- 🌸 Saki Anime Watch Order – The Ultimate Beginner-Friendly Guide 🎴
- 🌸 Saki Anime Watch Order Guide (2025 Edition)
- 📺 Where to Stream Saki? – VOD Availability Guide (as of April 2025)
- 🌐 Want to Watch Saki via Japanese Streaming Services? Read This First!
- 🌍 Saki Anime – International Streaming Availability (as of May 2025)
- ✨ Ultimate Highlights Guide – Saki is Packed with Awesomeness! ✨
- 👑① Start Here! Saki (2009) – “Genius Meets Friendship” and It’s Heart-Soaring‼️
- 🏆② The Nationals Arc Begins! Saki: The Nationals (2014) – Bigger Stakes, Bigger Emotions🔥🔥
- 🏫③ A Whole New Perspective! Saki: Episode of Side-A (2012) – “Another Team, Another Heartfelt Journey”
- 🎉④ Need a Break? Saki Biyori (2015 OAD) – The Comedy Relief You Never Knew You Needed 🌞🍡
- 🧭 Where Should You Start Watching for the Best Experience?
- 📝 Final Thoughts – Ready to Dive into the World of Saki?🀄✨
- ✅ Before You Go…
🌸 Saki Anime Watch Order – The Ultimate Beginner-Friendly Guide 🎴
TL;DR: The recommended watch order is → “Saki” (2009) → “The Nationals” → “Episode of Side-A” → “Saki Biyori”
The Saki series is a unique mix of mahjong, high school drama, and fierce competition between cute girls — but with multiple entries and spin-offs, it’s easy to wonder:
“Where do I start?”
Especially with titles like Episode of Side-A and the comedy OAD Saki Biyori, it can get a little confusing for newcomers 💦
Don’t worry — in this guide, we’ll break it all down clearly and simply!
You’ll find:
- ✅ The best recommended watch order (broadcast vs. chronological)
- ✅ Highlights and what makes each season special
- ✅ 2025 streaming availability across major platforms
- ✅ Where to start for the best experience
By the end, you’ll be ready to dive into the world of Saki with full confidence and no confusion ✨
Let’s start with a quick overview of the series structure and how it all connects!
🌸 Saki Anime Watch Order Guide (2025 Edition)
If you’re diving into the world of Saki, a high-tension mahjong anime full of strategy, friendship, and fierce competition, you might be wondering: What’s the best way to watch it?
Below is a guide that includes both the recommended viewing order and the chronological (story) order, limited to these four core titles:
- Saki
- Saki: The Nationals
- Saki: Episode of Side-A (Achiga-hen)
- Saki Biyori (OAD)
✅ Recommended Viewing Order (Best for First-Time Viewers)
| Order | Title | Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① | Saki | 2009 | The original season – follow Kiyosumi High and the mysterious talent of Saki Miyanaga. |
| ② | Saki: The Nationals | 2014 | A direct continuation where the team faces stronger opponents at the national tournament. |
| ③ | Saki: Episode of Side-A | 2012 | A spin-off that shows the same tournament from another school’s perspective—Achiga Girls’ Academy. |
| ④ | Saki Biyori (OAD) | 2015 | A lighthearted gag series featuring characters from across the franchise. |
🌟 Why This Order?
This viewing order follows the release sequence, which builds your understanding of the world gradually. Watching Saki and The Nationals first allows you to fully appreciate the main storyline centered around Kiyosumi High.
Then, when you jump to Episode of Side-A, it feels like a satisfying bonus: “Oh, so this was happening at the same time from another perspective!” It’s like unlocking a hidden side quest after beating the main story.
💡 Pro Tip: You can technically watch Side-A earlier, but emotionally, watching it after The Nationals gives the characters’ struggles more context and weight.
😄 Saki Biyori can be watched anytime, especially when you want a break from the intensity.
⏳ Chronological Order (By Story Timeline)
| Order | Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ① | Saki: Episode of Side-A | Begins before the nationals—Achiga’s journey to the big stage. |
| ② | Saki | Kiyosumi High’s rise from local qualifiers to the national level. |
| ③ | Saki: The Nationals | The main tournament, where both Achiga and Kiyosumi clash. |
| ④ | Saki Biyori (OAD) | A slice-of-life comedy that’s not bound to the main timeline. |
🎯 Why Chronological?
If you’re the type who prefers to follow the story exactly as it happens in-universe, this order gives a fuller understanding of how the teams developed in parallel.
However, it may cause some emotional dissonance if you grow attached to one team before meeting the original protagonists—so it’s best for rewatching or deeper dives.
🧠 Heads-up: The storylines of Saki and Side-A converge during The Nationals, so some events overlap. You’ll notice familiar matches from different viewpoints—one of the series’ coolest features!
🎬 What About Saki Biyori?
- Saki Biyori is a short-format comedy OAD based on the 4-koma manga spin-off.
