Is the Arknights Anime Finished?#
If you are wondering whether you can binge the entire series and reach a definitive conclusion, the answer is no. The Arknights anime franchise is very much ongoing.
While there have been several releases since 2019, the story is continuing to expand. Most notably, a new series titled Arknights: RISE FROM EMBER is scheduled to debut on July 4, 2025. With new trailers and opening sequences recently revealed, it is clear that the narrative is still unfolding. If you watch the available anime, you will likely find yourself waiting for new installments or looking toward the source material to fill in the gaps.
If you’re looking to start your journey now, you can watch the anime on Prime Video to catch up before the next big release.
What to Expect from Arknights#
Based on the current trajectory of the franchise, Arknights is best suited for viewers who enjoy long-form storytelling with a clear sense of progression and expanding lore. The series has moved through various phases—from its initial 2019 release to a dedicated sequel chain—suggesting a deep world with a narrative that builds upon itself over several years.
Whether you are drawn in by the cinematic trailers or the voice acting (though fans should note that some cast changes have occurred, such as Showtaro Morikubo stepping down from his role), the series offers a multi-layered experience across different anime projects and supplementary materials.
If you find this guide helpful in planning your watch list, consider supporting us on Ko-fi to keep our investigations going!
The Ultimate Watch Order#
Because the Arknights universe consists of related series and direct sequels, the order in which you watch them matters. You can refer to the relationship tree below the article for a visual guide, but here are the best ways to approach the series:
Release Order#
For those who want to experience the franchise as it was revealed to the world:
- Arknights (2019)
- Holy Knight Light (2020)
- Arknights: Prelude to Dawn (2022)
- Arknights: Perish in Frost (2023)
- Arknights: RISE FROM EMBER (July 2025)
- U Takes Terra (2025)
Recommended Narrative Order#
If you prefer a streamlined experience focusing on the main sequential plot, we recommend following the direct sequel chain:
- Start with Arknights: Prelude to Dawn, then proceed to Arknights: Perish in Frost, and finally Arknights: RISE FROM EMBER once it premieres in July 2025.
The Completionist Order#
For fans who want every single piece of content, including the spin-offs and written materials:
- Follow the Release Order mentioned above, but integrate the manga Arknights Rhodes Kitchen: Tidbits (serialized between 2022 and 2023) into your experience. You can buy the manga to get the full picture.
For Source Material Enthusiasts#
If you don’t mind supplementing the anime with other media, you can follow the Recommended Narrative Order and then dive into the original source material to see how the anime’s events align with the broader story.
While you’re diving deep into the lore, you might want to pick up some Arknights merchandise to celebrate your commitment to the series.
Quick Summary for New Viewers#
- Status: Ongoing (New season arriving July 2025).
- Key Entry Point: Arknights: Prelude to Dawn is the start of the primary sequel chain.
- Don’t Miss: The upcoming RISE FROM EMBER and the related U Takes Terra project coming in 2025.
Arknights • anime • 2019-11-19
└─(related)→ Holy Knight Light • anime • 2020-12-26
└─(related)→ Arknights: Prelude to Dawn • anime • 2022-10-28
└─(sequel)→ Arknights: Perish in Frost • anime • 2023-10-06
└─(sequel)→ Arknights: RISE FROM EMBER • anime • 2025-07-04
└─(related)→ Arknights Rhodes Kitchen: Tidbits • manga • 2022-05-19 to 2023-02-20 (serialized on Ichijin Plus)
└─(related)→ U Takes Terra • anime • 2025
