- 🧭 The Best Watch Order for Evangelion (2025 Edition) – A Beginner-Friendly Guide
- So… What Is Evangelion, Anyway?
- 🌟 Evangelion Watch Order (2025 Edition)
- 📺 Evangelion Streaming Availability (as of April 2025)
- 🌏 Watching Evangelion on Japanese Streaming Platforms? Here’s What to Know!
- 🌍 Evangelion International Streaming Availability (as of 2025)
- 🎬 Evangelion Titles at a Glance – “Which One Is What?” (Fan-Friendly Breakdown)
- 💡 EVA Starter Tips – Beginner-Friendly Advice from One Fan to Another
- 📝 Final Thoughts – Your EVA Journey Starts Here
- ✅ Before You Go…
- ❓ FAQ – Evangelion Watch Order Guide
🧭 The Best Watch Order for Evangelion (2025 Edition) – A Beginner-Friendly Guide
Let’s start with the answer: The recommended watch order is —
① TV Series → ② Old Movies → ③ Rebuild Movie Series
This gives you the most complete and emotionally powerful Evangelion experience!
If you’re thinking, “Wait, which one do I start with?” — don’t worry! Whether you’re totally new to the world of Evangelion or just coming back after hearing all the hype, this guide is here to help.
We’ll walk you through the best watch order, why it matters, and how to enjoy the series without getting overwhelmed.
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- 🔢 The best watch order (2025 updated!) and how it compares to chronological order
- 🎬 Overview of each title: TV episodes, movies, and spin-offs – what’s essential and what’s optional
- 🌍 Where to stream Evangelion internationally (Netflix, Amazon Prime, etc.)
- 💡 Helpful tips for first-time viewers — no spoilers, no confusion
So… What Is Evangelion, Anyway?
Originally aired in 1995, Neon Genesis Evangelion is a groundbreaking anime that redefined the mecha genre.
It follows 14-year-old pilots and their biomechanical mechas, “Evangelions,” as they fight mysterious enemies called “Angels.” But make no mistake — this isn’t just a robot anime. It’s about identity, trauma, and the human condition.
Over the years, it has expanded with movies, remakes, and spin-offs… which is exactly why it’s so easy to get lost in which version to start with.
Whether you’re a total newbie or someone who’s “heard about it forever but never watched it,” this article is for you.
By the end, you’ll know exactly where to begin, what to skip (if you’re in a hurry), and how to get the most out of your Evangelion journey.
So let’s dive in — here’s your ultimate Evangelion watch order 👇
🌟 Evangelion Watch Order (2025 Edition)
Complete Guide – TV, Movies, Spin-offs & More
Welcome to the wild world of Evangelion! With its mix of mind-bending plot, deep psychology, and unforgettable characters, this series has captivated anime fans for decades.
But with all the different versions — TV, old movies, Rebuild films, and spin-offs — the big question is:
“What’s the best way to watch Evangelion in 2025?”
I’ve got you covered — here’s the Recommended Viewing Order, followed by the Chronological Timeline, with bonus commentary to help you get the most out of your journey through the world of EVA.
