How long is each season of Berserk?
How long is berserk anime? This question often arises among fans and newcomers alike, as the Berserk anime series holds significant stature in the world of anime. Renowned for its gripping storyline and dark themes, understanding the content’s total runtime can help viewers decide how to dive into this iconic series. In this article, we will explore the different adaptations of the Berserk anime, their runtime, and what viewers can expect from each.

Understanding the Different Adaptations of Berserk Anime
Berserk has been adapted into various formats since its debut. Each adaptation has its own unique storytelling approach, animation style, and runtime. Here are the main adaptations:
Original Berserk Anime Series
The original Berserk anime series, released in 1997, consists of 25 episodes. This adaptation covers the initial arcs of the manga, focusing on the Golden Age arc, which introduces viewers to Guts, the protagonist, and his tumultuous journey.
- Total Episodes: 25
- Average Episode Length: 23 minutes
Thus, the total runtime for the original Berserk series is approximately:
Adaptation | Episode Count | Total Runtime (approx.) |
Original Series (1997) | 25 | 575 minutes |
Berserk: The Golden Age Arc Trilogy
Following the original adaptation, Berserk: The Golden Age Arc released a trilogy of films between 2012 and 2013. These films retell the Golden Age story arc with updated animation and pacing. The trilogy consists of three films:
- Berserk: The Golden Age Arc I – The Egg of the King
- Berserk: The Golden Age Arc II – The Battle for Doldrey
- Berserk: The Golden Age Arc III – The Advent
The total runtime for all three films is approximately:
Film | Runtime |
Part I | 77 minutes |
Part II | 100 minutes |
Part III | 110 minutes |
Adding these runtimes together gives us:
- Total Runtime for Trilogy: 287 minutes
Berserk (2016) Anime Series
The 2016 adaptation attempted to continue the Berserk story but received mixed reviews due to its animation quality and pacing. This series consists of 24 episodes, covering the Black Swordsman arc as well as parts of the Conviction arc and many significant plot developments.
- Total Episodes: 24
- Average Episode Length: 23 minutes
The total runtime of this series is approximately:
Adaptation | Episode Count | Total Runtime (approx.) |
Berserk (2016) | 24 | 552 minutes |
Summary of Total Runtimes
Putting together the runtimes of each adaptation:
Adaptation | Total Runtime (approx.) |
Original Series (1997) | 575 minutes |
Golden Age Arc Trilogy | 287 minutes |
Berserk (2016) | 552 minutes |
Total Runtime Across All Adaptations | 1414 minutes |
Considerations When Watching Berserk
When diving into the Berserk series, it’s essential to note that each adaptation approaches the source material differently. Here are some factors to consider for newcomers:
Content Grading and Themes
Berserk is known for its mature themes, including graphic violence, trauma, and deep psychological elements. Viewers should ensure they are comfortable with this type of content before proceeding with the series.
Viewer Expectations
The original 1997 adaptation is often hailed for its storytelling and character development. In contrast, the 2016 series faces criticism primarily because of its animation style, which may detract from the overall experience.
Manga vs. Anime
Many fans argue that the Berserk manga is superior to its anime adaptations, given its detailed artwork and storytelling depth. For those interested in a complete experience, it may be worth exploring the original manga, which further elaborates on Guts’ story.
Where to Watch Berserk Anime
When considering where to view the Berserk anime adaptations, there are several streaming platforms that typically host these series:
- Crunchyroll: A popular site providing a wide array of anime, including both the original and 2016 adaptations.
- Hulu: Offers access to multiple series, typically including different adaptations of Berserk.
- Funimation: Known for its collection of dubbed and subbed anime, this service generally features the Berserk films and series.
For an in-depth exploration of where to find various anime, you can also visit Anime News Network, which offers reliable streaming information.
Conclusion on How Long is Berserk Anime
when asking, “How long is Berserk anime?” it’s essential to consider the various adaptations of the Berserk franchise. With the original series running for approximately 575 minutes, the movie trilogy totaling around 287 minutes, and the 2016 series having about 552 minutes, the total runtime across all adaptations is roughly 1414 minutes.
This information can help viewers prepare for the emotional and thrilling journey through one of the most celebrated dark fantasy anime series. Whether one chooses to start with the iconic original series or dive into the newer 2016 adaptation, there’s no denying the impact that Berserk has made in the anime world. For those interested in exploring the manga, it serves as a brilliant companion to the adaptations, enriching the overall narrative experience.
By familiarizing yourself with these runtimes and insights, you can confidently embark on your Berserk journey, fully aware of its length and gravity.