- It’s pure fun—no tournament stress, no serious drama. Think of it as a “day off” with your favorite characters.
- Watch it anytime, but it’s especially enjoyable after you’ve met everyone in the main series.
💬 Final Thoughts
If you’re new to Saki, I highly recommend starting with the recommended order. It builds momentum, reveals characters naturally, and allows you to fall in love with each team one by one.
That said, if you’re rewatching or you’re the type of fan who loves alternate perspectives, the chronological order is a great way to deepen your appreciation of the story’s complexity.
🀄 Whether you’re here for mahjong strategy or cute girls with fierce determination, Saki is a ride you won’t forget. Just pick a path and enjoy the tournament! 🏆
📺 Where to Stream Saki? – VOD Availability Guide (as of April 2025)
Here’s the latest streaming availability for the main Saki anime titles:
🔍 Legend:
- 🔴 = Available for unlimited streaming (included with subscription)
- ⭐ = Available as rental
- ❌ = Not available
✅ Streaming Availability by VOD (April 2025)
| Platform | Saki | Saki: The Nationals | Saki: Episode of Side-A | Saki Biyori (OAD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| d Anime Store | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ |
| U-NEXT | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ |
| Abema Premium | 🔴 | ❌ | 🔴 | ❌ |
| Hulu (Japan) | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ |
| Amazon Prime Video | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ❌ |
| DMM TV | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ |
📝 Note: This information is accurate as of April 2025. Please check the individual streaming platforms for the most up-to-date availability.
🌐 Want to Watch Saki via Japanese Streaming Services? Read This First!
If you’re living outside of Japan and curious about watching Saki through Japanese platforms like d Anime Store, U-NEXT, or DMM TV, there are a few important things you should know first! Don’t worry — we’ll walk you through it 💡✨
📝 Things to Know Before Watching on Japanese VOD (Video on Demand)
| 🚧 What to Check | ✅ Explanation |
|---|---|
| 📍 Region Locking | Most Japanese platforms are region-locked, meaning you can’t watch them outside Japan without a VPN. |
| 💳 Payment Methods | Many services require a Japanese credit card or payment method (e.g., carrier billing or PayPay). Some accept international cards, but it’s hit or miss. |
| 🗣 Language Support | Japanese platforms generally don’t have English subtitles. All content is in Japanese with no dubs/subs. |
| 🌐 VPN Use | If you’re using a VPN to access Japan-only content, be aware that some platforms may detect and block VPNs. |
| 🔄 Trial Periods | Services like U-NEXT and d Anime Store often offer free trials (7–31 days), but canceling may require Japanese navigation. |
| 📱 App Availability | Some apps may not be downloadable from app stores outside Japan unless you switch your region settings. |
💡 Popular Japanese Streaming Services That Have Saki
| Platform | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| d Anime Store | ✅ All 3 main titles | Japan-only, no subs, needs VPN |
| U-NEXT | ✅ All 3 main titles | Has a free trial, some international card support |
| DMM TV | ✅ Main titles | Newer platform, Japan-only access |
| Amazon JP | ⭐ Rental only | May work with international cards, still needs VPN |
| Hulu Japan | ✅ Some titles | Different from Hulu US, Japan-only catalog |
| Abema Premium | ❌ Partial | Limited availability, no full Saki catalog |
🌟 Saki Biyori (OAD) is not available on any Japanese VOD as of April 2025.
💬 Final Tip for Overseas Fans
If you’re just starting out and want English subtitles or dubs, we recommend using Crunchyroll or Amazon Prime Video (US) instead.
But if you’re a hardcore fan who wants access to original Japanese content or bonus features — and don’t mind using a VPN — then Japanese VODs are a treasure trove! 🧠💥
Still, be cautious with payments and regional issues — we want your anime time to be stress-free, not tech support time 😅
🌍 Saki Anime – International Streaming Availability (as of May 2025)
| Platform | Titles Available | Region | Subtitles | Dub Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchyroll | – Saki (Season 1) – The Nationals (Season 2) – Episode of Side-A | USA, global (varies) | English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian, Arabic | ❌ None | Free & Premium options available |
| Amazon Prime Video | – Saki (S1) – The Nationals (S2) | USA, some regions | English only | ❌ None | Purchase or rental only |
| Apple TV | – Saki (Season 1) | USA | English, others (varies) | ❌ None | May require purchase/rental |
| YouTube TV | – Saki (Live TV availability) | USA | May vary by channel | ❌ None | Part of live TV broadcast lineup |
📝 Notes:
- All versions are in original Japanese audio with subtitles.
- As of May 2025, no official English dubbed version exists for any Saki title.
- Saki Biyori (OAD) is not available internationally on these platforms.
- Regional availability may change—check each platform for the latest status.