✅ Recommended Viewing Order (Best for First-Timers)
| # | Title | Year | Type | Why Watch It This Way |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Neon Genesis Evangelion (TV Series) | 1995–96 | Main Story | Start here! This is the original — 26 episodes of iconic storytelling. It sets the emotional and thematic tone for everything that follows. Some parts are slow-burn or cryptic, but trust me, it pays off. |
| 2 | Death & Rebirth / DEATH (TRUE)² | 1997–98 | Recap | Optional. A condensed recap of the TV series with some new edits. Good if you want a refresher before the movies. You can skip this if you just watched the series. |
| 3 | The End of Evangelion | 1997 | Alternate Ending (Old Movie) | A powerful, chaotic, and devastating finale to the TV story. This film replaces the original TV ending and is a must-watch. It’s raw and emotionally intense — you’ll never forget it. |
| 4 | Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone | 2007 | Rebuild Movie #1 | Kicks off the “Rebuild” movie series. Starts similar to the TV version but with updated visuals and pacing. Great for returning fans or as a modern re-entry point. |
| 5 | Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance | 2009 | Rebuild Movie #2 | This is where things really start to diverge from the original story. New characters, new scenes, and a huge emotional payoff. One of the most beloved entries. |
| 6 | Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo | 2012 | Rebuild Movie #3 | Suddenly, 14 years have passed and everything’s different. Some fans were confused — but if you stick with it, it becomes a key part of the whole puzzle. |
| 7 | Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time | 2021 | Final Rebuild | The epic finale of the entire Evangelion saga. Closure, healing, and a surprising sense of hope. You might cry. You probably will. |
| 8 | Evangelion: 3.0(-46h) | 2023 | Short Prequel | A 10-minute prequel set right before 3.0. Gives insight into Mari’s side of the story. Watch after Thrice Upon a Time to appreciate the timeline better. |
| 9 | Evangelion: Another Impact (Confidential) | 2015 | Spin-off Short | A stunning CG short from another universe. Not canon, but visually gorgeous and conceptually cool. A great “what-if” story for EVA fans. |
| 10 | Petit Eva: Evangelion@School | 2007–09 | Parody/Spin-off | Super-deformed, silly school comedy with no connection to the main plot. Totally skippable, but a fun palate cleanser if you need a break from the emotional trauma. 😄 |
💡 Why This Order Works
- It honors the original story first (TV → EoE), then transitions into the modern “Rebuild” reimagining.
- You experience both endings — one tragic and chaotic (End of Eva), the other redemptive (Thrice Upon a Time).
- Seeing both makes the finale more meaningful, especially if you notice how Shinji’s arc evolves across timelines.
🕒 Chronological Timeline (In-Universe Order)
| # | Title | Story Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Neon Genesis Evangelion (TV) | 2015–16 | The core story — covers the original battle against the Angels. |
| 2 | The End of Evangelion | 2016 | Takes place during/after Ep. 24 of the TV series. Alternate ending. |
| 3 | Evangelion: 1.0 / 2.0 | ~2015–16 | Rebuild reboot of the early years, with changes in 2.0. |
| 4 | Evangelion: 3.0(-46h) | 2029 | Short that fills in the gap between 2.0 and 3.0. |
| 5 | Evangelion: 3.0 | 2029 | Time skip: 14 years after 2.0. Shinji wakes up to a broken world. |
| 6 | Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 | ~2030 | Final confrontation, closure, and a new beginning. |
Important Note:
Watching chronologically will spoil major reveals and emotional beats. That’s why I don’t recommend this order for first-timers. Stick with the recommended watch order above for the best experience!
🎉 Final Tips from a Fellow Fan
- Old vs. Rebuild?
Watch both if you can. The original is raw and emotional; Rebuild is polished and philosophical. Both complement each other beautifully. - Feeling overwhelmed?
That’s normal. Evangelion is meant to confuse and challenge you. Just ride the wave and feel what the characters feel. - Need a break?
Petit Eva is a goofy spin-off that will reset your brain after the heavier entries. Highly recommended after EoE or Q. 😅
📺 Evangelion Streaming Availability (as of April 2025)
Legend:
⭕ = Unlimited streaming (included in subscription)
⭐ = Rental only
❌ = Not available
📡 Streaming Services & Availability
| Streaming Service | Neon Genesis Evangelion (TV) | Old Movies | Rebuild Movie Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| dAnime Store | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental |
| U-NEXT | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental |
| Abema Premium | ❌ Not available | ❌ Not available | ⭐ Rental |
| Hulu | ❌ Not available | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental |
| Amazon Prime Video | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental | ⭕ Unlimited streaming |
| DMM TV | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental | ⭐ Rental |
📌 Notes (Translated)
- The above information is current as of April 2025. Please check each VOD service for the latest updates.
- If you plan to watch Evangelion via VOD, Amazon Prime Video is the recommended platform, especially for the Rebuild movie series, which is available for unlimited streaming.
- As of April 2025, Neon Genesis Evangelion (TV) is not available on Netflix Japan for streaming.
