If you’re seeking the 86 watch order, you’ve arrived at the correct place. This critically acclaimed mecha anime has gained immense popularity in the 2020s, achieving high ratings on MyAnimeList and igniting numerous discussions about its impactful themes. Whether you’re a newcomer curious about where to begin or a fan aiming to continue with the light novels, this guide encompasses everything you need.
86 Watch Order
The suggested watch order for 86 is quite simple: just follow the release order, which aligns with the chronological timeline:
OrderTitleEpisodesAir Date186 (Part 1)Episodes 1-11April 11 – June 20, 2021286 (Part 2)Episodes 12-23October 3, 2021 – March 19, 2022
Note about recap specials: There were 4 special edition episodes aired during the anime’s run. These special episodes are not crucial viewing as they are recaps and cast commentaries made to fill in time due to production delays. You can easily skip them without losing any story content.
86 Special Episodes Breakdown (Optional):
- Episode 11.5 “The Poppies Bloom Red on the Battlefield” (June 27, 2021) – Recap of Part 1
- Episode 17.5 “Visual Commentary Special Episode” (November 14, 2021) – Recap of Part 2’s first six episodes with visual commentary from voice actors Shōya Chiba (Shinei Nouzen), Seiichirō Yamashita (Raiden Shuga), and Misaki Kuno (Frederica Rosenfort), plus merchandise promotion
- Episode 18.5 “If There’s Something Worth Dying For” (November 28, 2021) – Recap of Part 2’s first seven episodes
- Episode 21.5 “At Least as a Human” (March 5, 2022) – Recap of Part 2’s episodes 7 through 10
What Did the Anime Adapt?
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - BarCharts Publishing Inc. (Publisher)
The first season of 86 includes 23 episodes that aired from April 2021 to March 2022, adapting the initial three volumes of Asato Asato’s light novel series:
- Episodes 1-11 (Cour 1) ≈ Volume 1 of the light novel (with some alterations/omissions)
- Episodes 12-23 (Cour 2) ≈ Volumes 2 & 3 of the light novel, covering the second arc
As of October 2025, the 86 – Eighty-Six light novel series has published 14 volumes in Japan, with Volume 14, titled “Paint It Black”, initiating the final arc (released in September 2025). In English, Yen Press has released up to Volume 13, with further volumes anticipated. The series is currently entering its concluding arc, indicating there is still substantial source material available for future anime seasons to adapt.
Where to Continue After the Anime
Light Novel
If you wish to extend the story after the anime, begin reading from Volume 4: “Under Pressure”. While the anime is regarded as an excellent and faithful adaptation, certain details were streamlined or omitted for pacing. If time permits, starting from Volume 1 will provide you with the comprehensive experience along with additional context and character insights.
Manga
The manga adaptation by Motoki Yoshihara only encompasses a small segment of the storyline. The manga was cancelled in June 2021 due to the author’s health issues after just three volumes, making it unsuitable as a means to continue the narrative. The light novel remains the best option for following beyond the anime.
86 Season 2 News
There have been discussions about Season 2 being in production since Season 1 concluded, but until some official source confirms it, it remains a rumor.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- George Trombley (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 08/22/2014 (Publication Date) - Learn From Zero (Publisher)
- Ken Fukuyama, Yuki Fukuyama (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 246 Pages - 10/11/2022 (Publication Date) - Independently published (Publisher)
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Sumiko Uo (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 6 Pages - 01/01/2005 (Publication Date) - BarCharts Publishing Inc. (Publisher)
Where to Watch 86
You can stream all 23 episodes of 86 – Eighty-Six Season 1 on Crunchyroll, which offers both subtitled and dubbed versions. The series is also accessible on Amazon Prime Video in select regions.
Last Updated: October 2025
