The Danganronpa anime series is a psychological thriller and mystery series that has become widely popular among anime fans. It is a captivating fusion of visual novel storytelling, murder mystery, and psychological thriller elements. Its narrative unfolds within confined and often isolated settings, creating an atmosphere of tension and suspense.
Central to the series is the enigmatic Monokuma, a sadistic robotic bear that orchestrates the high-stakes games played by a group of exceptional individuals known as “Ultimates” or “Super High School Level” students. Each Ultimate possesses unique talents or skills, ranging from detective prowess to athletic prowess.
The core premise involves the students being thrust into a perilous scenario where they must navigate deadly games of betrayal and survival. The rules are set by Monokuma, and the stakes are life or death. The objective for each participant is to commit the perfect murder, escaping detection during the subsequent investigation and trial. Success grants them the chance to “graduate” and leave the confined space, while failure results in a gruesome and theatrical execution.
Fans in search of a quick-paced psychological horror anime infused with elements of action and mystery will undoubtedly find immense enjoyment in Danganronpa. The Danganronpa series includes several games, anime adaptations, and spin-offs. Here, we will explain to you the right order to watch the anime series.
Danganronpa Anime In Order of Release
The Danganronpa anime was released in the following order for the viewing pleasure of fans.
- Danganronpa: The Animation (2013)
- Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Despair Arc (2016)
- Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Future Arc (2016)
- Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Hope Arc (2016)
- Super Danganronpa 2.5: Komaeda Nagito to Sekai no Hakaimono (2017)
How to Watch Danganronpa Anime In Chronological Order
Let’s take a look at the chronological order in which the Danganronpa anime series was released and how the story unfolded.
1. Danganronpa: The Animation (2013)
For maximum enjoyment, Danganronpa: The Animation is the first in the Danganronpa series that you should watch before anything else. This is because it kickstarts everything. The anime series created by Lerche, adapting Spike Chunsoft’s 2010 visual novel, “Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc”. Originally broadcast on MBS’ Animeism programming block from July to September 2013, the thirteen-episode series closely mirrors the narrative of the video game version.
Set within a high school called Hope’s Peak Academy, Danganronpa: The Animation revolves around 16 students facing a dire situation. The anthropomorphic bear called Monokuma threatens them, presenting a grim ultimatum: the only way to escape the academy is to commit murder, avoiding guilt in the subsequent trial.
Makoto Naegi, the protagonist, takes center stage alongside fifteen other students, each possessing an “ultimate” skill or profession, such as the “Ultimate Gambler” or “Ultimate Swimmer.” These designations are often referred to as “Super High School Level” when translated from Japanese.
2. Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Future Arc (2016)
After watching Danganronpa: The Animation, the next thing to watch in the Danganronpa series is Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Future Arc. For the record, Future Arc is the second chapter from Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School which was shown in 2016.
The events of Future Arc unfold in the aftermath of the video game Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair. Makoto Naegi, the Lucky Student, finds himself arrested by Kyosuke Munakata, the Vice-chairman and former Student Council President of the Future Foundation. Makoto faces accusations of treason and kidnapping for concealing Hajime, Nagito, Junko, and Chisa Yukizome’s brainwashed students in a virtual world, where they continued fulfilling Junko’s malevolent desires even after her demise. Makoto’s intention, however, was to erase their memories of their manipulated states.
The ominous Monokuma, a bear-like creature, emerges on video monitors, initiating a chilling “Monokuma Hunter” killing game. Participants wear bangles that, after a set duration, induce a brief sleep period for everyone involved. During this dormancy, a designated attacker awakens and claims the life of one of the participants. Chisa becomes the first victim, leading to Kyosuke’s deep-seated distrust of most allies and his attempted assault on Makoto.
Adding complexity, personalized forbidden actions trigger a deadly poison injection. Future Foundation members, one by one, succumb to mysterious deaths: Ruruka Ando, a Confectioner; Sonosuke Izayoi, a Blacksmith; Great Gozu, a Wrestler; Daisaku Bandai, a Farmer; Seiko Kimura, a Pharmacist; Miyai Gekkogahara, a Psychologist; and Koichi Kizakura, a Scout. Makoto’s group is shocked to discover Detective Kyoko Kirigiri poisoned due to her forbidden action, with the poison set to activate if Makoto survives past the fourth time limit.
