- 👑 [2025 Edition] The Best Watch Order for the Overlord Anime
- 🎮 Overlord Anime Watch Order Guide (2025 Edition)
- 📺 Where to Watch Overlord in Japan (2025 Edition)
- 🌐 Want to Watch Overlord on Japanese Streaming Platforms? Here’s What You Should Know!
- ✅ Overlord International Streaming Availability (2025)
- Answers to common questions like “Where should I start?” and “Is the movie part of the main story?”
- 💎 Highlights, Tearjerkers, and Must-Love Characters in Overlord
- 📝 Final Thoughts: Your Journey Into Nazarick Awaits…
- ✅ Before You Go…
👑 [2025 Edition] The Best Watch Order for the Overlord Anime
Not sure where to start? What about the movies or OVAs? Don’t worry—this guide has you covered!
✅ TL;DR: Watch Order Recommendation
TV Season 1 → Season 2 → Season 3 → Season 4 (Episodes 1–7) → Movie “The Holy Kingdom Arc” → Season 4 (Episodes 8–13)
You can skip the recap movies if you’ve seen Season 1. The comedy OVAs are optional fun for later!
📌 What You’ll Learn in This Article
- ✔️ The ideal watch order for the Overlord anime series
- ✔️ Answers to common questions like “Where should I start?” and “Is the movie part of the main story?”
- ✔️ Key highlights, emotional moments, and standout characters
- ✔️ Up-to-date streaming info (which platforms have which seasons in 2025)
🧙 What Is Overlord All About?
An overpowered undead king. A world of fantasy. And one epic plan for domination.
When the popular online game Yggdrasil shuts down, one player—Momonga—is mysteriously transported into the game world with no way out.
Now known as Ainz Ooal Gown, he leads his loyal (and overly devoted) NPC followers on a journey to rule this new world.
But Overlord isn’t just about flashy battles. It’s full of tactical mind games, character drama, moral gray zones, and even some unexpected humor. It’s no wonder this anime has such a huge fanbase worldwide!
In the next sections, we’ll break down each season, movie, and OVA in detail—with clear explanations, emotional highlights, and a complete streaming guide.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to watch Overlord for the best experience possible! 💀✨
🎮 Overlord Anime Watch Order Guide (2025 Edition)
The ultimate journey through Ainz-sama’s conquest, in the best way possible!
Whether you’re new to Overlord or returning for the latest movie, this watch order gives you the smoothest, most emotionally satisfying path through the series. 💀✨
✅ Recommended Watch Order (Perfect for First-Time Viewers)
| # | Title (Type) | Release | Why Watch in This Order? 💬 |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | TV Season 1: Overlord | Jul–Sep 2015 | The beginning of it all. Ainz gets trapped in Yggdrasil and begins his journey as the undead overlord. It builds the world and sets the tone—essential viewing! |
2 | Movie Recap Part 1: The Undead King | Feb 2017 | A recap of Season 1’s first half. Useful if you’re rewatching or want a fast catch-up. Not required if you just saw S1. |
3 | Movie Recap Part 2: The Dark Warrior | Mar 2017 | Covers the rest of Season 1. Again, optional, but a good refresher if it’s been a while. |
4 | TV Season 2: Overlord II | Jan–Apr 2018 | Expands the world with new factions and challenges. Some arcs (like the Lizardmen) feel slower but become important later—don’t skip! |
5 | TV Season 3: Overlord III | Jul–Oct 2018 | Politics, betrayal, war—this season is packed. Ainz starts making some pretty terrifying moves. |
6 | TV Season 4 (Ep. 1–7) | Jul–Aug 2022 | Kingdom conflicts heat up. The tension builds toward a huge shift in the world. |
7 | Movie: The Holy Kingdom Arc | Sep 20, 2024 | Watch this right after episode 7 of Season 4. It’s not a recap—it’s a brand-new, emotional, action-packed arc with amazing characters like Neia and Remedios. Trust me, the impact is 100x stronger here! |
| 8 | TV Season 4 (Ep. 8–13) | Sep 2022 | Picks up directly after the movie. Ainz tightens his grip on the world. Things get intense. |
9 | OVA: Pure Pleiades Chaos & more | ~2019 (BD extras) | Hilarious side stories set in Nazarick. These aren’t plot-critical but give you lots of laughs and character moments. Great palate cleansers. |
10 | Mini Anime: Ple Ple Pleiades series | 2015–2022 | Chibi comedy skits that parody each season. Totally optional but really charming if you love the cast. 🧁 |
📝 Viewing Tips
- 🔰 If you’re new, just follow ① to ⑧ in order—you’ll get the full story, all the feels, and the perfect pacing.