🌏 Watching Evangelion on Japanese Streaming Platforms? Here’s What to Know!
Thinking about watching Evangelion on platforms like dAnime Store, U-NEXT, or Amazon Prime Video Japan? That’s awesome — but here are a few quick tips before you dive in:
✅ Things to Keep in Mind:
- Most Japanese streaming services are region-locked
→ You’ll likely need a VPN set to Japan to access the content. - No English subtitles (in most cases)
→ These services are made for native Japanese viewers. If you’re not fluent, subtitles might not be available. - Payment methods may require a Japanese address
→ Some platforms only accept Japanese credit cards or local payment methods like carrier billing. - Amazon Prime Video Japan is a popular choice for Rebuild movies
→ But again, you’ll need a JP account or VPN setup to watch.
💡 Tip:
If you want to explore Japanese platforms for exclusive content or early releases, go for it! But for the smoothest experience, services like Netflix (for TV/old movies) and Amazon Prime Global (for Rebuilds) are usually the easiest way to watch Evangelion internationally.
🌍 Evangelion International Streaming Availability (as of 2025)
| Category | Platform | Region(s) | Release Date | Subtitles / Dubs Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TV Series Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) | Netflix | 🌐 Worldwide | June 21, 2019 | ✅ Subtitles: EN, ES, FR, DE, CN ✅ Dubs: EN, ES, FR, DE | Includes a new English dub (not the original ADV dub). |
| Amazon, Apple, Vudu | 🌐 Worldwide (purchase) | Ongoing | ✅ Sub & Dub (varies by region) | Digital purchase or rental only. | |
| Old Movies Death & Rebirth / End of Evangelion | Netflix | 🌐 Worldwide | June 21, 2019 | ✅ Sub & Dub (same as above) | Bundled with the TV series. |
| Amazon, Apple, Vudu | 🌐 Worldwide | Ongoing | ✅ Sub & Dub | Rental/purchase only. | |
| Rebuild Movies (1.0 ~ 3.0+1.0) | Amazon Prime Video | 🌐 240+ countries (incl. US, Europe, Asia, Japan) | August 13, 2021 | ✅ Subtitles: EN, ES, FR, DE, etc. ✅ Dubs: EN, ES, FR, IT, etc. | Exclusive global streaming rights. Japanese audio available. |
| Funimation Blu-ray/DVD | 🇺🇸 North America | Feb 2, 2016 (3.0) | ✅ English dub + subs | Physical release (some dubs differ from Amazon version). | |
| Spin-offs Petit Eva, Another Impact | YouTube / DVD / Fan uploads | Varies | 2007–2015 | ❌ Sub/dub rare | Not officially licensed in most regions. Optional viewing. |
🔎 Summary
- Netflix = Best place to watch the original TV series and old movies, with good subtitle and dub support.
- Amazon Prime Video = Only platform streaming all four Rebuild films worldwide, in multiple languages.
- Blu-ray/DVD = Great for collectors, especially if you want the older English dub (e.g., ADV Films or Funimation versions).
- Spin-offs like Petit Eva and Another Impact are bonus material, mostly for dedicated fans.
💡 Tips:
- Watching in English? Netflix’s dub is newer but high-quality. Amazon’s dub (for Rebuild) features many Funimation actors.
- Need full Japanese audio with subs? All platforms support it — Amazon offers Khara-supervised subtitle accuracy.
- Access varies slightly by country — if something isn’t available, try changing region settings or checking other local platforms.
