Saint Seiya
An epic odyssey where youthful warriors, fueled by cosmic energy and bound by brotherhood, shatter divine fates under starry constellations.
Saint Seiya
Saint Seiya

聖闘士星矢

11 October 1986 — 01 April 1989 Japan 1 season 114 episode Ended ⭐ 8.5 (1,347)
Cast: Toru Furuya, Hirotaka Suzuoki, Ryo Horikawa, Koichi Hashimoto, Hideyuki Hori
Drama Animation Sci-Fi & Fantasy Action & Adventure
Friendship and Brotherhood Perseverance and Never Giving Up Sacrifice Destiny vs. Free Will

Saint Seiya - Episode Highlights

Episode Highlights

Burn! Phoenix of Hell

S1E15

This episode marks the climax of the first mini-arc, featuring the final confrontation between the Bronze Saints and the vengeful Phoenix Ikki. It fully establishes the deep bond between the brothers Shun and Ikki and showcases the combined power of the four main heroes as they fight together for the first time to overcome a seemingly invincible foe.

Significance:

This episode is crucial as it transforms Ikki from the primary antagonist into a powerful, recurring anti-hero. It solidifies the theme of brotherhood and redemption that becomes central to his character arc and the series as a whole.

The Decisive Battle! Athena's Crisis

S1E41

The Bronze Saints finally arrive at the Sanctuary to find Saori struck by a golden arrow. They are given twelve hours to traverse the twelve Zodiac temples, each guarded by a Gold Saint, to reach the Pope and save Athena. This episode kicks off the legendary Sanctuary arc in earnest.

Significance:

This episode establishes the high-stakes, race-against-time premise of the most iconic arc in the series. It sets the stage for the epic battles that will force the protagonists to grow exponentially and awaken their Seventh Sense.

Shaka! The Man Closest to God

S1E56

The Saints face Virgo Shaka, renowned as the man closest to God. Shaka easily defeats Seiya, Shiryu, and Shun. In a climactic confrontation, Phoenix Ikki arrives and engages Shaka in a battle of immense cosmic power, culminating in a mutual sacrifice to defeat the powerful Gold Saint.

Significance:

This episode showcases the overwhelming power of the Gold Saints and establishes Shaka as one of the most formidable characters. Ikki's sacrifice is a pivotal moment in his arc, cementing his role as the ultimate protector of his brother and friends.

The Final Fight! The Secret of the Pope

S1E72

Seiya, empowered by the cosmos of his friends, confronts the Pope, who is revealed to be the Gold Saint Gemini Saga. The battle is one of the most intense in the series, as Seiya pushes his power to its absolute limit to defeat the tyrannical ruler of the Sanctuary.

Significance:

This episode features the long-awaited reveal of the main villain's identity. Seiya's victory, achieved through the power of friendship, is a powerful thematic statement that concludes the Sanctuary arc's primary conflict.

Friends! Let Us Die Together

S1E73

The finale of the Sanctuary arc. With Gemini Saga defeated but his evil spirit still raging, Saori Kido as Athena confronts him. Saga's good side briefly regains control, and he ultimately chooses to take his own life to atone for his sins, bringing a tragic and poignant end to the holy war for the Sanctuary.

Significance:

This episode resolves the Sanctuary saga, restores Athena to her rightful place, and provides a complex, tragic end for the antagonist, exploring themes of duality and redemption. It marks the end of the first and most celebrated major storyline of the series.

Odin! A Holy War of the Norse Gods

S1E97

In the climax of the Asgard arc, the Saints face Hilda's final and most powerful God Warrior, Siegfried. The battle pushes the heroes to their limits, and the lore of the Norse gods plays a crucial role in the fight against a warrior descended from the legendary hero.

Significance:

This episode represents the peak of the anime-original Asgard arc, featuring a compelling antagonist and a desperate struggle that highlights the teamwork of the Bronze Saints. It sets the stage for the final confrontation with Hilda.

Shine! The Golden Bronze Cloths

S1E112

Facing the impossibly powerful Sea God Poseidon, the Bronze Saints are on the verge of defeat. In a moment of divine intervention, the spirits of the deceased Gold Saints send their Gold Cloths to protect Seiya, Shiryu, and Hyoga, allowing them to fight on equal footing with a god.

Significance:

This episode is a fan-favorite moment, bridging the Sanctuary and Poseidon arcs. The appearance of the Gold Cloths is a symbol of the legacy and brotherhood passed down from the previous generation of Saints, empowering the heroes for their final battle.

Friendship Forever! The Legend of the Saints

S1E114

The final episode of the original TV series. Seiya, with the help of his friends, manages to break the Main Breadwinner pillar and seal Poseidon's soul within Athena's Amphora. The world is saved, and the Saints, though battered, stand victorious, their legend solidified.

Significance:

This episode provides a conclusive end to the Poseidon arc and the 1986 anime series. It reaffirms the core themes of friendship and perseverance, leaving the heroes as the undisputed protectors of peace on Earth until their next battle.