The Attack on Titan (AoT) saga is a sprawling, complex narrative. Navigating the anime series, OVAs (Original Video Animations), and recap movies can feel like dodging Titans themselves. To experience the complete and chronologically accurate story, a specific viewing order is crucial to avoid spoilers and maintain narrative coherence.
The Definitive Viewing Order for Attack on Titan
To fully understand the events of Attack on Titan, and to experience the story the way it was intended to be consumed, follow this order:
- Attack on Titan Season 1 (Episodes 1-25)
- Attack on Titan: Ilse’s Notebook (OVA) – Takes place around Episode 5 of Season 1
- Attack on Titan: A Sudden Visitor: The Torturous Curse of Youth (OVA) – Takes place before the Battle of Trost
- Attack on Titan: Distress (OVA) – Takes place before the Battle of Trost
- Attack on Titan: No Regrets Part 1 (OVA) – Takes place years before Season 1
- Attack on Titan: No Regrets Part 2 (OVA) – Takes place years before Season 1
- Attack on Titan Season 2 (Episodes 1-12)
- Attack on Titan: Lost Girls (OVA – Episodes 1-3) – Focuses on Annie Leonhart and Mikasa Ackerman during and after Season 1.
- Attack on Titan Movie 1: Crimson Bow and Arrow (Recap) – Recaps Season 1. Optional.
- Attack on Titan Movie 2: Wings of Freedom (Recap) – Recaps Season 2. Optional.
- Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 1 (Episodes 1-12)
- Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 2 (Episodes 13-22)
- Attack on Titan Movie 3: The Roar of Awakening (Recap) – Recaps Season 3. Optional.
- Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 1 (Episodes 1-16)
- Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 2 (Episodes 17-28)
- Attack on Titan Season 4 Part 3 (Episodes 29-30) – The Final Chapters (Specials 1 & 2)
Following this order will ensure you experience the story in its intended sequence, enriching your understanding of character motivations, plot developments, and the overall world of Attack on Titan. Remember that the recap movies, while helpful for refreshing your memory, are ultimately optional and don’t add any new narrative elements.
Understanding the Components: Series, OVAs, and Movies
To appreciate the viewing order, it’s crucial to understand the role each component plays in the AoT universe.
The Main Anime Series
The core of the AoT experience lies within its four seasons (divided into multiple parts). These seasons contain the main storyline, following Eren Yeager and his friends as they navigate the mysteries of the Titans and the world beyond the walls. The series progresses the main plot and develops the central characters.
Original Video Animations (OVAs)
OVAs are supplementary stories that enrich the main narrative. Some OVAs offer background on key characters (like Levi in No Regrets), while others explore side stories that fill in gaps in the main plot. While not always essential for understanding the core storyline, OVAs provide valuable context and character development that deepen the overall viewing experience. Ignoring them would mean missing out on significant lore and character nuances.
Recap Movies
The recap movies condense the events of each season into a shorter format. While they are a convenient way to refresh your memory or catch up quickly, they omit details and character nuances present in the full series. Therefore, watching them is optional. They serve as a refresher, not a replacement for the full season experience.
Deep Dive: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to common questions about the Attack on Titan viewing order:
FAQ 1: Are the recap movies necessary to watch?
No, the recap movies are not necessary to understand the main plot. They are condensed versions of the seasons and don’t add any new content. They are helpful for refreshing your memory, but they shouldn’t replace watching the full seasons.
FAQ 2: Can I skip the OVAs?
While you can technically skip the OVAs without completely losing the main storyline, it is strongly recommended to watch them. They provide crucial backstory for characters like Levi and Annie, and offer insights into events that enrich the overall narrative. Skipping them will lead to a less complete and satisfying experience.
FAQ 3: Where do the Lost Girls OVAs fit into the timeline?
The Lost Girls OVAs are a series of three episodes focusing on Annie and Mikasa. The Annie episodes largely take place during and after the female titan arc of season 1. The Mikasa episodes take place roughly around season 1 as well, exploring the theme of alternate realities.
FAQ 4: What is Attack on Titan: No Regrets about?
Attack on Titan: No Regrets explores the backstory of Captain Levi Ackerman. It details his life as a criminal in the underground city and how he eventually joined the Survey Corps. This OVA is highly recommended as it adds significant depth to Levi’s character and motivations.
FAQ 5: Why is the order so important for Attack on Titan?
The chronological order is important because Attack on Titan is a story that relies heavily on reveals and plot twists. Watching content out of order can lead to spoilers and diminish the impact of key moments. The story builds upon itself, with each season and OVA adding layers of complexity.
FAQ 6: Where can I watch all of the Attack on Titan content?
Most streaming services that offer anime, such as Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Hulu, have the Attack on Titan series and OVAs available. The recap movies may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms. Always check the availability in your region.
FAQ 7: Is there a difference between the Japanese and English dubbed versions regarding the order?
The viewing order remains the same regardless of whether you are watching the Japanese or English dubbed versions. The episode and OVA sequences are consistent across both languages.
FAQ 8: Are there any plans for more Attack on Titan content in the future?
As of right now, the anime adaptation has been concluded. Further potential content would depend on future developments in the manga or creator-led projects.
FAQ 9: Should I read the manga instead of watching the anime?
This is a matter of personal preference. The manga provides a different experience with its own artistic style and pacing. Some prefer the visual and auditory impact of the anime, while others appreciate the detail and depth of the manga. Both are valid ways to experience the story.
FAQ 10: What is the best way to avoid spoilers before watching Attack on Titan?
The best way to avoid spoilers is to limit your exposure to online forums, social media, and YouTube comments related to Attack on Titan. Begin watching the series as soon as possible and stick to the recommended viewing order. Unsubscribe or mute related terms until you are caught up.
FAQ 11: Are there any filler episodes in Attack on Titan that I can skip?
Attack on Titan is known for having very few filler episodes. Most episodes contribute to the overall plot or character development. It is generally recommended to watch all episodes, even if some may seem slower-paced.
FAQ 12: If I’ve already seen the series out of order, is it worth rewatching in the correct order?
Yes, absolutely. Rewatching Attack on Titan in the correct order can provide a fresh perspective and a deeper understanding of the story. You’ll likely pick up on details and connections that you missed the first time around, enhancing your appreciation for the series. It’s a worthwhile investment for any true AoT fan.