Gintama, the genre-bending anime and manga series created by Hideaki Sorachi, is renowned for its unique blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments. But for newcomers looking to dive into this sprawling universe, one of the most frequently asked questions is: just how many episodes does Gintama have? The answer, while seemingly simple, can be a little more nuanced than you might think. Let’s break it down and provide a definitive guide to navigating the world of Gintama’s episode count.
The Core Series Episode Count
At its heart, the main Gintama anime series boasts a grand total of 367 episodes. This is the number you’ll most often see quoted when discussing the series length. These episodes are spread across several seasons, each with its own distinct arc and memorable moments. Understanding the structure of these seasons is key to understanding the complete Gintama experience.
A Breakdown by Season
The Gintama anime wasn’t released in a single continuous run. Instead, it was broadcast in several distinct seasons, with breaks in between. Here’s a breakdown of the episodes per season:
- Gintama (2006-2010): Episodes 1-201. This initial run established the core characters, the world of Edo Japan invaded by aliens (Amanto), and the series’ signature comedic style. It also introduced many of the recurring characters and storylines that would become integral to the Gintama universe.
- Gintama’ (2011-2012): Episodes 202-252. The apostrophe in the title signifies a “reboot” or a new beginning, although the story continues seamlessly from where the first series left off. This season continued to deliver both comedic and serious arcs, further developing the characters and their relationships.
- Gintama’ Enchousen (2012-2013): Episodes 253-265. “Enchousen” translates to “Extension Match,” indicating that this season was intended as a continuation of the previous one.
- Gintama (2015-2016): Episodes 266-316. After a hiatus, Gintama returned with renewed energy, tackling more complex storylines and character development.
- Gintama. (2017-2018): Episodes 317-328. Note the period in the title – Gintama. This season begins adapting the final arcs of the manga.
- Gintama. Porori-hen (2017): Episodes 329-341. “Porori-hen” translates to “Slip Arc” or “Forgotten Tales,” and this season largely features comedic, stand-alone episodes that hadn’t been adapted previously. It serves as a breather before the final, more serious arcs.
- Gintama. Shirogane no Tamashii-hen (2018): Episodes 342-367. “Shirogane no Tamashii-hen” translates to “Silver Soul Arc,” and this season adapts the climactic events of the Gintama manga.
Understanding the Episode Flow
Knowing the number of episodes per season is one thing, but understanding how the story progresses can be even more helpful. Gintama is known for its shifting tones, moving from laugh-out-loud comedy to intense action and drama.
Early episodes are largely episodic, introducing characters and establishing the world. As the series progresses, longer story arcs become more frequent. These arcs delve into the backstories of the main characters, explore the political landscape of Edo, and feature epic battles against formidable foes.
The Gintama Movies: Adding to the Story
Beyond the main anime series, Gintama also boasts several movies that contribute to the overall narrative. These films offer expanded storylines, enhanced animation, and a deeper exploration of the characters. They are important components of the Gintama experience.
The Animated Films
- Gintama: The Movie (2010): This movie is a retelling of the Benizakura arc, one of the most popular and impactful arcs from the early part of the series. It offers a more polished and visually stunning version of the story, making it a great entry point for newcomers or a nostalgic revisit for long-time fans.
- Gintama: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya (2013): This original story takes place in a dystopian future and explores the consequences of Gintoki’s actions. It’s a complex and emotional film that delves into the themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the importance of the past. It is considered canon and is highly recommended viewing.
- Gintama: The Very Final (2021): As the title suggests, this is the definitive conclusion to the Gintama saga. It adapts the final chapters of the manga, providing closure to the storylines and character arcs that have spanned the entire series. It’s a must-watch for any Gintama fan.
The OVAs (Original Video Animations)
In addition to the main series and movies, Gintama also has a few OVAs, or Original Video Animations. These are special episodes that are released directly to home video, rather than being broadcast on television.
OVA Details
- Gintama Jump Festa 2005 Special: This is a short, comedic episode that was created for the Jump Festa convention. It offers a glimpse into the early stages of the Gintama anime and is a fun curiosity for dedicated fans.
- Gintama Jump Festa 2008 Special: Similar to the 2005 special, this OVA is another comedic short that was created for Jump Festa.
- Gintama: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya – What Was That Moment? (2013): A short prequel episode released with the movie.
- Gintama°: Aizome Kaori-hen (2015): A two-part OVA adapting a side story from the manga.
Is There a Correct Viewing Order?
While Gintama is known for its episodic nature, there is a general order that’s recommended for optimal viewing.
- Start with the main series (episodes 1-367) in chronological order. This will allow you to experience the character development, the evolving storylines, and the gradual shift in tone from comedy to drama.
- Watch the movies in the order they were released: Gintama: The Movie, Gintama: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya, and Gintama: The Very Final.
- Watch the OVAs. These are mostly standalone and can be viewed at any point after you’ve familiarized yourself with the main characters.
- Skip Episode 1 and 2. Many fans recommend skipping episodes 1 and 2 of the first season, as they are filler episodes that were created before the series had fully found its footing. You can always come back to them later if you’re curious.
Why the Confusion?
