Cardcaptor Sakura has been one of my favorite magical girl anime since childhood! Everything from the humor to the characters to the storybook settings enchants me in this classic from CLAMP.
What makes Cardcaptor Sakura so special is the characters and their relationships. The basic plot is that Sakura has to track down and capture Clow Cards, causing mischief. But we also get to see her grow as a person. She has moments of weakness and self-doubt yet matures over time as both a skilled mage and a more responsible girl.
Animated beautifully by Studio Madhouse, Cardcaptor Sakura gets my highest recommendation for all ages. It’s just so gosh darn charming and feel-good! The series earns its place among anime faves.
For those looking to catch this magical girl goodness, the watch order is straightforward:
1. Cardcaptor Sakura (1998-2000)
- Episodes: 70
- Release: Spring 1998
Meet Kinomoto Sakura, a little fourth-grade girl who stumbles upon Clow’s mysterious book. When she opens it, all the magical cards inside scatter in different directions. Keroberos, the Keeper of the Cards, selects Sakura to gather them back, making her a magical girl.
Joined by her best friend Tomoyo and rival Syaoran, Sakura sets off on an adventure that will transform her life. You can catch the Cardcaptor Sakura series on RCTI, adding a touch of magic to your watchlist.
2. Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie (1999)
- Episodes: 1 Movie
- Release: Summer 1999
It’s winter break for Sakura, and she just found out she won a trip to Hong Kong. Being skeptical of Sakura’s luck, Kero starts to wonder if her fortune is genuine or if there’s something more to it in Hong Kong.
While strolling down Bird Street in Hong Kong, Sakura senses an ominous force that seems to be calling her.
Soon, she discovers that she was compelled to go to Hong Kong by Madoushi, possibly seeking revenge on Clow Reed. This happened while Sakura chased two peculiar birds, leading her to the ghost realm.
Now, Sakura must confront Madoushi and rescue her kidnapped friends and family. With guidance from Syaoran’s mother, Yelan, and Clow Reed’s voice, she gears up for a challenging battle.
3. Cardcaptor Sakura the Movie 2: The Sealed Card (2000)
- Episodes: 1 Movie
- Release: Summer 2000
During the summer school holidays, Sakura and her classmates gear up for their performance at the annual Nadeshiko Festival. Syaoran’s unexpected arrival, accompanied by Meiling, gives Sakura the confidence to share her feelings with him openly.
Despite gradually revealing the cards individually, Sakura notices that one is still in the deck. This card possesses strength equal to all the others combined. The upcoming summer sets the stage for Sakura as she gets entangled in a fateful conflict.
4. Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card Prologue – Sakura and the Two Bears (2017)
- Episodes: 1
- Release: Summer 2017
This OVA is included with the limited edition 3rd volume of the manga. It retells events from episode 70 of the original Cardcaptor Sakura series and is the prologue to the latest anime series.
5. Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card (2018)
- Episodes: 22
- Release: Winter 2018
Clow’s powers have returned! Sakura is settling into her daily life while gearing up for her latest challenge: junior high school.
Despite the challenging classes, things turn positive when Syaoran reappears, expressing his intention to stay forever.
However, Sakura’s duties as a Cardcaptor resume after a peculiar dream where she encounters an unknown person. Upon waking up, she discovers that all the Clow Cards are missing. That’s the order for watching Cardcaptor Sakura – happy viewing!
