Kenpuu Denki Berserk [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 25]

Berserk (1997) – A Dark Fantasy Masterpiece with a Polarizing Ending

When it comes to dark fantasy anime, few titles hold the same legendary status as Kenpuu Denki Berserk (simply known as Berserk). Adapted from Kentaro Miura’s iconic manga, the 1997 anime series spans 25 episodes, covering the Golden Age Arc—a brutal, emotionally charged saga that follows the mercenary Guts and his turbulent journey alongside the ambitious Griffith and the Band of the Hawk.

The Premise: A World of Blood and Betrayal

Set in a medieval-inspired world, Berserk introduces us to Guts, the Black Swordsman, a lone warrior with a massive sword and a tragic past. The anime cleverly starts with a glimpse of Guts’ future—a blood-soaked, demon-infested nightmare—before rewinding to his early days as a mercenary. From there, the story unfolds as a gripping tale of camaraderie, ambition, and ultimate betrayal.

Griffith, the charismatic leader of the Band of the Hawk, is a man obsessed with his dream of ruling his own kingdom. His bond with Guts is complex—equal parts admiration, rivalry, and something darker. Casca, the only female warrior in the group, adds another layer of tension, caught between loyalty to Griffith and her growing feelings for Guts.

The Strengths: Unflinching Storytelling and Character Depth

What makes Berserk stand out is its refusal to shy away from brutality—both physical and emotional. The anime doesn’t just show violence; it uses it to underscore the harshness of its world. Battles are chaotic and visceral, but the real pain comes from the psychological torment of its characters.

Fans praise the series for its deep character development. Guts starts as a lone wolf, but his time with the Band of the Hawk forces him to confront his own humanity. Griffith, meanwhile, is a fascinating antagonist—charismatic yet terrifying, a man whose ambition consumes everything in his path. Casca’s arc is equally compelling, as she struggles with her identity in a world dominated by men.

The Controversial Ending: Love It or Hate It

Now, let’s talk about that ending. The final episode of Berserk (Episode 25) is infamous for its abrupt, gut-wrenching conclusion. Without spoiling too much, the Eclipse—a nightmarish event—changes everything. Characters are broken, alliances are shattered, and the story leaves viewers with more questions than answers.

Fan reactions are wildly divided:
– Frustration: Many fans felt cheated by the lack of closure. Comments like “That was it?! What is wrong with that ending!?” and “We didn’t even get to see how Guts escaped!” are common. Some even dropped their ratings from an 8/10 to a 5/10 purely because of the unresolved cliffhanger.
– Defense: Others argue that the ending was intentionally jarring. One fan wrote, “It was supposed to make the audience feel that way—this is a guro show, after all.” Another pointed out that the anime’s purpose was to drive viewers to the manga, calling it “the perfect advertisement.”
– Manga Loyalists: A recurring theme in discussions is the push toward the manga. Fans who’ve read it often say, “The manga is SO much better,” while newcomers admit, “Guess I have to read it now.”

Legacy and Lingering Questions

Despite its divisive ending, Berserk remains a cult classic. Its themes of fate, free will, and the cost of ambition resonate deeply. The animation may feel dated by today’s standards (some fans joke about the “crappy OP”), but the storytelling holds up.

The biggest question fans still debate is: Will there ever be a continuation? The anime ended in 1998, and while newer adaptations exist (like the 2016 series), none have captured the rawness of the original. Many fans hold out hope for a Hellsing Ultimate-style revival, but for now, the manga remains the definitive experience.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch (But Prepare for the Manga Dive)

Berserk is a masterpiece of dark fantasy—brutal, emotional, and unforgettable. The anime’s ending may leave you screaming at your screen, but that’s part of its power. Whether you love it or hate it, one thing’s certain: you won’t forget it.

And if the cliffhanger leaves you craving more? Well, as the fans say: “Welcome to the manga.”

Rating: 9/10 (Would be a 10 if not for that ending.)

What did you think of Berserk’s ending? Love it, hate it, or still recovering? Drop your thoughts below!