For “Berserk” fans, the dark world, epic fights, and deep themes are familiar and addictive. But its timeline? It’s a challenge even for die-hard followers. No worries! Our post, “How to Watch Berserk in Order,” offers an easy guide.
Whether revisiting or starting “Berserk,” we’ve got you covered. Follow our guide to enjoy the series in the right order and fully appreciate its captivating tale.
1 ‘Berserk’ (1997 – 1998)
IMDb: 8.7/10 47K | Popularity: 690 | Top 250: Top rated TV #106
Duration: 25 Episodes | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Creator: Kentaro Miura
Cast: Marc Diraison, Nobutoshi Canna, Carrie Keranen
Starting your Berserk journey? Don’t skip the 1997 TV series, a cherished part of the story. Known as “Kenpū Denki Berserk” in Japan, this adaptation, created by Nippon Television and VAP, was beautifully animated by Oriental Light and Magic. Directed by Naohito Takahashi, it aired from October 1997 to April 1998.
This Kentaro Miura-created series captures the manga’s essence, showcasing the dark world of Berserk. Its storytelling, character depth, setting, and eerie soundtrack by Susumu Hirasawa have won fans and critics over.
This 1997 adaptation is vital for a complete experience. Make it part of your viewing list.
2 ‘Berserk: The Golden Age Arc I – The Egg of the King’ (2012)
IMDb: 7.5/10 14K
Duration: 1h 16m | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Director: Toshiyuki Kubooka
Cast: Hiroaki Iwanaga, Carrie Keranen, Takahiro Sakurai
Launched in 2012 by director Toshiyuki Kubooka, this film is the first of a compelling trilogy that brings Kentaro Miura‘s manga to life.
“The Egg of the King” plunges viewers into “Berserk’s” raw world. Studio 4°C’s production dazzles with stellar animation, gripping action, and a deep dive into its intricate characters.
Seeking a shorter alternative to the TV series? This film offers a concise, true-to-source intro. Ideal for newcomers or fans revisiting, it’s a vital cinematic piece of the “Berserk” experience.
Considering the full Berserk experience? Ensure this film is on your list.
3 ‘Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey’ (2012)
IMDb: 7.7/10 11K
Duration: 1h 35m | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Director: Toshiyuki Kubooka
Cast: Carrie Keranen, Orion Acaba, Chris Jai Alex
The second film in the trilogy, “The Battle for Doldrey,” delves deeper into Kentaro Miura‘s intense manga universe.
Picking up from the first film, it stands out with its breathtaking animation and action sequences synonymous with this adaptation. More than just visuals, the movie dives into characters’ dilemmas and the moral challenges characteristic of Berserk.
Engaging in epic battles and political drama, the film maintains the manga’s narrative richness, appealing to new and longtime series fans.
For the proper Berserk experience sequence, “Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey” is crucial. It paves the way for the trilogy’s finale. Dive into this cinematic adventure in the mesmerizing Berserk realm.
4 ‘Berserk: The Golden Age Arc III – The Advent’ (2013)
IMDb: 7.8/10 11K
Duration: 1h 50m | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Director: Toshiyuki Kubooka
Cast: Marc Diraison, Hiroaki Iwanaga, Carrie Keranen
Concluding the Golden Age Arc, “The Advent” delivers a powerful climax to Kentaro Miura‘s iconic manga.
Retaining the remarkable animation and action associated with this adaptation, this film elevates the storytelling, offering a deeply emotional ending. The story plunges viewers into the “Berserk” universe’s tumultuous heart, deeply exploring its characters and themes like ambition, sacrifice, and human nature.
A treat for longtime fans and a poignant introduction for new viewers, “The Advent” showcases “Berserk’s” captivating darkness. Ensure you watch it to fully traverse the enchanting Berserk landscape.
5 ‘Berserk’ (2016 – 2017)
IMDb: 6.7/10 6.9K | Popularity: 1634
Duration: 2 Seasons / 25 Episodes | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Director: Shin Itagaki
Cast: Max Mittelman, Sarah Anne Williams, Erik Scott Kimerer
Directed by Shin Itagaki and crafted by Liden Films and GEMBA, this version of “Berserk” (2016-2017) presents a fresh visual twist. Combining 2D and 3D techniques, it offers a distinctive, though debated, visual flair.
Picking up post-Golden Age Arc, it follows Guts, the Black Swordsman, on his intense revenge mission. This series embraces the story’s grimmer, graphic elements, mirroring the original manga’s mature content.
Though its animation style sparked varied reactions, it’s undeniably rich in narrative depth, delving into human emotions and showcasing a ruthless world. For Berserk enthusiasts, this series is a crucial continuation.
6 ‘Berserk: The Golden Age Arc – Memorial Edition’ (2022 -)
IMDb: 8.4/10 1K | Popularity: 3184
Duration: 13 Episodes | Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure
Directors: Toshiyuki Kubooka, Yuta Sano
Cast: Takahiro Sakurai, Hiroaki Iwanaga, Toa Yukinari
‘Berserk: The Golden Age Arc – Memorial Edition’ is a revamped 13-episode adaptation of Kentaro Miura‘s revered manga. Guided by directors Toshiyuki Kubooka and Yuta Sano, it premiered with “The Golden Age” on September 30, 2022.
In a war-torn medieval setting, we follow Guts, a formidable mercenary, as he joins forces with the magnetic Band of the Hawk leader, Griffith. The series weaves intense battles, political schemes, and multifaceted characters into a gripping tale.
With its finale, “Vow of Retaliation,” airing on December 24, 2022, viewers are set for a thrilling and poignant end. This Memorial Edition is essential viewing for all Berserk enthusiasts, refreshing a timeless saga.
7 ‘Berserk of Gluttony’ (2023)
Genres: Animation, Action, Fantasy
Directors: Tetsuya Yanagisawa
Cast: Ryota Osaka, Tomokazu Seki, Hisako Tojo
“Berserk of Gluttony,” set to premiere its episodes in October 2023, heralds an exciting new addition to the anime landscape just in time for the autumn and winter seasons. Although the series was officially announced in October 2022, fans had to wait until March 2023 for the release of key visuals. It provides a tantalizing glimpse into the dark and intriguing world it promises, so it was worth the wait.
In a foreboding setting, we meet the intriguing Fate Graphite, identifiable by his sword and a standout red laser eye. Central to the narrative is Fate, a gatekeeper for a noble family who overlooks his potential due to a seemingly minor skill. But Fate’s path shifts when he realizes his unique Gluttony power.
With this ability, he strengthens by taking on the abilities of others, evident when he confronts a bandit.
In summary, understanding Berserk in its intended sequence is crucial to grasp its richness and intricacy. Whether starting with the 1997 TV series, venturing into the Golden Age Arc films, or exploring newer versions, every piece enhances the overarching narrative.
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