A Look Back On Attack On Titan Season 1: An Emotional, Yet Foreboding Journey
Attack on Titan” took the anime world by storm when it first premiered in 2013, captivating audiences with its gripping story, intense action sequences, and dark themes. Throughout its ten-year run, the series has become a modern classic, renowned for its ability to blend compelling character development with a riveting plot. Season 1 set the stage for an unforgettable saga, and even now, years after its debut, it remains one of the most emotionally resonant seasons of the entire series.
The story follows humanity’s desperate struggle for survival against the mysterious and terrifying Titans—giant humanoid creatures that devour humans. Living behind enormous walls, humanity’s existence is one of fear and confinement. The narrative centers around Eren Jaeger, his friends Mikasa and Armin, and their determination to fight back against the Titans after a colossal one breaches the walls, threatening the last bastion of mankind.
A Compelling Story and Characters
The story in Season 1 of “Attack on Titan” is nothing short of masterful, filled with suspense, mystery, and emotional weight. From the very first episode, the anime grips its audience with high stakes, as the Colossal Titan kicks down Wall Maria, leading to catastrophic destruction. This moment immediately sets the tone for the series, highlighting both the vulnerability of humanity and the overwhelming power of the Titans.
One of the strengths of Season 1 is its pacing, especially when it comes to the unveiling of its mysteries. As the season progresses, viewers are slowly introduced to the complexities of the world. The existence of the Titans raises questions that aren’t answered right away, creating a sense of intrigue. Who are the Titans? Where do they come from? Why do they devour humans? These questions drive the narrative forward, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Eren Jaeger’s personal arc is another key factor in the season’s success. Motivated by rage after witnessing the death of his mother during the Titan attack, Eren’s character is propelled by his singular desire to destroy every last Titan. His journey, along with that of his friends, Mikasa Ackerman and Armin Arlert, serves as the emotional backbone of the show. Mikasa’s fierce loyalty and Armin’s intellectual prowess provide a balance to Eren’s often reckless impulsiveness. Each character’s development is integral to the story’s progression, though some side characters are left somewhat undeveloped in Season 1, leaving room for growth in future seasons.
World-Building and Atmosphere
Beyond the characters, “Attack on Titan” excels in its world-building. The setting of the series, a world where humanity has been forced to live within the confines of giant walls, is both claustrophobic and awe-inspiring. As Season 1 unfolds, the audience learns more about this dystopian world, from the military’s internal structure to the fear and paranoia that permeate society. The fact that humanity has no real understanding of the Titans’ origin or motives adds to the overall sense of dread.
The anime’s visual art style contributes immensely to its atmosphere. Wit Studio’s animation is top-notch, particularly in its portrayal of the Titans themselves. Their grotesque, almost absurd appearance contrasts sharply with the devastation they bring. The sheer horror of watching Titans devour humans in bloody, gruesome fashion is one of the season’s most haunting aspects, adding emotional weight to the ongoing battle for survival.
The soundtrack, composed by Hiroyuki Sawano, further amplifies the tension. With tracks that range from eerie and melancholic to bombastic and triumphant, the music perfectly underscores the emotional highs and lows of the series. The combination of stunning visuals and a memorable score makes Season 1 an unforgettable experience.
Pacing and Early Criticisms
Despite its many strengths, Season 1 of “Attack on Titan” was not without its flaws. Some viewers found the pacing inconsistent, with certain episodes feeling drawn out. Additionally, while Eren, Mikasa, and Armin received significant development, many of the side characters felt underdeveloped. Characters like Jean, Sasha, and Connie, though present, were not given much room to grow in the first season. These issues would later be addressed in future seasons, where side characters were fleshed out and given more meaningful roles.
Another point of contention was the long wait between Season 1 and Season 2. The first season concluded in 2013, but the second season didn’t arrive until 2017, leaving fans in suspense for four years. This gap in content caused some viewers to lose interest, though the show eventually regained momentum with the release of Season 2 and subsequent seasons.
Legacy of Season 1
Even with these minor critiques, Season 1 of “Attack on Titan” remains a landmark achievement in anime. It laid the foundation for a story that would evolve in unexpected ways, transitioning from a simple survival tale into a complex exploration of themes like freedom, morality, and the nature of power. The mysteries introduced in Season 1 would continue to unfold throughout the series, leading to shocking revelations about the Titans and the world they inhabit.
The show’s final seasons, animated by Studio MAPPA, would take the story in darker and more philosophical directions, with Eren’s transformation from a hot-headed protagonist into a complex, morally ambiguous figure. But it was Season 1 that first introduced audiences to this brutal, fascinating world, and it remains an essential part of the “Attack on Titan” experience.
Conclusion
“A Look Back on Attack on Titan Season 1” reveals an anime that excels in delivering intense emotional impact and thrilling action. Its blend of horror, mystery, and humanity’s fight for survival set a high bar for the series moving forward. As we reflect on this pivotal first season, it’s clear that “Attack on Titan” is not just an anime—it’s a phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
