In this anime series, based on the manga of the same name, humanity's fate rests on a series of battles between powerful human champions and various gods from different mythologies. What is this series called?

The series in question, where humanity's fate hangs on a tournament between powerful human champions and various gods, is called Record of Ragnarok (Review). This popular anime and manga series, known in Japanese as Shūmatsu no Warukyūre, plunges viewers into a high-stakes battle for the very existence of humankind.

The premise begins with the Gods' Council, which convenes every millennium to decide the fate of humanity. After 7 million years of what they deem irredeemable history, the gods unanimously vote for humanity's extinction. However, a defiant Valkyrie named Brunhilde intervenes, proposing one last chance (Review) for humanity: a tournament called Ragnarok. This epic contest pits thirteen of humanity's strongest historical figures against thirteen of the mightiest deities from different mythologies in one-on-one duels to the death. If humanity secures seven victories, they will be spared for another thousand years. To even the playing field against the gods' divine weapons, the Valkyrie sisters utilize a special ability called Völundr, fusing with human fighters to become powerful mystical weapons themselves.

Record of Ragnarok (Review) delivers a thrilling spectacle by bringing together an eclectic roster of combatants. Human champions include legendary figures like the Chinese warlord Lü Bu, the "Father of Humanity" Adam, the renowned Japanese swordsman Sasaki Kojiro, the infamous Jack the Ripper, the brilliant inventor Nikola Tesla, and the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. They face off against formidable gods such as Thor, Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades. Each battle is a clash of titans, blending various mythologies and historical contexts into a visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative. Beyond the explosive action, the series delves into themes of human resilience, pride, and the very essence of what makes humanity worth preserving.