this post was submitted on 13 May 2026
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[–] Rottcodd@ani.social 1 points 1 day ago

In the purest sense of the word "cathartic," absolutely 86. There's nothing - literally nothing, in any media - that's ever touched me the way the last episode of that series does.

Honorable mentions:

In a similar sense, Akudama Drive. It's especially rewarding because with the vividly over-the-top beginning, it doesn't feel like that's the way it's headed, but it is.

In a milder sense, Honey Lemon Soda. There's just something about that series - to me, it's far better and more satisfying than any of its better-known rivals.

In a similar vein to that, Words Bubble Up Like Soda Pop, which as a bonus is visually stunning too.

In a somewhat different sense, the original OVA of Little Witch Academia. It just sweeps me up from the very first frame and doesn't let go until the last.

And in the more traditional sense, say what you might about the series as a whole, but Sword Art Online S01E03 - The Red-nosed Reindeer - is beautifully touching, as is the entire Mother's Rosario arc.

[–] Endmaker@ani.social 0 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago) (1 children)

I'd imagine it has to be 86 for many people, myself included. Part 2 has the most cathartic ending of all time.

Also, shout-out to Umamusume season 2 and Gundam: Witch from Mercury.

It's not a coincidence that the most cathartic anime for me are in fact my top 3 anime.

[–] Rottcodd@ani.social 1 points 1 day ago

I'd definitely second 86. When I really want a solid dose of catharsis, there's nothing that even begins to compare with that last episode. I can't even think about it (or, for instance, write about it) without it bringing tears to my eyes.