🎬 Evangelion Titles at a Glance – “Which One Is What?” (Fan-Friendly Breakdown)
| Title | Type | What It Is | Why You Should Watch It 💫 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) | 📺 TV Series | The original 26-episode anime that started it all | This is where the Evangelion journey begins! Iconic, emotional, and a total mind-bender. It’s a must-watch if you want to understand the core of EVA. |
| Death & Rebirth / DEATH (TRUE)² (1997–98) | 🎞️ Recap Movie | A summary of the TV series with some new edits | Kinda like a highlight reel for those who want a refresher before diving into the movie ending. Optional, but stylish. |
| The End of Evangelion (1997) | 🎥 Movie (Alt Ending) | A movie that replaces the TV ending with something… intense 😱 | Brutal, beautiful, and unforgettable. It’s what really happened after Ep. 24. If you love chaos and emotional damage (in a good way), this is it. |
| Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone | 🎬 Rebuild Movie #1 | A modern remake of the early episodes | Basically the TV story, but shinier and faster-paced. A great entry point for new fans who want slick visuals. |
| Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance | 🎬 Rebuild Movie #2 | A total glow-up with new characters and twists | This one takes a sharp left turn from the original story. More action, more feels, and the iconic arrival of Mari! |
| Evangelion: 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo | 🎬 Rebuild Movie #3 | Time skip! Everything changes here | Suddenly it’s 14 years later and everything’s messed up. Some people were confused — but it’s a wild ride that sets up the finale. |
| Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time | 🎬 Rebuild Movie #4 | The grand finale of the entire saga | Closure. Healing. Growth. Possibly tears. Shinji finally gets the ending he deserves. Don’t skip this one — it’s the soul of the Rebuilds. |
| Evangelion: 3.0(-46h) | 🎞️ Short Film | A prequel mini-story from Mari’s POV | A 10-minute gem that fills in the gap between 2.0 and 3.0. Great bonus material after watching the main movies. |
| Petit Eva: Evangelion@School | 🏫 Spin-off (Parody) | Chibi EVA characters in a wacky school setting | Total chaos and silliness. Zero stress, just good vibes. Perfect to watch after the heavy stuff. 🍵 |
| Another Impact (Confidential) | 🧪 Spin-off Short (Alternate Universe) | A stunning 6-minute CG short with a mysterious EVA unit | Not connected to the main story, but visually amazing. For hardcore EVA lovers and animation geeks. |
📝 Bonus Tips:
- Want something deep and psychological? → Go for the TV series + End of Evangelion combo.
- Prefer modern animation and faster pacing? → Try the Rebuild movies.
- Need to laugh a bit after crying? → Watch Petit Eva. You deserve it.
💡 EVA Starter Tips – Beginner-Friendly Advice from One Fan to Another
| Topic | Tip | Why It Helps 💬 |
|---|---|---|
| Where to Start | Start with the TV series (1995) or Rebuild Movie 1.0 | If you love classic anime vibes and slow-burn storytelling, go with the TV series. If you prefer modern animation and faster pacing, start with the Rebuilds. No wrong choice — just different flavors! 🍦 |
| TV Ending vs. Movie Ending? | Watch the TV ending first (Ep. 25–26), then End of Evangelion | The TV ending is abstract and introspective. End of Evangelion gives a more explosive, cinematic version of the same conclusion. Watching both adds emotional depth. 💥❤️ |
| Confused by the Plot? | That’s normal. Don’t stress. Really. | Evangelion is meant to be a little confusing — it’s part of the experience! Focus on the characters and emotions first. The deeper meanings will click later. 🧠✨ |
| What to Skip (or Save for Later) | You can skip recap movies like Death & Rebirth on your first watch | They’re great as bonus content, but not required. Focus on the main story first — then circle back if you’re curious. ⏩ |
| Feeling Emotionally Drained? | That’s part of the journey. Take breaks. | It’s totally okay to pause between episodes or movies. The emotional weight hits hard, especially in the later parts. Be kind to yourself. 🫂 |
| Spinoffs Worth Watching? | Only if you want a break from the heavy stuff | Petit Eva and Another Impact are fun extras. Not canon, not stressful — perfect when you need to reset your brain after EoE. 🧸 |
| Rewatch Value | Yes, Evangelion gets better the second time | The first watch is about feeling. The second watch is when the pieces start to fit together. Many fans say it hits even harder on rewatch. 🔁❤️ |
| Watch Alone or with Friends? | Either works! But post-watch discussions are 🔥 | There’s a lot to unpack — from symbolism to trauma to penguin theories 🐧. Talking with friends makes the experience even richer. |
| Best Streaming Platforms | Netflix for TV & old movies, Prime Video for Rebuilds | As of 2025, this combo covers almost everything you need. Some physical editions (like Blu-rays) also offer different dubs/subs. 🎮📱 |
💬 Final Words of Encouragement:
Don’t worry about “getting it” right away. Just let the story pull you in — one Angel, one sync rate, one Shinji scream at a time. You’re officially on your EVA journey now. Welcome to the pain… and the beauty. 💙💥
📝 Final Thoughts – Your EVA Journey Starts Here
Evangelion isn’t just an anime — it’s an experience. Whether you choose the classic TV route or dive straight into the Rebuild movies, you’re in for a story that’s emotional, challenging, and unforgettable.
