Steins;Gate is a captivating and intricate story about time travel, packed with suspense and unexpected twists. However, because of its unique narrative structure, watching the series in the correct order is essential to fully appreciate the storyline. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or rewatching to catch hidden details, this guide will help you decide the best way to enjoy the series.
What is Steins;Gate About?
The Steins;Gate franchise began as a visual novel released in 2009 for the Xbox 360. It gained massive popularity, leading to an anime adaptation in 2011. The plot follows Rintarou Okabe, a self-proclaimed “mad scientist,” who accidentally discovers a way to send messages into the past. Together with his friends, Okabe explores the potential of time travel—only to attract the attention of a sinister organization called SERN.
As the group struggles to evade capture and fix the timeline, they face heart-wrenching decisions that alter their fates forever. The anime weaves themes of friendship, loss, and the consequences of meddling with time, making it one of the most celebrated sci-fi series in the anime world.
Watch Order for Steins;Gate
Given the multiple seasons, bonus episodes, and films in the franchise, fans often debate the ideal watch order. To help you decide, here are the two recommended ways to watch Steins;Gate:
- Chronological Order – Offers a deeper understanding of the plot and characters.
- Release Order (Simple Order) – Easier to follow, ideal for first-time viewers.
Chronological Order
For those looking to immerse themselves in the story’s complexities, watching Steins;Gate in chronological order is the best approach. This sequence ensures that all key plotlines are explored in the proper timeline.
- Steins;Gate (Episodes 1–22) – 2011
- This arc introduces the characters and sets up the main time-travel plot.
- Steins;Gate: Missing Link of the Boundary – Divide By Zero (Bonus Episode) – 2015
- A bridge between the events of the original series and Steins;Gate 0.
- Steins;Gate 0 (Entire Series) – 2018
- Explores an alternate timeline where Okabe makes a different choice, leading to a darker, parallel story.
- Steins;Gate (Episodes 23–24)
- These final episodes return to the original timeline, providing resolution to the events of the first season.
- Steins;Gate: Egoistic Poriomania (Bonus Episode) – 2015
- A lighthearted epilogue focusing on the characters after the main events.
- Steins;Gate: The Movie – Load Region of Déjà Vu (Film) – 2013
- Acts as a sequel to the original series, bringing Okabe and Kurisu’s story to an emotional conclusion.
Release Order (Simple Order)
If the chronological order feels overwhelming, you can follow the release order. This sequence is simpler and still offers an emotionally engaging experience:
- Steins;Gate (Entire Series) – 2011
- Steins;Gate: The Movie – Load Region of Déjà Vu – 2013
- Steins;Gate 0 (Entire Series) – 2018
While this order skips some bonus content, it’s perfect for viewers who want to focus on the core storylines without diving into additional episodes.
Which Watch Order is Best?
Both watch orders have their advantages, so the best choice depends on your preferences:
- Chronological Order:
- Ideal for viewers who want to explore every detail and fully grasp the story’s intricacies.
- Recommended for rewatching after finishing the series once.
- Release Order:
- Easier for first-time viewers to follow.
- Preserves the experience of how the series was initially presented to fans.
Where to Watch Steins;Gate
Several platforms offer Steins;Gate for streaming and purchase. Here are the primary ways to access the anime:
- Crunchyroll and Funimation: Both platforms offer the original series and Steins;Gate 0 with English subtitles and dubs.
- Amazon: DVDs and Blu-rays of the series and movie are available for collectors.
- Netflix: Availability varies by region, so check your local Netflix library for the series or movie.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the chronological order for an in-depth experience or the release order for a smoother introduction, Steins;Gate promises a gripping journey filled with emotional moments and mind-bending twists. With its combination of science fiction, drama, and heart, it remains one of the most beloved anime series of all time.
Start your time-travel adventure with Okabe and the gang—just remember: every choice comes with consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Steins;Gate 0 a sequel or a prequel?
A: Steins;Gate 0 is neither a direct sequel nor a prequel. It takes place in an alternate timeline where Okabe makes a different decision, resulting in a parallel storyline.
Q: Do I need to watch the bonus episodes?
A: While the bonus episodes enhance the story, they are not essential to understanding the main plot. However, watching them can offer more insight into the characters.
Q: Can I watch Steins;Gate 0 without seeing the original series?
A: It’s recommended to watch the original Steins;Gate first, as Steins;Gate 0 builds on events from the original storyline.
