Re Zero Starting Life in Another World [Season 3 Episode 16]

Re:Zero Season 3 Episode 16 – A Bittersweet Victory and a Cliffhanger That Stings

Re:Zero – Starting Life in Another World has always been a rollercoaster of emotions, and Season 3 Episode 16, the finale of the Counterattack Arc, is no exception. Directed by Masahiro Shinohara and animated by White Fox, this episode wraps up the intense battles in Priestella while leaving fans with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. But was it a satisfying conclusion? Let’s dive into the highs, lows, and everything in between, based on what fans are saying.

The Battle Against Gluttony: A Rush or a Masterstroke?

The episode kicks off with the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony, Lye Batenkaitos, wreaking havoc—literally devouring people. Fans were divided on how the fight was handled. Some, like @Marinate1016, praised the pacing: “Banger final episode for Re:Zero! 10 out of 10 for this season. White Fox did an amazing job.” Others, however, felt the fight was rushed. One fan pointed out: “They speedran Lye’s fight just to get to Rui’s appearance. Covering everything in one episode was a tall task.”

Despite the pacing debate, Beatrice’s showdown with Lye was a highlight. Using her magic crystals to expose the true Gluttony—Rui Arneb—was a jaw-dropping moment. Fans loved seeing Beatrice back in action, especially after her emotional reunion with Subaru and Emilia. “Beatrice vs. Gluttony was fun, but the outcome was awful,” one fan noted, referencing Otto’s brutal injuries (yes, his shins were exposed—ouch).

Victory? More Like a Pyrrhic One

The episode’s tone perfectly captures Re:Zero’s signature theme: no win comes without sacrifice. While Subaru and the gang reclaim Priestella, the cost is staggering. The Sin Archbishops—Regulus, Sirius, and Capella—are either dead or captured, but Gluttony escapes, and the city is left in ruins.

Fans resonated with this bittersweet ending. “Even with the crew winning, it doesn’t feel like a victory,” one viewer remarked. Another added: “The battle of Priestella ended as more of a draw. Both sides lost more than they realize.”

Priscilla’s condescending banter with Emilia and Felt’s mysterious immunity to Gluttony’s power (because her birth name isn’t “Felt”) were standout moments. But the real kicker? That cliffhanger.

The Julius Twist: A Stab to the Heart

The final scene reveals that Julius, one of Subaru’s closest allies, has been forgotten by everyone—except Subaru. Cue the collective “WHAT?!” from fans.

This twist sparked endless reactions:
– “Who’s Julius? :DDDD” (a callback to Season 1’s infamous “Who’s Rem?”).
– “The last scene was absolutely diabolical…”
– “Julius… aw no bro :<“

Some fans compared it to Season 1’s Rem reveal, calling it “less intense but equally heartbreaking.” Others speculated about Season 4: “This sets up Arc 6 perfectly. Julius remembering everything while the world forgets him? Peak storytelling.”

Season 3: Love It or Hate It?

The season as a whole polarized fans. Many, like @IzanaSolos, declared it “the best arc yet,” praising its emotional depth and improved animation. Others, however, criticized the shift in tone. One fan vented: “This season didn’t feel like Re:Zero. It lost the psychological thriller vibe and became too battle-heavy.”

Despite the divide, most agreed on one thing: White Fox delivered. “The production values were stellar,” a fan noted, while another added, “Even with cuts from the LN, it felt complete for anime-only viewers.”

Final Verdict: A Solid Setup for More Pain

Season 3 Episode 16 is a fitting end—packed with action, emotional punches, and a cliffhanger that ensures fans will be theorizing until Season 4 drops. Whether you loved it or had reservations, one thing’s clear: Re:Zero remains unmatched in its ability to make us scream at our screens.

So, until next season, let’s all collectively mourn Julius and pray Subaru gets a break (he won’t).

Rating: 9/10 – Painfully perfect.

What did you think of the finale? Drop your thoughts below!