- 🎤【2025 Edition】Best Watch Order for the Macross Series – A Friendly Guide for First-Time Viewers
- ✨ Recommended Watch Order for Macross (2025 Edition)
- 📺 Streaming Availability of the Macross Series (as of April 2025)
- 🇯🇵 Watching Macross on Japanese Streaming Services – What You Should Know
- 🌐 Macross Series – International Streaming Availability (2025 Edition)
- 💖 Macross Series Highlights – Why You’ll Love Each One
- 📝 Final Thoughts: Your Macross Journey Starts Now
- ❓FAQ – Macross Watch Order & Streaming Questions
🎤【2025 Edition】Best Watch Order for the Macross Series – A Friendly Guide for First-Time Viewers
Let’s start with the answer: We recommend watching in this order –
“Do You Remember Love?” → Macross 7 → Frontier → Delta
This order gives you the perfect mix of music, action, and emotional impact that defines Macross—and makes the story easier to follow for newcomers!
If you’ve ever wondered:
“Where do I even begin with Macross? There are so many versions!”
You’re in the right place. This guide breaks it all down in a clear and beginner-friendly way.
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Article:
- ✔️ The best recommended viewing order for newcomers
- ✔️ Chronological timeline order (for completionists and deep dives)
- ✔️ Highlights and must-see elements from each series/movie
- ✔️ Streaming availability in 2025 – where to watch globally
Macross is a legendary sci-fi anime franchise built around a bold idea:
🎶 Music can end war.
With over 40 years of content, it can feel intimidating—but trust us, watching in the right order makes all the difference.
Whether you’re brand new to Macross or just looking to revisit the series in the best way, this guide will help you dive in without getting lost.
Let’s get started with the watch order we recommend the most! ✈️✨
✨ Recommended Watch Order for Macross (2025 Edition)
Perfect for Beginners & Returning Fans – With Friendly Commentary!
The Macross franchise spans over 40 years of incredible music, mecha, and melodrama. With so many TV shows, movies, and OVAs, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start.
That’s why I’ve put together this beginner-friendly viewing order, designed to help you experience the emotional highs, epic space battles, and unforgettable songs in a way that flows naturally.
Rather than following just release order or timeline, this list blends both to maximize enjoyment.
I’ve also added personal thoughts and optional notes so you can customize the ride. Ready? Let’s fly!
💡 Beginner-Friendly Recommended Watch Order
| # | Title | Year | Type | Why Watch It Here? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Super Dimension Fortress Macross: Do You Remember Love? | 1984 | Movie | This beautiful film condenses the original series into a tighter, emotionally powerful story. Great for first-timers! Bonus: the music still gives chills. |
| 2 | Macross 7 | 1994–1995 | TV | Wildly different from the original, but in a fun way. It’s all about rock ‘n’ roll and fire-breathing passion. If you vibe with B-movie energy and hot-blooded singing, this is pure joy. |
| → | Macross 7: The Galaxy’s Calling Me! | 1995 | Movie | Not essential, but a fun little side story. Watch it after the TV series as a bonus. |
| → | Macross Dynamite 7 | 1997 | OVA | A continuation set two years later. Optional, but rewarding if you want to follow Basara’s journey deeper. |
| 3 | Macross Zero | 2002–2004 | OVA | A visually stunning prequel set before the original series. If you like grounded sci-fi and want deeper lore, it’s a great detour. But it’s totally okay to circle back to it later. |
| 4 | The Super Dimension Fortress Macross (TV Series) | 1982–1983 | TV | The one that started it all. The animation’s dated, sure—but it’s packed with heart. You’ll appreciate this more after watching the movie version first. |
| → | Flash Back 2012 | 1987 | OVA | A short epilogue with music video vibes. Totally optional, but has emotional payoff if you’re a Minmay fan. |
| 5 | Macross Plus | 1994–1995 | OVA / Movie | Think Top Gun meets AI idols. It’s short, slick, and the dogfights are next-level. Watch the OVA for a fuller version or the movie for a tighter cut. |
| 6 | Macross Frontier (TV Series) | 2008 | TV | If you love classic Macross themes reimagined with 2000s flair, this is your jam. Gorgeous visuals, amazing music, and a love triangle that’ll divide fandom forever. |
| → | Macross Frontier: The False Songstress / The Wings of Farewell | 2009 / 2011 | Movies | These remix the TV series with new animation and a different ending. You can watch either version first, but TV → movies is the most rewarding. |
| → | Macross Frontier: Labyrinth of Time | 2021 | Short Film | A short and sweet bonus that gives fans one last nostalgic tearjerker. Not essential, but deeply touching. |
| 7 | Macross Delta (TV Series) | 2016 | TV | The most modern take. Think magical girl idol group meets aerial combat. Divisive, but full of charm if you love the music! |
| → | Macross Delta: Passionate Walküre | 2018 | Movie | A remix of the TV show. Skippable if you’ve seen the show, but worth it for upgraded visuals. |
| → | Macross Delta: Absolute LIVE!!!!!! | 2021 | Movie | The sequel to the TV/movie story. Big emotions, big songs, and some surprising plot threads tied up. |
💬 Personal Tip: Watching Do You Remember Love? first gives you a cinematic taste of the Macross spirit. Then, jumping into 7 and Frontier lets you experience how the franchise evolves musically and thematically. And if you’re hooked? Circle back for Zero, Plus, and the OG TV series.
