Why Do Some Anime Have Multiple Endings And Which One Counts

Anime has long captivated audiences with its emotional depth, visual storytelling, and narrative complexity. One recurring phenomenon that often puzzles fans—especially those new to the medium—is the existence of multiple endings for a single series. Whether through alternate story arcs, theatrical films, light novels, or divergent continuities, many beloved anime conclude in more than one way. This raises a critical question: why do some anime have multiple endings, and which version actually \"counts\" as the true conclusion?

The answer isn't always straightforward. Unlike Western television, where continuity is typically rigid and linear, Japanese animation often embraces parallel narratives, branching timelines, and creator-driven reinterpretations. These variations serve artistic, commercial, and audience engagement purposes. Understanding them requires looking beyond simple plot resolution and into the broader ecosystem of anime production.

The Cultural and Creative Roots of Multiple Endings

In Japan, anime is frequently an extension of larger media franchises known as *media mix* projects. These include manga, light novels, video games, and stage adaptations, all feeding into a shared universe. When an anime adaptation concludes before its source material, creators may craft an original ending rather than wait for the manga or novel to finish. This practice, known as *original anime ending*, allows studios to maintain momentum while preserving viewer interest.

Take, for example, the iconic mecha series *Neon Genesis Evangelion*. The original 1995 TV series concluded with two ambiguous, psychologically intense episodes that left fans divided. In response to widespread confusion and demand, director Hideaki Anno released *The End of Evangelion* (1997), a feature film that reimagined the finale with greater clarity and visceral impact. Both versions exist, but only the film is considered canonical in the later *Rebuild of Evangelion* tetralogy.

“An ending isn’t just closure—it’s an emotional contract between creator and audience. Sometimes, that contract needs renegotiation.” — Dr. Akiko Morimoto, Media Studies Professor at Waseda University

This illustrates a key principle: in anime, endings are not always final. They can be revisited, revised, or reinterpreted based on creator intent, audience feedback, or evolving artistic vision.

Types of Multiple Endings in Anime

Multiple endings manifest in several distinct forms, each serving different purposes:

• Original Anime Endings: Created when the anime outpaces its source material.
• Film Sequels or Alternate Timelines: Standalone movies that offer closure outside the main series.
• Light Novel or Manga Divergences: Source material may continue past the anime with different outcomes.
• Video Game Routes: Interactive media like visual novels allow players to choose endings.
• Director’s Cuts or Reboots: Revised versions that retcon or expand upon earlier conclusions.

Each type reflects a different approach to storytelling—one that prioritizes flexibility over strict canon.

Tip: If you're unsure whether an anime ending is canonical, check if it aligns with the original manga or author-approved sequels.

Which Ending Counts? Defining Canon in Anime

Determining which ending “counts” depends on context. There is no universal standard, but certain factors help clarify legitimacy:

1. Source Material Authority: If the anime is based on a manga or novel, the original author’s version usually takes precedence.
2. Creator Involvement: Endings overseen by the original creator (e.g., Rumiko Takahashi for *Inuyasha*) are more likely to be official.
3. Continuity in Sequels: Later works that reference prior events confirm which timeline is active.
4. Studio vs. Author Control: When studios create original endings without input from the original writer, they’re often non-canon.

Consider *Fate/stay night*, a franchise with three primary routes—*Fate*, *Unlimited Blade Works*, and *Heaven’s Feel*—each adapted into separate anime series. All three are considered canon because they originate from the same visual novel, where player choice determines the path. Here, “canon” isn’t singular; it’s plural. Each route represents a valid reality within the multiverse framework of the story.

Canon Status Comparison Table

Anime	Type of Multiple Ending	Official Canon?	Reason
Neon Genesis Evangelion (TV)	Original Series Ending	No	Retconned by The End of Evangelion
The End of Evangelion	Film Reinterpretation	Yes	Directed by Hideaki Anno; referenced in Rebuild films
Inuyasha (Final Season)	Adapted from Manga	Yes	Follows Rumiko Takahashi’s original story
Fate/stay night [Heaven’s Feel]	Visual Novel Route	Yes	One of three canonical paths
Fullmetal Alchemist (2003)	Original Anime Ending	No	Manga was unfinished; later contradicted by Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood	Manga-Adapted Ending	Yes	Follows Hiromu Arakawa’s complete story

This table underscores a crucial point: canon is often determined retroactively. A once-official ending may lose legitimacy when a more authoritative version emerges.

