Reader’s Question:
I’m planning to watch the anime Hetalia, but I’m not sure about the order in which to watch the different series since they are from the same era. Can anyone help me with this?

Getting Started with Hetalia: Your Guide to Watching Order

So, you’re thinking about diving into the
quirky world of Hetalia, huh? I totally get it! I mean, who wouldn’t want to watch nations personified as adorable characters with hilarious personalities? The way they poke fun at historical events while throwing in some cultural references is pure genius. It’s like a history lesson wrapped up in a fun and colorful package. But before you jump in, let’s chat about the best order to watch the series because, trust me, there’s a bit of a jumble there.

Why Watch Hetalia?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details of the watching order, let me just gush a little about why you should definitely give Hetalia a shot. First off, the humor is on another level. If you enjoy comedy, especially the kind that’s a bit absurd and self-aware, you’re in for a treat. The show takes historical cliches and runs with them, often highlighting the quirks of various cultures. I found it fascinating to see how they represent different nations with distinct personalities. Italy is all about pasta and laid-back vibes, while Germany is this super serious character who loves order. It’s like a comedy buffet! Plus, I have to admit that as someone who grew up in Japan, I have a soft spot for manzai-style humor. Hetalia has some of that back-and-forth banter that really hits home. It reminds me of those late-night comedy shows that left me in stitches. So, if you’re looking for something that’ll make you laugh and might even teach you a thing or two about history (in a very loose, entertaining sense), then you’re on the right track.

The Watching Order: Let’s Break It Down

Alright, let’s get into the meat of the matter. Here’s the watching order for Hetalia. It can be a bit confusing since the series has multiple seasons and specials, but don’t worry; I’ve got your back.

1. Hetalia: Axis Powers – Season 1

This is where it all begins. Season 1 introduces the main cast and the basic premise of the show. You’ll get to meet characters like Italy, Germany, and Japan, and trust me, their dynamics will have you laughing out loud. The animation style is simple but charming, perfectly capturing the essence of the characters. I remember the first episode setting the tone, and I was instantly hooked.

2. Hetalia: Axis Powers – Season 2

After finishing Season 1, dive straight into the second season. It continues the hilarious adventures with our favorite nations. You’ll see more character development and some delightful group dynamics. Honestly, I remember binge-watching this season during a rainy weekend. I was so invested that I lost track of time and before I knew it, I was laughing in the early hours of the morning.

3. Hetalia: World Series – Season 3

Next up is Hetalia: World Series. This season is a bit more polished compared to the earlier ones, with some cool new storylines and character interactions. It’s like they decided to crank the humor up a notch, which I wholeheartedly appreciated. You’ll find new characters introduced, which keeps things fresh. I particularly loved the episodes featuring side characters who didn’t get enough spotlight in the previous seasons.

4. Hetalia: World Series – Season 4

Don’t skip this one! It’s still part of the World Series, so just keep rolling with it. The fourth season is more of the same goodness but with added layers of character relationships. I remember watching many episodes while munching on some Japanese snacks, and it felt like the perfect combo. Just imagine a cozy evening with some chips, a good drink, and plenty of laughs—pure bliss!

5. Hetalia: The Beautiful World – Season 5

Now we get to The Beautiful World season. It’s basically a continuation but with a slightly different art style and storytelling approach. The humor remains on point. If anything, this season felt like it had a more mature edge, which I thought was interesting. It’s like the show was growing up with its audience. I remember some episodes made me think deeper about the relationships between these nations. Crazy how a comedy can do that, right?

6. Hetalia: The World Twinkle – Season 6

Here’s where things get a little bit of a reboot vibe. The World Twinkle is filled with a lot of cuteness and charm. I think it portrays the characters in a more whimsical way. It’s definitely a fun watch, especially if you’re in the mood for something lighthearted. I often found myself smiling like an idiot while watching this one, just soaking in the cuteness.

7. Hetalia: World★Stars – Season 7

Finally, we arrive at World★Stars! This season wraps up the series with a bang. They really go all out with the humor and the character interactions. It’s like a big celebration of everything that makes Hetalia awesome. I remember feeling a tinge of nostalgia while watching it, like I was saying goodbye to old friends.

Final Thoughts: More than Just a Comedy

So there you have it! That’s the order in which you should watch Hetalia. If you’re like me and love a good laugh mixed with a little bit of history, you’re in for a delightful ride. Just grab your favorite snacks, settle in, and enjoy the antics of these hilariously depicted nations. And hey, while you’re at it, don’t be surprised if you start picking up some quirky phrases or cultural tidbits along the way. I found myself quoting lines from the show and sharing them with my friends, who looked at me like I was a little crazy. But hey, as a dad, you gotta embrace the weirdness, right? Happy watching! And who knows, maybe a little comedy will spark your own travel adventures someday. After all, life is about the journey, and laughter makes every step more enjoyable!