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The Ultimate Guide to Watching NBA Playoffs Live Without Paying a Dime

Are you a huge basketball fan but don’t want to shell out money for cable or streaming services just to watch the NBA playoffs? Well, you’re in luck because there are several ways to watch the games live without spending a penny. In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how.

Watch on Broadcast TV

One of the easiest ways to catch NBA playoff games is by tuning into your local broadcast TV channels. Major networks like ABC and TNT air some of the most popular games. You can also check your local listings for regional sports networks that may carry playoff games as well.

Use Free Streaming Services

There are several free streaming services that offer live sports channels, including those that broadcast NBA playoffs. One great option is Pluto TV, which offers a dedicated sports channel that airs live games. Another option is Sling TV’s Happy Hour program, which allows you to stream select channels for free during specific hours of the day.

Check Out Social Media Platforms

Believe it or not, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter also offer live streams of NBA playoff games. Some teams and broadcasters may even stream games on their official social media pages or YouTube channels. Be sure to follow your favorite teams and broadcasters on social media so you don’t miss out on any potential streams.

Utilize Free Trials

If all else fails, many streaming services offer free trials that allow you to access their content for a limited time without paying anything. Services like Hulu Live TV and FuboTV typically offer free trials ranging from one week to one month, giving you plenty of time to catch some playoff action before deciding whether or not to subscribe.

In conclusion, there are plenty of ways to watch NBA playoffs live without paying a dime. From broadcast TV channels and free streaming services, to social media platforms and free trials, you have several options at your disposal. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the game.

This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.

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Best order to watch ghost in the shell movies & tv shows.

Getting into the Ghost in the Shell franchise can be complicated. Here is the best order to watch all Ghost in the Shell movies and TV shows.

The Ghost in the Shell franchise has existed for decades in many different media and formats – here is the best order to watch all Ghost in the Shell movies and TV shows. In 1989, a serialized manga series by Masamune Shirow would introduce Major Motoko Kusanagi and the techno dystopian world that would remain relevant for years to come. Following the manga, Ghost in the Shell was adapted into animated movies, animated TV series, video games, and even a live-action theatrical film.

Despite all the adaptations, Ghost in the Shell ’s impact on pop culture comes mostly from the 1995 Ghost in the Shell movie by Mamoru Oshii. The classic animated feature combined elements from different sci-fi inspirations, such as Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner , with the characters and the setting from the manga, and it added a level of philosophical discussion that was not so present in the original work. Although no other entry in the Ghost in the Shell franchise managed to be as impactful as the 1995 film, each of the following movies and shows expanded the franchise in a different way and added more nuances to the story of Major Kusanagi and the Section 9.

Related: Every Ghost In The Shell Movie, Ranked From Worst To Best

Between the several movies, TV shows, OVAs, and compilations, there is no correct order to watch Ghost in the Shell . That is because there are at least three different continuities, with events that do not necessarily connect and sometimes even contradict that of the other universes. However, there is a logical Ghost in the Shell watch order that can make the experience much better. The original Ghost in the Shell movie is by far the best starting point, as the quality of the film makes up for the initially quite complicated story. That can be followed by the direct sequel Ghost In The Shell 2: Innoncence (2004) , and from then on, the view can dive deep into the animated series and the straight-to-home video films. Here is a breakdown of the best Ghost in the Shell watch order.

Ghost In The Shell (1995)

The original Ghost in the Shell movie places the audience in a dystopian world in which the characters’ alignments, origins, and motives can be hard to follow. The Mamoru Oshii film obviously could not count on the footnotes commentary that Masamune Shirow used in the manga, and it went instead for a very defined “show, don’t tell” approach with scenes that go on for minutes without any significant dialogue. That said, the initial difficulty in following The Major's story in Ghost in the Shell is not enough not to recommend the film as someone’s first and best contact with the saga. Not only was Ghost in the Shell (1995) the first adaptation of the manga but it also remains as the best entry in the Ghost in the Shell franchise to this day. It beautifully introduces the viewer to the franchise's dystopian cyberpunk world, and it sets the tone for everything that would come later in the Ghost in the Shell franchise. It is also important to notice that the 2017 live-action Ghost in the Shell movie starring Scarlett Johansson as the Major and Pilou Asbæk as Batou is mostly a remake of the 1995 film. Likewise, 2009’s Ghost in the Shell 2.0 is a reproduction of the 1995 film with updated animation techniques and the addition of 3D elements.

