How To Watch Sailor Moon In Order

How to Watch Sailor Moon in Order: A Guide for Crystal, Classic, and Everything In Between

Are you ready to dive into the magical world of Sailor Moon? With multiple series, movies, and specials, figuring out the correct viewing order can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide breaks down the best way to watch Sailor Moon, catering to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike. We'll cover the classic anime, the Sailor Moon Crystal reboot, and how to integrate the various movies and specials for a complete viewing experience.

Choosing Your Adventure: Classic or Crystal?

The most significant decision you'll make is whether to start with the original 1990s anime (often referred to as the "classic" series) or the 2014 reboot, Sailor Moon Crystal. Both tell the same core story, but with significant differences in animation style, pacing, and faithfulness to the manga.

• Classic Sailor Moon (1992-1997): This version is beloved for its vibrant animation, memorable soundtrack, and filler episodes that expand on character relationships and storylines. It's longer and features a more episodic structure.

• Sailor Moon Crystal (2014-2016): This series is a more faithful adaptation of the manga, boasting a cleaner animation style and a faster pace. It's shorter and generally follows the manga's plot more closely.

The Optimal Viewing Order:

Here's a suggested viewing order, allowing for flexibility based on your preferred version:

Option 1: Classic Sailor Moon First (More Episodic, Longer Experience)

1. Sailor Moon (1992): This is the first season, introducing our main Sailor Guardians and their initial battles against the Dark Kingdom.
2. Sailor Moon R (1993): The second season introduces new villains and further develops the relationships between the Sailor Guardians.
3. Sailor Moon S (1994): This season delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding the Sailor Guardians' past and introduces new foes.
4. Sailor Moon SuperS (1995): Focuses on a new enemy and a different kind of conflict, with a slightly lighter tone than previous seasons.
5. Sailor Moon Sailor Stars (1996): The final season of the classic series, culminating in a grand battle against a powerful new enemy.
6. Sailor Moon R: The Promise of the Rose (Movie): Watch this after Sailor Moon R. It's a standalone movie but adds to the overall narrative.
7. Sailor Moon S: Hearts in Ice (Movie): Watch this after Sailor Moon S, similarly enhancing the story.
8. Sailor Moon SuperS: The Nine Sailors (Movie): Watch after Sailor Moon SuperS for a conclusion to that arc.

Option 2: Sailor Moon Crystal First (Faster Pace, Closer to Manga)

1. Sailor Moon Crystal Season 1 (2014): Covers the Dark Kingdom arc.
2. Sailor Moon Crystal Season 2 (2015): Adapts the Black Moon Clan arc from the manga.
3. Sailor Moon Crystal Season 3 (2016): Covers the Death Busters arc.
4. Sailor Moon Crystal Season 4 (2016) (Sailor Stars): Adapts the Sailor Stars arc.

Integrating Specials and Other Content:

While not strictly necessary for understanding the main plot, various specials and OVAs add to the lore and character development. These can be watched after completing either the classic or Crystal series, depending on your preference.

Making the Choice:

Ultimately, the "best" viewing order depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a longer, more episodic experience with a focus on character development and a charming, retro aesthetic, the classic series is the way to go. If you prioritize a fast-paced, manga-faithful adaptation with a more modern animation style, then Sailor Moon Crystal is the better option. Regardless of your choice, prepare to embark on a magical journey filled with friendship, love, and epic battles!