In the mesmerizing world of anime, Made in Abyss stands out as a dark fantasy epic filled with adventure, mystery, and profound emotional depth. With its intricate storytelling and captivating universe, ensuring you watch it in the correct order enhances your appreciation and understanding of its narrative complexity. Let's dive into how you can enjoy Made in Abyss to its fullest potential.
๐ฌ The Main Series: Your Starting Point
Season 1: "Made in Abyss" ๐บ
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This is where your journey begins. The first season, which aired from July to September 2017, introduces us to the curious and courageous Riko, who dreams of becoming a legendary Cave Raider like her mother, Lyza the Annihilator. As she embarks on her perilous journey into the Abyss, we meet Reg, a mysterious boy with robotic abilities, and together they face the harsh realities and creatures lurking within.
Important Note: Watching Season 1 is not just recommended; it's mandatory to grasp the lore, character development, and the underlying themes of this anime.
๐ The Movie: A Journey Through Memories
Made in Abyss: Journey's Dawn and Wandering Twilight ๐ฅ
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These two compilation movies, released between Season 1 and Season 2, recompile the episodes from the first season into a slightly more cinematic experience. They offer an alternative way to revisit or catch up on the story:
- Journey's Dawn covers episodes 1 through 8.
- Wandering Twilight covers episodes 9 through 13, plus the special episode "Marulk's Daily Life."
<p class="pro-note">๐ Note: While these movies provide a convenient way to refresh your memory, they are not new material. They can be skipped if you've already seen Season 1, but they include a few added scenes not found in the original episodes.</p>
๐ซ Dawn of the Deep Soul: A Bridge Between Seasons
Made in Abyss: Dawn of the Deep Soul ๐
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Chronologically, this movie fits right in between Season 1 and Season 2. Released in 2020, "Dawn of the Deep Soul" continues the story directly from where Season 1 ends, focusing on the ongoing adventures of Riko, Reg, and introducing Nanachi, deepening the understanding of the Abyss's mysteries and unveiling more about the mysterious white whistles.
Important Note: Do not skip this movie; it's essential for continuity and plot progression into Season 2.
๐ Season 2: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun
Season 2: "Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun" ๐ฅ
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Picking up where "Dawn of the Deep Soul" left off, Season 2 aired in Summer 2022. Here, we delve further into the Abyss, reaching the Sixth Layer, and new mysteries unfold. We witness the increasing complexities of the relationships between characters and the unfolding of Riko's lineage and destiny.
๐ Bonus Content: Made in Abyss' Extended Universe
Made in Abyss offers additional content that enhances the lore:
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OVA (Original Video Animation): "Marulk's Daily Life" provides a humorous look at Marulk, a character from the anime, living day-to-day life at the orphanage.
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Manga: The source material, illustrated by Akihito Tsukushi, explores even deeper stories and backgrounds not covered in the anime. You might want to dive into it for an even richer experience.
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Made in Abyss Official Fanbook: This can be a treasure trove for fans, offering sketches, art, and tidbits about the universe.
<p class="pro-note">๐ Note: These are not vital for the main storyline, but they offer a delightful exploration of the Made in Abyss world.</p>
๐ก Concluding Your Adventure
The journey through Made in Abyss is one of emotional peaks and valleys, with its story resonating with themes of exploration, sacrifice, and the complexities of human (and inhuman) existence. Following this order ensures you experience the depth of the narrative as intended by the creators:
- Season 1 - The beginning of the story, introducing the main characters and the Abyss itself.
- Journey's Dawn and Wandering Twilight - Recap movies for refreshment or introduction.
- Dawn of the Deep Soul - Essential bridge between seasons, deepening character development and world-building.
- Season 2 - Further exploration into the Abyss's mysteries and character arcs.
<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Do I need to watch the movies to understand the series?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, "Dawn of the Deep Soul" is crucial for understanding the plot between Season 1 and Season 2, while the compilation movies can be skipped if you've already watched the first season.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What's the age rating for Made in Abyss?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>It's recommended for viewers 13 years and older due to mature themes, though some parental discretion is advised due to the dark and graphic nature of certain scenes.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where can I watch Made in Abyss?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Made in Abyss is available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll, and Hulu. Ensure you're watching from official sources to support the creators.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>
This guide provides a structured journey through the Made in Abyss universe, ensuring viewers get the most out of the rich and layered story. Whether you're embarking on your first exploration or revisiting the depths of the Abyss, the proper viewing order is key to fully immersing yourself in this extraordinary tale of adventure and growth.