Tougen Anki [Season 1 Episode 22]

Tougen Anki Episode 22: “A Futile Battle” – When Plot Armor Becomes a Weapon

Let’s cut straight to the chaos: Tougen Anki’s latest episode, “A Futile Battle,” is 18 minutes of pure, unadulterated pain for our protagonist Shiki. And honestly? It’s kind of brilliant.

First, let’s set the scene. Produced by Studio Hibari and adapted from Yura Urushibara’s dark fantasy manga, Tougen Anki has been a wild ride since its July 2025 debut. The series dives into the age-old rivalry between those inheriting Momotarou’s blood and the Oni, blending mythological twists with brutal action. Episode 22, which dropped on December 12, 2025, picks up where the previous cliffhanger left off—Shinya locating the Oni base, only to find it empty. But the real drama? Shiki’s showdown with Oribe.

If you thought Shiki had it rough before, think again. Oribe doesn’t just fight dirty; he weaponizes plot armor. Yes, you read that right. The episode opens with Shiki’s wings being torn off—visually stunning, thanks to Studio Hibari’s crisp animation—followed by bones shattered by a wave of “bad luck” (Oribe’s signature ability). It’s a relentless assault that feels personal, not just physical. As one fan on MyAnimeList put it, “Shiki’s got the balls to fight in that state, but this is his toughest battle yet.”

What makes this episode stand out is its refusal to pull punches. There’s no deus ex machina here—no last-minute power-up, no ally rushing in to save the day. Instead, it’s a masterclass in tension. Every blow feels earned, every injury visceral. The 18-minute runtime flies by because you’re on the edge of your seat, wondering how Shiki will even survive, let alone win.

But let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the “futile” in the title. Is this battle really pointless? On the surface, yes—Shiki is outmatched, outgunned, and outmaneuvered. But thematically, it’s anything but. Tougen Anki has always been about legacy and resilience, and this episode cranks that up to 11. Shiki’s refusal to back down, even when his body is failing him, speaks volumes about his character. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t just about power—it’s about standing up when everything tells you to fall.

The pacing here is perfect. Studio Hibari balances the action with quiet moments of despair, letting the weight of Shiki’s situation sink in. The animation, as always, is top-notch—fluid, dynamic, and unflinching in its portrayal of violence. The color palette shifts from vibrant blues (Shiki’s energy) to deep reds (blood and chaos), mirroring the emotional rollercoaster we’re on.

Now, let’s address the fan reactions. Over on MyAnimeList, the discussion is split—but in the best way. Some fans are frustrated by Shiki’s constant suffering (“Can the guy catch a break?”), while others praise the episode for its realism (“Finally, an anime that doesn’t coddle its protagonist”). One user summed it up: “This episode hurt to watch, but that’s why it works. It’s raw, it’s real, and it makes me care even more about Shiki.”

Critics might argue that the episode is too bleak, but that’s the point. Tougen Anki isn’t here to give you warm fuzzies—it’s here to challenge you. Episode 22 is a turning point, not just for Shiki, but for the series itself. It asks: What do you do when the odds are stacked against you? When the very thing that’s supposed to protect you (plot armor) is used against you?

For fans of dark fantasy and character-driven stories, this episode is a must-watch. It’s not for the faint of heart—there’s blood, there’s bone-crunching violence, and there’s a whole lot of despair—but it’s worth every minute. Studio Hibari has once again proven why they’re one of the best in the business, delivering an episode that’s both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

So, where does Tougen Anki go from here? With only two episodes left in the season (the series has 24 episodes total), the stakes have never been higher. Will Shiki find a way to turn the tide? Will the Oni’s true plan be revealed? One thing’s for sure: I’ll be tuning in.

In the end, “A Futile Battle” isn’t just an episode—it’s a statement. It’s Tougen Anki at its most unapologetic, most intense, and most human. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you haven’t seen it yet, grab your popcorn (and maybe a tissue) and dive in. Just be prepared to feel every punch.

Final Verdict: 9/10. Brutal, beautiful, and unmissable. Tougen Anki Episode 22 is a masterclass in storytelling that will leave you breathless.

— A fan who’s still recovering.

Tougen Anki Episode 22 is available now on Crunchyroll and StreamFind. Don’t miss it.