🕒 Macross Timeline Watch Order (In-Universe Chronology)
If you’re the kind of fan who loves understanding the universe’s internal logic, here’s the Macross timeline order, based on in-story chronology:
| Year (in-universe) | Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Macross Zero | OVA | Proto-culture origins and fighter test pilots. |
| 2009–2012 | SDF Macross (TV) / Do You Remember Love? | TV / Movie | The first space war with the Zentradi. TV for full story, movie for visual polish. |
| 2012 | Flash Back 2012 | OVA | Farewell to Minmay and the SDF-1. |
| 2040 | Macross Plus | OVA / Movie | Advanced Valkyries and the dangers of AI. |
| 2045–2047 | Macross 7 | TV | Song energy vs. space vampires. |
| 2047 | Dynamite 7 | OVA | Basara goes solo and sings to space whales. |
| 2059 | Macross Frontier | TV / Movies | Epic battle with the Vajra and space idols. |
| 2060 | Labyrinth of Time | Short | Frontier’s reflective finale. |
| 2067–2068 | Macross Delta / Absolute LIVE!!!!!! | TV / Movies | Music as weapon and cure. The idol power goes full throttle. |
| 2090s | Macross II: Lovers Again | OVA | An alternate-universe take, not canon in the main timeline. |
💬 Quick Note: Macross II is often considered a “what if” side story. You can totally skip it unless you’re a completionist!
🛫 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re diving in for the first time or coming back for nostalgia, Macross is all about one core theme:
🎤 “The power of song can change the universe.”
So don’t stress too much about watching it “perfectly.” Start where it feels most exciting to you—and let the music guide your heart.
📺 Streaming Availability of the Macross Series (as of April 2025)
Which VOD platforms are best for binging the Macross franchise?
🔍 How to Read the Availability Table
- 🔴 = Unlimited streaming (included in subscription)
- ⭐ = Rental-only title
- ❌ = Not available for streaming
✅ Macross Streaming Availability by Platform
| Platform / Title | SDF Macross | Macross II | Macross Plus | Macross 7 | Macross Zero | Macross Frontier | Macross Delta |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| d Anime Store | 🔴 | ❌ | ❌ | 🔴 (movies not available) | ❌ | 🔴 (movies not available) | 🔴 (movies not available) |
| U-NEXT | 🔴 | ⭐ | ⭐ | 🔴 (movies are rentals) | ⭐ | 🔴 (movies are rentals) | 🔴 |
| Abema Premium | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Hulu | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Amazon Prime Video | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐ (movies are rentals) | ⭐ |
| DMM TV | 🔴 | ⭐ | ⭐ | 🔴 (movies are rentals) | ⭐ | 🔴 (movies are rentals) | 🔴 (movies are rentals) |
💡 Notes
- This information is current as of April 2025. Please check each streaming platform’s website for the most up-to-date availability.
- For watching the Macross series via streaming, d Anime Store is the most recommended.
- Most of the major titles—including Macross 7 and Macross Frontier—are available there (excluding the most recent theatrical releases for F and Δ).
