Evangelion – the evergreen series that continues to baffle every new viewer because of its confusing titles. Between the original series, recap movies, and the shiny Rebuild films, it’s easy to wonder where to even begin.
A simple Evangelion watch order by release date keeps things simple for you! While some die-hard fans might personalize the order based on their preferences, we’re here to highlight what’s best for you and how you can enjoy the series in the way it was intended to be enjoyed.
You don’t need galaxy-brained timelines. Just vibes, mechs, and existential dread in the correct order.
Evangelion Watch Order Simplified for Beginners
I. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995–1996) – The Main Series
Let’s go back to the roots and start with the series that began it all. Back when this 26-episode anime began airing in 1995, it probably didn’t realize it was about to make history and change anime forever.
You watch a few teasers, and on the surface, it seems like a simple anime with a kid piloting giant robots and fighting Angels. In reality, it is a psychological breakdown disguised as sci-fi.
The earlier episodes do a great job of lulling you in with the promise of it being a simple action anime with robots. Then, somewhere along the way, Evangelion looks directly at you and asks, “Have you tried unpacking your trauma?”
II. Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death & Rebirth (1997) — The Confusing Recap Era
The main anime series left viewers with more questions than answers. These two movies are a response to that. Watching them is certainly…a choice.
“Death” is essentially a recap of the series. Some add-ons include re-edited scenes, new music, and slightly different framing. If you just completed the series, feel free to skip it since you’re not missing out on anything major.
“Rebirth” is the transition into the real ending. The story remains unfinished here, which is why you need to immediately jump on to the next entry on this list.
III. The End of Evangelion (1997) — The Real Ending (Emotionally Unsafe)
You’ve reached the real ending of Evangelion. Take a deep breath before beginning this one because this is it. This theatrical finale replaces episodes 25 and 26 of the TV series.
If you’re wondering where the difference is, let’s cut to the chase. If the TV series ending was abstract and introspective, then the movie ending is abstract and aggressively traumatic.
The film gives you the answers you were looking for, but in a very Evangelion way. It is intense and emotionally draining. So, watch it only when you’re alert, hydrated, and ready to feel things you didn’t consent to.
IV. Evangelion: Death (True)² (1998) — The Optional Redux
See, this is where the confusion really gets to viewers just getting into the series. Death (True)² is a recap of a recap movie. Yes, Evangelion really loves redundancy that much.
It is essentially a retelling of the “Death” part of the Death & Rebirth movies. The movie tightens the recap and removes some older footage.
Sounds ridiculous, but if you love pain in HD, or if you’re just a perfectionist, go right ahead and add it to your watch list. If you skipped Death & Rebirth, skip this too. Evangelion will not judge you (but the fandom might).
V. Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone (2007) — Rebuild Begins
You wait 10 years, and suddenly Evangelion comes back looking expensive. With Evangelion: 1.0, you begin the Rebuild of Evangelion movie series.
When it comes to first impressions, the movie seems like another retelling of the early TV episodes. Just the animation is more polished, and the explosions are prettier.
If you’ve skipped every other Evangelion segment before, this movie can be a starting point. Just know that things will stop following the familiar storyline very soon.
VI. Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance (2009) — Things Go Off the Rails
You’ve reached the point where the movie finally stops being another remake. Evangelion: 2.0 introduces new characters, new plotlines, and bold changes that permanently split the timeline.
The movie is faster and more emotionally aggressive than the first installment of this series. Certain characters really get the chance to shine more (which just makes things hurt even more if that was possible!).
Look up Reddit threads, and you’ll find the majority of Evangelion fans claiming this is the best movie in the Rebuild series. Test out the opinion for yourself.
VII. Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo (2012) — Emotional Whiplash Simulator
Thought you finally understood what’s happening in the Rebuild series? Well, Evangelion can’t allow that. As always, the movie will just randomly throw in curveballs (like jumping forward in time) and refuse to explain anything.
The characters are older, the world is somehow completely broken, and Shinji’s life couldn’t be harder. The movie wants you to be confused, and it is remarkably successful in that regard.
Evangelion:3.0 divides people. Either you will appreciate the sheer audacity it presents, or just stare at the screen in silence once it’s over.
VIII. Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time (2021) — Closure, Finally
After years and years of waiting and countless fan theories later, Thrice Upon a Time delivers the final chapter, and it actually sticks the landing. The movie is long, emotional, and surprisingly hopeful.
While it doesn’t ease the pain completely, it gives the characters and the audience some room to breathe. If the original Evangelion was about being trapped inside your own head, this film is about choosing to move forward anyway. And yes, before you ask, it will make you cry.
Final Thoughts on the Evangelion Watch Order
If you want to experience Evangelion to its fullest, let things happen naturally. Follow the release date order, and watch the chaos unfold on its own.
You don’t need spreadsheets, timelines, or a Master’s degree in Philosophy to understand Evangelion. Just bring emotional resilience, a sense of humor, and the acceptance that Evangelion is less about answers and more about vibes.
Congratulations! You’re now ready to experience one of anime’s most iconic meltdowns, in the correct order.
Writer. Dreamer. Journalist (maybe?). Anime lover (definitely). I turn curiosity into stories and everyday life into a narrative worth reading.
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