- 🎬 Watch “The Holy Kingdom” movie between Episode 7 and 8 of Season 4. That’s where it fits in the timeline and watching it there makes the story flow beautifully!
- ⏩ Recap movies (②③) are great if you’re short on time or returning after a break. They’re skippable for first-time binge-watchers.
- 😂 Comedy stuff (⑨⑩) is optional but fun! Watch them after the main story or during breaks—they add flavor and let you enjoy Nazarick’s sillier side.
🌟 Why This Order Works So Well
- It follows the broadcast/production order, which is the same as the story timeline—so things will make perfect sense.
- Watching the Holy Kingdom movie in the middle of Season 4 (not after!) is essential. It fills in a huge emotional and narrative gap, and seeing what Ainz does there hits way harder if you watch it at the right moment.
- The recap movies are optional. Skip them if you just watched Season 1, but if it’s been a while? They’ll bring you right back in.
- The OVAs and chibi shorts aren’t plot-critical, but they’re filled with fanservice and character charm. Totally worth it for fans. ❤️
🧙 Final Tip
Watch this series in order and don’t jump ahead. Overlord builds its world and emotional stakes slowly—but when the payoff comes, it’s HUGE. Seeing Ainz rise from guildmaster to ruler of a terrifying empire is a journey you don’t want to rush.
So grab your staff, gather your Guardians, and dive into the world of Overlord—one episode at a time.
📺 Where to Watch Overlord in Japan (2025 Edition)
Want to binge-watch Overlord? Here’s a handy chart showing which Japanese streaming services offer each season and film as of April 2025.
🔍 How to read the table:
- 🔴 = Included in subscription (unlimited viewing)
- ⭐ = Rental only
- ❌ = Not available
| Service | Season 1 | Season 2 | Season 3 | Recap Films | Season 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| dAnime Store | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 |
| U-NEXT | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 |
| Abema Premium | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ | 🔴 |
| Hulu | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | ❌ | 🔴 |
| Amazon Prime Video | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| DMM TV | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 | 🔴 |
📌 Note: This table is based on streaming availability as of April 2025. Please check each platform directly for the latest details.
📝 Recommendation
If you want to binge all the Overlord seasons, we recommend using dAnime Store, U-NEXT, or DMM TV.
While Abema Premium and Hulu also offer solid coverage, they don’t include the recap movies (or only provide them as rentals), so keep that in mind if you’re a completionist!
🎬 About the Recap Films
The recap movies are condensed versions of Season 1, split into two parts:
- Part 1: The Undead King
- Part 2: The Dark Warrior
➡️ Can you skip them?
Yes — they’re totally optional if you’ve already seen Season 1.
However, they do include some new scenes and edits, so if you’re the type of fan who wants to experience every little detail, you might want to watch them too!
🌐 Want to Watch Overlord on Japanese Streaming Platforms? Here’s What You Should Know!
Watching Overlord on Japanese platforms like dAnime Store, U-NEXT, or DMM TV can be a great way to access all episodes—sometimes earlier or with exclusive extras.
But! There are a few things overseas fans should keep in mind before diving in. Let’s break it down 👇
📝 Key Points to Know Before Using Japanese Streaming Sites
| ⚠️ What to Watch Out For | ✅ What It Means |
|---|---|
| ❌ Region-locked content | Most Japanese platforms are only accessible within Japan. |
| 🌍 You’ll need a VPN | To access Japanese services abroad, a reliable VPN with Japan servers is a must. |
| 💳 Japanese payment methods | Many sites require Japanese credit cards or mobile carriers for sign-up. |
| 🈳 No English subtitles | Most Japanese sites offer Japanese audio + Japanese subtitles only. |
| 🔄 Auto-renewal subscriptions | Watch out! Subscriptions may auto-renew monthly (in yen). Cancel manually if needed. |
✅ Popular Japanese Platforms That Stream Overlord
| Service | Overlord Seasons | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| dAnime Store | 1–4 + movie | Cheap & anime-focused; Japanese language only |
| U-NEXT | 1–4 + movie | Offers manga too; free trial available (JP only) |
| DMM TV | 1–4 + movie | Similar to dAnime but with other media content too |
| Amazon JP | 1–4 (rent/buy) | Some regions can access it without VPN |
💡 Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for English subs/dubs, services like Crunchyroll are often more convenient for international fans.