- Depending on when new Macross projects are released or in theaters, availability may temporarily increase on certain platforms.
🇯🇵 Watching Macross on Japanese Streaming Services – What You Should Know
Thinking about diving into Macross via Japanese platforms like d Anime Store, Netflix Japan, or U-NEXT? That’s awesome—but here are a few friendly tips before you jump in:
✅ Things to Keep in Mind:
- 🈚 No English subtitles
Most Japanese platforms do not offer English subs or dubs. Unless you’re fluent in Japanese, this might be tricky for first-timers. - 🌐 Region-locked content
Services like d Anime Store or Netflix Japan are geo-restricted, so you’ll need a VPN with a Japanese server to access them from abroad. - 💳 Japanese payment methods may be required
Some platforms (like d Anime Store) require a Japanese credit card or carrier account to sign up. Others like Netflix Japan are more flexible if accessed with a VPN. - 🔍 Search using Japanese titles
Anime titles are often listed in Japanese. For example:- “マクロスΔ” (Macross Delta)
- “マクロスF” (Macross Frontier)
✨ Friendly Tip:
If you’re just getting into Macross, it’s usually easier (and safer) to start with international platforms like Hulu or Disney+, where subtitles and access are much smoother.
But if you’re a hardcore fan or a Japanese learner, exploring the JP side can be a fun adventure too! Just be prepared. 😉
🌐 Macross Series – International Streaming Availability (2025 Edition)
| Region / Country | Platform | Available Titles | Subtitles / Dub Info | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | Hulu (via Disney+ bundle) | ✅ SDF Macross (TV + DYRL) ✅ Flash Back 2012 ✅ Macross II ✅ Macross Plus (OVA + Movie) ✅ Macross Zero ✅ Macross 7 / Dynamite 7 / 7 Movie / FB7 ✅ Macross Frontier + Movies ✅ Macross Delta + Movies | ✔️ English subs on all titles 🎧 Dub: Available for SDF & Plus | Most complete Macross library currently available. Highly recommended for U.S. fans. |
| International (ex. Japan/US) | Disney+ (under “Star”) | ✅ Macross Plus ✅ Macross 7 ✅ Macross Zero ✅ Macross Frontier + Movies ✅ Macross Delta + Movies ✅ Macross II (in some regions) | ✔️ English subtitles available ❌ Dub mostly unavailable | Rollout started in 2024. “Do You Remember Love?” and original SDF Macross often excluded. |
| Japan | Netflix Japan | ✅ Macross Frontier ✅ Macross Delta | ❌ No English subs ✔️ Japanese audio only | Limited access for non-Japanese speakers. Not ideal for international fans. |
| Various Regions | Amazon Prime Video (varies by region) | ❓ Some titles (e.g., Macross Plus, Frontier) may be available as rentals or purchases | Varies: often subs only | Not consistent globally. Check your region’s store manually. |
| Europe / Asia | Disney+ (Star content) | ✅ Same as international list above | ✔️ English subs confirmed | May vary by licensing in certain countries (e.g., France, Germany). |
✅ Legend
- ✔️ Subtitles = English subtitles confirmed
- 🎧 Dub = English dubbing available (only on select titles like Macross Plus and SDF)
- ❌ = Not available or missing from platform
- ❓ = Varies or unconfirmed, may depend on your region’s store
💬 Summary
- U.S. viewers → Hulu + Disney+ is the ultimate Macross hub.
- International fans → Disney+ (Star) gives you most titles with subtitles, but lacks the original series.
- Dubs are rare outside SDF Macross and Macross Plus (on Hulu only).
- Netflix Japan is Japanese-only. Use it only if you’re fluent.