If you’re new to EVA, start with what feels right for you:
- Want the original, raw experience? → Go with the TV series + End of Evangelion.
- Want something more modern and polished? → Try the Rebuild movie series.
- Still unsure? Why not both? 😉
And remember: it’s totally okay to take breaks, to be confused, or to feel emotionally overwhelmed. That just means it’s working.
🚀 Ready to Watch?
Now that you’ve got the full roadmap —
Hit play, grab some snacks, and get ready to sync with your Eva.
See you, Space… oh wait — wrong anime.
See you in the Entry Plug, pilot. 🧠💥
✨ Have thoughts? Favorite moments? Just screamed “Get in the robot, Shinji!” at your screen?
Let me know in the comments — I’d love to hear how your EVA watch-through goes!
✅ Before You Go…
📌 Looking for more anime watch order guides?
Check out our other popular articles:
- 🌀 Haiyore! Nyaruko-san – Complete Watch Order Guide (2025)
A chaotic blend of cosmic horror and comedy — with an adorable twist. 💫 - 🔫 REBORN! (Katekyō Hitman Reborn) – Chronological Viewing Guide
From mafia mischief to full-blown battles — here’s how to watch it all in order! 💥 - 🏀 Kuroko’s Basketball – Complete Watch Order for Beginners
High-speed passes, epic matches, and friendship goals — slam dunk your way through every season!
📌 Want to support the blog?
If this guide helped you out, feel free to bookmark it or share it with fellow anime fans!
And don’t forget to follow us for more watch orders, character deep dives, and fangirl-worthy moments. ✨
❓ FAQ – Evangelion Watch Order Guide
1. What is the best order to watch Evangelion in 2025?
For most viewers, the best order is:
TV Series (1995) → End of Evangelion → Rebuild Movies (1.0 ~ 3.0+1.0).
This way, you’ll experience both the original and the modern interpretations of the story.
🔎 Search intent: “Evangelion watch order 2025”, “how to watch Evangelion in the right order”
2. Can I start Evangelion with the Rebuild movies?
Yes, you can — especially if you prefer modern visuals and faster pacing.
However, many fans recommend starting with the original TV series to fully understand the emotional depth and character arcs.
🔎 Search intent: “Can I watch Evangelion without the TV series?”, “Start with Evangelion Rebuild?”
3. Do I need to watch End of Evangelion if I’ve finished the TV series?
Absolutely! End of Evangelion serves as an alternate (and widely accepted) ending that completes the story in a more cinematic and emotional way.
It’s considered essential viewing for anyone who finishes the original series.
🔎 Search intent: “Do I need to watch End of Evangelion”, “TV ending vs End of Evangelion”
4. Where can I watch Evangelion online? (Netflix, Prime Video, etc.)
- TV series & old movies: Available globally on Netflix with subs and dubs.
- Rebuild movies (1.0–3.0+1.0): Stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video worldwide.
🔎 Search intent: “Where to watch Evangelion”, “Evangelion Netflix or Amazon”, “Evangelion streaming platform 2025”
5. Is it okay to skip the recap movies like Death and Rebirth?
Yes, those are optional. Death & Rebirth and DEATH (TRUE)² are recap-style edits of the TV series.
They’re useful for rewatching or reviewing, but not required for first-time viewers.
🔎 Search intent: “Should I watch Death and Rebirth Evangelion”, “Evangelion recap movies worth watching?”
コメント