✨ Ultimate Highlights Guide – Saki is Packed with Awesomeness! ✨
🎴 Cute girls × Mahjong × Youthful battles — this is the ultimate blend of strategy, emotion, and school club drama!🔥🀄✨
👑① Start Here! Saki (2009) – “Genius Meets Friendship” and It’s Heart-Soaring‼️
This is where it all begins!
The story follows Saki Miyanaga, a girl with unbelievable mahjong talent, who slowly begins to open up through the bonds she forms with her teammates.
- Saki’s ±0 strategy is so broken it’ll give you chills!⚡
- Don’t sleep on Nodoka Haramura — her growth throughout is seriously touching 💗
- Every member of Kiyosumi High is lovable. It’s a top-tier club anime, too! 🎽🎉
🌀 With battle-anime-style intensity, you’ll be thinking: “Wait, mahjong can be THIS epic!?”
🏆② The Nationals Arc Begins! Saki: The Nationals (2014) – Bigger Stakes, Bigger Emotions🔥🔥
The team heads to the national tournament, where even fiercer opponents await!
- Unique, over-the-top players from all over Japan take the stage ✨
- The deep connection (and rivalry) between Saki and her sister Teru hits hard 😢💥
- The tension in every match is insane — and the cut-in effects are just SO COOL!💥🀄
👀 This season balances psychological warfare and stylized action beautifully — it’s a must-watch!
🏫③ A Whole New Perspective! Saki: Episode of Side-A (2012) – “Another Team, Another Heartfelt Journey”
This spin-off focuses on a different school: Achiga Girls’ Academy.
It tells a separate but equally emotional story that runs alongside the main series!
- Shizuno Takakamo’s fiery determination is so inspiring 🔥
- The bond between the Matsumi sisters will break your heart in the best way 😭💗
- Seeing how their story intertwines with Kiyosumi’s adds even more depth to the world of Saki!
🔁 If you love alternate perspectives and connected timelines, this season delivers that satisfying “Aha!” experience!
🎉④ Need a Break? Saki Biyori (2015 OAD) – The Comedy Relief You Never Knew You Needed 🌞🍡
No mahjong, just laughs and cuteness!
Based on the 4-panel gag manga, Saki Biyori is a chill and adorable spin-off that shows your favorite characters living their everyday lives.
- Complete 180 from the serious tension of the main series — pure healing vibes 💐
- Characters from all schools show up, making it a must for longtime fans 🎀
- Packed with light-hearted jokes — even if you don’t understand mahjong, it’s hilarious!
🍀 The perfect post-tournament cooldown. Watch it when you need a smile!
🧭 Where Should You Start Watching for the Best Experience?
If you’re new to Saki, here’s the golden rule:
👉 Start with the original 2009 anime: Saki (Season 1).
Why? Because…
- This is where the main characters are introduced, including the protagonist Saki Miyanaga, and where the entire story kicks off!
- It builds up the emotional core and team dynamics of Kiyosumi High, which are essential for appreciating the rest of the series.
- You’ll be fully prepped for the intensity of The Nationals arc and the perspective twist of Episode of Side-A.
📝 Think of it like this:
“Saki” (2009) = The main story foundation
→ The Nationals = The epic tournament arc continuation
→ Side-A = A parallel journey that adds emotional depth
→ Saki Biyori = The sweet dessert after the main course 💖🍰
You could technically watch Side-A first chronologically…
BUT! Watching it after the main story makes the rivalries and overlaps so much more impactful. Trust us — it hits harder that way! 🥲✨
So whether you’re here for intense mahjong battles or heartwarming friendships, starting from the beginning is the way to go.
Get ready — once you start, you won’t stop! 🎮🀄🔥
📝 Final Thoughts – Ready to Dive into the World of Saki?🀄✨
Whether you’re here for epic mahjong battles, heartwarming friendships, or just some good ol’ anime school club vibes, Saki has something special for everyone. 🌸
Let’s recap what we covered:
✅ Best Watch Order → Start with Saki (2009), then The Nationals, then Episode of Side-A, and finish off with Saki Biyori for some laughs.
✅ Each Title’s Highlights → From Saki’s stoic brilliance to the Achiga girls’ burning determination — there’s no shortage of emotional moments and unforgettable matches.
✅ Streaming Info → If you’re watching from overseas, platforms like Crunchyroll and Amazon Prime Video (US) are your best bet. Hardcore fans can explore Japanese platforms too (with some prep!).
✅ Where to Begin → If you’re new, always start with the 2009 Saki — trust us, it makes everything else even better.
🎉 So, are you ready to cheer for your favorite team, gasp at wild mahjong powers, and maybe even shed a few tears?
From quiet strategy to explosive reveals, Saki is a ride worth taking — whether you’re a beginner or a long-time anime fan.
Thanks for reading, and may the dora be ever in your favor! 🀄💫
✨ Got questions or favorite characters to share? Leave a comment below — we’d love to hear your Saki story!
✅ Before You Go…
📌 Looking for more anime watch order guides?
Check out our latest detailed breakdowns below:
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