Since its debut in 1989, Berserk Anime has captivated fans with its dark fantasy themes, exploring trauma, vengeance, and survival. With several anime adaptations over the years, figuring out the correct viewing order can be confusing. This guide will help you enjoy the story of Guts, the legendary mercenary, without missing any important details.
Overview: What is Berserk?
Berserk follows Guts, a lone warrior who roams a brutal medieval world haunted by demonic creatures. Marked by the Brand of Sacrifice, Guts is fated to be hunted by evil forces. With the help of Puck, a playful elf with healing powers, Guts wages war against monsters and dark entities in a quest for revenge.
Throughout his journey, Guts faces former friends turned enemies, including Griffith, an ambitious leader who sacrifices everything for power. The anime adaptations attempt to capture the story’s essence, but with differences across each version, choosing the best viewing order is essential for a satisfying experience.
The Chronological Viewing Order of Berserk
Because the anime series and films cover overlapping arcs, there are two ways to watch Berserk. Let’s break down the key adaptations.
Option 1: Classic Series Viewing (1997)
- Berserk: The Sword-Wind Romance (TV Series, 1997)
- Covers the Golden Age Arc, the foundation of Guts and Griffith’s relationship.
- This series captures the original tone of the manga but ends abruptly.
This adaptation focuses on traditional animation and sticks closely to the manga’s original story. Although it lacks the later parts of the manga, it’s regarded as one of the more faithful adaptations.
Option 2: Film and Modern Series Combination
- Berserk: The Golden Age Trilogy (Films, 2012)
- Titles: The Egg of the King, The Battle for Doldrey, The Advent.
- Retells the Golden Age Arc with updated visuals and enhanced pacing.
- Berserk (TV Series, 2016–2017)
- Continues the story beyond the Golden Age, adapting the Conviction and Hawk of the Millennium Empire arcs.
- Uses CGI animation, which drew criticism from fans due to its jarring style.
Which Version Should You Watch?
Both adaptations offer different experiences, and you don’t need to watch every version since they overlap in plot.
- If you prefer traditional animation, start with the 1997 series.
- If you want more modern visuals and a faster-paced retelling, go for the Golden Age Trilogy films.
- If you want to see what happens after the Golden Age, watch the 2016 series, but be prepared for mixed reviews due to its animation style.
Is the Manga a Better Option?
Many fans argue that Kentaro Miura’s manga is the definitive way to experience Berserk. The anime adaptations only cover a fraction of the sprawling story, with the 2016 series ending before major arcs could be fully explored.
If you want to dive deeper into the original narrative, start with Volume 1 of the manga. Alternatively, if you’ve finished the Golden Age Arc in the anime, you can pick up the story from Volume 14.
Complete Chronological Order of Berserk Anime (Including Films and Series)
If you want to experience everything the Berserk adaptations have to offer, follow this order:
- Berserk: The Golden Age Trilogy (2012)
- Berserk (2016–2017 TV Series)
- Bonus Content:
- Berserk: Memorial Edition (2022) – A limited re-release of the Golden Age films with added scenes.
- Berserk: Requiem of the Dead – A rumored upcoming project based on later manga arcs.
Why the 2016 Berserk Series Was Criticized
The 2016 series attempts to continue the story after the Golden Age but falls short due to heavy reliance on CGI animation. Fans accustomed to the detailed art of the manga found the animation style distracting. Despite this, the series offers valuable insight into Guts’ life post-Golden Age, making it worth a watch for dedicated fans.
Where to Watch Berserk Anime Online
- Netflix: Available in select regions, including the Golden Age Trilogy.
- Crunchyroll: Offers the 2016 series for streaming.
- Hulu and Funimation: Host the 1997 anime in their libraries.
- Amazon: Physical Blu-ray and DVD copies are available for collectors.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Way to Watch Berserk?
Ultimately, the best way to enjoy Berserk depends on your preferences:
- If you prefer nostalgic, traditional animation, start with the 1997 series.
- If you’re new to the franchise and want a modern take, the Golden Age Trilogy offers a great introduction.
- For die-hard fans, exploring the manga remains the most comprehensive way to experience Guts’ entire journey.
Whichever option you choose, Berserk offers a gripping adventure filled with dark themes, unforgettable characters, and moments that stay with you long after the credits roll.