The slight confusion surrounding the episode count often stems from the way the series was released, with multiple seasons and different titles. It’s easy to lose track of the overall number when each season has its own distinct numbering system. However, remember that the core series comprises 367 episodes, with the movies and OVAs adding even more content to enjoy.
Gintama’s Enduring Appeal
Despite its length, Gintama remains a beloved anime series for several reasons.
- Its unique blend of humor and heart: The series seamlessly combines slapstick comedy with poignant moments, creating a truly unique viewing experience.
- Its memorable characters: Gintoki, Shinpachi, and Kagura are just a few of the many characters who have captured the hearts of fans around the world.
- Its engaging storylines: From comedic escapades to epic battles, Gintama offers a wide range of stories that keep viewers hooked.
- Its willingness to break the fourth wall: Gintama is known for its meta-humor and its willingness to poke fun at anime tropes.
In Conclusion: A Galaxy of Gintama Awaits
So, to reiterate: the main Gintama anime series has 367 episodes. When you factor in the movies and OVAs, you’re looking at a truly massive and rewarding viewing experience. Don’t be intimidated by the sheer number of episodes. Instead, embrace the journey and prepare to laugh, cry, and be thoroughly entertained by the world of Gintama.
Embarking on the Gintama journey is like setting sail on a grand adventure. With a vast world, colorful characters, and a rollercoaster of emotions, this anime is not just a show; it’s an experience. So, take a deep breath, gather your snacks, and prepare to lose yourself in the wonderful, wacky, and ultimately heartwarming world of Gintama. You won’t regret it.
How many episodes are there in the main Gintama anime series?
The main Gintama anime series consists of 367 episodes. These episodes cover a significant portion of the manga’s storyline, adapting various arcs and comedic moments that have made the series a global phenomenon.
This number includes all the regular episodes aired across multiple seasons, including the original Gintama, Gintama’, Gintama’: Enchousen, Gintama°, Gintama. (2017), and Gintama. Porori-hen. It does not include the movies or OVAs that are considered separate entries in the franchise.
Are there any OVAs or specials related to Gintama that are not included in the main 367 episodes?
Yes, there are several OVAs (Original Video Animations) and specials that are considered separate from the main 367 episode count. These OVAs often cover side stories or adaptations of manga chapters that didn’t fit into the main series structure, or they are released as promotional material.
Notable OVAs include “Gintama Jump Festa 2005 Special,” “Gintama Jump Festa 2008 Special,” and “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya (Director’s Cut).” It’s worth noting that some of these might have alternate versions or be included as extras on DVD/Blu-ray releases.
Do the Gintama movies count towards the total episode count?
No, the Gintama movies are considered separate entities from the main anime series and its 367 episodes. The movies offer original stories or adaptations of key arcs, presented in a longer, more cinematic format.
The theatrical releases such as “Gintama: A New Retelling Benizakura Arc” and “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya,” and “Gintama: The Final” are not included when discussing the overall episode count of the television anime series. They contribute to the Gintama universe but are categorized differently.
Is Gintama completely finished, including the manga and anime adaptations?
While the main anime series concluded with 367 episodes, and the manga has also ended, the story has technically reached a complete conclusion through the movie “Gintama: The Final,” released in 2021. This movie adapts the final arc of the manga and provides a definitive ending to the Gintama saga.
So, yes, considering the manga’s conclusion and the release of “Gintama: The Final” movie, the Gintama story is generally regarded as finished. Although, the possibility of future spin-offs or collaborations is always a possibility, the core narrative has been fully resolved.
Are there any filler episodes in Gintama, and how many?
Gintama has a mixed reputation regarding filler episodes. While it doesn’t have filler in the traditional sense of anime directly adapting a long-running manga, it does have episodes that are more comedic and self-contained, often featuring original scenarios not directly tied to the major story arcs.
Pinpointing an exact number of filler episodes is difficult because the definition of “filler” is subjective. Many fans enjoy the comedic episodes, even if they don’t advance the main plot. However, episodes focused solely on humor and not adapting manga content could be considered less crucial for plot progression, numbering roughly between 20 and 30.
What’s the best order to watch Gintama, considering the episodes, OVAs, and movies?
The recommended viewing order generally follows the release order of the series. Start with the main Gintama anime (episodes 1-201), then continue with Gintama’ (episodes 202-265), followed by Gintama’: Enchousen (episodes 266-316). Next, watch Gintama° (episodes 317-328), and then proceed to Gintama. (2017) (episodes 329-353) and Gintama. Porori-hen (episodes 354-367).
The movies, “Gintama: A New Retelling Benizakura Arc” is best watched after episodes 58-61 of the original series as it’s a retelling of that arc. “Gintama: The Final Chapter – Be Forever Yorozuya” should be viewed after episode 265, and “Gintama: The Final” should be the last thing watched, as it concludes the entire storyline. Integrate the OVAs between the seasons as they were released.
Where can I legally watch Gintama episodes, OVAs, and movies online?
The availability of Gintama for legal streaming varies depending on your region. Popular streaming platforms that often carry Gintama include Crunchyroll and Hulu. These platforms often have the main anime series available for streaming with subtitles.
For the movies and OVAs, you may need to look for them on platforms that offer digital rentals or purchases, such as Amazon Prime Video or Google Play Movies. Always check the specific licensing agreements in your region to ensure you are accessing the content legally.