In pursuit of the truth, Makoto confronts Kyosuke, leading to an unexpected turn of events where the two make peace. Makoto manages to jog his superior’s memory regarding Chisa’s death. Understanding the attacker’s modus operandi, with the assistance of Boxer Juzo Sakakura, Makoto learns that there are no culprits; the individuals committed suicide after being brainwashed by Junko’s hallucinating videos initially used on Chisa’s students. Juzo sacrifices himself by destroying all the monitors but succumbs to blood loss after being wounded by Kyosuke, who believes Juzo is the traitor.
Makoto gradually uncovers the machinations of the late chairman of the Foundation, former Headmaster Kazuo Tengan, who manipulated Animator Mitarai Ryota to spread the brainwashing videos. Ryota escapes, preparing to release his own brainwashing video onto humanity. The final scene shifts to the afterlife, where the spirits of the late Junko and Chisa observe the unfolding events in the form of a movie theater. They ponder whether the surviving characters can thwart Ryota’s impending catastrophe.
3. Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Despair Arc (2016)
After watching Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Future Arc, the net chapter to watch is Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Despair Arc. The Despair Arc is actually the first chapter in the Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School series, but its events take place prior to the events of Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc, making it the next plausible chapter to watch.
The story commences with Chisa Yukizome, the homeroom teacher, initiating her role in instructing the 77th Class of Super High School Level students at Hope’s Peak Academy. This diverse group showcases exceptional talents, and Chisa aims to aid her childhood friends, Student Council President Kyosuke Munakata and Boxer Juzo Sakakura, in elevating the academy’s standards. Simultaneously, Hajime Hinata, a student relegated to the Reserve Course for those lacking innate talents, prepares to undergo an experiment to transform him into the Ultimate Hope. Wrestling with an inferiority complex, Hajime forms a connection with Gamer Chiaki Nanami, a remarkably skilled student.
After spending six months teaching the Reserve Course, Chisa approaches Juzo, seeking a trustee’s ID to investigate the Kamukura Project. The story unfolds as the now amnesia-ridden Hinata, known as Izuru Kamukura, encounters despair-inducing figures—Junko Enoshima, a terrorist, and her sister Soldier Mukuro Ikusaba. Blackmailed by Junko, Juzo and the manipulated Chisa conceal the truth from Kyosuke, allowing Junko’s nefarious plan to proceed unchecked. Using Izuru as a pawn, Junko executes a heinous act, leading to Chiaki’s demise and the brainwashing of Chisa’s students, the graduates of the 77th Class.
Junko employs subliminal messages crafted by Animator Ryota Mitarai through a film depicting Chiaki’s death to manipulate the minds of the students. Concurrently, Hajime, now deciding to erase his memories of the 77th Class, remains curious about the potential unpredictability of hope in contrast to despair. Jin, aiming to protect the 78th Class students, assists them in transforming the school’s old building into a shelter, unaware of the lurking Despairs among them. As Junko advances her sinister agenda, she becomes intrigued by the unpredictable luck of young student Makoto Naegi.
Chisa, still under the influence of brainwashing, reunites with Kyosuke, who remains oblivious to her altered state. The narrative takes a virtual turn when Izuru, assuming his Hajime persona, finds himself in a digital realm, engaging with Chiaki once again.
4. Super Danganronpa 2.5: Komaeda Nagito to Sekai no Hakaimono (2017)
After watching Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Despair Arc, the next thing to watch in the Danganronpa series is Super Danganronpa 2.5: Komaeda Nagito to Sekai no Hakaimono. This is a singular episode included exclusively in the limited edition of Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony. This is the perfect chapter to watch after Despair Arc because the storyline is positioned in the aftermath of Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair and before the events of Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Hope Arc.
At the heart of the tale is Nagito Komaeda, portrayed as an “ordinary boy” with a twist – his seemingly perpetual streak of bad luck inadvertently results in favorable outcomes for those around him. This paradoxical dynamic shapes his character, adding complexity to his role as the protagonist. Nagito’s journey takes an intriguing turn as the narrative explores the aftermath of a particularly traumatic demise within the virtual program. In response to this harrowing experience, his mind constructs an unusual and comparatively tranquil world, serving as a coping mechanism. This intricately crafted realm becomes the backdrop for the unfolding events of the episode.
However, the semblance of peace within Nagito’s mental construct begins to unravel when a mysterious entity known as “The Destroyer of the World” emerges on the scene. The introduction of this ominous presence introduces a new layer of complexity to the narrative, disrupting the delicate equilibrium within Nagito’s coping mechanism and thrusting him into a series of challenges and revelations. Super Danganronpa 2.5 not only explores the psychological intricacies of Nagito Komaeda’s character but also presents a unique blend of storytelling elements, bridging the gap between the various installments of the Danganronpa franchise.
