A Certain Magical Index: The Complete Watch Order Guide

🔰 [2025 Edition] The Best Watch Order for the Toaru Anime Series (Index, Railgun, Accelerator)

✅ Let’s get straight to the point! The best watch order for beginners is…
👉 Watch it in release order!
This way, you’ll naturally follow the story progression and enjoy character development across all series.

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Thinking of diving into the Toaru universe but feeling lost?
Wondering things like:
“Where do I even start?”
“What’s Railgun and Accelerator?”
“Is there a movie or OVAs too?”

You’re not alone—and this guide is here to help!

📌 What You’ll Learn in This Article:

• The recommended watch order for the Toaru series (release order, chronological order, beginner-friendly order)
• Highlights and story focus of each series
• Where to stream the Toaru anime in Japan (U-NEXT, d Anime Store, etc.)
• Watch order tips and which paths might cause confusion

The Toaru series may seem complicated at first, but once you’re in, it’s super addicting!
This guide will help you enjoy the world of Toaru without confusion—even if it’s your first time.

So let’s jump in and explore what this beloved series is all about—and how to watch it in the best way possible! 📺✨

📺 Release Order – How the Toaru Anime Aired

If you want to follow the Toaru series as they were broadcast, here’s the official release order. This is a great way to experience the series as fans did when each new installment came out.

No.	Title	Year	Episodes	Notes
1	A Certain Magical Index Season 1	2008	24 eps	The first season of the main story.
2	A Certain Scientific Railgun Season 1	2009	24 eps	A spin-off focusing on Mikoto Misaka.
3	A Certain Magical Index II	2010	24 eps	Sequel to Index S1, expands on the world.
4	A Certain Scientific Railgun OVA	2010	1 ep	Side story episode set after Railgun S1.
5	A Certain Magical Index: The Movie – The Miracle of Endymion	2013	Movie	Original movie set between Index II and III.
6	A Certain Scientific Railgun S (Season 2)	2013	24 eps	Covers the “Sisters Arc” in detail.
7	A Certain Magical Index III	2018	26 eps	The final season of the Index main story.
8	A Certain Scientific Accelerator	2019	12 eps	Spin-off starring Accelerator, post-Index II events.
9	A Certain Scientific Railgun T (Season 3)	2020	25 eps	Features both Misaka and Kuroko’s story arcs.
10	A Certain Dark Side Story – ITEM (TBA)	2025	TBA	Spin-off based on the dark side of Academy City (upcoming).
11	A Certain Scientific Railgun Season 4 (TBA)	2025	TBA	The newest season of Railgun, officially announced.

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🌱 Recommended for First-Time Viewers: Watch in Broadcast Order!

For first-time viewers, watching the Toaru series in release order might feel overwhelming due to the complexity of timelines and spin-offs.

Here’s a beginner-friendly watch order that will help you get into the story smoothly and enjoy it to the fullest.

No.	Title	Year	Episodes	Reason for Placement
1	A Certain Magical Index Season 1	2008	24 eps	Start with the main series to learn the core characters.
2	A Certain Magical Index II	2010	24 eps	Direct continuation of the story.
3	A Certain Magical Index: The Movie – Endymion	2013	Movie	Movie that fits nicely between Index II and III.
4	A Certain Magical Index III	2018	26 eps	Wraps up the main story arc.
5	A Certain Scientific Railgun Season 1	2009	24 eps	Go deeper into the science side with Misaka’s POV.
6	A Certain Scientific Railgun OVA	2010	1 ep	A fun short follow-up to Railgun S1.
7	A Certain Scientific Railgun S (Season 2)	2013	24 eps	Expands on major events seen in Index II.
8	A Certain Scientific Railgun T (Season 3)	2020	25 eps	Further development of Railgun’s storylines.
9	A Certain Scientific Accelerator	2019	12 eps	Finish with this dark spin-off centered on Accelerator.
10	A Certain Dark Side Story – ITEM (TBA)	2025	TBA	Optional new series for fans who want to explore more.

🧭 Chronological Watch Order (Advanced Viewers Only)

🎓 Heads up! This watch order is not recommended for beginners!
The Toaru series features multiple protagonists and overlapping timelines across different series (Index, Railgun, Accelerator). Watching by in-universe chronology can make the story difficult to follow and potentially confusing.

💭 I’ve personally tried watching it in chronological order, but the constant shift in perspective between protagonists made it hard to keep track of the overall plot and character developments.

