NOLEEP – 86 Eighty-Six watch order can be a bit confusing with its split cours and delayed episodes.
This guide clarifies how to experience this critically acclaimed anime in the best way possible, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned veteran looking for a rewatch.
Based on Asato Asato’s light novels, 86 Eighty-Six tells a poignant story of war, discrimination, and the human cost of conflict.
The series follows Lena, a Handler in the Republic of San Magnolia, and Shin, the leader of the Spearhead Squadron, a group of soldiers fighting a seemingly unmanned war.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order
While the 86 Eighty-Six watch order generally follows a linear progression, there are two main ways to approach it:
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Release Order: This is how the series was originally broadcast, with a break between the first and second cour.
- Provides the intended viewing experience with built-in suspense and reveals.
- Allows you to appreciate the pacing and emotional impact as it was meant to be experienced.
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Chronological Order: This presents the episodes in the order of the in-universe timeline.
- Offers a smoother, uninterrupted viewing experience, ideal for rewatches.
- May be preferred for those who dislike cliffhangers or long waits between episodes.
Since the chronological order is essentially the same as the release order, with a minor adjustment to the final two episodes, this guide will focus on the release order, which is the recommended way to experience 86 Eighty-Six for the first time.
86 Eighty-Six Watch Order
Here’s the definitive 86 Eighty-Six watch order:
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86—Eighty-Six (Season 1) (April–June 2021): Introduces the world, characters, and the central conflict. We meet Lena and Shin and witness the grim reality of the war and the prejudice against the Eighty-Six.
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86—Eighty-Six Season 2 (Cour 2) (October–December 2021): Continues the story from where Season 1 left off, delving deeper into the mysteries of the Legion, the autonomous drones the Eighty-Six fight, and the personal struggles of the Spearhead Squadron.
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86—Eighty-Six Season 2 (Episodes 22-23) (March 2022): These two episodes were delayed due to production issues but are crucial to the overall narrative. They provide a powerful and emotional conclusion to the story arc.
Where to Watch 86 Eighty-Six
You can stream 86 Eighty-Six on various platforms, including:
- Crunchyroll
- Funimation
- Netflix (availability may vary by region)
Why You Should Watch 86 Eighty-Six
86 Eighty-Six is more than just a mecha anime. It’s a thought-provoking story that explores themes of prejudice, war, and what it means to be human. The series boasts:
- Complex characters: Lena and Shin are compelling leads with strong development arcs. The supporting characters in the Spearhead Squadron are also well-developed and memorable.
- Stunning visuals: The animation is top-notch, with breathtaking action sequences and detailed mecha designs.
- Emotional depth: 86 Eighty-Six tackles mature themes with sensitivity and nuance, making it a truly impactful viewing experience.
Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, mecha, or simply compelling storytelling, 86 Eighty-Six is a must-watch. By following this guide to the 86 Eighty-Six watch order, you can ensure the best possible viewing experience.