) follows Mob, a teenager endowed with immense psychic powers whom he tries to control. The last episode, “Confession ~The Future~,” represents the culmination of his journey to self-acceptance. A time skip gently closes the story, depicting a peaceful everyday life for all, granting the series a harmonious ending that is well handled.
3. Assassination Classroom: a poignant final tribute
Produced by studio Lerche in 2015, Assassination Classroom explores a unique scenario where a powerful monster teaches his class before threatening the Earth. The last episode, after Koro-sensei’s death, shows the pupils seven years later reunited to honor his memory. This ending skillfully combines emotional intensity and narrative depth, offering a finale both touching and thoughtful.
2. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, a fair and hopeful conclusion
Adapted from Hiromu Arakawa’s anime by Studio Bones in 2009, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood tells the epic of Edward and Alphonse Elric after a failed attempt to bring their mother back to life. The finale highlights their future plans and a tender moment with Winry Rockbell. This balanced and deserved resolution offers a happy ending crowning a deeply human and well-paced quest.
1. Tomorrow’s Joe: the incredible destiny of an underdog until the last breath
Created by Asao Takamori and Tetsuya Chiba, Tomorrow’s Joe made animation history upon its release in 1968 and its adaptation in 1970. The story follows Joe Yabuki, from vagabond to boxing legend. The final fight against Mendoza, although lost, leaves Joe standing, providing a finale both intense and open to interpretation, enhanced by a melancholic soundtrack. This conclusion, of rare emotional power, remains emblematic and perfectly illustrates the journey of an unforgettable hero.
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