Is the Anime Really Finished?#
When looking at the Rewrite franchise, it is important to distinguish between the different mediums. While the main Rewrite anime series consists of two primary parts (released in 2016 and 2017), providing a narrative arc, the world of Rewrite extends far beyond the screen.
If you are looking for a definitive conclusion, the anime offers a structured experience, but completionists will find that the story is expanded upon through various manga. Specifically, Rewrite:SIDE-B is a manga series that ran from 2010 to 2014. If you only watch the anime, you will miss these detailed side stories and alternative perspectives. To get the full picture of this universe, we highly recommend buying the Rewrite:SIDE-B manga to supplement your viewing.
What to Expect: Themes and Appeal#
Rewrite is primarily categorized within the romance genre. It is best suited for viewers who enjoy emotional storytelling and character-driven narratives.
Beyond the main plot, the franchise is known for its crossover appeal. This is most evident in the Kaginado series, which brings together characters from various Key projects. This makes the series particularly appealing to fans of the developer’s broader catalog who enjoy seeing their favorite characters interact in new, often lighter, settings. If you love the characters, you might also want to browse for Rewrite merchandise to commemorate your favorite moments.
Recommended Watch and Read Order#
Navigating the Rewrite universe can be tricky because of the mix of anime and manga. For a clear path, we suggest referring to the relationship tree provided on this page, but here are the general guidelines:
The Release Order#
If you want to experience the content as it was released to the public:
- Rewrite (Anime - 2016)
- Rewrite (Anime Sequel - 2017)
- Kaginado (Anime Spinoff - 2021)
- Kaginado (Anime Sequel - 2022)
The Completionist Order#
For those who want every single piece of the puzzle, we recommend integrating the manga into your journey. Start with the early manga publications like Rewrite:SIDE-B, Rewrite:SIDE-R, and the Okaken series to build a foundation of the world before diving into the anime. After finishing the main anime and its sequel, proceed to the Kaginado spinoffs for the crossover experience.
The “Source Material” Route#
If you don’t mind reading to fill in the gaps, start with the manga series. After the anime, you can read Rewrite:SIDE-TERRA, which is an adaptation of the anime, to see how the story translates back to the page. You can find the manga and light novels here.
Regardless of the order you choose, you can watch the anime on Prime Video to start your journey.
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Useful Tips for Newcomers#
Keep in mind that Kaginado is a crossover series. While it is a spinoff of Rewrite, it features a broader cast. If you are strictly interested in the main Rewrite plot, the 2016 and 2017 anime installments are your priority. However, for the full emotional weight and romance of the series, the manga remains an essential companion.
Rewrite:SIDE-B • manga • 2010-08-30 to 2014-03-28 (Dengeki G's Magazine, Oct 2010 - May 2014)
└─(related)→ Rewrite • anime • 2016-07-02
└─(sequel)→ Rewrite • anime • 2017-01-14
└─(spinoff)→ Kaginado • anime • 2021-10-12
└─(sequel)→ Kaginado • anime • 2022-04-12
└─(adaptation)→ Rewrite:SIDE-TERRA • manga • 2016-09-27
└─(related)→ Rewrite:SIDE-R • manga • 2011-02-26 to 2013-07-27 (Dengeki Daioh, Apr 2011 - Sep 2013)
└─(related)→ Rewrite: Okaken e Yōkoso!! • manga • 2011-04-22 to 2014-02-22 (Manga 4-Koma Palette, Jun 2011 - Apr 2014)
└─(related)→ Rewrite: Okaken Blog • manga • 2011-10-26 to 2013-04-26 (Dengeki G's Festival! Comic, vols. 20 - 29)
