Fact Check: Are Attack on Titan OVAs canon?

Are Attack on Titan OVAs Canon?

Introduction

The question of whether the original video animations (OVAs) associated with the popular anime series "Attack on Titan" are considered canon has sparked considerable debate among fans. Some sources assert that certain OVAs are indeed canon, particularly those adapted from the manga, while others argue that the canonicity of these episodes is ambiguous. This article will explore the available information regarding the OVAs' status and the differing opinions surrounding them.

What We Know

1. Definition of OVAs: Original video animations (OVAs) are special episodes that are not aired during the regular television season but are released alongside specific volumes of the manga. They often provide additional context or backstory to the main series 4.

2. Canon Status: According to various sources, some OVAs, such as "Ilse's Notebook" and "No Regrets," are considered canon. "Ilse's Notebook" is based on bonus material written by the series creator, Hajime Isayama, while "No Regrets," although a spinoff by a different author, includes elements that are referenced in the main storyline 23.

3. Debate Among Fans: The canonicity of OVAs is a subject of debate. Some fans argue that OVAs should not be considered canon if they are not directly overseen by Isayama or if they deviate significantly from the original storyline 3. Others believe that they enrich the narrative and provide valuable insights into character backgrounds and events that are not fully explored in the main series 5.

4. Mixed Opinions: Some sources indicate that while many OVAs fit seamlessly into the timeline of "Attack on Titan," others may be more akin to "what-if" scenarios, suggesting that not all OVAs can be classified as canon 56.

Analysis

The discussion surrounding the canonicity of "Attack on Titan" OVAs reveals a complex landscape of opinions and interpretations.

• Source Reliability:

  • Playbite 15: This source provides a straightforward interpretation of the OVAs' status but lacks detailed citations or references to authoritative sources, which raises questions about its reliability.
  • Attack On Titan Amino 2: This community-driven platform offers insights based on fan discussions but may reflect personal opinions rather than established canon, which could introduce bias.
  • K2 Digitizers 3: This source presents a balanced view of the debate but does not cite specific evidence from the original manga or statements from Isayama, which limits its authority.
  • Fandom 4: As a wiki-style site, it compiles information from various contributors, which can be useful but may also lead to inconsistencies in the accuracy of the information presented.

• Methodological Concerns: The lack of a definitive statement from Hajime Isayama regarding the canonicity of all OVAs leaves room for interpretation. The reliance on fan consensus and community discussions may not provide a clear or universally accepted answer.

• Conflicts of Interest: Some sources may have a vested interest in promoting the OVAs as canon to enhance fan engagement or sales of related merchandise, which could skew their presentations.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The assertion that some "Attack on Titan" OVAs are canon is partially true. Evidence suggests that certain OVAs, such as "Ilse's Notebook," are based on material directly from the series creator, which supports their canonicity. However, the status of other OVAs, particularly those that diverge from the main storyline or are not directly overseen by Hajime Isayama, remains contentious among fans.

This nuanced verdict acknowledges that while some OVAs contribute meaningfully to the narrative and character development, others may not be universally accepted as canon. The lack of definitive guidance from Isayama himself adds to the uncertainty surrounding this topic.

Readers should be aware that interpretations of canonicity can vary widely, and it is essential to critically evaluate the sources of information and the context in which these OVAs are discussed. Engaging with the material and the community can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the ongoing debate.

Sources

1. Is Attack on Titan OVA Canon? - Playbite. Link
2. Are OVA canons? | Attack On Titan Amino. Link
3. Is the AOT OVA considered canon in the Attack on Titan series? - K2 Digitizers. Link
4. List of Attack on Titan episodes/OVA - Fandom. Link
5. Are Attack on Titan OVAs Canon? - Playbite. Link
6. Can I skip Attack on Titan OVA? - Você Pergunta. Link
7. OVA Anime: What Are They? Can They Be Skipped or Are They Canon? - Yahoo. Link
8. The Attack on Titan OVAs are meant to be watched before AoT ... - GameFAQs. Link
9. OVA - Forums - MyAnimeList. Link
10. A Guide to All of the Attack on Titan Adaptations: What's Canon with ... - Overmental. Link