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While not the longest-running story in anime history, Attack on Titan certainly made its mark over its decade-long run. The conclusion of Eren Yeager’s saga in the 2021 manga brought closure to a gripping narrative that had captivated fans worldwide.
Hajime Isayama’s ending to the beloved fantasy anime was highly anticipated, but it also sparked division among the fanbase. The pivotal turn in Eren’s character, particularly his decision to initiate The Rumbling—a genocide intended to eradicate the Titan scourge—stirred controversy among fans. While Eren believed his actions were necessary to ensure victory for his friends, some fans questioned the justification for his morally dubious choices.
However, such morally complex narratives are not unprecedented in the realm of fiction. Eren’s character joins the ranks of other iconic figures like Paul “Maud’Dib” Atreides from Dune, who similarly made ethically questionable decisions to secure a particular future. Considering the reception of Dune: Part Two, it’s evident that audiences today may be more accepting of morally gray storytelling.
Despite the conclusion of Attack on Titan’s main storyline, fans remain curious about the possibility of a sequel. However, there is currently no indication of a direct continuation of the narrative in the works. Instead, fans can look forward to a collaboration between Isayama and Yuki Kaji, the voice actor behind Eren’s anime portrayal.
According to reports from Japan-based outlet Oricon, Isayama and Kaji are collaborating on a manga one-shot connected to Kaji’s voice synthesis project, Soyogi Fractal. While details about the one-shot are limited, it is set to be published in both Weekly Shonen Magazine and Bessatsu Shonen Magazine. Additionally, the magazines will hold a contest to select an artist to complete the story before its full publication.
While this news may not fully satisfy fans who were dissatisfied with Attack on Titan’s finale, it underscores Isayama’s commitment to artistic integrity and storytelling. Although a direct sequel may not be on the horizon, the collaboration between Isayama and Kaji offers fans something to look forward to. So, while the summer of 2024 may hold new surprises, fans can prepare to immerse themselves in the upcoming manga one-shot and explore the continuation of Eren’s legacy.