Psycho-Pass is one of the most thrilling sci-fi anime franchises out there. Set in a dystopian future where the government can predict crimes before they happen, it blends deep philosophical questions with intense action. Fans love it for its gritty atmosphere, complex characters, and chillingly realistic worldbuilding.
But let’s be honest — figuring out the right Psycho Pass watch order can get confusing fast. With multiple seasons, movies, specials, and even re-edits, it’s easy to get lost. Should you watch in release order? Chronologically? Are the movies essential?
Good news: you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a new fan, returning viewer, or a completionist aiming to catch every detail, this guide will walk you through it. We’ll cover TV shows, movies, specials, OVAs, and everything else — and help you go from confused to confident.
Let’s dive in!
Quick Answer: Recommended Watch Order (Best for Most Viewers)
If you just want a simple, easy-to-follow watch list, here’s the order we recommend:
| Order | Title |
|---|---|
| 1 | Psycho-Pass (Season 1) |
| 2 | Psycho-Pass 2 (Season 2) |
| 3 | Psycho-Pass: The Movie |
| 4 | Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System (Cases 1–3) |
| 5 | Psycho-Pass: Providence |
| 6 | Psycho-Pass 3 (Season 3) |
| 7 | Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector |
✅ Best for: Newbies, casual fans, returning viewers
✅ Why: Balances story flow and emotional impact without confusion.
Why It’s Confusing to Watch Psycho Pass in Order
The Psycho-Pass universe was released out of chronological order. Some movies are prequels to the original series, while others fill gaps between seasons. There’s even a re-edited version of Season 1 called Psycho-Pass: Extended Edition!
Plus, some stories focus on side characters rather than the main storyline, which can make it even trickier to decide what to watch next.
Pro Tip:
Avoid watching the Sinners of the System movies too early — they spoil major events from the first two seasons!
Franchise Overview: What’s Included?
Here’s a full list of what belongs to the Psycho-Pass franchise:
TV Series
- Psycho-Pass (2012–2013) – Original Season 1
- Psycho-Pass 2 (2014) – Sequel Season 2
- Psycho-Pass 3 (2019) – New cast and setting, but same universe
Movies
- Psycho-Pass: The Movie (2015) – Direct sequel to Season 2
- Psycho-Pass: Sinners of the System (2019) – Trilogy of side stories
- Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector (2020) – Finale to Season 3
- Psycho-Pass: Providence (2023) – Bridges the gap between Sinners of the System and Season 3
Specials
- Psycho-Pass: Extended Edition (2014) – Recap of Season 1 with extra scenes
✅ Canon: All of the above.
🚫 No filler or alternate universes — every piece fits the main storyline.
All Watch Orders Explained
Chronological Order (In-Universe Timeline)
- Sinners of the System Case 2: First Guardian (prequel)
- Psycho-Pass (Season 1)
- Psycho-Pass 2 (Season 2)
- Psycho-Pass: The Movie
- Sinners of the System Case 1: Crime and Punishment
- Sinners of the System Case 3: On the Other Side of Love and Hate
- Psycho-Pass: Providence
- Psycho-Pass 3 (Season 3)
- Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector
✅ Best for: Hardcore fans, timeline purists
Why Choose This:
If you want every event to unfold exactly as it happens in the world’s timeline.
Release Order (By Air Date)
- Psycho-Pass (2012–2013)
- Psycho-Pass 2 (2014)
- Psycho-Pass: The Movie (2015)
- Sinners of the System Cases 1–3 (2019)
- Psycho-Pass 3 (2019)
- Psycho-Pass 3: First Inspector (2020)
- Psycho-Pass: Providence (2023)
✅ Best for: New fans, casual binge-watchers
Why Choose This:
It mirrors how audiences experienced the story when it first came out.
Creator’s Intended Order
The release order matches the way the creators intended viewers to experience the story. There’s no major deviation or alternate recommendation from the production team.
✅ Best for: Authentic viewing experience
Skip or Optional Content
Here’s what you can safely skip if you’re short on time:
- Psycho-Pass: Extended Edition:
Only necessary if you want added scenes. Otherwise, watching the original Season 1 is just fine.
Everything else is canon and important to the main story!
Where to Watch Psycho Pass in 2025
Here’s where you can stream or buy the series and movies:
- Crunchyroll – Full series and movies
- Amazon Prime Video – Seasons 1 & 2 available
- Apple TV – Purchase Psycho-Pass: The Movie
- Netflix – Select countries only (availability limited in 2025)
Pro Tip:
Check JustWatch for up-to-date availability in your country.
Pro Tips for First-Time Viewers
- Start with Season 1 – It introduces the Sibyl System, the heart of Psycho-Pass.
- Avoid jumping into movies first – You’ll miss critical character development.
- Binge or Pace Yourself?
- Binge: The slow-burn story builds tension beautifully if you can marathon it.
- Pace yourself: Some arcs (especially in Season 3) are heavy and benefit from breaks.
Starter Pack Recommendation:
Watch Season 1 → Season 2 → The Movie.
If you’re still hooked, then dive into Sinners of the System and Season 3.
FAQs About Psycho Pass Watch Order
Can I skip Psycho-Pass 2?
Not recommended. Season 2 sets up major events for The Movie and later arcs.
Is Psycho-Pass 3 a reboot?
Nope! It’s a continuation with a mostly new cast but set in the same universe.
Do I need to watch the movies?
Yes — especially The Movie (2015) and Providence (2023). They contain vital story developments.
What’s the best starting point if I’m short on time?
Start with Season 1, skip Extended Edition, and continue in release order.
Final Thoughts: The Best Psycho Pass Watch Order
If you want the smoothest, most enjoyable ride through Psycho-Pass, stick to the release order.
It’s how the creators built the story’s momentum, and it offers the best emotional payoff.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to see how all the timelines weave together, the chronological order is a great second watch!
Feel free to bookmark this guide for later or share it with your anime-loving friends. The Sibyl System approves!
