1. Introduction
The Saki series is a popular anime centered around the game of mahjong, following characters as they grow and form bonds while aiming for the national championship.
Known for its beautiful animation, strategic gameplay scenes, and friendships and rivalries among its characters, Saki captures the hearts of its fans.
This guide introduces the best viewing order for the series and highlights each work, exploring why it’s still worth watching in 2024.
2. Overview of the Saki Series
- Genre: Sports, School, Friendship
- Original Work: Saki manga by Ritz Kobayashi
- Animation Studios: GONZO, Studio Gokumi, P.A. Works, and others
- Story Summary: Protagonist Saki Miyanaga is naturally skilled at mahjong but had grown distant from the game due to family issues. However, when she joins the mahjong club at Kiyosumi High School and bonds with her teammates, she rediscovers her passion and aims for the national championship alongside her friends.
3. List of Works in the Saki Anime Series
- Saki (2009)
- Saki: Episode of Side-A (2012)
- Saki: National Tournament (2014)
- Saki Biyori (OAD, 2015)
In addition to the main series, there’s the spin-off Episode of Side-A and Saki Biyori, which focuses on the characters’ daily lives.
Together, these works provide a deeper look at the characters’ growth and the intense journey to the national tournament.
4. Recommended Viewing Order (2024 Edition)
Watching the series in this order helps you follow the storyline most effectively, allowing you to fully appreciate each character’s development and the background of each arc.
- Saki (2009)
- Overview: This is the series’ starting point, following Saki Miyanaga, who joins the Kiyosumi High School mahjong club. Though highly skilled, Saki has complicated feelings about mahjong due to her family background. As she connects with her club members, she begins her journey to the national championship.
- Highlights: Watch as Saki’s remarkable skills are revealed, along with the friendships she forms and the unique opponents she faces.
- Saki: Episode of Side-A (2012)
- Overview: A spin-off that centers on the girls of Achiga Girls’ Academy, offering a different perspective on the national mahjong tournament.
- Highlights: This series focuses on a new cast and features an intense matchup against Kiyosumi High School, making it especially thrilling for fans of the main storyline.
- Saki: National Tournament (2014)
- Overview: The story of Kiyosumi High’s journey to the national tournament, where Saki and her teammates face even stronger opponents.
- Highlights: This series introduces powerful rivals and delivers highly strategic mahjong matches, perfect for fans who love competitive drama.
- Saki Biyori (OAD, 2015)
- Overview: A lighthearted spin-off featuring the everyday lives of the characters.
- Highlights: This installment takes a comedic approach, offering a relaxed view of the characters outside of their intense mahjong battles.
5. Quick Introduction to Key Characters
Saki Miyanaga
The protagonist, Saki is a member of the Kiyosumi High School mahjong club.
Although she’s had a natural talent for mahjong since childhood, her complex family background has left her with mixed feelings about the game.
However, after joining the club and bonding with her teammates, she aims to reach the national tournament.
Saki’s strengths lie in her calm, calculated play style and sharp observational skills.
Nodoka Haramura
The ace of the Kiyosumi High School mahjong club, Nodoka is a skilled, strategic player known for her digital style.
A former champion of the middle school tournament, she serves as a core member of the team alongside Saki.
Nodoka’s focused, methodical play and her serious approach to the game are central to her character.
Yūki Kataoka
An energetic and lively member of the Kiyosumi High mahjong club, Yūki is known for her aggressive play style and passionate personality, which often adds excitement to her matches.
She has a quirky habit of eating tacos during matches to boost her concentration, adding a fun and playful side to her character.
Hisa Takei
President of the Kiyosumi High mahjong club, Hisa is the strategist of the team.
Her calm yet daring tactics play a vital role in keeping the team together, and she frequently displays strong leadership.
Hisa’s unique style puts pressure on her opponents, making her a challenging player to face.
6. Where to Watch the Saki Series
For international fans, here are some platforms where you can currently stream the Saki series:
- Crunchyroll
- Saki and its spin-offs are available here with English subtitles, making it a popular choice for international anime fans.
- Netflix
- Some regions may have access to parts of the Saki series on Netflix, especially in Asia. Check availability in your area.
- Hulu
- Available in Japan and select regions. Hulu’s lineup may change, so check their latest listings for availability.
- Amazon Prime Video
- Accessible in Japan and some other regions, with options to rent or purchase. Ideal for fans looking to build their own collection.
- Blu-ray/DVD
- A high-quality option for viewing, as well as a collectible item. Note that some discs may be region-locked, so make sure they’re compatible with your player.
7. Conclusion
The Saki series is a must-watch for fans of mahjong or sports anime. Watching it in this recommended order will enhance your appreciation of the storyline and character growth.
For anime fans, Saki is also an intriguing glimpse into Japanese culture through the lens of competitive mahjong.
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