👉 If you’ve already watched the series once or twice and want to experience the story from a new angle, here’s the in-universe timeline watch order:

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🕒 Toaru Series Chronological Watch Order (2025 Edition)

Order	In-Universe Date	Title	Episodes
1	Early July	A Certain Scientific Railgun S1	Episodes 1–5
2	Mid-July	Railgun S1	Episodes 6–7
3	July 19–29	A Certain Magical Index S1	Episodes 1–6
4	Late July – Early August	Railgun S1	Episodes 8–24
5	Early August	Railgun OVA	1 episode
6	August 8–9	Index S1	Episodes 7–9
7	Mid-August – August 19	Railgun S	Episodes 1–10
8	August 20–22	Index S1	Episodes 10–14
9	August 20 – Late August	Railgun S	Episodes 10–17
10	August 27 – September 1	Index S1	Episodes 15–24
11	August 31	Index II	Episode 1
12	Late August – Early Sept	Railgun S	Episodes 18–24
13	Early September	Accelerator	Episodes 1–12
14	September 8–14	Index II	Episodes 2–7
15	September 15–18	Index: The Movie – Endymion	Movie
16	September 19–20	Index II	Episodes 8–13
17	September 19 – Late Sept	Railgun T	Episodes 1–20
18	September 25 – October 3	Index II	Episodes 14–24
19	October 7–9	Index III	Episodes 1–6
20	Mid-October	Railgun T	Episodes 21–25
21	Mid-October – October 30	Index III	Episodes 7–26

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✅ This order is best for intermediate to advanced viewers who want to understand how the events overlap from different characters’ perspectives.
For first-time viewers, we highly recommend watching in either release order or the suggested beginner-friendly order to avoid confusion.

Series-by-Series Viewing in Broadcast Order

The Toaru anime franchise is divided into three main subseries:

• A Certain Magical Index (Index)
• A Certain Scientific Railgun (Railgun)
• A Certain Scientific Accelerator (Accelerator)

While Index serves as the core storyline, each subseries focuses on different characters and perspectives within the same world. Watching each subseries in order can help you better understand the internal timelines and character connections within that specific narrative.

💡 Because the Toaru universe is rich and deeply interconnected, watching by subseries can make it easier to grasp its complex worldbuilding.

Here’s a recommended watch order by series:

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Order	Title	Release Year	Episodes
↓↓↓ “A Certain Magical Index” Series ↓↓↓
1	A Certain Magical Index	2008	24 episodes
2	A Certain Magical Index II	2010	24 episodes
3	A Certain Magical Index: The Miracle of Endymion	2013	Movie
4	A Certain Magical Index III	2018	26 episodes
↓↓↓ “A Certain Scientific Railgun” Series ↓↓↓
5	A Certain Scientific Railgun	2009	24 episodes
6	A Certain Scientific Railgun OVA	2010	1 episode
7	A Certain Scientific Railgun S	2013	24 episodes
8	A Certain Scientific Railgun T	2020	25 episodes
↓↓↓ “A Certain Scientific Accelerator” Series ↓↓↓
9	A Certain Scientific Accelerator	2019	12 episodes

🔷 1. A Certain Magical Index Series (Main Storyline)

This is the main series, set in Academy City, where espers and sorcerers clash in a world of science vs. magic. The story revolves around Touma Kamijou and his encounters with both sides.

📺 Recommended viewing order:

1. A Certain Magical Index (Season 1)
2. A Certain Magical Index II (Season 2)
3. A Certain Magical Index: The Miracle of Endymion (Movie)
4. A Certain Magical Index III (Season 3)

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⚡ 2. A Certain Scientific Railgun Series (Spin-off: Mikoto’s Story)

This spin-off focuses on Mikoto Misaka, one of Academy City’s top espers. It offers a grounded look at daily life and major incidents in the city from her point of view.

📺 Recommended viewing order:

1. A Certain Scientific Railgun (Season 1)
2. A Certain Scientific Railgun OVA
3. A Certain Scientific Railgun S (Season 2)
4. A Certain Scientific Railgun T (Season 3)

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☢️ 3. A Certain Scientific Accelerator (Spin-off: Dark Side)

This spin-off stars Accelerator, the strongest esper in Academy City, and dives into the darker side of the city. It can be enjoyed alongside either Index or Railgun.

📺 Watch:

• A Certain Scientific Accelerator (12 episodes)

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💡 While each series can be enjoyed independently, we recommend watching in release order if you want to fully understand the overarching plot and character growth across the entire franchise.

Following the timeline of key events and character development will give you a deeper appreciation of the Toaru universe!

The Toaru series streaming in Japan

Title	Subscription (Unlimited Viewing)	Rental
A Certain Magical Index (Season 1)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Magical Index II (Season 2)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Magical Index III (Season 3)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
The Miracle of Endymion (Movie)	DMM TV,FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Scientific Railgun (Season 1)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Scientific Railgun S (Season 2)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Scientific Railgun T (Season 3)	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD,d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Scientific Railgun OVA	U-NEXT,DMM TV, FOD,U-NEXT, d Anime Store	Prime Video
A Certain Scientific Accelerator	U-NEXT, DMM TV, FOD, d Anime Store	Prime Video

📝 This list reflects the availability of the Toaru anime series in Japan as of April 2025. All services listed are Japanese platforms. For international viewers, availability may differ by region.

