The Definitive Guide to Watching Detective Conan: Case Closed, Including Movies, OVAs, and TV Specials

Watching the beloved anime series Detective Conan: Case Closed can be a bit overwhelming, given the vast number of episodes, movies, OVAs, and special episodes across different arcs. To help you navigate through the series, here is an organized guide to watch Detective Conan in the correct order. This guide includes a list of main series episodes, movies, OVAs, and TV specials, along with a recommended viewing order that ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Detective Conan: Main Series

1996-1999 - Episodes 1-104

The first 104 episodes of Detective Conan span from 1996 to 1999, forming the backbone of the series. These episodes introduce the main characters and primary antagonist, and establish the basic plot and setting. This is the perfect starting point for any Detective Conan fan, and it is highly recommended to follow the chronological order as the episodes progress. Enjoy the journey as the mystery deepens, and you develop a deeper understanding of the main storyline.

1999-2002 - Episodes 105-219

From 1999 to 2002, the series continues to build on its already established lore with episodes 105 to 219. During this period, you'll witness key plot developments, character growth, and numerous intriguing cases. Watch the episodes in order, ensuring that you don't miss any crucial details that will come up later in the series.

2002-2006 - Episodes 220-349

The next phase of the series from 2002 to 2006 comprises episodes 220 to 349. These episodes introduce new characters, explore hidden depths of the mystery, and ramp up the complexity of the storyline. This period is essential for players who want to stay engaged and involved in the intricate plot of the series. Watching these episodes in sequence will help you understand the ongoing story accurately.

2006-present - Episodes 350-onward

The more recent episodes (350 and onwards) continue the storyline, with numerous developments that tie up loose ends and introduce new elements. Watching these episodes in chronological order will ensure you are fully immersed in the series. Special mention should be made of the Magic Kaito series, which can be enjoyed in parallel or after the first 100 episodes of the main series. This series introduces the character Kaito Kuroba, adding an additional layer of mystery and excitement to the plot. It is highly recommended to watch the first three Magic Kaito movies before delving into the full series, as they provide additional context and character development.

Movies

1997-2013 - Detective Conan: Main Series Movies

The Detective Conan film series has been a major component of the series, providing standalone adventures and additional plot threads. There are 17 movies that can be watched in numerical order, from 1997 to 2013. Each movie focuses on a specific case or event, providing more in-depth background and character development. It is worth watching these movies in the order they were released as they often reference events and characters from the ongoing series, creating a cohesive narrative.

OVAs and TV Specials

OVAs (Original Video Animations) and TV specials are supplementary material that can be enjoyed after watching the main series. They provide additional stories and sometimes unique insights into the characters. Notable OVAs such as The Phantom of Baker Street and various short episodes that come with the main series can be watched to further enrich your viewing experience. Additionally, the TV specials, which often air during holidays, serve as perfect interludes to enjoy some lighter episodes.

Recommended Viewing Order

Step 1: Start with the Main Episodes

Begin with the main episodes of Detective Conan from the very first episode. This ensures that you are fully immersed in the series' lore and storyline from the beginning. Follow the chronological order to get the best experience.

Step 2: Integrate Movies

Watch the movies after every 100 episodes or so, or in chronological order as they are released. This will help you stay up-to-speed with the overarching plot while enjoying additional standalone adventures.

Step 3: Include OVAs and TV Specials

Include the OVAs and specials as you progress through the series. These provide additional stories and insights, making the viewing experience more engaging and enriching.

Step 4: Incorporate Magic Kaito

After watching the first 100 episodes of the main series, you can watch the Magic Kaito series. The anime adaptation of Magic Kaito consists of 24 episodes and can be enjoyed alongside or in parallel with the main series. It provides additional background and character depth, making the overall experience more comprehensive.

By adhering to this highly organized viewing order, you'll be able to enjoy the full scope of the Detective Conan: Case Closed series, from its episodic adventures to its standalone movies and supplementary material. This guide ensures a seamless and engaging experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the intricacies of the story and its characters.