Reader’s Question:
I’m interested in watching Evangelion, but I’m not sure about the order in which to watch it. Could someone please provide a detailed and gentle explanation? Thank you!
Understanding the Order of Evangelion: A Personal Journey
I remember the first time I decided to dive into the world of Neon
Genesis Evangelion. It was a rainy afternoon, and I found myself in my tiny apartment, surrounded by snacks that I had probably overindulged in. As a psychology student, I was always fascinated by the complex themes in various forms of storytelling, but I had heard that Evangelion was something truly special—something that could challenge my understanding of psychology and human nature. After reading a few forums and listening to friends rave about the series, I was eager to get started, yet I found myself staring at a confusing array of watch orders. There were recommendations that included the original TV series, the films, and even the new rebuild series. It was overwhelming!
The Classic Path: TV Series and Films
One of the first pieces of advice I stumbled upon was to start with the original TV series. This makes sense, as it lays the foundation for the characters and the intricate narrative. The series is an experience in itself—filled with existential angst, psychological depth, and those iconic mecha battles. There were moments where I couldn’t help but laugh at the awkward interactions between Shinji and Rei, and other times I was left pondering the weight of human emotions. After finishing the series, I was encouraged to watch “Shin Seiki Evangelion Gekijōban: Shito Shinsei” (or “Evangelion: Death and Rebirth”). Honestly, I wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. It felt like a recap mixed with a new narrative, which makes it a bit of a mixed bag. I found myself snacking a bit too much during this one, trying to figure out what was going on, but I suppose that’s part of the journey!
The Rebuild Series: A Fresh Perspective
Then came the rebuild series—”Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone” through to “Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time.” This was where things started to get really interesting for me. The new animation and storytelling approach felt like a breath of fresh air. I found myself amazed at how they reinterpreted the characters and their struggles. It was almost like talking to an old friend who has changed and grown over the years. I’ll admit, watching “Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance” was a moment of pure joy for me. It struck me with such intensity that I had to pause and reflect on my own experiences—how sometimes we feel trapped in our own cycles of depression and anxiety, much like Shinji.
Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections
In the end, I recommend starting with the original TV series, followed by “Shito Shinsei” and then diving into the rebuild series in order: 1.0, 2.0, and so on until you reach the conclusion with “Thrice Upon a Time.” You get a fuller understanding of the characters and their evolution, which is at the heart of the series. As I look back, I cherish the late-night viewing parties with friends where we debated character motivations and existential themes while munching on way too many snacks. It was a bonding experience that I will treasure forever. I’d love to hear your experiences or tips when it comes to watching Evangelion! Did you have any memorable moments, or perhaps you found a different watch order that worked for you? Let’s share our thoughts in the comments!