A Case Study: Fullmetal Alchemist – Two Worlds, One Legacy

The *Fullmetal Alchemist* franchise offers one of the most compelling examples of dual endings. The 2003 anime, produced by Bones, began as a faithful adaptation of Hiromu Arakawa’s manga. However, since the manga was still ongoing, the studio had to create an original conclusion. The resulting finale introduced new characters, altered core themes, and deviated significantly from the established lore.

Years later, when the manga concluded, a second anime—*Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood*—was produced to follow the original story exactly. Fans were now presented with two distinct endings: one born of necessity during production, the other grounded in the author’s completed vision.

While both versions have passionate followings, *Brotherhood* is universally recognized as the canonical conclusion. It maintains thematic consistency, resolves character arcs as intended, and aligns with supplementary materials. The 2003 version, though acclaimed for its atmosphere and music, exists as an alternate universe—a “what if” scenario that explores different philosophical questions about humanity and immortality.

This duality enriches the franchise. Rather than diminishing one version, it invites deeper engagement. Viewers can appreciate both interpretations as complementary explorations of the same central ideas.

When Multiple Endings Enhance the Experience

Far from being confusing, multiple endings can deepen narrative impact. In stories dealing with fate, identity, or choice, offering several conclusions reinforces thematic resonance. For instance, *Steins;Gate*, a sci-fi thriller about time travel, uses multiple world lines to illustrate how small decisions cascade into vastly different futures. The anime adaptation preserves this structure, guiding viewers toward the “True End” while acknowledging the emotional weight of failed timelines.

Likewise, franchises like *Puella Magi Madoka Magica* leverage alternate realities to subvert genre expectations. The TV series presents a tragic yet hopeful ending, while the film *Rebellion* challenges that resolution, raising existential questions about free will and divine authority. Though controversial, *Rebellion* is officially canon and expands the mythos rather than invalidating it.

Tip: Watch director commentary or read interviews to understand the intent behind alternate endings—they often reveal deeper layers of meaning.

Checklist: How to Determine Which Anime Ending Is Canon

• ✅ Identify the original source material (manga, novel, game).
• ✅ Research whether the anime caught up to or surpassed the source.
• ✅ Check if the original creator was involved in the ending.
• ✅ Look for sequels, remakes, or reboots that reference prior events.
• ✅ Consult official guides, art books, or producer statements.
• ✅ Be aware that “canon” can be fluid in long-running franchises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does having multiple endings make an anime less serious?

No. Multiple endings often reflect the complexity of storytelling in serialized media. They can enhance depth, especially in genres like psychological drama, science fiction, or fantasy where alternate realities are part of the narrative fabric.

Can I skip a non-canon ending?

You can, but you might miss valuable character development or thematic insights. Non-canon endings are sometimes praised for creativity, animation quality, or emotional intensity—even if they don’t shape future installments.

Is there ever a case where all endings are canon?

Yes. In multiverse-based stories like *Fate/stay night* or *Steins;Gate*, each ending represents a parallel timeline. None are false; they coexist under a branching narrative model.

Conclusion: Embracing Narrative Plurality

The presence of multiple endings in anime is not a flaw—it’s a feature. Rooted in production realities, creative experimentation, and audience interaction, these varied conclusions reflect the dynamic nature of Japanese storytelling. Rather than seeking a single “correct” ending, viewers benefit from understanding context: who made it, why it exists, and how it connects to the broader work.

Whether you prefer the emotional catharsis of *The End of Evangelion*, the fidelity of *Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood*, or the branching possibilities of *Fate*, each ending offers something unique. The real value lies not in declaring one superior, but in appreciating how anime uses multiple conclusions to explore different facets of truth, consequence, and human experience.

💬 What’s your favorite anime with multiple endings? Do you prioritize canon accuracy or emotional satisfaction? Share your thoughts and spark a conversation with fellow fans!