Arcane, the animated series based on League of Legends, has left a significant impact on its fans. The show’s creator, Christian Linke, is still processing the reactions to the final episodes, which have been both praised and criticized by audiences.
Linke recently shared a screenshot on X that captures his headspace after the release. It shows two messages: one from a fan expressing gratitude for the show, and another stating that the creators “suck.” Linke acknowledges that not everyone will love the series, but he’s trying to focus on learning from the feedback.
The final three episodes introduced an alternate universe where Hextech never existed and Powder became a more peaceful version of Zaun. This alternate reality allowed for a pivotal relationship between Ekko and Powder, setting up a game-changing team-up in the final episode.
Linke and the creative team were inspired by this alternate world and wanted to bring it to life. The show incorporated recognizable League lore, including Viktor’s “Glorious Evolution” line and the invention of Ekko’s Zero-Drive.
The emotional beats of the finale were crucial in conveying the characters’ emotions and interactions. Linke emphasized the importance of capturing the essence of playing as each champion, which was a key focus for the team.
Some fans rejoiced at the death of Junior Officer Maddie Nolan, while others mourned the loss of other characters like Heimerdinger and Jayce. Linke believes that these character arcs were crucial to their development and story progression.
One major reveal was that the series’ main villain is actually an upgraded Viktor. The final battle features a heart-wrenching sacrifice from Jayce, who saves Viktor but seemingly disappears along with him.
The production budget for Arcane has sparked controversy, with some criticizing the cost of streaming services. However, Linke believes it’s essential to invest in animation talent and quality storytelling.
Despite the high costs, Linke is optimistic about future projects, including new adaptations and stories set within the League of Legends universe. He’s eager to continue learning and growing as a creator, aiming to tell more stories in the beloved IP.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/arcane-season-2-ending-explained-with-showrunner-christian-linke