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Discover the 8 best Demon Slayer arcs. Explore what makes each arc great and how they rank against one another.
Demon Slayer, one of the most beloved shonen series, is set in a world endangered by dangerous demons. Humanity’s only source of defense is the Demon Slayers, an elite group of swordsmen led by the Hashira. The story follows Tanjiro as he joins the Demon Slayers in a quest to cure his sister Nezuko’s demon curse and defeat the evil Muzan.
While aiming for his goals, Tanjiro encounters several situations, side characters, and battles, making up the different story arcs of the series. Join us as we explore the 8 best Demon Slayer arcs, ranked. The list has been curated based on the impact, highlights, and character growth featured in each arc.
8) Hashira Training Arc
The Hashira Training Arc is one of the more controversial Demon Slayer storylines since many simply believe it to be filler. Placed between two intense arcs, this set of episodes follows the entire cast as they prepare for the final confrontation against Muzan.
As Tanjiro relentlessly aims to level up for the upcoming battle, fans get to spend more time with each Hashira. We get closer to more ambiguous figures such as Gyomei while also learning more about their psyches and breathing techniques.
While the criticisms of the Hashira Training Arc are valid, it is still an extremely enjoyable storyline. It is a final moment of refinement for the main characters before the tragic war. By acting as the “calm before the storm”, the arc serves its purpose faithfully.
7) Final Selection Arc
Demon Slayer has always been a captivating series, and the very first arc plays a major hand in assisting its popularity. The Final Selection Arc kicks off the story in an exhilarating way, showcasing Tanjiro’s normal life coming crashing down as his entire family is killed by demons.
His only surviving sister, Nezuko, though retaining her rationality, also stands the risk of turning into a dangerous demon. Resolving to protect her, Tanjiro aims to become a Demon Slayer to tackle the problem head-on.
The Final Selection Arc is an exciting display of what is to come, introducing many beloved characters. Right from scenes of Tanjiro showing his grit against Giyu to his training with Urokadaki, many memorable moments elevate the storyline.
6) Swordsmith Village Arc
The Swordsmith Village Arc may be on the lower end of the list, but it still features many of the best moments from Demon Slayer. The subplot follows Tanjiro’s visit to the Swordsmith Village to repair his broken sword.
While there, he runs into the cheerful Mitsuri, the apathetic Muichiro, and the erratic Genya. Trouble soon strikes as the Upper Moon Demons, Hantengu and Gyokko, attack the location, testing the main characters’ strength and willpower.
The Swordsmith Village Arc dazzles viewers by displaying the strengths of the Mist Hashira and the Love Hashira. Additionally, it is yet another key moment of evolution for Tanjiro and Nezuko as they take one step closer to the Demon King. While some believe the arc has pacing issues and isn’t as tense as other major storylines, it is still a gripping journey with stunning animation and sound design.
5) Mount Natagumo Arc
The Mount Natuagumo Arc is what many fans consider to be the first sign of the masterful potential that the Demon Slayer possesses, and for good reason. This revolves around the most threatening villains the main characters had faced till that point, the spider demons.
Led by the terrifying Lower Moon Five Demon Rui, Tanjiro and his friends are pushed to their limits to survive. This arc introduces the breathtaking Hinokami Kagura while also displaying the first complex antagonist in the series. Its emotional impact, gorgeous visuals, and character development rightfully place it on this list.
4) Entertainment District Arc
The Entertainment District Arc is one of the most exciting and beautiful arcs in all of Demon Slayer. It follows the main trio as they join flamboyant Tengen’s infiltration of the red-light district. Aiming to save the Hashira’s wives and track down the Upper Moon Demon Daki, it starts on a comedic but intriguing tone.
Things soon get tense, however, as they find Daki isn’t the only demon. Rather, the more dangerous Gyutaro has enough power to severely injure Tengen. This motivates the entire cast to contribute and ensure the demons don’t emerge victorious.
The electrifying battle against Daki and Gyutaro, paired with its unpredictable strategies, plot twists, and emotional stakes has left an indelible mark on fans. The arc ends on a bittersweet note through Daki and Gyutaro’s backstory, considered by many to be among the best writing in Demon Slayer.
3) Sunrise Countdown Arc
The Sunrise Countdown Arc is the final arc of Demon Slayer, acting as the culmination of everything the characters have worked toward. Faced against the Demon King Muzan, the remaining Hashira, Tanjiro, Zenitsu, Inosuke, and Nezuko work tenaciously to keep Muzan on the outside till the sun rises.
However, this is a task easier said than done due to the villain’s immeasurable powers. Through several valiant sacrifices, ingenious schemes and the resiliency of the heroes, the storyline fuels the adrenaline of every fan.
In the realm of shonen, where stories generally get disappointing endings, the Sunrise Countdown Arc is highly regarded by many. This serves as a testament to the quality and commendable conclusion of Demon Slayer.
2) Mugen Train Arc
For Demon Slayer anime fans, there is little doubt that the most devastating arc made to date is the Mugen Train Arc. This game-changing story, shown through a gorgeous movie, introduces the noble Flame Hashira Rengoku.
As the main trio travels by train with the powerful warrior, they soon face the threat of the demon Enmu. After painstakingly defeating this enemy who controls dreams, however, danger comes yet again with the introduction of Akaza.
The intimidating Upper Moon Three Demon’s hype battle against Rengoku and its tragic ending is an unforgettable moment for fans. It also triggers the rivalry between Tanjiro and Akaza, pushing both to grow stronger in their ideologies.
1) Infinity Castle Arc
The upcoming Demon Slayer movie covering the Infinity Castle Arc has rightfully garnered a lot of excitement. This is because most manga fans unequivocally believe this to be among the best arcs in the Shonen demographic.
The storyline ultimately delivers on everything its previous arcs built up to, featuring exhilarating battles between the Hashira and the Upper Moon Demons. Filled with intense displays of Blood Demon Arts and breathing techniques, this arc is nothing short of a spectacle.
Its high-stakes battles, heart-wrenching backstories, and immense tragedies elevate the series to a whole new level, drawing fans closer to both heroes and villains. Hence, the sheer scale and excellence in storytelling cement the Infinity Castle Arc as the best Demon Slayer arc.
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