What Order to Watch Sailor Moon?
Sailor Moon is a beloved anime series that has captivated audiences worldwide since its debut in the 1990s. The series follows the adventures of Usagi Tsukino, a clumsy but determined schoolgirl, and her friends as they transform into superheroes known as the Sailor Guardians to defend the world from evil.
Why Order Matters in Sailor Moon
While watching Sailor Moon in any order might be possible, many fans argue that the story and character development are disrupted when the episodes are rearranged. The original airings in Japan and VHS releases were carefully constructed to maintain a specific pace and character arc, and deviating from this sequence can make the viewing experience less enjoyable.
A Brief History of Sailor Moon
To understand the ordering of Sailor Moon, let’s first take a quick look at the series’ history:
- Series Original Run (1992-1997): Sailor Moon was first aired in Japan from March 1992 to February 1997, with the series split into five story arcs (Dark Kingdom, Black Moon, Deathbusters, Amazon Trio, and Infinity).
- Special Episodes (1993): A series of short specials were released, mainly focused on the characters and their backstories.
- Adaptations (1997-2007): The series was adapted into a live-action TV show, a sequel series (Sailor Moon Sailor Stars), a reboot series (Sailor Moon Crystal), and several animated specials.
Recommended Watching Order
Due to the complex history of Sailor Moon, there isn’t a single "perfect" viewing order. However, most fans agree on the following order:
Original Airings (Main Series)
- Dark Kingdom (Episodes 1-46)
Dark Kingdom is the strongest starting point, as it sets the foundation for the entire series. The opening arc introduces the main characters, Usagi and Luna, and establishes the dynamic between them. - Black Moon (Episodes 47-68)
The second arc, focusing on Chibiusa and her father, showcases the group’s growth as heroes. - Deathbusters (Episodes 69-93)
Here, the Sailor Guardians confront the Amazon Trio, setting the stage for the second half of the series.
Special Episodes
To be watched after the conclusion of the main series or in-between the story arcs:
- Sailor Moon Specials (Chibi-usa’s World and Death Busters Hajimari): These provide additional background on the Amazon Trio and Chibiusa.
- Ami’s First Love and Usagi’s Illusion: These specials tackle the Sailor Guardians’ first romantic relationships and a mysterious mirror incident, respectively.
Sequels and Side-Stories
- Sailor Stars (1996-1997): This follows the next generation of heroines and the Sailor Moon Guardians in a new villainous storyline.
- Sailor Moon Crystal (2014): A reboot series condensing the original storylines, ideal for new fans or those looking for an alternative narrative.
Ultimate Table: Sailor Moon Watching Order
| Type | Episode Range | Overview |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Kingdom | 1-46 | Introduction to characters, establishes the dynamic, and sets the stage for future arcs |
| Black Moon | 47-68 | Focusing on Chibiusa and growth as heroes |
| Deathbusters | 69-93 | Confronts the Amazon Trio, prelude to the second half |
| Special Episodes | – | Additional background information and side-stories |
Why Watch Sailor Moon Chronologically?
Watching the series in this order may enhance the viewing experience as:
• Character relationships: Observe the bonding between characters as they support each other, grow, and face challenges.
• Villain arcs: See the development of motivations and alliances between villains and their struggles against the heroes.
• Story continuations: Appreciate how each story arc builds upon the previous one, ensuring a consistent narrative flow.
• Cultural reference points: Recognize popular 90s Japanese anime, manga, and western references in the series that shaped the world of the 90s.
Conclusively, while ordering Sailor Moon can be open to interpretation, the consensus among fans suggests following the original airing order or the adjusted chronology presented above to best enjoy the series and appreciate the intricate storytelling.
Remember: start at the beginning and appreciate the world of Sailor Moon in its intended order.
Additional tips:
Before Starting:
- Be aware of the historical context, including the creators’ inspirations and early reviews, to better grasp the evolution of the series.
- Familiarize yourself with the original creator’s intended vision and tone, which might differ slightly from later adaptations.
Hope this article helps provide the guidance you need on what order to watch Sailor Moon.
