Table of Contents
‘Death Note’ is one of the most iconic anime series, captivating audiences with its intense psychological battles and moral dilemmas. However, for new viewers, understanding which episodes are canon and which are non-canon can be a bit confusing. In this article, we will break down the differences between canon and non-canon episodes of ‘Death Note’ and provide guidance on how to watch the series effectively.
What is Canon and Non-Canon?
In the context of anime, ‘canon’ refers to the episodes that are directly adapted from the original source material, in this case, the manga written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata. ‘Non-canon’ episodes, on the other hand, are those that do not originate from the manga and may include filler episodes, alternate storylines, or adaptations that diverge from the source material.
Canon Episodes of ‘Death Note’
The main storyline of ‘Death Note’ consists of 37 episodes that follow the original manga closely. Here is a list of the canon episodes:
- Episode 1: Rebirth
- Episode 2: Confrontation
- Episode 3: Dealings
- Episode 4: Pursuit
- Episode 5: Tactics
- Episode 6: Unorthodox
- Episode 7: Overcast
- Episode 8: Glare
- Episode 9: Encounter
- Episode 10: Doubt
- Episode 11: Choice
- Episode 12: Love
- Episode 13: Confession
- Episode 14: Friend
- Episode 15: Wager
- Episode 16: Decision
- Episode 17: Execution
- Episode 18: Ally
- Episode 19: Successors
- Episode 20: Makeshift
- Episode 21: Performance
- Episode 22: Guidance
- Episode 23: Frenzy
- Episode 24: Revival
- Episode 25: Silence
- Episode 26: Renewal
- Episode 27: Abduction
- Episode 28: Impatience
- Episode 29: Father
- Episode 30: Justice
- Episode 31: Transfer
- Episode 32: Selection
- Episode 33: Scorn
- Episode 34: Vigilance
- Episode 35: Malice
- Episode 36: 3rd Kira
- Episode 37: New World
Non-Canon Episodes of ‘Death Note’
While ‘Death Note’ primarily consists of canon episodes, there are a few non-canon segments that fans may encounter. These include:
- Episode 38: The Last Name (Special)
- Episode 39: The Last Name (Live Action)
How to Watch ‘Death Note’
To fully appreciate the storyline and character development in ‘Death Note’, it is recommended to watch all the canon episodes in order. If you are interested in the additional context provided by the non-canon episodes, they can be viewed separately after finishing the main series.
Viewing Order
A suggested viewing order for ‘Death Note’ is as follows:
- Watch all 37 canon episodes in sequence.
- Consider watching the non-canon episodes for additional content.
Conclusion
‘Death Note’ remains a captivating series that raises profound questions about morality, justice, and the consequences of power. Understanding which episodes are canon and non-canon helps viewers navigate the series more effectively, ensuring an enriching viewing experience. Whether you are a first-time viewer or revisiting the series, following this guide will enhance your understanding of the intricate plot and character dynamics.