Introduction
Fafner in the Azure is a remarkable mecha anime that blends intense sci-fi action with deep human drama.
The series follows a group of young pilots who fight against the mysterious alien race known as the Festum while dealing with personal struggles, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of war.
With multiple TV series, OVAs, and a movie, many viewers wonder, “What’s the best order to watch Fafner?”
The answer is simple: watching in release order is the best approach!
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ The recommended watch order based on release dates
✅ Summaries and key highlights of each installment
✅ Whether chronological order matters
✅ Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the series
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a complete understanding of how to enjoy Fafner in the best way possible!
1. What’s the Best Order to Watch Fafner? Stick to the Release Order!
The Fafner series consists of TV anime, OVAs, and a movie, making it a bit complex. However, the best way to experience the story is by following the release order, as each installment builds naturally on the previous ones.
Fafner Series Watch Order (Release Date Order)
| No. | Type | Title | Release Year | Streaming Platforms (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ① | TV Anime | Fafner in the Azure | 2004 | – |
| ② | OVA | Fafner in the Azure: RIGHT OF LEFT | 2005 | – |
| ③ | Movie | Fafner in the Azure: HEAVEN AND EARTH | 2010 | – |
| ④ | TV Anime | Fafner in the Azure: EXODUS | 2015 | – |
| ⑤ | OVA | Fafner in the Azure: THE BEYOND | 2019 | – |
✅ Why Watching in Release Order is the Best Choice
✔ You get the most natural progression of story and character development.
✔ Key events and world-building elements are introduced in a way that enhances suspense and emotional impact.
✔ The animation and storytelling evolve with each installment, making the experience even more immersive.
2. Chronological Order of the Fafner Series
While the release order is ideal, some may prefer to watch Fafner in chronological order. In that case, the correct sequence would be:
- Fafner in the Azure: RIGHT OF LEFT (2005, OVA) – A prequel set before the main series.
- Fafner in the Azure (2004, TV Anime) – The original series.
- Fafner in the Azure: HEAVEN AND EARTH (2010, Movie) – A direct sequel to the TV series.
- Fafner in the Azure: EXODUS (2015, TV Anime) – Continues the story from the movie.
- Fafner in the Azure: THE BEYOND (2019, OVA) – The latest chapter in the saga.
While watching RIGHT OF LEFT first may seem logical since it serves as a prequel, it was created after the original series. Watching it afterward allows viewers to appreciate the additional context without diminishing the impact of the main story.
✅ Pros of Watching in Chronological Order
✔ Gives deeper insight into the events leading up to the main series.
✔ Helps establish the backstory of certain characters and conflicts.
3.Streaming
As of February 2025, the availability of the Fafner in the Azure series varies by region and platform. Below is a detailed overview of where you can stream or purchase each installment internationally:
1. Fafner in the Azure: Dead Aggressor (2004 TV Series)
- United States:
- Streaming: Available on Crunchyroll via Amazon Channel.
- Purchase: Episodes can be bought on Amazon Video and Apple TV.
- Other Regions:
- Availability may vary. It’s recommended to check local streaming services or digital purchase platforms.
2. Fafner in the Azure: Right of Left (2005 OVA)
- United States:
- Streaming/Purchase: Specific platforms are not listed in the provided sources. Availability may be limited.
- Other Regions:
- Check local anime distributors or digital platforms for potential availability.
3. Fafner in the Azure: Heaven and Earth (2010 Movie)
- United States:
- Streaming/Purchase: Specific platforms are not listed in the provided sources. Availability may be limited.
- Other Regions:
- Check local anime distributors or digital platforms for potential availability.
4. Fafner in the Azure: Exodus (2015 TV Series)
- United States:
- Streaming/Purchase: Specific platforms are not listed in the provided sources. Availability may be limited.
- Other Regions:
- Check local anime distributors or digital platforms for potential availability.
5. Fafner in the Azure: The Beyond (2019 OVA Series)
- United States:
- Streaming/Purchase: Specific platforms are not listed in the provided sources. Availability may be limited.
- Other Regions:
- Check local anime distributors or digital platforms for potential availability.
Subtitles and Dubbing:
- Subtitles: The original series, Fafner in the Azure: Dead Aggressor, is available with English subtitles.
