Ep 20. Finalize Apoptosis

Okabe has reached a hopeless state after losing Kurisu once again. But he realizes in order to prevent the bleak future he's seen and save Mayuri's life, he must complete the time machine and go back in time once again. Meanwhile, Kurisu's father, who was responsible for her death in both timelines, is faced with a difficult choice that could change everything.

With the help of his friends and their knowledge of time travel, Okabe manages to complete the time machine, but it requires a sacrifice. The group must decide who will go back in time and face the unknown dangers that lie ahead. And Okabe must confront his own fears and regrets, knowing that his actions have consequences for all of his loved ones.

As the final episode of the first season, "Finalize Apoptosis" is a culmination of the emotional journey that Okabe and his friends have been on throughout the series. The title itself is a reference to the biological process of programmed cell death, which is a fitting metaphor for the sacrifices and difficult choices that the characters must make in order to preserve the future.

The episode is full of tense, heart-wrenching moments as the characters come face to face with the consequences of their actions. The stakes are high, and there is a palpable sense of danger as they embark on their final mission.

One of the key themes of the episode is the idea of second chances. Okabe and Kurisu are both given the opportunity to travel back in time and change the course of history. But in doing so, they also risk undoing everything they have ever known. The episode explores the idea of whether it is worth sacrificing what we have in order to make a better future.

Ultimately, the episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers wondering what will happen next. But it is also a satisfying conclusion to the first season, wrapping up many of the plot threads while leaving enough unresolved to keep audiences engaged.

Overall, "Finalize Apoptosis" is a powerful and emotional episode that serves as a fitting finale to the first season of Steins;Gate. It is a testament to the show's ability to balance complex science fiction concepts with deep emotional resonance, and it leaves viewers eager to see what comes next.