I feel likeDigimonmight be one of the most underrated anime classics from the ’90s. In my perception, it was always kind of competing withPokémon, but fast-forward to the present day, and the Pokémon games are considered mainstream, while theDigimongamesfeel like they’re largely overlooked.
But that hasn’t stopped theDigimonanime series from flourishing. In fact, after the classicDigimon AdventureandDigimon Adventure 02ended back in the late ’90s and early aughts, there were a lot of sequels and unrelated spinoffs that followed, with the latest having recently ended on Jun 03, 2025.
Let’s dive into the storied history of this franchise as we seek to unearth the best watch order forDigimon. I’d like to formally thank Reddit usersDarkMastero,The-Papa-Pun101, andflowerstageover at r/digimon for breaking things down. In any case, let’s get digitized!
DigimonWatch Order — For Those Longing for Adventure
I’d like to start with theDigimon Adventurewatch order/timeline, as it’s the one most folks will recall from their childhood. Note that even if we include the 2020 version ofDigimon Adventure, it is not included in the same timeline/universe as the others and can be enjoyed whenever.
Also — it’s important to note thatDigimon: The Movieis effectively a mashup of three separate films that were released separately in Japan. These films were announced to be coming to the West for the first time this summer courtesy of Discotek Media, though no date has been announced as of writing. Here’s our overview of every season and film in theDigimon Adventureseries.
DigimonWatch Order — For Those Seeking New Horizons
If you’re less concerned with seeing theDigimon Adventureseries play out, there are several other, more unconnected series out there for your consumption. Many of these entries stray from the formula established in theAdventuresseries, and some take the “digital companions” concept at the core ofDigimonin wild directions.Tamers, for example,takes a meta approach, presenting theAdventurescontinuity as an in-universe media franchise and the Digimon themselves as sentient video game NPCs.
Some swings these series take don’t land, but I’d argue you should watch all of them if you want to experience the fullDigimonspectrum. Here’s our recommended watch order for the non-AdventureDigimonseries and movies.
Digital Monster X-Evolution
Which Digimon series should I start with?
If you’re looking for the bestDigimonshows to start your digi-odyssey with, you can’t go wrong with the originalDigimon Adventure. This series does an outstanding job of introducing how Digimon functions and establishes the series’ overarching themes of friendship, trust, and growth through adversity. It also features one of the best casts in the franchise, with character arcs that develop across multiple seasons and movies. It’s not quiteOne Piece, but it is a good long-form anime if you want something meaty to invest in this anime season.
Once you’re finished with the first season ofAdventure, you’re free to check out whateverDigimonseries you like. As a long-time Digimon watcher, I recommend puttingTamersat the top of your watch list. It’s a much darker, cerebral take on the Digimon formula, and things get especially twisted during the D-Reaper arc, which comprises the final ten episodes.
