Attack on Titan Season 3, Episode 12 Review: Night of the Battle to Retake the Wall

This episode was bittersweet as it apparently is the last episode until April of next year as Attack on Titan takes a mid-season hiatus. Regardless, this episode was largely a set up for the “return to Shiganshina’ arc.” This arc apparently is full of action that will be different from the tone of the first half of this season that focused on expanding characters and story. 

The heads of the military get together to discuss who will be responsible for the “transformation serum.” Erwin gives it to Levi, telling him that he will “have too use it on the fly,” at some point. Erwin’s plans to retake Wall Maria is revealed. Levi attempts to convince Erwin to stay behind. However, Erwin refuses, as he must be there when the discover what’s in the basement. 

Eren, Mikasa and Armin reminisce over their childhoods as the scouts meet for celebration prior to head out to Wall Maria in the morning. This episode featured a healthy dose of humor. In the mess hall the scout’s are finally given meat, prompting Conny, Sasha and Jean to fight over the roast. Eren and Jean then get into a fistfight. As the scouts leave for Wall Maria they’re shocked to receive a heart felt send off from the citizens. As they head towards Shiganshina District, Reiner and Bertholdt await. 

This first half of the third season has expanded the Attack on Titan world. I fear for the next arc as almost no one important died in this one. This episode was far too happy for my comfort. Someone major will likely died in the next arc, from this episode I’m betting on Erwin dying.