💖 Macross Series Highlights – Why You’ll Love Each One
| Title | Year | Why It’s Worth Watching (a.k.a. Why We Stan 💫) |
|---|---|---|
| Do You Remember Love? (Movie) | 1984 | 💔 A classic love triangle, stunning 80s animation, and THE song that defines the franchise. This movie is short, emotional, and absolutely iconic. Perfect for first-timers and rewatchers alike. |
| Macross 7 (TV) | 1994 | 🎸 Rock ‘n’ roll mecha madness! Hot-blooded singer Basara fights with songs, not weapons. It’s chaotic, loud, and full of heart. Your oshi might just become a guitar-wielding pilot. |
| Macross Plus (OVA/Movie) | 1994–1995 | ✈️ Top Gun meets sci-fi idol drama. Cutting-edge dogfights, a love triangle, and the legendary virtual idol Sharon Apple. Visually sleek and emotionally heavy. |
| Macross Zero (OVA) | 2002–2004 | 🕊️ A beautifully animated prequel with deep lore, mythological vibes, and some of the best aerial battles in the franchise. If you love drama and pretty planes—this one’s for you. |
| SDF Macross (TV) | 1982–1983 | 🚀 The one that started it all. It’s retro but filled with charm. If you want to truly get Macross, this is the core. Expect old-school mecha, romance, and unforgettable songs. |
| Macross Frontier (TV/Movies) | 2008–2011 | 🌌 Space idols, sparkly dogfights, and one of the most intense love triangles in the series. Both Ranka and Sheryl are fan-favorite oshis—team fights guaranteed. |
| Macross Delta (TV/Movies) | 2016–2021 | 🎤 Magical girl idols + jet fighters = wild. The idol group Walküre slays with high-energy music and heart. If you’re into strong girl groups and catchy bangers, this is your jam. |
| Macross II (OVA) | 1992 | 💿 A non-canon spin-off with classic vibes and a dramatic love story. Not essential, but a fun bonus for the curious. Great if you’re in collector mode. |
🌟 Oshi-katsu Tip:
Watching Macross is more than following a timeline—it’s about finding your favorite pilot, idol, or song, and cheering them on like any true fan. So go ahead: pick your favorite ship, blast the soundtrack, and fall into the fold!
📝 Final Thoughts: Your Macross Journey Starts Now
Whether you’re here to discover your next anime obsession or just dipping your toes into the galaxy-spanning world of Macross, we hope this guide helped you find the perfect watch order.
💡 Remember:
There’s no “wrong” way to watch Macross—but choosing the right starting point makes the experience way more enjoyable, especially if it’s your first flight.
🛫 TL;DR: Our Top Recommendation
Start with the movie Do You Remember Love?, then jump into Macross 7, Frontier, and Delta for a smooth, emotional, and music-packed ride.
From retro romance to idol battles in space, each title brings something special. And once you find your favorite song or character (your oshi), that’s when the magic really kicks in 💖
📺 What’s Next?
✅ Check the latest streaming availability (Disney+, Hulu, etc.)
✅ Start with one series and enjoy the ride
✅ Share this guide with fellow anime fans who are ready for a galactic adventure
✨*Macross isn’t just an anime—it’s a universe of music, mecha, and emotion. Let the songs guide you.*🎶
Thanks for reading—and may your next spacefold jump be full of love and music!
❓FAQ – Macross Watch Order & Streaming Questions
1. What is the best watch order for the Macross series?
The best beginner-friendly watch order is:
👉 Do You Remember Love? → Macross 7 → Macross Frontier → Macross Delta.
This lets you enjoy the core themes of music, love, and space battles without getting lost in deep lore too early.
2. Should I watch the Macross TV series or the movies?
It depends!
- The movie Do You Remember Love? is a beautifully condensed version of the original TV series (SDF Macross) and great for beginners.
- Macross Frontier and Delta also have movie versions that remix the TV story.
We recommend starting with TV series for the full experience, then watching the movies for alternate takes.
3. What is the correct chronological timeline of Macross?
In-universe, the timeline goes like this:
→ Macross Zero → SDF Macross → Macross Plus → Macross 7 → Macross Frontier → Macross Delta.
4. Where can I stream the Macross series internationally in 2025?
- 🌍 International (except US): Available on Disney+ (Star) with English subtitles.
- 🇺🇸 USA: All major titles are on Hulu via Disney+ bundle.
- 🇯🇵 Japan: Only Frontier and Delta are available on Netflix Japan (Japanese only).
Check our streaming guide for up-to-date platform info and availability.
5. Is Macross connected to Robotech? Can I watch them together?
Robotech is a separate Western adaptation that combines Macross, Southern Cross, and Mospeada. While based on SDF Macross, it has a different storyline.
If you want the original Japanese canon, stick to the Macross series as listed in this guide.
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