Introduction
Berserk is a legendary dark fantasy series by Kentaro Miura, known for its epic storytelling and stunning visuals. With multiple anime adaptations and films, many fans wonder about the best order to watch it.
The simple answer: Watching in release order is perfectly fine!
In this guide, we will cover:
✅ A viewing list based on release order
✅ Summaries and highlights of each adaptation
✅ Whether watching in chronological order is necessary
✅ FAQs to answer common questions
This guide will help you fully enjoy Berserk in the best way possible!
1. The Best Viewing Order for Berserk: Release Order Works!
The Berserk series consists of TV anime and films. Watching in release order ensures a smooth experience without confusion.
Release Order (Broadcast Order) – Viewing List
| Order | Type | Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① | Anime (Old) | Berserk (1997) | 1997 |
| ② | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc I – The Egg of the King | 2012 |
| ③ | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey | 2012 |
| ④ | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc III – The Advent | 2013 |
| ⑤ | Anime (Season 1) | Berserk (2016) | 2016 |
| ⑥ | Anime (Season 2) | Berserk (2017) | 2017 |
Pros of Watching in Release Order
✅ Experience the evolution of animation and storytelling over time
✅ Easier to follow character progression and major story arcs
✅ The 1997 anime or the Golden Age Arc movies provide a solid foundation for the story
Cons of Watching in Release Order
❌ The 2016-2017 adaptation uses 3D CGI, which may feel different from earlier versions
❌ The 1997 anime and the Golden Age Arc movies cover the same story, so watching both is unnecessary
2. Chronological Viewing Order for Berserk
If you prefer to watch the story in chronological order, follow this list:
| Order | Type | Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc I – The Egg of the King | 2012 |
| ② | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey | 2012 |
| ③ | Movie | Berserk: The Golden Age Arc III – The Advent | 2013 |
| ④ | Anime (Season 1) | Berserk (2016) | 2016 |
| ⑤ | Anime (Season 2) | Berserk (2017) | 2017 |
※ The 1997 anime also covers the Golden Age Arc, so you can choose either it or the movies.
3.Streaming
As of February 2025, the availability of the Berserk anime series varies across different streaming platforms and regions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find where to watch each adaptation:
1. Berserk (1997 Series):
- Availability: This original series is not widely available on major streaming platforms. Some users have reported finding episodes on platforms like YouTube, but availability can be inconsistent and unofficial.
- Regions: Varies; often depends on user uploads.
- Languages: Primarily Japanese audio; subtitles depend on the source.
2. Berserk: The Golden Age Arc (2012-2013 Movie Trilogy):
- Availability: The trilogy has been available for streaming on Netflix in certain regions. However, availability can change, and it’s recommended to check your local Netflix library.
- Regions: Specific regions not specified; varies by licensing agreements.
- Languages: Japanese audio with available subtitles; dubbed versions depend on the region.
3. Berserk (2016-2017 Series):
- Availability: Available for streaming on platforms like Crunchyroll and Amazon Prime Video.
- Regions: Availability may vary; it’s advisable to check the specific platform in your country.
- Languages: Japanese audio with subtitles in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, Arabic, German, French, and Italian. Dubbed versions may also be available.
4. Berserk: The Golden Age Arc – Memorial Edition (2022):
- Availability: Streamed outside of Asia by Crunchyroll.
- Regions: Available in regions where Crunchyroll operates, but specific availability can vary.
- Languages: Japanese audio with subtitles; availability of dubbed versions depends on the region.
Important Considerations:
- Regional Restrictions: Streaming rights vary by region due to licensing agreements. Some platforms may not have the rights to stream Berserk in certain countries. For example, Netflix’s library differs from country to country, and a series available in one region may not be accessible in another.
- Subtitles and Dubbing: The availability of subtitles and dubbed versions depends on the platform and region. Major platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix often provide multiple subtitle options and, in some cases, dubbed versions.
- Release Dates: Release dates for Berserk content on streaming platforms can vary. It’s best to check the specific platform for the most up-to-date information.
Recommendations:
- Check Official Sources: Always refer to official streaming platforms in your region for the most accurate and legal viewing options.
- Use Legal Streaming Services: Supporting official releases ensures that creators are compensated and helps promote the production of more content.
- Consider VPN Services: If a particular Berserk series isn’t available in your region, some viewers opt to use VPN services to access content from other regions. However, this may violate the terms of service of some streaming platforms, so proceed with caution.
Please note that streaming availability is subject to change due to licensing agreements and regional restrictions. For the most current information, consult the official websites of the streaming platforms available in your country.
4. Summary and Highlights of Each Adaptation
Berserk (1997)
💡 Covers the Golden Age Arc and is the first anime adaptation of Berserk
🎬 Classic hand-drawn animation gives it a dark and heavy atmosphere
🎶 The opening theme “Tell Me Why” by Susumu Hirasawa enhances the unique feel of the series
✅ Faithful to the original manga’s story, making it a great starting point for newcomers
Berserk: The Golden Age Arc (2012-2013)
💡 A movie trilogy retelling the Golden Age Arc
🎬 High-quality visuals and intense battle scenes bring the story to life
🎭 The relationship between Guts and Griffith is portrayed with deeper emotion
🎬 The Eclipse scene is one of the most shocking moments in anime history
✅ If you want a modern, polished version of the story, this is the best choice
Berserk (2016-2017)
💡 Continues the story after the Golden Age Arc, covering the Black Swordsman Arc
🎬 Uses 3D CGI animation, a major change from previous adaptations (divisive among fans)
🎭 Introduces new characters like Serpico, Isidro, and Farnese, expanding Guts’ journey
🎶 The ending theme “Hai to Diamond” (Ash and Diamond) adds an emotional touch
✅ Essential if you want to see the Black Swordsman Arc in animated form
☀️ Key Takeaways
✅ Berserk’s dark fantasy world is one of the most immersive in anime history
✅ Guts’ journey of survival, revenge, and redemption is deeply emotional and engaging
✅ The relationship between Guts and Griffith is at the heart of the story, leading to shocking moments
✅ The series features epic battle scenes, with different animation styles across adaptations
✅ Strong supporting characters add depth to the story and make Guts’ journey even more compelling
✅ Comparing different adaptations is interesting, as each brings a unique take on the story
✅ The soundtrack and opening/ending themes elevate the atmosphere of each adaptation
5. FAQs – Common Questions
Q1: Should I watch the 1997 anime or the Golden Age Arc movies?
✅ If you prefer traditional animation and a more detailed story, go with the 1997 anime. If you want modern visuals and faster pacing, choose the movies.
Q2: Is the 2016 adaptation worth watching?
✅ Yes, if you want to continue the story beyond the Golden Age Arc. However, be prepared for 3D CGI animation.
Q3: Do I need to watch both the 1997 anime and the Golden Age Arc movies?
❌ No, they cover the same events, so watching either one is enough.
6. Conclusion: What’s the Best Order to Watch Berserk?
✅ Watching in release order is the best and easiest approach!
✅ Choose either the movie trilogy or the 1997 anime to cover the Golden Age Arc.
✅ If you want to see the Black Swordsman Arc, continue with the 2016-2017 adaptation.
Every Berserk adaptation has its own strengths, but considering the differences in timeline and animation styles, watching in release order is the most recommended approach.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the manga or experiencing Berserk for the first time, following the right viewing order will help you fully immerse yourself in its dark and gripping world. Enjoy the journey!
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