Berserk [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 25]

Berserk (1997) – A Masterpiece with a Bittersweet Cliffhanger

When it comes to dark fantasy anime, few titles hold a candle to Berserk (1997). Directed by Naohito Takahashi and animated by Oriental Light and Magic, this adaptation of Kentaro Miura’s legendary manga follows the journey of Guts, a lone mercenary with a tragic past, as he joins the Band of the Hawk under the enigmatic Griffith. The series aired from October 1997 to April 1998, covering the Golden Age Arc—a brutal, emotionally charged saga that leaves viewers both awestruck and frustrated by its abrupt ending.

The Good: A Dark, Unforgettable Tale

From the first episode, Berserk establishes itself as a grim, unflinching narrative. Guts, the Black Swordsman, is introduced as a man haunted by demons—both literal and metaphorical. His journey from a solitary warrior to a key member of the Band of the Hawk is filled with camaraderie, betrayal, and the slow unraveling of Griffith’s ambitions. The anime excels in character development, particularly in Griffith’s descent from a charismatic leader to a figure consumed by his own hubris.

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums often praise the show’s atmosphere. One user noted, “The anime builds tension so well—you know something terrible is coming, but you can’t look away.” The Eclipse, the climactic event in Episode 25, is a masterclass in horror and tragedy. The visceral brutality of the scene, coupled with the emotional weight of Griffith’s betrayal, leaves a lasting impact.

The Bad: That Infamous Ending

Here’s where things get divisive. The final episode, “Time of Eternity,” ends on a cliffhanger so abrupt that it’s become infamous in anime circles. Many fans, like one Reddit user, expressed frustration: “That was it??? What is wrong with that ending!? It’s all messed up…”

The anime cuts off right after the Eclipse, leaving key questions unanswered:
– How does Guts escape?
– What happens to Casca?
– Why does Griffith make that choice?

Some viewers felt cheated. “We didn’t even get to see how Guts escaped. It really seemed like the anime ended prematurely,” lamented another fan. The lack of resolution has led many to turn to the manga, which continues the story.

The Ugly: A Love-Hate Relationship

Despite its flaws, Berserk has a cult following. The ending, while polarizing, has its defenders. One fan argued, “The ending was PERFECT. It was just enough to have you wanting more.” Others appreciate the sheer audacity of the finale, calling it “one of the greatest endings I’ve ever seen.”

However, the anime’s low-budget animation (even for its time) and the absence of a second season have left many disappointed. “This entire thing was an advertisement for the manga,” one user pointed out. And they’re not wrong—the manga expands on the story in ways the anime never could.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch, But Prepare for the Manga

Berserk (1997) is a masterpiece of dark fantasy, but its incomplete adaptation means it’s best enjoyed as a gateway to the manga. The Golden Age Arc is a gripping, emotionally devastating journey, and while the anime’s ending may leave you screaming at your screen, it’s a testament to how powerful the story is.

As one fan put it: “I dropped it down from an 8 to a 5. Why? Because unfinished anime is unfinished.” Fair point—but even with its flaws, Berserk remains an unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re ready for a ride that’s equal parts exhilarating and infuriating, dive in. Just keep the manga handy for when the credits roll on Episode 25. You’ll need it.