The world of anime has always amazed its fans with mind-blowing action in the form of fight scenes, one of the most intense fights have been fought with swords. Action sequences with swords have garnered popularity since the dawn of sword fighting in Japanese animation history back in 1943 in Momotaro’s Divine Sea Warriors which was a fight between Japanese and Western forces.
However, the concept of a sword fight has been popularised after the first proper sword fight sequence from The Tale of the White Serpent back in 1958 which featured a climactic sword fight between the protagonist and the antagonist. As time passed by, a lot of new anime has seen a major wave in sword fights which kept on improving. So much so, that at this point, it won’t be fair to count all the number of sword fights in anime.
Note: This article is subjective and reflects the writer’s views.
10) The battle between Ichigo vs Byakuya in Bleach
The sword fight between Ichigo and Byakuya in Bleach is a significant moment in the series, where an inexperienced Soul Reaper, Ichigo, faces off against the experienced veteran and captain of the Sixth Division, Byakuya. The fight is characterized by fast-paced swordplay and intense spiritual energy as both combatants push themselves to their limits.
Eventually, Ichigo prevails, using his newfound strength and determination to overcome Byakuya’s superior skills. The fight showcases impressive animation and action sequences, and it represents a turning point in Ichigo’s character development, highlighting his emergence as a powerful and respected warrior.
9) Saito defeating Kenshin in Rurouni Kenshin
In Rurouni Kenshin, the sword fight between Kenshin and Saito is a moment that has become a legendary part of anime history. Kenshin, a former assassin who has turned away from violence, is forced to confront his past when he faces off against his old rival, Saito. The fight is intense and gripping, with both fighters demonstrating remarkable skill and determination.
Throughout the battle, they grapple with their conflicting beliefs and their shared history. Ultimately, Kenshin emerges as the victor, but the fight has a profound impact on both him and the audience, emphasizing the anime’s themes of redemption and the consequences of violent actions.
8) Duel between Kirito and Heathcliff in Sword Art Online
The sword fight between Kirito and Heathcliff in Sword Art Online is a crucial moment in the anime. Kirito, the protagonist of the series and a skilled swordsman, confronts Heathcliff, the leader of the game’s most powerful guild. The battle is both visually striking and intense, with both fighters displaying incredible skill and determination.
During the fight, Kirito realizes that Heathcliff has an almost unbeatable ability, but he refuses to give up. Ultimately, the former emerges as the victor, utilizing a hidden power that propels him to success. The fight not only demonstrates the anime’s impressive animation but also showcases Kirito’s resilience and perseverance in the face of overwhelming challenges.
7) Battle between Saber and Lancer in Fate/Zero
So here comes the sword fight between Saber and Lancer in Fate/Zero, which is considered to be a memorable scene in the series. Saber, a highly skilled knight and one of the series’ main heroines, faces off against Lancer, a formidable warrior and one of her toughest opponents. The fight is characterized by fluid and rapid swordplay, with both fighters demonstrating impressive skills and tactical acumen.
Throughout the battle, the two combatants engage in a tense and exciting duel, with the outcome of the fight remaining uncertain until the very end. The fight showcases the anime’s impressive animation and emphasizes the abilities and personalities of both Saber and Lancer, making it a moment that fans won’t soon forget.
6) Afro-slicing Justice into pieces in Afro Samurai
The sword fight between Afro and Justice in Afro Samurai is a legendary moment in anime. Afro, the protagonist of the series and a skilled swordsman, confronts Justice, a dangerous warrior and one of his most formidable foes. The fight is characterized by fast-paced swordplay and intense action scenes, with both fighters demonstrating remarkable skill and intensity.
Throughout the battle, Afro did confront the consequences of his past actions, adding depth to the fight. Although Afro emerges as the winner, the price of the fight has a lasting impact on both him and the audience. It underscored the high stakes of his quest for revenge. The scene highlights the anime’s impressive animation and emphasizes the importance of Afro’s journey.
5) Gintoki’s victory against Takasugi in Gintama
In Gintama, the sword fight between Gintoki and Takasugi is a fight worth remembering. Gintoki, the show’s main hero and an adept samurai, engages in a heated battle with Takasugi, a former friend turned foe. The fight is marked by a high degree of intensity, with both fighters displaying impressive speed and skill. The battle carries significant emotional weight, as the two adversaries confront their past and the decisions that brought them to this point.
Ultimately, Gintoki emerges as the winner, but the consequences of the fight have a deep impact on him and his relationships with other characters. The scene showcases the anime’s outstanding animation and storytelling, making it essential viewing for enthusiasts.
4) Shichika defeats Hakuhei in Katanagatari
The sword fight between Shichika and Hakuhei in Katanagatari is an awe-inspiring moment in anime. Shichika, the show’s main hero and a martial arts expert, battles Hakuhei, a highly skilled swordsman and one of his most formidable adversaries. The fight is marked by an impressive demonstration of swordsmanship and athleticism.
The sequence carries significant emotional weight, as Shichika gets to confront the true nature of his relationship with Hakuhei. In the end, Shichika emerges as the victor, but the toll of the fight has a lasting effect on him and the plot. The scene showcases the anime’s exceptional animation and underscores the significance of Shichika’s journey.
3) Jin’s victory over Mugen in Samurai Champloo
The sword fight between Mugen and Jin in Samurai Champloo has been a remarkable moment in the history of anime. Mugen, an unconventional fighter, confronts Jin, a disciplined swordsman. The fight merges martial arts and swordplay, with each character displaying their distinct styles and techniques.
The intensity of the duel stems from both characters coming to terms with their differences and motivations. The outcome of the fight remains uncertain, but it has a lasting effect on the characters. The scene highlights the show’s exceptional animation and emphasizes the importance of the character’s personal growth.
2) The battle between Clare and Priscilla in Claymore
The sword fight between Clare and Priscilla in Claymore is a thrilling and intense battle. The two warriors, both of them are powerful Claymores. They engage in a life-or-death struggle that showcases their incredible strength and skill with a sword. As the fight progresses, both fighters unleash devastating attacks and counterattacks. The fight eventually goes to the end with each of them trying to gain the upper hand.
The fight takes on a highly emotional tone as Clare seeks revenge for her fallen comrades and the atrocities committed by Priscilla. In the end, the battle concludes with a surprising turn of events that leaves both characters forever changed. The scene highlights the anime’s exceptional animation and masterful storytelling.
1) Griffith’s legendary victory over Guts in Berserk
It sounds illegal to talk about sword fights in anime and not include the fight between Guts and Griffith in Berserk. The two former friends turned enemies and engage in a violent and emotionally charged duel. Guts were seeking vengeance for Griffith’s treachery. The fight is notable for its intense and graphic depiction of violence and the characters inflicting severe wounds on each other.
The battle tests the endurance and determination of both fighters, as they refuse to give up. The scene demonstrates the exceptional animation of the show and the complex characters’ emotional depth. Ultimately, the outcome of the fight significantly impacts the show’s storyline and characters’ development.