- Dubbing: An English dubbed version is available for the original series.
Note: Availability is subject to change, and newer platforms may have acquired rights since the last update. For the most current information, it’s advisable to check official streaming services or the series’ official website.
For regions outside the United States, availability can differ significantly. It’s recommended to consult local streaming platforms or digital stores for the most accurate information.
Please be aware that some installments, especially OVAs and movies, may have limited international distribution. In such cases, physical media or official digital downloads might be the only options.
For the latest updates on streaming availability, consider visiting official anime news outlets or the series’ official channels.
4. Overview & Highlights of Each Entry
① Fafner in the Azure (TV Anime, 2004)
✅ The original series that introduces the island of Tatsumiyajima, a hidden sanctuary where young pilots are forced to fight against the Festum, an alien race that threatens humanity.
✅ The protagonist, Kazuki Makabe, is thrown into battle when the island’s secret defenses are breached, leading to a struggle for survival.
💡 The story delves into deep psychological themes, questioning the meaning of existence, free will, and the cost of war.
🎭 Each character has a compelling personal journey, particularly Kazuki and his childhood friend, Soushi Minashiro, whose bond is central to the series.
🎬 Despite being an early 2000s anime, the animation is fluid, and the action sequences are intense, keeping viewers engaged.
② Fafner in the Azure: RIGHT OF LEFT (OVA, 2005)
✅ A prequel set before the events of the main series, focusing on a different group of pilots who fought against the Festum before Kazuki’s generation.
✅ Explores the tragic backstory of an earlier team, shedding light on the harsh realities of the conflict.
💡 While not essential to understanding the main story, it adds emotional depth and context to the world of Fafner.
🎭 The characters in RIGHT OF LEFT have some of the most heartbreaking arcs in the franchise.
🎬 The animation is more polished compared to the original TV anime, making the battles more visually striking.
③ Fafner in the Azure: HEAVEN AND EARTH (Movie, 2010)
✅ A direct sequel to the original series, picking up where the TV anime left off.
✅ Introduces Misao Kurusu, a mysterious boy who plays a key role in the ongoing battle against the Festum.
💡 Expands on the world-building, revealing more about the Festum’s motives and the deeper connection between humans and their enemies.
🎬 The movie benefits from a significantly higher animation budget, featuring breathtaking action sequences and emotional storytelling.
🎶 The soundtrack is even more impactful, elevating the dramatic moments.
④ Fafner in the Azure: EXODUS (TV Anime, 2015)
✅ Takes place several years after HEAVEN AND EARTH, following the next phase of humanity’s struggle against the Festum.
✅ The stakes are higher than ever, with new pilots stepping up and old characters taking on leadership roles.
💡 Introduces more complex political and military elements, making the story even more layered.
🎭 The returning characters have undergone significant growth, making their development incredibly satisfying to watch.
🎬 The animation quality is vastly improved, with beautifully choreographed battles and stunning backgrounds.
⑤ Fafner in the Azure: THE BEYOND (OVA, 2019)
✅ The latest chapter in the Fafner saga, continuing the battle against the Festum while unveiling new secrets about their existence.
✅ Explores deeper philosophical and existential themes, pushing the series to new heights.
💡 Features some of the most intense emotional moments in the franchise.
🎬 The animation is at its peak, with breathtaking visuals and meticulously detailed mecha combat.
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Should I watch RIGHT OF LEFT before the main series?
→ You can, but it’s better to watch it after the original anime to fully appreciate the story’s emotional impact.
Q2. Is the HEAVEN AND EARTH movie necessary?
→ Yes! It serves as a crucial sequel to the TV anime and bridges the story into EXODUS.
Q3. Is THE BEYOND a TV anime?
→ No, it’s an OVA series, but it continues the main story, making it an essential part of the timeline.
6. Conclusion
The best way to experience Fafner in the Azure is to follow the release order. While watching in chronological order is possible, the original anime was designed to be viewed first, with RIGHT OF LEFT serving as a supplement.
With its gripping narrative, emotionally charged characters, and stunning mecha battles, Fafner is a must-watch for any sci-fi and mecha fan. If you’re looking for an anime that blends intense action with deep philosophical themes, this series won’t disappoint!
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