Honestly! I think it's pretty obvious that the other love interests are just plot devices and Ranma and Akane were really just meant for each other. Besides, Akane has her own reverse harem of sorts too (Ryoga, Kuno). And they're teenagers!! Who would like to be forced into marriage? I personally think the pacing was good because it showed how much they care about each other and made the scenes where they revealed their feelings a whole lot more special.
Couldn't agree more! 100% !! Whenever they had their genuine moments, I'd always get so giddy, it was honestly really touching! I love them so much.
I finished the manga, and I understand people's criticisms about the ending or pacing (being too slow/too little Rankane bits) but I'd like to remind everyone that this is very much a romcom slice of life! The comedy and absurdity of the situations comes first, and then the romance bits is what comes alongside it! To add some flavor!
Of course, some things are very dated (Happosai existing... The random homophobic/transphobic jokes, the harassment, etc etc.) but for the most part, the comedy comes from the absurdity of everything. The "harem" is part of it, but it doesn't mean Ranma hasn't chosen Akane over them! It's quite clear he does. The ending only served to show their love is mutual, but that they don't operate by other people's standards – Rankane have their own unique dynamic and pacing, and that's why they ended up taking longer to actually get married. I think the ending perfectly encapsulates how they are.
Plus, of course... Having to deal with all their crazy friends. LOL. But it has it's own charm. It's not supposed to be taken seriously, just more of their absurd life.
> TLDR; I think we should all understand that Rankane aren't your typical lovebirds, they have their own silly messy relationship where they DEEPLY care for each other, but are still two awkward dumb teenagers.