⚠️ Things to Know When Watching the Toaru Series on Japanese Streaming Services

The Toaru series is widely available on streaming platforms in Japan, but here are a few important tips to keep in mind before you hit play:

✅ Check if it’s Subscription or Rental

Many platforms like U-NEXT and d Anime Store offer the series as part of their subscription (unlimited viewing).
However, on services like Amazon Prime Video or Rakuten TV, some titles might be rental-based (pay-per-view).
📝 Make sure to confirm whether it’s included in your plan or requires additional payment.

✅ Not all episodes or spin-offs may be available

Some platforms may not carry every single title, such as OVA specials or the movie (The Miracle of Endymion).
If you can’t find a certain episode or spin-off, consider checking other platforms or using Blu-ray/DVD.

✅ Be careful with similar-looking titles

With so many seasons and spin-offs (Index III vs. Railgun T, for example), it’s easy to mix them up.
📺 Double-check the title, season number, episode count, and thumbnail before you start watching.

✅ Content may be removed without notice

Even if a show is available now, it may leave the platform without warning.
⏳ If something catches your interest, it’s best to watch it sooner rather than later.

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📌 Since streaming availability can change, always refer to the official site for the most up-to-date information.

🌍 Toaru Series – Global Streaming Platform Overview

Platform	Regions Available	Titles Available	Audio	Subtitles	Release Timing
Crunchyroll	North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia	Index (S1–3), Railgun (S1–3), Accelerator	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic	Simulcast shortly after Japan
Funimation	USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand	Index (S1–3), Railgun (S1–3), Accelerator	English (dubbed), Japanese	English	Post-broadcast, dubbed version comes later
Hulu	USA only	Railgun (S1–3)	Japanese	English	After original airing
Amazon Prime Video	Region varies (check local listings)	Index (S1–2), Railgun (S1–2), Accelerator	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic	Streaming or purchase post-broadcast
Netflix	Region-specific (availability varies)	Index (S1–2)	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic	Full seasons added post-broadcast (check region)

🌐 Regional Availability Summary

Region	Crunchyroll	Funimation	Hulu	Amazon Prime Video	Netflix
USA	✅	✅	✅	✅	✅
Canada	✅	✅	❌	✅	✅
UK & Ireland	✅	✅	❌	✅	✅
Australia/NZ	✅	✅	❌	✅	✅
Europe	✅	❌	❌	✅	✅
Latin America	✅	❌	❌	✅	✅
Asia	✅	❌	❌	✅	✅

Note: Availability is subject to change; please verify with your local streaming service.

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🗓️ Release Dates & Times

• Crunchyroll: Simulcasts new episodes shortly after their Japanese airing.
• Funimation: Streams episodes post-broadcast, with dubbed versions released subsequently.
• Hulu: Adds episodes after their original broadcast; specific timing may vary.
• Amazon Prime Video: Episodes become available for streaming or purchase following their initial release.
• Netflix: Adds full seasons post-broadcast; release dates vary by region.​

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🗣️ Language Options

Platform	Audio Languages	Subtitle Languages
Crunchyroll	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic
Funimation	English (dubbed), Japanese	English
Hulu	Japanese	English
Amazon Prime Video	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic
Netflix	Japanese, English	English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Arabic

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🔍 Additional Notes

• Regional Restrictions: Some titles may not be available in all regions due to licensing agreements.
• Language Availability: Language options can vary by region and platform; always check the specific platform for available audio and subtitle languages.
• Platform Access: Subscription requirements and availability may differ; verify with each platform for the most accurate information.​

⚠️ Watch Out! What Not to Do When Watching the Toaru Series

While there are several ways to enjoy the Toaru anime universe, some watch orders can actually make things more confusing—especially for first-time viewers. Here are a few things to avoid:

🚫 Trying to watch in chronological (story) order on your first try

Yes, watching by in-universe timeline sounds cool…
But in the Toaru series, multiple storylines happen at the same time with different protagonists (Index, Misaka, Accelerator), so watching it in strict chronological order will likely leave you confused.
💡 Stick to the release order or the recommended beginner-friendly order instead!

🌀 Jumping into spin-offs before watching the main series

While Railgun and Accelerator are fantastic on their own, they were written as spin-offs of Index.
Starting with them might cause you to miss out on key world-building and references that are explained in the main series.
✨ Tip: If you really want to start with Railgun, it’s okay—but be aware that some context might be missing.

