Top 10 Best Anime Transformation Sequences
Script written by Briana Lawrence.
Top 10 Best Anime Transformation Sequences
If only transforming yourself in real life was this easy. Welcome to WatchMojo.com, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Best Anime Transformation Sequences.
This list isn’t about the overall look of the transformation, but rather, its significance in the anime series or film, how unique it is compared to others, and the impact it has had on anime as a whole. We only looked at sequences you can see happening on screen, so anything hinted at or done behind closed doors is out.
We’re also going to have to slap that spoiler alert on this one because some of these transformations may be pretty heavy plot points. That being said, let’s grab our magical lockets or dig deep into the depths of our soul to channel our hidden energy, because we’ve got a countdown to do!
#10: Yusuke’s Ancestral Demons
“Yu Yu Hakusho” (1992-95)
Most transformations are something that the character wants to happen, right? In the midst of a seemingly unwinnable battle against former Spirit Detective, Sensui, we find out that Yusuke’s ancestor is the demon king, Raizen. After being killed in battle, Yusuke’s dead body is resurrected by his newly discovered demonic energy. Yusuke was fine with that, but then Raizen took it a bit too far by completely taking over his body, causing a powerful transformation that led to him killing Sensui. As Yusuke’s forced to take the final shot, he snaps out of it and tries to fight back, but it’s already too
late.
#9: Priscilla’s Awakening
“Claymore” (2007)
Some characters have access to great power, but that doesn’t mean they should tap into it. Claymores are half-human, half-Yoma hybrid warriors who, despite having massive power within their Yoma side, shouldn’t use it too much or else they’ll completely lose themselves. Case in point: Priscilla. After a battle against the vastly more powerful Teresa, Priscilla is left in an unrecognizable state due to using 70 percent of her Yoki. She begs Teresa to finish her off, but it’s debatable whether or not she meant it, since she immediately beheads Teresa when she gets the chance and completely gives into her demonic power.
#8: One Of God’s Monsters
“Hellsing Ultimate” (2006-12)
How far is too far when it comes to being a man of God? Well, vampire hunter Father Anderson shows us just how far is too far. Even with all his fanaticism and scripture quoting, rival Alucard still held a great respect for the man… until this moment. After stabbing himself with the Nail of Helena, Anderson became something other than human. Even if said transformation was in the name of the Lord, the creature formally known as Anderson is terrifying, even to Alucard. After defeating him, Alucard actually mourned the death of his former enemy, because up until that point, Anderson had something that was forever out of the vampires grasp, humanity.
#7: Mitsuki Kouyama Asks For A Miracle
“Full Moon wo Sagashite” (2002-03)
It’s no secret that magical girl transformations are a huge staple in anime — and we’ll talk more about them later — but this particular one is absolutely heartbreaking. Mitsuki wishes to become a singer, but not only does she have a tumor in her throat, but the two shinigami she meets inform her that she only has one year left to live. Mitsuki doesn’t transform into a magical girl in the conventional sense. There’s no super-powered attacks or a team of warrior women out to save the world. Instead, Mitsuki transforms into a healthy, 16-year-old girl who sets out to fulfill her dreams before she dies.
#6: Pokemon Evolutions
“Pokemon” (1997-)
Evolution isn’t just an important factor in Pokemon, but it’s key to any series that revolves around battling with monsters. Evolution causes Pokemon to gain a power boost — or ego boost — and a new set of moves in one, or several, steps, as they strive to become the very best like no one ever was. Unlike the video games, the anime lets the Pokemon evolve during battle, and they can even choose to not evolve at all — hence Ash’s Pikachu not taking the next step, and Team Rocket’s Meowth staying just the way he is. It still doesn’t explain why Ash hasn’t evolved past age ten, though. And he thinks he’s going to become the best, that’s cute.
#5: Titan Transformations
“Attack on Titan” (2013)
There’s no one who hates titans as much as Eren Jaeger, so it’s quite the disturbing dose of irony when he gets eaten by one early on in the series. We assumed things would end there, but Eren proved us wrong when he channeled his anger from within… no, really, we mean within. He’s in the titan’s stomach when he transforms into the very thing he hates and he lets his rage, and fists, do the talking. We still don’t have all the answers, but what we do know is that Eren begins to learn how to use his newfound power… until the female titan comes along, which leads to another crazy transformation.
#4: Hollow On The Inside
“Bleach” (2004-12)
Admit it, you have a bit of an evil streak, don’t deny it, we read the comments. Everyone gets that little voice inside them that whispers something bad from titme to time. Most of us know how to tune it out, but in Ichigo’s case, his nefarious side is a bit more difficult to deal with. That’s because it has a mind of its own, and it’s tempting to give in when it always shows up when he needs it most. Even so, it’s incredibly dangerous to rely on this part of him for tough battles, which makes sense since it is a bit… well, malicious doesn’t quite cover it. That, and Ichigo doesn’t want the unfair advantage.
#3: Tetsuo’s Mutation
“Akira” (1988)
This fietus-baby transformation is damn near historical in the world of anime. As much as we might want his powerful telepathy for ourselves the side effects are a biiiiiit of a turn-off. There’s a slow build up of Tetsuo losing control of his abilities, but no one was prepared for how horrific of transformation that followed. He becomes a giant, grotesque mass of flesh and blood that engulfs everything it comes in contact with: including both his best friend and girlfriend. It’s not just the visuals, but the painful wails that make the entire transformation terrifyingly mesmerizing to watch.
#2: Champion of Love and Justice
“Sailor Moon” (1992-97)
We know the song — English and Japanese – and just saying “make up” makes a lot of fans want to strike a pose. It certainly isn’t the first magical girl transformation, but it’s definitely the series that popularized the genre all over the world. There’s no denying the influence the sailor scouts have had, not just on the fans, but for anime in general. We expect all magical girls — and boys – to have glamorous transformations, epic speeches, and kick ass attacks thanks to a Pretty Soldier named Sailor Moon.
Before we check out the final form on our list, let’s watch the transformations of these honorable mentions:
Unlock!
“Shugo Chara!” (2007-08)
The Millennium Puzzle
“Yu-Gi-Oh!” (2000-04)
Senketsu Fashion Week
“Kill la Kill” (2013-14)
Pegasus Transformation
“Saint Seiya” (1986-89)
#1: Super Saiyan
“Dragon Ball Z” (1989-96)
Much like Sailor Moon, this transformation inspired an entire generation of anime fans (0:09). Sure, it doesn’t have the magical pens or a timed sequence, but it looks cool with the green eyes and blonde hair — or black, or red, or blue. It’s not just the impressive strength increase, but the fact that it requires the saiyans to harness the power within themselves to master it. From dealing with a great loss, to pushing yourself to the limit, or nonchalantly pulling it off, it’s a power that every anime character strives to achieve, and one that continues to influence the genre.
Do you agree with our list? Which transformation sequence is the most memorable for you? For more top tens published everyday, be sure to channel your energy and subscribe to WatchMojo.com.