As fans navigate through this exclusive episode, they are treated to a deeper understanding of Nagito’s psyche, the consequences of his traumatic experiences, and the unfolding mysteries surrounding “The Destroyer of the World.” The episode provides a compelling addition to the Danganronpa universe, offering enthusiasts a fresh perspective on the beloved characters and the intricate narrative web that connects the games and anime within the franchise.
5. Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Hope Arc (2016)
Super Danganronpa 2.5: Komaeda Nagito to Sekai no Hakaimono, the next chapter to watch in the Danganronpa series is Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School – Hope Arc. This is the concluding chapter of the Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School series. In the Hope Arc, Makoto urgently races against time to thwart Ryota’s plan of broadcasting his brainwashing video. The assistance of the 77th Class, restored to their normal selves by Hajime’s extraordinary talents, proves pivotal in this endeavor.
Recognizing that the weight of the burden should not rest solely on Makoto’s shoulders, Hajime and the others extend an invitation to Ryota, expressing their collective commitment to atone for their past sins. Through persuasive efforts, they successfully convince Ryota to abandon his broadcast. Subsequently, Hajime and his companions assume responsibility for the earlier killing game, diverting blame away from the Future Foundation. Meanwhile, Kyosuke and Makoto part ways amicably.
As they depart, Mikan Tsumiki, a young nurse mentored by Chisa, shares a touching moment, revealing that she has managed to heal someone, attributing it to a late member of the Future Foundation. The final scene transitions to Hope’s Peak Academy, where an alive and well Kyoko refers to Makoto as the headmaster. This uplifting conclusion symbolizes a newfound sense of hope and redemption for the characters, signifying a departure from the dark and tumultuous events that had unfolded.
Danganronpa Anime + Games Order
As we have earlier explained, the Danganronpa series not only brings anime to life but also includes several games as well. So, to fully immerse yourself in the ultimate Danganronpa experience, it’s essential not to overlook the games alongside the anime. It’s important also to try and play the game to completely get a wholesome Danganronpa experience.
Certain anime episodes may be challenging to grasp without delving into the corresponding games, making it highly recommended to experience both mediums in tandem for a comprehensive understanding. If you’re watching the anime series and playing the games alongside, below is the perfect order to go about it.
- Danganronpa: Trigger happy havoc (game) OR Danganronpa the animation (anime)
- Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair (game) (No anime adaptation)
- Danganronpa: Ultra Despair Girls (game) (No anime adaptation)
- Danganronpa 3: Despair Arc (anime)
- Danganronpa 3: Future Arc (anime)
- Danganronpa 3: Hope Arc (anime)
- Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony (game) (No anime adaptation)
- Danganronpa 2.5 Nagito Komaeda Sekai no Hakaimoto (OVA)
How Many Seasons of Danganronpa Are There
There are two seasons of the Danganropa anime series. The first is called Danganronpa: The Animation, and the second season is titled Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School. The first series, Danganronpa: The Animation, has 13 episodes and was aired on MBS’ Animeism programming block between July and September 2013.
The second installment of the Danganronpa anime series, Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School, brings the “Hope’s Peak Academy” narrative to its conclusion. This series is divided into two parts: Future Side, unfolding after the events of Danganronpa 2: Goodbye Despair, and Despair Side, delving into events that transpired prior to Trigger Happy Havoc.
When Did Danganronpa Come Out?
The first installment of the Danganronpa series, Danganronpa: The Animation, was released and first aired on 4 July 2013. The series, which had 13 episodes, then continued to air until 26 September 2013, when the last episode was shown.
It will take almost three years before the next season will be released for the viewing pleasure of the Danganronpa anime fans.
When Did Danganronpa 2 Come Out?
The second Danganronpa series, Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School, was released and first aired on July 11, 2016. The show continued to air from that date until September 29, 2016, when the last episode was aired.
Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope’s Peak High School provides a comprehensive exploration of the intricate storyline and serves as a pivotal chapter in the Danganronpa saga.
List of Danganronpa Anime Characters
Below is a list of the Danganronpa characters and the roles they played in the anime.
- Makoto Naegi – This is the protagonist of the series.
- Monokuma – This is the mascot and central antagonist of the series.
- Kyoko Kirigiri – Kyoko is presented as a rather mysterious woman who has amnesia but also has a cool head and good reasoning skills.
