Hajime Isayama’s manga “Attack on Titan” became a social phenomenon at one point, and the series concluded in 2021 after about 12 years of serialization. The television anime series, which has been broadcast over four seasons so far, is finally heading towards its grand finale, with the first part of “The Final Season” aired on March 3rd (the second part is scheduled to air later in 2023).
Many people are re-reading the manga and revisiting the world of “Attack on Titan” while waiting for the final episode. But did you know that in addition to the main story, there are side stories that provide crucial clues to the characters’ pasts and backgrounds?
In this article, we’d like to introduce three surprising truths revealed in the side stories of “Attack on Titan.”
What Makes Annie Keep Moving Forward?
The spin-off works known as “Annie’s Side Story” and “Mikasa’s Side Story,” titled “Attack on Titan: LOST GIRLS” (2 volumes in total), began serialization in “Bessatsu Shonen Magazine” in September 2015. They were originally visual novel scenarios included as first-release bonuses for the Blu-ray & DVD sets of the TV anime, which were later novelized and then adapted into manga.
In the original story, Annie appears to be an emotionless, cool woman, but in this side story, her perspective is explored, allowing readers to feel her anguish and confusion more vividly.
The story takes place on the day before Annie first transforms into a Titan. While tracking down a girl who is said to be involved in a family’s dark drug-related issues, Annie is forced to confront her past. She recalls being burdened with the “absolute obedience” demanded by her father, who told her, “Fulfill your mission. Fulfilling your mission is the reason you were born into this world.”
Although the original story depicted her father teaching her hand-to-hand combat, it’s surprising to see the extent of the mental burden she was carrying. Remembering Annie’s strength and expressions in the original story makes readers sympathize with Annie. Despite appearing indifferent, Annie was genuinely conflicted and filled with regret as she witnessed people being mercilessly killed every day.
One of the coolest aspects of this side story is that it provides glimpses into Annie’s true feelings through these psychological portrayals while showcasing her trademark powerful kicks. It’s a must-read side story that allows readers to appreciate her incredible combat skills once more.
Why did Levi join the Survey Corps?
In the main story, Levi was already a member of the Survey Corps when he first appeared. However, the truth behind why he joined the organization is revealed in “Attack on Titan: No Regrets” (2 volumes), a manga series published in the women’s comic magazine “ARIA” from 2013 to 2014. Originally, it was a visual novel included as a bonus with the first edition of the TV anime’s Blu-ray & DVD. The story takes place around six years before the main story, before Erwin becomes the commander.
Levi, a thug from the underground city within Wall Sina, skillfully used the stolen omnidirectional mobility gear along with his companions, Furlan and Isabel, to repeatedly commit theft. One day, their skills catch the attention of Erwin, a squad leader in the Survey Corps. Erwin approaches Levi with a proposal, and as their interests align, Levi, along with Furlan and Isabel, joins the Survey Corps.
The reasons behind Levi’s rough demeanor and unwavering loyalty to Erwin are explained in “No Regrets.” This story will undoubtedly appeal to fans of both Levi and Erwin, as well as any “Attack on Titan” enthusiasts.
What is the reason behind Levi’s cold and ruthless behaviour?
Levi is known for his cool and sometimes even cruel behavior. The reason for this can also be found in “Attack on Titan: No Regrets.” After joining the Survey Corps, Levi embarks on an expedition outside the walls. However, one day, a momentary lapse in judgment leads to the loss of his two close companions. The raw emotions, impulsiveness, and madness displayed by Levi in that moment are striking, as is the critical moment when he awakens to his “Ackerman” bloodline.
Erwin coldly advises a distraught Levi to face reality. Dumbfounded, Levi feels the depth of Erwin’s commitment to the Survey Corps and swears to follow him to the ends of the earth. This scene reveals the origin of Levi’s unwavering loyalty to Erwin, which is always respected in the main story, making it an incredibly heartwarming moment.
Understanding that the cruel reality of losing a precious comrade lies at the root of Levi’s ruthless behavior as a squad leader, readers can see the true heart of Levi, who values his comrades more than anyone else and does not want them to experience such regret again.
There are many side stories in the “Attack on Titan” universe, including novels and manga adaptations. Each of these works complements the main story’s world-building, settings, and characters’ pasts and backgrounds, allowing readers to delve deeper into the world of “Attack on Titan.”
By learning about the characters’ pasts and backgrounds through these side stories and then revisiting the main story, readers can truly appreciate the uniqueness and depth of this work. With the final season of the TV anime approaching, now is the perfect time to explore the various side stories of “Attack on Titan.”
