If you love complex time-travel stories, unforgettable characters, and emotional twists, Steins;Gate is a must-watch anime. Since its debut, it has become one of the most beloved sci-fi series for anime fans worldwide, praised for its intricate storytelling and powerful character development.
However, figuring out the correct watch order can feel as confusing as time travel itself. With multiple series, movies, OVAs, and alternate timelines, it’s easy to get lost especially for new fans or those returning after a few years away.
This guide is here to help you, whether you’re a first-time viewer, a returning fan, or a hardcore completionist. We’ll cover everything: TV series, movies, OVAs, specials, canon versus non-canon entries, and the best places to watch them in 2025.
By the end, you’ll know exactly where to start and how to enjoy the Steins; Gate journey the right way.
Let’s dive into the timeline!
Quick Answer: Recommended Watch Order (Best for Most Viewers)
Here’s the simplest and best watch order for most fans:
- Steins;Gate (Episodes 1–22)
- Steins;Gate: Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link – Divide by Zero (Episode 23β)
- Steins;Gate 0 (Full series)
- Steins;Gate (Episodes 23–24)
- Steins;Gate: The Movie − Load Region of Déjà Vu
- Steins;Gate: Egoistic Poriomania (OVA, optional)
- Steins;Gate: Sōmei Eichi no Cognitive Computing (Optional shorts)
Best for: First-time viewers, returning fans, and anyone looking for the clearest story progression.
Why It’s Confusing to Watch This in Order
The Steins;Gate universe plays with alternate timelines, which means some episodes split into different paths.
- Episode 23 has two different versions: the original and an alternate (Episode 23β), leading into Steins;Gate 0.
- OVAs and specials don’t always fit neatly into the main story.
- The movie is set after the events of the TV series but was released earlier than some of the newer content.
It’s important to understand these splits so you don’t accidentally spoil key moments or get confused mid-watch.
Franchise Overview: What’s Included?
Main Series:
- Steins;Gate (2011) (24 episodes)
- Steins;Gate 0 (2018) (23 episodes)
Movies:
OVAs and Specials:
- Steins;Gate: Egoistic Poriomania (2012) (OVA episode)
- Steins;Gate: Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link – Divide by Zero (2015)
- Steins;Gate: Sōmei Eichi no Cognitive Computing (2014) (4 shorts)
- Steins;Gate 0 Special (2018) (Valentine’s special)
Canon vs Non-Canon:
- Canon: Main series, Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link, Steins;Gate 0, and the movie.
- Non-Canon/Optional: Egoistic Poriomania, Cognitive Computing, Steins;Gate 0 Special.
All Watch Orders Explained
Chronological Order (In-Universe Timeline)
- Steins;Gate Episodes 1–22
- Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link – Divide by Zero (Episode 23β)
- Steins;Gate 0 (Full series)
- Steins;Gate Episodes 23–24
- Steins;Gate: The Movie − Load Region of Déjà Vu
Best for: Hardcore fans wanting a story that follows the actual timeline progression.
Release Order (Recommended)
- Steins;Gate (2011)
- Egoistic Poriomania (OVA, 2012)
- Steins;Gate: The Movie − Load Region of Déjà Vu (2013)
- Sōmei Eichi no Cognitive Computing (Shorts, 2014)
- Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link – Divide by Zero (2015)
- Steins;Gate 0 (2018)
- Steins;Gate 0 Special (2018)
Best for: First-time viewers who want to experience the story the way fans did as it released.
Creator’s Preferred Order
The release order matches the creators’ storytelling intention, enhancing emotional impact and major reveals.
Best for: Fans seeking the full intended emotional journey.
Skip or Optional Content
Optional / Skippable Entries:
- Egoistic Poriomania – Fun beach episode, no major story impact.
- Sōmei Eichi no Cognitive Computing – Cute, tech-promo shorts.
- Steins;Gate 0 Special – Light-hearted extra, not plot-relevant.
Pro Tip: Stick to core series and the movie for your first watch!
Where to Watch in 2025
- Crunchyroll: Streams Steins;Gate and Steins;Gate 0.
- Funimation: Offers the full series plus movie.
- Apple TV / iTunes: Digital purchase available for main series and movie.
Pro Tip: Availability may differ by country—use JustWatch to check local streaming options.
Pro Tips for First-Time Viewers
- Confused? Start with the release order first, then rewatch chronologically if you love the series.
- Starter Pack: Watch Steins;Gate Episodes 1–22 → Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link → Steins;Gate 0.
- Binge or Space Out? Binge the first 10 episodes, then slow down—tension ramps up fast!
FAQs
Q: Can I skip Steins;Gate 0?
A: Not recommended. It’s vital for a full understanding of Okabe’s character arc.
Q: Is the movie necessary?
A: It’s optional but beautifully wraps up Kurisu and Okabe’s journey.
Q: Should I watch the OVAs?
A: They’re fun extras but can be skipped on your first run.
Q: Where should I start if I’m short on time?
A: Watch Steins;Gate Episodes 1–24 and the movie for the core experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the clearest path through Steins;Gate, stick with the release order. It preserves the original pacing, emotional beats, and shocking reveals that made the series a masterpiece.
For a deeper, even more emotional second watch, try the chronological order next time! Bookmark this guide, share it with fellow time travelers, and enjoy one of anime’s most unforgettable adventures!
