Whenever a long-running manga series nears its end, sirens start blaring for fans. After all, the series they’ve held dear for years could be ruined by the final segment of the story. The fans of Attack on Titan faced this conundrum. The conclusion failed to do justice to the impressive years-long run. Fans couldn’t comprehend the unsatisfying conclusion and didn’t hold back while voicing their disappointment.
Even though the ending of Attack on Titan aligned well with the overarching theme, Hajime Isayama was extremely empathetic while dealing with all the criticism he received. His response instantly takes us back to the way Tite Kubo reacted when Bleach caught flak for its downfall, and both the reactions are worlds apart.
The difference between Hajime Isayama and Tite Kubo’s Response to Criticism
Over the years, Hajime Isayama has spoken about the different possibilities regarding the ending of Attack on Titan. Few years back, a video of Isayama surfaced on the internet where he shared his feelings about the ending. The good parts of Eren became more apparent in the anime which influenced him to tweak the direction of the manga to sell the big twist convincingly.
However, he still had doubts within himself. And he apologized to his fans. After seeing that video, fans loved how Hajime Isayama addressed the unmet expectations of his viewers.
Comment
byu/ShubhamGanatra from discussion
inattackontitan
Comment
byu/ShubhamGanatra from discussion
inattackontitan
Comment
byu/ShubhamGanatra from discussion
inattackontitan
Comment
byu/ShubhamGanatra from discussion
inattackontitan
Comment
byu/ShubhamGanatra from discussion
inattackontitan
The mention of Tite Kubo in this context is a reference to how Kubo reacted to the hate he was getting for Bleach. Kubo called out his haters (via translations on X) and asked them to tone down the harsh criticism.
Because if you don’t have the talent, nor have the effort, and yet you want to tell me that little pathetic complaint, you’re just some guy who’s trying to hinder a person who’s actually working hard.
After seeing how Kubo reacted, Isayama’s approach seems much more apt in this situation. He was aware of all the criticism directed towards Attack on Titan and addressed it respectfully instead of slamming it down like Kubo.
The Hate for Bleach: A Grey Situation
Tite Kubo might have been too harsh with his words but his response can’t be labeled as entirely wrong. The internet is known to be a relentless and unforgiving place. If something catches the fire of hate once, there’s no end to the hatred. The endless hate paired up with the hectic schedule of a mangaka contextualizes Kubo’s response. His response and feelings could have been phrased better but the frustration is understandable.
It seems like Isayama was better able to understand where the hate was coming from. His readers had spent years with Attack on Titan, the fascination of the world building was paired up with the anticipation of the potential ending. Unable to meet those expectations, Isayama humbly apologised and it reflects well on his personality. But considering how brutal some readers can be with their criticism, sometimes a Kubo-like response might not be the right one but definitely a necessary one.
Attack on Titan is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