🔄 Constantly switching between series mid-way

For example: watching Index S1 Ep1–6, then Railgun S1 Ep1–5, then back to Index S1 Ep7–9, and so on…
➡️ This “timeline jumping” method is not recommended unless you’re doing a rewatch and know the series well.
It’s easy to lose track of events or get character arcs out of sync.

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👶 For beginners, the safest route is: → Follow the release order, or one of the curated beginner-friendly orders.
It’ll give you the most natural and enjoyable experience across all storylines!

✨Ultimate Highlights Guide: Why the Toaru Series Is Absolutely Incredible! ✨

🧪 Science × Magic × Academy City × Fate — this is the ultimate mix of supernatural anime greatness!

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👊 ① Epic Battles Meet Deep Drama — A Certain Magical Index

This is the main storyline of the Toaru universe.
It follows Touma Kamijou as he gets caught up in the clash between science and magic!

• ✨ Touma’s ability “Imagine Breaker” is just plain awesome!
• 🧍‍♂️ Even after losing his memory, he keeps helping others. His unwavering belief in doing what’s right hits hard!
• 🧙‍♀️ The power struggle between magic and science factions is intense and keeps you on edge.
• 💥 The battles are packed with strategy and raw power—seriously hype-worthy.

💡 It explores justice, belief, and strength in a way that hits emotionally and intellectually!

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⚡ ② Coolest Girls in Anime? — A Certain Scientific Railgun

Starring Mikoto Misaka (aka “Railgun”), this spin-off shows life in Academy City through the eyes of its most electrifying esper!
A perfect blend of friendship, battles, and heartwarming moments 💞

• ⚡ Misaka’s railgun (literally firing metal with electricity) is SO satisfying to watch!
• 👭 Her friendships with Kuroko, Uiharu, and Saten are hilarious, sweet, and even tear-jerking at times.
• 🧪 The “Level 5” showdowns and the Sisters Arc? Straight-up goosebumps.
• 💓 It’s all about emotional growth, bonds, and girl-powered greatness.

🎀 Cute × Action × Emotion = The ultimate girl-powered science anime!

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☢️ ③ A Fallen Hero’s Redemption — A Certain Scientific Accelerator

This spin-off focuses on Academy City’s most powerful and feared esper, Accelerator.
But now he’s trying to protect instead of destroy—and his journey is unforgettable.

• ☠️ Once introduced as a major villain, Accelerator becomes a tragic, powerful lead.
• 👧 His bond with Last Order is heart-meltingly pure 🥹
• 🧬 The story leans dark and gritty, but the glimmers of compassion make it beautiful.
• 🧠 Action scenes are intense, full of tactical brilliance and raw power.

💥 A powerful redemption story about what it really means to be strong. A must-watch for Accelerator fans!

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📝 Each subseries brings something unique to the table—and that’s the true strength of the Toaru franchise.
You can enjoy any of them on their own, but watching all three together makes the story 100 times more powerful! ✨

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Viewing Order of the “A Certain” Series

Q: Should I watch the series in chronological order? A: It’s recommended to watch in broadcast order, especially for first-time viewers, as it provides a natural progression of the story and character development.

Q: Can I watch just one of the series and still enjoy it? A: Yes, each series can be enjoyed on its own, but watching all of them provides a richer understanding of the interconnected world and characters.

✅ Final Thoughts: Where to Begin and What to Enjoy

The Toaru series may seem overwhelming at first glance—with multiple titles, timelines, and protagonists—but once you dive in, you’ll find a rich and exciting world filled with unforgettable characters, thrilling battles, and deep themes of science vs. magic.

💡 If you’re just starting out, watching in release order is your safest bet.
It provides a smooth narrative flow and gradually introduces you to new characters and story arcs without confusion.

🌐 And with so many streaming options available internationally—like Crunchyroll, Funimation, Amazon Prime Video, and more—you can easily enjoy the series wherever you are!

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📝 Here’s a quick recap of what you’ve learned in this guide:

• ✅ The best watch order for beginners (Release Order ✔️)
• 🔄 Chronological order and why it’s not ideal for first-timers
• 🌟 Highlights and must-see moments in each subseries
• 📺 Where to stream the Toaru anime globally
• ⚠️ Common mistakes to avoid when watching

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So what are you waiting for?
Whether you’re here for the action, the friendships, or the mind-bending science-magic conflicts—Academy City is ready to welcome you.
Let the adventure begin! 🚀✨

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👉 Have questions about a specific title or where to watch it in your country? Leave a comment or check out our streaming availability tables above!

✅ Before You Go…

📌 Looking for more watch order guides?
Check out our latest articles on:

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• 🚢 Kantai Collection (KanColle) – 2025 Update: The Complete Watch Order Guide
• ☕ Ameiro Cocoa – 2025 Watch Order Guide: How to Watch the Series in the Right Order

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