Table of Contents
‘Haikyuu!!’ is a beloved sports anime that has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Based on the manga by Haruichi Furudate, the series follows the journey of Shoyo Hinata, a high school student who aspires to become a top volleyball player despite his short stature. This guide will help you navigate the canon episodes and OVAs of ‘Haikyuu!!’ to fully appreciate the story and its characters.
Overview of ‘Haikyuu!!’
The anime adaptation of ‘Haikyuu!!’ first premiered in 2014 and quickly gained popularity due to its engaging storytelling, dynamic animation, and well-developed characters. The series spans multiple seasons and includes several original video animations (OVAs) that add depth to the storyline.
Canon Viewing Order
To fully enjoy ‘Haikyuu!!’, it is essential to watch the series in the correct order. Here is the recommended viewing list:
- Haikyuu!! (Season 1)
- Haikyuu!!: A Day in the Life of the Haikyuu!! Club (OVA)
- Haikyuu!! (Season 2)
- Haikyuu!!: Karasuno Koukou vs. Shiratorizawa Gakuen Koukou (Movie)
- Haikyuu!! (Season 3)
- Haikyuu!!: To the Top (Season 4, Part 1)
- Haikyuu!!: To the Top (Season 4, Part 2)
Season 1: Introduction to Volleyball
Season 1 introduces viewers to Shoyo Hinata and his passion for volleyball. Despite his small stature, he joins the Karasuno High School volleyball team and learns the importance of teamwork and perseverance. Key characters such as Tobio Kageyama, his rival turned teammate, are introduced, setting the stage for intense matches and character development.
OVA: A Day in the Life of the Haikyuu!! Club
This OVA provides a lighthearted glimpse into the daily lives of the Karasuno team members outside of matches. It showcases their personalities and relationships, enhancing the viewer’s connection to the characters.
Season 2: Rising to the Challenge
In Season 2, the team faces new challenges as they compete in the Inter-High tournament. Character arcs deepen, and rivalries intensify, particularly with teams like Aoba Johsai. The season emphasizes growth, both individually and as a team.
Movie: Karasuno Koukou vs. Shiratorizawa Gakuen Koukou
This movie condenses the intense match between Karasuno and Shiratorizawa into a thrilling cinematic experience. It highlights the stakes of the game and the evolution of the players, making it a must-watch for fans.
Season 3: The Final Showdown
Season 3 focuses on the climactic match against Shiratorizawa, showcasing the culmination of the characters’ growth and teamwork. The animation quality reaches new heights, and the emotional stakes are at their peak, making it a standout season.
Season 4: To the Top
Season 4 is divided into two parts, continuing the story as the characters face new challenges at the national level. It introduces new teams and players, expanding the world of ‘Haikyuu!!’ while maintaining the essence of the original series.
Conclusion
Getting started with ‘Haikyuu!!’ is an exciting journey filled with inspiration, teamwork, and the spirit of competition. By following this canon viewing guide, viewers can fully immerse themselves in the world of volleyball and experience the growth of Shoyo Hinata and his teammates. Whether you’re a newcomer or a long-time fan, ‘Haikyuu!!’ offers something for everyone.