Overall Rating: 9.8 / 10
Story – 10/10
Attack on Titan delivers one of the most original and gripping narratives in anime history. Its premise—humans surviving behind walls while monstrous Titans threaten their existence—is not only unique but endlessly intriguing. The pacing is well-balanced, never feeling too fast or too slow. As someone who hasn’t read the manga, I found the story easy to follow yet full of unexpected twists that kept me on the edge of my seat. Each episode built suspense and curiosity, pushing you to keep watching. The resolutions were deeply satisfying, and the plot unfolded in a way that felt both magical and purposeful.
Characters – 10/10
The character development in this anime is outstanding. The core trio—Eren, Mikasa, and Armin (often referred to as the EMA trio)—carry the emotional weight of the story with strength and sincerity. Watching these young characters endure military training and the harsh realities of war is heartbreaking, yet inspiring. Armin, in particular, stood out for me. His growth from a timid strategist to a courageous protector of his friends was incredibly moving. The relationships in this series are deeply meaningful, making you root for them not just as fighters, but as people. You can’t help but wish they could stay together forever.
Animation – 9/10
While not entirely flawless, the animation is impressive. There were moments where it felt a little plain, but overall, the visuals effectively captured the dark, intense atmosphere of the series. The art style complements the mood perfectly—gritty, dramatic, and emotional. The design of both characters and backgrounds is exceptional, with locations inspired by real-world places like German cities, adding a sense of realism. Mikasa, in particular, is beautifully animated, with a clear reflection of her Japanese heritage.
Sound – 10/10
The soundtrack composed by Hiroyuki Sawano is phenomenal—his music injects life into every battle, every emotional scene, and every plot twist. The voice acting is also top-tier. Eren’s Japanese voice actor, in particular, delivers a powerful and expressive performance. The background music intensifies the emotion of each scene, and the opening and ending themes are unforgettable. Each song is distinct and fits the tone of the series, standing apart from typical action anime soundtracks.
Emotional Impact – 10/10
This anime hits hard, emotionally and mentally. It constantly challenged my thoughts and made me imagine what I would do in such a desperate world. The pain of losing loved ones, the struggle to survive, and the burden of fighting at such a young age were all presented in a raw and thought-provoking way. It explores profound themes like sacrifice, loyalty, fear, and freedom. The series doesn't just entertain—it makes you reflect.
Enjoyment – 10/10
Despite its heavy and often traumatic themes, I thoroughly enjoyed Attack on Titan from beginning to end. The story is so compelling that it's hard to stop watching once you begin. While I may not rewatch it due to the emotional weight it carries, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a bold, intense, and original anime—especially if you're unspoiled and ready for a wild ride. Hats off to the entire production team; the level of effort, detail, and ion that went into this series is evident in every frame.