Anime is no longer just a niche interest—it’s a global phenomenon. From packed theaters in the U.S. to cosplay conventions in Europe and fan art in South America, anime has become a part of global pop culture. And in 2025, the Crunchyroll Anime Awards recognized this shift in a big way by introducing a brand-new honor: the Global Impact Award.
And the first-ever winner of this prestigious recognition?
None other than the genre-defining, era-defining Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin).
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this new award, why Attack on Titan was chosen, and what it means for the future of anime worldwide.
🏆 What is the Global Impact Award?
The Global Impact Award was introduced during the 9th Crunchyroll Anime Awards in 2025. Unlike traditional awards which honor the best animation, story, characters, or music, this new category has a broader purpose:
To honor anime series and their creators that have made a significant cultural impact on a global scale.
In simpler terms, it celebrates anime that went beyond the screen—those that left a mark on societies, conversations, and even how people view the world.
📅 Why Was It Introduced in 2025?
Crunchyroll, the world's leading platform for anime streaming and fandom, has hosted annual Anime Awards since 2017. Over the years, anime’s reach has exploded across borders, languages, and generations.
The Global Impact Award was a response to this growth, aiming to recognize anime not just as entertainment, but as a force for global cultural exchange and emotional storytelling.
In 2025, the timing was perfect. With the final episode of Attack on Titan airing in late 2023, and its cultural legacy cemented in the years that followed, there was no better choice to inaugurate the award.
🥇 Why Attack on Titan Was Chosen
Let’s be honest: Attack on Titan didn’t just entertain—it transformed the anime landscape.
🔥 1. A Cultural Phenomenon
From the terrifying Titans to the chilling opening theme "Guren no Yumiya," Attack on Titan entered mainstream conversation quickly after its debut in 2013. Even people who didn’t watch anime recognized the imagery, the soundtrack, and the emotional intensity.
Meme pages, TikToks, YouTube analyses, and reaction videos flooded the internet.
🌐 2. Global Reach
This was not a series that stayed in Japan. Attack on Titan was:
- Simulcast in over 200 countries
- Dubbed into multiple languages within weeks of release
- Shown in IMAX theaters worldwide for final episodes
- Covered by outlets like The New York Times, Forbes, BBC, and Polygon
💭 3. Themes That Resonate Worldwide
The series wasn’t just about Titans eating humans. It explored:
- The price of freedom
- The impact of war and propaganda
- The cycle of hatred and revenge
- Identity, memory, and sacrifice
Its themes of oppression, rebellion, and loss touched global audiences across political, cultural, and generational lines.
⚔️ 4. Bold Storytelling
The bold narrative choices—especially the controversial final season—sparked global debate. Forums, podcasts, and blogs spent years analyzing Attack on Titan's ending.
Whether fans loved or hated it, it made people think, which is a sign of powerful storytelling.
📣 A Statement from Crunchyroll
In their official announcement, Crunchyroll stated:
“The Global Impact Award recognizes a work of anime that has transcended the medium to influence global pop culture and provoke meaningful discussion. Attack on Titan has done exactly that.”
They also acknowledged the controversy surrounding the final chapters and how the backlash highlighted just how deeply people cared.
🌐 How Fans Around the World Reacted
Fans globally took to social media to celebrate the win:
“This is more than deserved. AoT changed how people view anime forever.” – @anime_world_news
“Whether you loved the ending or not, there’s no denying the impact of this show.” – Reddit user
Many praised Crunchyroll for giving the award to a series that dared to challenge norms, rather than playing it safe.
🔮 What This Means for Anime’s Future
The creation of the Global Impact Award marks a new chapter in anime history.
🌟 1. Recognition Beyond Japan
While anime has always been created in Japan, it now belongs to a global audience. This award shows that international fandom and cultural impact matter more than ever.
🌍 2. Encouragement for Creators
By highlighting shows that take risks, explore deep themes, and spark discussion, this award will inspire future creators to think big, not just in Japan, but everywhere.
🥁 3. More Global Collaborations Ahead?
As anime continues to grow, we might see more partnerships between Japanese studios and international creators. The Global Impact Award paves the way for this global artistic exchange.
📚 Final Thoughts
Attack on Titan may have ended, but its legacy is just beginning. With its bold storytelling, powerful themes, and global fanbase, it redefined what anime could be.
The Global Impact Award not only honors this masterpiece but also opens a new era where anime is rightfully seen as one of the most influential storytelling mediums in the world.
So here’s to Attack on Titan—the first Global Impact Award winner—and to the future of anime, which continues to break boundaries, one story at a time.
💬 What Do You Think?
- Do you agree with Attack on Titan winning the first Global Impact Award?
- Which other anime do you think deserve this honor in the future?
- Has AoT impacted your life or thinking in any way?
✨ Let us know in the comments below!
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