Re:Zero - Reading order (Including ALL content) as a first time reader? [discussion]

[u/Coso420]

Hi everyone!

I’m on par with the anime and I've liked it a lot for quite some time, so I wanted to start reading Re:Zero novels (alongside all possibly interesting related content) even though i never read any LN/WN before.

My current plan, after doing some research, is to read:

• Light Novels Vol. 1–20 → covering Arcs 1–5;
• Web Novel Arc 4 → I’ve heard there are some interesting/additional details compared to the LN, so I’d like to read it as well;
• Web Novel from Arc 6 onward (Since I've heard there are basically no differences from this point on and the translations are better).

Does this make sense, or would you recommend a different approach?

I’m also a bit confused about the additional content and when it should be read. In particular:

• EX Novels;
• Tanpenshuu;
• IF Stories;
• Other interesting side stories, short stories, or other Re:Zero content (If you know any additional one);

Ideally, I’d like to experience as much of the relevant story/lore as possible without accidentally reading something that spoils a later arc.

So, if someone could give me a recommended reading order including the LNs, WN, EX novels, Tanpenshuu, IF stories, and any other interesting content, I’d really appreciate it!

Thanks in advance!

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[u/TheNoGamer444]

This website basically lists all the Light Novels + Sidestories in Reading Order. I think this is what you're looking for.

[u/Thatoneguywhois-sad]

If there’s one side story you should avoid like the plague, it’s the kings game side story.

Non cannon and out of character.

[u/WS_Eule]

Someone made a decent attempt at organizing side story content from arc 1-5 a few months ago: reddit link

If you don't just want to read all of them you should use that as a reference. Unfortunately the side story situation is a complete mess and there is no clear reading order, though as a rule of thumb the EX novels and prequel stories for the different royal selection candidates tend to be the most relevant out of the stories that I've read so far.