How did Sailor Moon End?
The popular Japanese manga and anime series, Sailor Moon, ended its original run in 1997, leaving fans wondering what had happened to their beloved heroines. In this article, we’ll delve into the finale of the anime and explore the reasons behind the conclusion of the story.
The Final Episode
The final episode of the anime, episode 200, aired on February 8, 1997. The episode is titled "Dream. And So, It Began" and wraps up the storylines of the main characters. The episode begins with Usagi (Sailor Moon) and her friends reflecting on their past adventures and the memories they’ve shared.
Contents
**The Defeat of Queen Nehelenia**
One of the major plot points in the final episode is the defeat of Queen Nehelenia, the primary antagonist of the Black Moon Clan. Usagi and her friends are able to defeat Nehelenia by using the collective power of the Sailor Crystals. This marks the final showdown between the Sailor Scouts and their enemies, putting an end to the Galactic Kingdom’s evil plans.
**Mamoru and Usagi’s Relationship**
The final episode also sees a significant development in the relationship between Mamoru (Tuxedo Mask) and Usagi. The two confess their love for each other and share a kiss, finally resolving the years-long tension between them. This plot twist was met with both excitement and tears from fans, as it marked the culmination of the beloved couples’ journey.
**Chibiusa’s Story**
Another key aspect of the final episode is the story of Chibiusa, who has been a significant character throughout the series. Chibiusa’s identity as a princess of the future is revealed, and she returns to her own time, finally fulfilling her destiny. Chibiusa’s journey has been a central plot point throughout the series, and her departure marks a bittersweet moment for fans.
**The Sailor Scouts’ Legacy**
As the episode concludes, the Sailor Scouts say their goodbyes, knowing that their work is done. The scouts return to their normal lives, and the world is saved once again. However, the legacy of the Sailor Scouts lives on, and the series hints at a new generation of guardians, setting the stage for the future.
**Why the Anime Ended**
So, why did the anime end at episode 200? According to an interview with Naoko Takeuchi, the creator of Sailor Moon, the anime was intentionally designed to have a conclusion, unlike many other Japanese anime series that continue indefinitely. Takeuchi aimed to tell a complete story within the 200 episodes, ensuring that each plot thread was resolved.
What Happened Next?
Although the anime concluded in 1997, Sailor Moon remained popular, and a sequel series, Sailor Moon S, was released in 1994-1995. The franchise has since expanded to include several live-action TV dramas, films, and other adaptations. In 2014, a new anime series, Sailor Moon Crystal, was released, offering a revised take on the original storyline.
**A Look Back**
In conclusion, the finale of Sailor Moon is a poignant moment that wraps up the stories of beloved characters. From the defeat of Queen Nehelenia to the confessions of Mamoru and Usagi, the episode marks the culmination of the series’ themes and storylines. As fans continue to reminisce about their favorite moments, the Sailor Moon franchise remains a cherished part of anime history, with a legacy that endures to this day.
Episodes by Series:
| Series | Number of Episodes |
|---|---|
| Sailor Moon (1992-1997) | 200 |
| Sailor Moon S (1994-1995) | 38 |
| Sailor Moon Sailor Stars (1996-1997) | 34 |
| Sailor Moon Crystal (2014-2015) | 26 |
Note:
- Sailor Moon has undergone several changes in animation style and production, which may affect the visual representation of the episodes.
- The series’ timeline has been revised several times, making it essential to reference the original release dates and episode numbers to accurately discuss the story progression.
The conclusion of Sailor Moon remains a significant milestone in the history of Japanese anime and manga. While the original series may be over, its impact has inspired a new generation of creators and fans, solidifying its place as an iconic part of pop culture.
