Table of Contents
Attack on Titan, known as Shingeki no Kyojin in Japanese, has captivated audiences worldwide with its intense story, complex characters, and stunning visuals. Whether you are a newcomer or a seasoned fan, navigating the various adaptations can be overwhelming. This guide will provide a complete watch order for the series, from its manga origins to the anime adaptations.
Understanding the Attack on Titan Universe
The Attack on Titan series is set in a world where humanity resides within enormous walled cities to protect themselves from the Titans, gigantic humanoid creatures. The story follows Eren Yeager, his friends Mikasa and Armin, and their fight for survival against these monstrous beings. The narrative explores themes of freedom, sacrifice, and the consequences of war.
Manga vs. Anime: A Brief Overview
Attack on Titan began as a manga series written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama, first serialized in 2009. The anime adaptation followed in 2013, produced by Wit Studio and later by MAPPA. While the anime closely follows the manga, there are some differences in pacing, character development, and additional content.
Complete Watch Order
To fully appreciate the story of Attack on Titan, it is essential to follow a structured watch order. Below is a comprehensive guide to watching the anime adaptations along with the manga recommendations.
- Attack on Titan Season 1 (2013) – 25 episodes
- Attack on Titan Season 2 (2017) – 12 episodes
- Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 1 (2018) – 12 episodes
- Attack on Titan Season 3 Part 2 (2019) – 10 episodes
- Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 1 (2020) – 16 episodes
- Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 2 (2022) – 12 episodes
- Attack on Titan: The Final Season Part 3 (2023) – Split into two parts
Manga Reading Order
For those who wish to delve deeper into the Attack on Titan lore, reading the manga is highly recommended. The manga consists of 34 volumes, which provide additional context and details not covered in the anime.
- Volume 1: To You, in 2000 Years: The Fall of Shiganshina, Part 1
- Volume 2: To You, in 2000 Years: The Fall of Shiganshina, Part 2
- Volume 3: The Night of the Disbanding Ceremony
- Volume 4: Hunger
- Volume 5: First Battle: The Struggle for Trost, Part 1
- … (continue through Volume 34)
Key Characters to Know
Understanding the main characters is crucial for following the plot. Here are some key characters to keep in mind:
- Eren Yeager – The protagonist who seeks freedom from the Titans.
- Mikasa Ackerman – Eren’s adoptive sister and a fierce warrior.
- Armin Arlert – Eren’s best friend known for his intelligence.
- Levi Ackerman – A skilled soldier and captain of the Survey Corps.
- Erwin Smith – The charismatic leader of the Survey Corps.
Conclusion
Attack on Titan is a monumental series that has left a significant mark on the anime and manga landscape. By following this watch order and reading the manga, viewers can fully immerse themselves in the gripping narrative and rich character development. Whether you’re watching for the first time or revisiting the series, the journey through the world of Titans is sure to be unforgettable.