Where to start withNeon Genesis Evangelion
5 versions · originally a series, 1995
Themes: Existentialism, Trauma, Coming-of-Age, Dystopian Society, Giant Monsters.
Start with Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) — the series. Neon Genesis Evangelion exists in 5 versions across media, beginning as a series in 1995; each is ranked below by what it does best.
Neon Genesis Evangelion explores the psychological disintegration of teenage pilots forced to defend a post-apocalyptic world against inscrutable, god-like invaders.
✦ Most fans start here
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
The original tv
✦ Start hereNeon Genesis Evangelion
Series · 1995
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) is the essential foundation, offering a slow-burn character study that establishes the series' signature blend of existential dread and complex, mecha-driven interpersonal conflict.
1997 film
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion
Film · 1997
Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion (1997) serves as the definitive, surreal conclusion to the TV series, delivering a visceral and uncompromising cinematic resolution to the Human Instrumentality Project.
2026 film
EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE)²
Film · 2026
EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE)² (2026) offers an experimental, non-linear recontextualization of the core narrative, best suited for dedicated viewers interested in seeing how the series' traumatic themes are rearranged stylistically.
2026 film
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death and Rebirth
Hideaki Anno · Film · 2026
Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death and Rebirth (2026) acts as a historical artifact, providing a condensed recap of the series intended to bridge the gap between television and theatrical endings.
Inspired by
Pacific Rim
Guillermo del Toro · Film · 2013
Pacific Rim (2013) distills the high-concept premise of giant robot warfare into a blockbuster spectacle, stripping away the psychological introspection of the original to focus on pure action.
Common questions
What order should I watch Neon Genesis Evangelion and its movies?
Start with the 1995 Neon Genesis Evangelion television series. After completing the series, watch Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion. While other titles like Neon Genesis Evangelion: Death and Rebirth and EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE)² exist, they primarily serve as recaps or alternative presentations of the original series content.
Is Neon Genesis Evangelion related to Pacific Rim?
No, Neon Genesis Evangelion and Pacific Rim are distinct properties. While both feature massive mecha units, they originate from different creators and studios. Neon Genesis Evangelion is a 1995 television series, whereas Pacific Rim is a 2013 movie. They do not share a narrative universe or production history.
How long is the original Neon Genesis Evangelion series?
The original Neon Genesis Evangelion television series consists of 26 episodes. Following the conclusion of the television run, the story continues in the 1997 film Neon Genesis Evangelion: The End of Evangelion. These two projects comprise the primary narrative arc of the original 1995 production.
Does EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE)² continue the story of Neon Genesis Evangelion?
No, EVANGELION: DEATH (TRUE)² does not continue the story of Neon Genesis Evangelion. It is a compilation film released in 2026 that functions as a recap of the original television series. It provides a summary of events rather than new narrative developments following the 1997 film.