Introduction: What is Death Note?
Death Note is a psychological thriller anime based on the manga by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata.
The story follows Light Yagami, a high school student who discovers a mysterious notebook with the power to kill anyone whose name is written in it.
Determined to rid the world of criminals and create his own version of justice, Light becomes entangled in a high-stakes battle of wits with the world-renowned detective, L.
Since its release in 2006, Death Note has remained one of the most popular and critically acclaimed anime series of all time.
In addition to the main TV anime, two special compilation episodes were later released, summarizing key events from the series with additional narration and some new scenes.
If you’re wondering “What’s the best order to watch Death Note?”, this guide will walk you through two recommended viewing orders:
- Release Order (watching as the creators intended)
- Chronological Order (following the story timeline)
Each method has its own advantages, so let’s explore them in detail.
Death Note Watch Order #1: Release Order
Watching the series in the order it was originally aired ensures the most natural experience, following the intended pacing and character development.
Release Order List
| No. | Type | Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① | Anime | DEATH NOTE | 2006 |
| ② | Anime (Special Edition) | DEATH NOTE: Relight – Visions of a God | 2007 |
| ③ | Anime (Special Edition) | DEATH NOTE: Relight 2 – L’s Successors | 2008 |
Why Watch in Release Order?
✔️ Ideal for first-time viewers – This is the order intended by the creators, making it easy to follow the plot and character arcs.
✔️ Experience the story as it was meant to unfold – Watching in release order prevents spoilers from compilation episodes.
✔️ Watch the specials as a recap – The Relight specials provide a streamlined summary of the original series, ideal for revisiting key moments.
Death Note Watch Order #2: Chronological Order
If you want to follow the events in the in-universe timeline, this order is for you. However, keep in mind that the Relight specials are condensed recaps rather than full retellings of the original series.
Chronological Order List
| No. | Type | Title | Story Timeline Placement |
|---|---|---|---|
| ① | Anime | DEATH NOTE | Main story begins: Light Yagami discovers the Death Note. |
| ② | Anime (Special Edition) | DEATH NOTE: Relight – Visions of a God | Summary of the first half, focusing on Light’s perspective. |
| ③ | Anime (Special Edition) | DEATH NOTE: Relight 2 – L’s Successors | Summary of the latter half, with more focus on L’s successors. |
Why Watch in Chronological Order?
✔️ Helps organize the story logically – Watching the Relight specials in between allows for a compact yet comprehensive experience.
✔️ Provides deeper insight into L’s character – Since Relight 2 focuses on L’s successors, it offers a different perspective on the story.
Streaming
The anime series Death Note is available on multiple streaming platforms worldwide, though availability varies by region. Here’s a comprehensive overview:
1. Streaming Platforms and Regional Availability:
- Netflix: Death Note is accessible on Netflix in several countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, and Austria.
- Hulu: In the United States, Death Note is available for streaming on Hulu.
- Amazon Prime Video: U.S. viewers can stream Death Note on Amazon Prime Video.
- Crunchyroll: Death Note is available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
- Peacock Premium: The series is also available on Peacock Premium in the U.S.
- Free Streaming Services: In the U.S., Death Note can be watched for free with ads on platforms like The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, Pluto TV, and Freevee.
2. Release Dates and Times:
Death Note originally aired in Japan from 2006 to 2007. The availability on streaming platforms has been established over the years and may vary. For the most accurate and current release dates and times, it’s recommended to check directly with the specific streaming service.
3. Subtitles and Dubbed Versions:
The availability of subtitles and dubbed versions depends on the platform:
- Netflix: Offers both subbed and dubbed versions in multiple languages, including English and Spanish.
- Hulu: Provides both subbed and dubbed versions.
- Amazon Prime Video: Offers both subbed and dubbed versions.
- Crunchyroll: Primarily offers subbed versions, but dubbed versions may also be available.
- Peacock Premium: Availability of subbed and dubbed versions may vary; it’s advisable to check the platform directly.
Conclusion:
Death Note is widely accessible across various streaming platforms globally. However, availability can differ based on your region and the specific platform.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s recommended to visit the official websites or apps of the mentioned streaming services.
Synopsis & Highlights of Each Title
1. Death Note (2006) – TV Anime
📝 Synopsis:
Light Yagami, a highly intelligent high school student, stumbles upon a notebook called the Death Note. It allows him to kill anyone by writing their name while picturing their face. As he starts eliminating criminals under the alias “Kira,” he attracts the attention of the world-famous detective L, leading to a tense game of cat and mouse.
🔹 Highlights:
- Intense psychological battles and mind games
- Unpredictable plot twists and suspenseful storytelling
- A battle of wits between two genius protagonists
2. Death Note: Relight – Visions of a God (2007)
📝 Synopsis:
A compilation of the first half of the anime, retold from Light Yagami’s perspective. The special edition condenses major events while adding new narration and some original scenes.
🔹 Highlights:
- A streamlined version of the story, great for a refresher
- Additional scenes and narration
- Focuses more on Light’s motivations and inner thoughts
3. Death Note: Relight 2 – L’s Successors (2008)
📝 Synopsis:
A recap of the latter half of the series, this special shifts the focus to L’s successors, Near and Mello, as they attempt to bring down Kira. Like the first Relight movie, it condenses events while including some new narration.
🔹 Highlights:
- Provides additional insight into Near and Mello
- A concise recap of the second half of the series
- Offers an alternative perspective on the battle against Kira
FAQ: Common Questions About Watching Death Note
Q1. Can I just watch the TV anime without the special editions?
Yes! The 2006 anime alone is enough to enjoy the full story. The Relight specials serve as recaps and are optional.
Q2. Do the Relight movies contain new content?
They include some new narration and minor additional scenes, but the overall story remains the same.
Q3. Which watch order is best for me?
- For first-time viewers: The release order is the best choice.
- For those revisiting the series: The chronological order provides a fresh perspective on the story.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Death Note in the Best Order for You!
Death Note is a gripping psychological thriller filled with brilliant mind games and unforgettable characters. Whether you watch in release order or chronological order, you’re in for a thrilling experience.
Choose the order that best suits your viewing style, and immerse yourself in one of the most iconic anime series of all time! 🖤📖🔥
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