Original Original Anime Animation (OAD) episodes in Attack on Titan expand the core lore by delivering standalone side stories, character backstories, and extra context that standard TV broadcasts missed. These eight special episodes provide crucial depth to fan-favorite Scout Regiment members while bridging narrative gaps between major seasons. Understanding where each OAD fits into the overall timeline helps viewers appreciate the complete story arc without disrupting the flow of the main series.
Understanding Attack on Titan OADs and Early Cadet Side Stories
An OAD refers to an anime episode released directly alongside special manga volumes rather than airing on television first. The first set of Attack on Titan OADs focuses primarily on the 104th Training Corps during their early cadet years. Episodes like Ilse's Notebook and The Sudden Visitor provide valuable character insights while showcasing early encounters with Titan intelligence. Fans following entertainment coverage and daily gaming news often highlight how these side stories enrich character relationships before the dark events of Trost.
Ilse's Notebook takes place during the scout expeditions prior to Season 1, revealing a Talking Titan that connects to later revelations. Distress follows the 104th Training Corps during a wilderness survival exercise that tests their teamwork under pressure. These lighthearted yet insightful episodes are best watched right after completing Season 1.
Levi's Backstory in No Regrets
The two-part OAD arc titled No Regrets explores Captain Levi Ackerman's origin story in the subterranean city under Wall Sina. It showcases his life as a notorious underground thug alongside his close companions Isabel Magnolia and Furlan Church. Their eventual encounter with Commander Erwin Smith forces them into joining the Scout Regiment under intense circumstances.
Watching No Regrets provides vital emotional weight to Levi's cold demeanor throughout the main series. It details his tragic past and explains why he holds unwavering trust in Erwin's strategic decisions. These two episodes fit perfectly right after Season 1 or before starting Season 2.
Annie Leonhart's Journey in Lost Girls
The Lost Girls OAD trilogy focuses on the internal struggles and hidden missions of key female characters in the series. The first two parts, Wall Sina, Goodbye, explore Annie Leonhart's private detective work right before she attempts to capture Eren in Season 1. She searches for a missing daughter of a wealthy merchant while dealing with corruption within the Military Police.
This mini-series humanizes Annie by illustrating her reluctance, trauma, and desire to return to her homeland. The narrative offers a rare look at everyday life behind Wall Sina away from the Titan threat. Viewing these episodes before Season 3 provides excellent context for her character motivations.
Mikasa's Alternative Reality and Proper Viewing Order
The final part of Lost Girls, titled Lost in the Cruel World, takes a unique approach by presenting an alternate timeline imagined by Mikasa Ackerman. This story explores what might have happened if Mikasa's parents were never killed and Eren's life took a peaceful path. Despite the altered events, the tragic fate surrounding Eren's destiny remains unavoidable.
To enjoy Attack on Titan seamlessly, watching all eight OAD episodes between Season 1 and Season 3 is highly recommended. They seamlessly fill emotional gaps and enrich the worldbuilding of Paradis Island without spoiling future plot twists.