- Byakuya Togami – This is the heir to a profoundly prosperous family corporation, asserting a sense of superiority over all fellow students within the academy.
- Toko Fukawa – She is presented as a gloomy girl with a persecution complex but who is also a best-selling novelist.
- Aoi Asahina – Aoi is nicknamed “Hina” in the English version and is presented as a well-meaning, air-headed student who thrives in athletic sports, especially swimming, and has a love of donuts.
- Yasuhiro Hagakure – Yasuhiro is nicknamed “Hiro” in the English version and is presented as a laid-back and dimwitted student who is a rising star in the fortune-telling community.
- Sayaka Maizono – A cheerful girl who is the leader of a five-member idol group that is nationally popular and attended the same middle school as Makoto.
- Leon Kuwata – A brash teenager who is exceptionally good at baseball.
- Chihiro Fujisaki – A shy, soft-spoken student and a skilled programmer.
- Mondo Owada – A hot-blooded student who is the head of the largest motorcycle gang in the country.
- Kiyotaka Ishimaru – Also nicknamed “Taka” in the English version, he is presented as a fervently disciplined student, dedicated to upholding rules and maintaining order, and aspires to one day become the Prime Minister.
- Hifumi Yamada – This character is presented as an obese otaku student who is a popular dōjin manga artist.
- Celestia Ludenberg – Celestia is presented as a student in Gothic Lolita costume who is a famous gambler and known as the Queen of Liars.
- Sakura Ogami – This is a fearsome yet gentle student and is also a world-class fighter nicknamed “The Ogre” by Yasuhiro.
- Junko Enoshima – Junko is a charismatic gyaru fashion model who is known to have modeled for many popular magazines.
- Mukuro Ikusaba – She is the sixteenth student at Hope’s Peak Academy, and her existence remains concealed from the others until she is unveiled as the sixth victim in the sequence of murders.
- Alter Ego – Alter Ego is an artificial intelligence program left behind by Chihiro following his death.
- Jin Kirigiri – This character is presented as the principal of Hope’s Peak Academy and Kyoko’s father, who did not spend much time with her in her youth.
- Kyosuke Munakata – This is the former student council president and vice-chairman of the Future Foundation, who is close friends with Chisa and Juzo.
- Chisa Yukizome – Chisa is a housekeeper and the former assistant homeroom teacher of the 77th class, who is close friends with Kyosuke and Juzo.
- Ryota Mitarai – Ryota is a nervous animator who was one of the students in the 77th class.
- Daisaku Bandai – A kind-hearted farmer who has a muscular build but a childlike voice.
- Great Gozu – A masked wrestler with a strong sense of justice.
- Kazuo Tengan – The chairman of the Future Foundation and former headmaster of Hope’s Peak Academy.
- Seiko Kimura – Seiko is a pharmacist who is capable of making various medicines and drugs. She wears a flu mask to cover her braces and has a condition that keeps her from eating sweets.
- Sonosuke Izayoi – This is a character presented as a blacksmith who is in a relationship with Ruruka, who calls him “Yoi-chan” for short, and enjoys her sweets.
- Koichi Kizakura – Koichi is the former homeroom teacher of Hope Peak Academy’s 77th class, whose job was to scout students for the school.
- Miaya Gekkogahara – This character was presented as a shy and silent programmer who is known to often sit in a wheelchair and communicate through the Usami/Monomi program.
- Ruruka Ando – Ruruka is a candy maker who is close with Izayoi and was friends with Seiko up until the point of high school.
- Juzo Sakakura – The character is presented as a boxer who is friends with Kyosuke and Chisa and worked at Hope’s Peak Academy as a security guard and spy for Kyosuke.
Where to Watch Danganronpa Anime
The Danganronpa anime series is accessible on various online platforms, with Crunchyroll being a primary hub that secured the licensing rights for the anime TV series produced by Lerche.
Additionally, Hulu offers the opportunity to stream the anime, albeit limiting access to the first season for subscribers. Beyond Hulu and Crunchyroll, viewers can explore other avenues, such as the Crunchyroll Amazon Channel and Funimation Now, to indulge in this popular animated series.
It’s crucial to bear in mind that the availability of content may vary depending on the user’s geographical location across these platforms. This implies that the number of seasons accessible on the same platform might differ for individuals residing in different countries. To navigate this discrepancy, users are encouraged to utilize a legal and secure VPN to ensure consistent access to the desired content.
