1. Introduction
Classroom of the Elite is an anime series based on the light novel written by Shōgo Kinugasa. It portrays life in a prestigious school where merit and competition dictate success.
The first season aired in 2017, followed by the second in 2022, and the third in early 2024, completing the adaptation of the “first-year arc.”
The series is renowned for its intense psychological battles, mind games, and the enigmatic lead character, Kiyotaka Ayanokōji, who never fails to leave fans intrigued.
This article will guide you through the recommended viewing order and highlight the key moments to look out for in each season, making sure you get the best experience whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it.
2. The Best Viewing Order for Classroom of the Elite
To fully appreciate the series, watching it in its broadcast order is the best approach. Each season follows directly from the previous one, building on the complex relationships and strategies between the characters.
① Season 1: Classroom of the Elite
- Air Dates: July–September 2017
- Episodes: 12
- Key Highlights:
In the first season, we’re introduced to Kiyotaka Ayanokōji, who is placed in the bottom-tier D-Class of the Advanced Nurturing High School. The season focuses on the students learning about the school’s merit-based system, where privileges are earned through performance. The survival test on a deserted island and Ayanokōji’s cool-headed strategies are standout moments. We begin to see glimpses of his hidden intellect and manipulative nature.
② Season 2: Classroom of the Elite – 2nd Season
- Air Dates: July–September 2022
- Episodes: 13
- Key Highlights:
The second season raises the stakes with heightened competition between classes. We see the students participate in even more grueling tests, like the intense pool showdown and the introduction of new psychological tactics. Ayanokōji’s manipulative skills and his ability to exploit the weaknesses of others become more prominent. His relationships with classmates like Suzune Horikita and Kikyo Kushida also become more complex.
③ Season 3: Classroom of the Elite – 3rd Season
- Air Dates: January–March 2024
- Episodes: 13
- Key Highlights:
The third season wraps up the first-year arc. The students face the “Mixed Training Camp” challenge, where collaboration with rival classes becomes essential for survival. Ayanokōji’s tactics grow even more ruthless, and his battle against the leader of Class C, Ryūen, reaches its peak. This season showcases Ayanokōji at his most calculated and reveals deeper layers of his character.
3. Major Highlights of Classroom of the Elite
1. Kiyotaka Ayanokōji’s Mysterious Genius
Ayanokōji hides his extraordinary intelligence and physical prowess, pretending to be an average student.
His ability to manipulate events from the shadows is a driving force in the story.
Watching him play the long game, anticipating and countering the strategies of other students, is one of the most thrilling aspects of the series.
2. Psychological and Strategic Battles
Each season centers around different tests that push the students’ intellectual and emotional limits.
The intense battles of wits, especially during survival tests, put characters’ true natures on display.
This focus on strategy and manipulation sets Classroom of the Elite apart from other high school-themed series．
3. Rivalries Between Classes
The series revolves around the cutthroat competition between classes, especially the rivalries between Class D and the elite Class A and C.
These power struggles add layers of tension and drama as students fight for their status and privileges in the school’s strict meritocracy.
4. Tips for Fully Enjoying the Anime
- Differences from the Light Novel
While the anime closely follows the light novel, there are subtle differences in character development and story pacing. Reading the novel can provide additional insight, particularly into characters’ inner thoughts and motivations. - Focus on Character Growth
Each main character, especially Ayanokōji and Horikita, undergoes significant development throughout the series. Their relationships evolve as they navigate the school’s system, making it worth paying attention to their personal growth and strategic decisions.
5. Final Viewing Order Recommendation
For the best experience, watching the series in chronological broadcast order is essential.
Starting from Season 1 and progressing through to Season 3 allows for a seamless narrative experience.
The third season concludes the first-year arc, so now is the perfect time to watch it all at once.
Keep an eye out for the upcoming second-year arc, which promises even more intense battles and character development．
6. Conclusion
Classroom of the Elite is a must-watch for fans of psychological dramas and strategic storytelling.
Ayanokōji’s rise to power, the fierce competition between classes, and the deepening character dynamics make this series a gripping watch.
By following the recommended viewing order and taking note of the key moments, you’ll get the most out of this compelling and unique anime.
With the second-year arc on the horizon, now is the perfect time to dive in or rewatch the series to fully prepare for what’s to come!
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