But if you’re studying Japanese or want access to uncut content or bonus extras, Japanese platforms can be a treasure trove! 🎌✨
✅ Overlord International Streaming Availability (2025)
| Streaming Service | Seasons Available | Movie (Sacred Kingdom) | Region Availability 🌎 | Subtitles / Dub 🌐 | Notes ✍️ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchyroll | Season 1–4 | ✅ Yes (From Apr 24, 2025) | USA, Canada, UK, EU, Asia | ✔️ Sub: English ✔️ Dub: English | Best option for full access |
| Netflix | Season 1–3 (varies) | ❌ Not available | Some EU, Asia (🇯🇵 often yes) | ✔️ Sub: English (varies) ❌ Dub: Limited | Not available in USA, UK, AU |
| Hulu | Season 1–3 | ❌ Not available | 🇺🇸 United States only | ✔️ Sub: English ✔️ Dub: Varies | Region-locked to USA |
| Amazon Prime Video | Season 1–4 (purchase only) | ❌ Not available | Varies by country | ✔️ Sub: English ✔️ Dub: Varies | Rental/purchase only |
📍Regional Availability Quick Look
| Region | Crunchyroll | Netflix | Hulu | Amazon (Buy/Rent) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇺🇸 USA | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 🇬🇧 UK | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 🇪🇺 Europe | ✅ | ✅(some countries) | ❌ | ✅ |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| 🌏 Asia | ✅ | ✅(Japan etc) | ❌ | ✅ |
📝 Notes & Recommendations
- ✅ Best Overall: Crunchyroll → Full access to all seasons + movie, with both subs and dubs.
- ⏩ Netflix: Only has early seasons in some regions. Not suitable for full binge-watching.
- 💡 Amazon Prime Video: Good for owning episodes, but lacks full streaming.
- 🎬 Recap Films: These summarize Season 1. You can skip them if you’ve already watched S1, but they include new scenes, so consider watching if you’re a completionist!
Answers to common questions like “Where should I start?” and “Is the movie part of the main story?”
🤔 “Where Should I Start?”
🎬 “Is the Movie Part of the Main Story?”
Let’s clear up your confusion right now!✨
The Overlord anime has several seasons, recap films, OVAs… and even a movie!? 😳 It’s totally normal to feel lost at first.
But don’t worry! This simple chart and explanation will help you quickly understand what counts as main story, what you can skip, and what order to watch everything in. Let’s go! 💀💕
🗂️ At a Glance: Overlord Watch Order & Canon Guide
| Type | Title | Main Story? | When to Watch? | Notes 💬 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TV Series | Overlord Season 1 | ✅ Yes | Start here! ➤① | The beginning of everything 💀 |
| Recap Movies | The Undead King / The Dark Warrior | 🔄 Recap | Optional / Skipable | Great for quick catch-up ⏳ Includes minor new scenes—watch if you’re a detail lover! |
| TV Series | Overlord Season 2 | ✅ Yes | After S1 ➤② | Starts slow but ends strong🔥 |
| TV Series | Overlord Season 3 | ✅ Yes | After S2 ➤③ | Ainz gets serious. Big moves! ⚔️ |
| TV Series | Overlord Season 4 (Ep.1–7) | ✅ Yes | After S3 ➤④ | Kingdom politics heat up 💥 |
| Movie (New Arc) | Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom | ✅ Yes | After S4 Ep.7 ➤⑤ | NOT a recap—100% main story! Must-watch! 🎬✨ |
| TV Series | Overlord Season 4 (Ep.8–13) | ✅ Yes | After the movie ➤⑥ | Ainz unleashes his true power ⚡ |
| OVA | Pure Pleiades Chaos & others | ❌ Side Story | Anytime after ➤ Optional | Silly slice-of-life at Nazarick 💕 |
| Mini Anime | Ple Ple Pleiades series | ❌ Side Story | After each season ➤ Optional | Chibi fun, perfect for cooldown 💞 |
🌟 Oshi-katsu Tips 🌟
- 🎯 The movie “The Sacred Kingdom” is a new, essential arc that connects directly to Season 4—don’t skip it!
- ⏭️ The recap movies (Undead King / Dark Warrior) summarize Season 1. If you’ve already watched it, feel free to skip—but if you want to catch every little difference, go for it!
- 😂 The mini-series and OVAs are pure fan service! Enjoy them after the main story—they’re full of cute chaos and hilarious character moments 💕
💌 Now you’re officially ready to dive into Overlord!
