What is Project ARMS?#
Project ARMS is a high-stakes blend of science fiction, action, and drama. The story follows Ryo Takatsuki, a young man who suffered a severe arm injury years prior. After a surgery that saved his limb, Ryo discovers that he has undergone an unexpected transformation: he possesses enhanced healing abilities and a devastating superweapon known as “ARMS” embedded in his body.
As Ryo navigates this new reality, he finds allies who are dealing with similar predicaments. Together, they must fight against a secret organization determined to control the ARMS technology while Ryo searches for the truth behind the weapon living inside him. If you enjoy stories featuring assassins, intense fighting, and the burden of superpowers, this is a series worth your time.
Interested in starting the journey? Watch the anime on Prime Video to see these battles unfold.
Is the Anime Really Finished?#
If you are wondering whether the anime provides a complete experience, the answer depends on your definition of “finished.” The anime adaptation consists of the original series and a sequel, Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter.
However, it is important to note that the anime is an adaptation of the original manga, which ran from 1997 to 2002. While the anime provides a significant narrative arc, fans who want the full, definitive conclusion and all the nuances of the plot should look toward the source material. To ensure you get the complete story, we highly recommend buying the Project ARMS manga.
Who Should Watch Project ARMS?#
This series is best suited for viewers who gravitate toward the “superpower” and “secret organization” tropes of early 2000s sci-fi. With genres spanning from fantasy to romance and a heavy emphasis on action and drama, it appeals to those who like seeing characters grow in power while dealing with the emotional trauma of being used as biological weapons.
If you’re a fan of collecting memorabilia from classic sci-fi anime, you can find Project ARMS merchandise here.
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Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Navigating the relationship between the manga and the anime can be confusing. For a clear path, refer to the relationship tree provided below this article. Here are the best ways to experience the story:
The Release Order#
If you want to experience the series as it was originally presented to anime audiences:
- Project ARMS (Anime series)
- Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter (Anime sequel)
The Completionist Order#
For those who want every single detail and the most comprehensive version of the story, we recommend starting with the source material:
- Project ARMS (Manga, 1997–2002)
- Project ARMS (Anime series)
- Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter (Anime sequel)
The “Anime-First” Hybrid Order#
If you prefer watching before reading but don’t want to miss anything:
- Watch the Project ARMS anime.
- Watch Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter.
- Read the Project ARMS manga to fill in any gaps and reach the definitive conclusion.
Regardless of the path you choose, the blend of science fiction and fighting makes this a memorable trip back to the era of early 2000s action anime.
Project ARMS • manga • 1997 to 2002
└─(adaptation)→ Project ARMS • anime • 2001-04-07 to 2001-09-29
└─(sequel)→ Project ARMS: The 2nd Chapter • anime • 2001-10-06 to 2002-03-30