Are you prepared to fall in love with your faves and join Ainz-sama on his epic, undead journey? 💀✨
💎 Highlights, Tearjerkers, and Must-Love Characters in Overlord
Because watching is only half the experience—let’s talk about what makes our hearts beat faster (or break) 💔✨
Whether you’re new to Overlord or rewatching for the 5th time (we see you, Albedo stans 👀), here are some of the emotional highs, must-watch scenes, and characters you’ll never forget.
🔥 Must-See Highlights
| Scene / Arc | What Makes It Special 💥 |
|---|---|
| Ainz’s First Full Power Flex (Season 1) | When Ainz wipes the floor with Clementine… chills. The moment you realize he’s not just strong—he’s terrifyingly untouchable. |
| Lizardmen Arc (Season 2) | Some fans skip it, but this arc is about culture, strategy, and mercy. Plus, the ending hits unexpectedly hard. |
| Demiurge’s “Misunderstood Genius” Moments | Every time Demiurge misinterprets Ainz’s intentions, it’s both hilarious and oddly impressive. Like… who’s really the mastermind!? 😂 |
| Battle of Katze Plains (Season 3 finale) | A massive, emotional climax. Epic music, brutal reality, and one of the darkest moves Ainz ever makes. |
| Holy Kingdom Arc (Movie) | A story of hope and despair. Neia’s transformation will wreck you. 💔 This movie proves Overlord isn’t just about domination—it’s about belief, struggle, and sacrifice. |
😭 Tearjerker Moments
| Episode / Moment | Why It Hits the Heart 💔 |
|---|---|
| Neia’s Final Speech (Movie) | That raw loyalty? That crushed faith? Absolute emotional devastation. 😭 |
| Zaryusu and Crusch (Season 2) | A rare love story in a dark world. Sweet, awkward, and beautifully tragic. |
| Brain Unglaus’s Stand (Season 4) | A powerless warrior standing tall against death. Chills. Tears. Respect. 🙇 |
| Gazef vs Ainz (Season 3) | A noble heart vs impossible odds. It’s short… but unforgettable. |
💖 Push Your Fave! 推しキャラ紹介 💕
| Character | Why We Love Them 💘 | For Fans Of… |
|---|---|---|
| Ainz-sama | Ultimate power, hidden emotions. The undead king with a soft spot 🥺 | Dark lords, Isekai MCs |
| Albedo | Loyal, beautiful, dangerously obsessed. Simp queen 👑 | Yandere, Waifu energy |
| Shalltear | Vampiric elegance + chaotic cuteness. Combat beast. 🩸💋 | Tsundere, Gothic vibes |
| Demiurge | Genius tactician, classy devil, chaos incarnate 🐐🔥 | Evil masterminds |
| Neia Baraja | Underdog archer girl turned icon. Her faith arc will break you. 🏹 | Tragic heroines |
✨ Final Thoughts
Overlord isn’t just “cool battles and undead domination”—it’s a rich story filled with tension, irony, and moments that make you scream, cry, or fall in love with a skeleton king.
So don’t just watch—feel it, and let your “oshi” shine! 💀💖
📝 Final Thoughts: Your Journey Into Nazarick Awaits…
Now you know the perfect way to watch Overlord—from the epic first season to the powerful Holy Kingdom movie, and even the fun side content!
Whether you’re here for the mind games, the magic battles, or (let’s be honest) your beloved favorite character… there’s a place for you in the halls of Nazarick 💀🏰
Here’s a quick recap:
- ✅ Follow the main story in order: Season 1 → 2 → 3 → 4 (Ep. 1–7) → Movie → 4 (Ep. 8–13)
- 🎬 The movie is main story, not a recap—don’t skip it!
- 😆 OVA & mini anime? Save them for after—you’ll enjoy them more with context
- 🥺 Get ready for big emotions, unforgettable scenes, and deep characters
Watching Overlord isn’t just watching an anime—it’s joining a fandom, finding your favorite Guardian, and losing yourself in a world where the line between hero and villain isn’t always clear… and that’s what makes it so exciting.
So, are you ready to swear loyalty to Ainz Ooal Gown?
Your new favorite anime obsession might be just one episode away. 👑✨
💬 Tell us your favorite character in the comments!
📢 Share this guide with your anime-watching friends!
💖 And don’t forget—every great story deserves to be watched in the best order.
✅ Before You Go…
📌 Looking for more watch order guides?
Check out our other fan-favorite guides below:
- 🗡️ Goblin Slayer – The Ultimate Viewing Order (2024 Beginner’s Guide)
- ⚓ High School Fleet – Complete Watch Order Guide (2025)
- 🏛️ Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? – Definitive 2025 Guide
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