Ghost In The Shell 2: Innocence (2004)

It took almost a decade, but the first Ghost in the Shell got a sequel in 2004’s Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence . Mamoru Oshii returned to direct. While the sequel is not as good as the first one, it expands upon the stories and the themes of Ghost in the Shell (1995 ). Most of the characters from Ghost in the Shell (1995) , such as Togusa, Batou, and Section 9’s Chief Aramaki, are back. However, Major Kusanagi has been missing since her encounter with the Puppeteer, a character that served as an inspiration for Michael Pitt's Ghost in the Shell villain , in the first movie. Giving that element of continuity, Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence is better if watched right after Ghost in the Shell (1995) .

Ghost In The Shell: Arise Watch Order

The Ghost in the Shell: Arise series consists of five 50-minute long episodes, plus a theatrical movie that can be seen as prequels to the events of Ghost in the Shell (1995) . For example, Ghost in the Shell: Arise reveals how Major Kusanagi and the future members of Section 9 got to know each other, and it explores the characters’ backgrounds before they were a team. Arise also sees the first contact between the Major and Chief Aramaki, and it lays down the idea of Kusanagi questioning her memories and her very own existence. That said, the Ghost in the Shell: Arise series is far from being as good as Ghost in the Shell (1995), and thus it’s best to watch it after the first two movies. The watch order for the Ghost in the Shell: Arise universe is as follows:

• Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 1: Ghost Pain (2013)

• Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 2: Ghost Whispers (2013)

• Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 3: Ghost Tears (2013)

• Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 4: Ghost Stands Alone (2013)

• Ghost in the Shell Arise: Border 5 - Pyrophoric Cult (2015)

• Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie (2015)

Related: Ghost In The Shell: Ishikawa's Backstory Explained

Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex Watch Order

The animated show Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002) was the start of a brand new Ghost in the Shell continuity that had no connections with the 1995 film – despite featuring the same characters. The show was followed by a sequel, 2004’s Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig , as well as an original movie and two compilations of previously aired episodes. Recently, the Stand Alone Complex universe continued with the Netflix CG-anime Ghost in the Shell: SAC 2045 . For being the longest-running Ghost in the Shell continuity, the SAC universe is better if watched after the original movies and the Arise titles. The watch order for the Ghost in the Shell : Stand Alone Complex universe, excluding the retelling compilations such as Ghost in the Shell : SAC_2045 Sustainable War , is as follows:

• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002)

• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig (2004)

• Ghost in the Shell: Solid State Society (2006)

• Ghost in the Shell: SAC _2045 (2020)

Next: Ghost In The Shell: SAC_2045 Sustainable War Cast Guide

Here’s How To Watch Ghost In The Shell In Order

Here's how to make the most of your Ghost in the Shell binge.

Ghost in the Shell is an anime title that most viewers will be somewhat familiar with given the icon status it has received and its more recent live-action adaptation. If you’re new to the franchise, then you may not know that there is quite a lot of content out there within its universe.

Like many other anime franchises, Ghost in the Shell boasts a series of movies, OVAs, and different series that make up its story and universe. Given their release timeline and contents, working out the correct order to watch them in may feel a little tricky.

Fortunately, you can’t go wrong with this series, but to ensure that you’re on the right track, here is the best watch order for everything Ghost in the Shell to date.

Ghost in the Shell watch guide

Ghost in the Shell can be watched both in release order or chronologically; however, neither of these are the best ways to watch it. The best order is a mix of the two, which you can follow along with here.

• Ghost in the Shell (Movie)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (Series)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig (Series) / Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig – Individual Eleven (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shel 2: Innocence (Movie)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society (Movie)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise (OVA Series)
• Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie
• Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 (ONA)

The difference between this order and the chronological order of Ghost in the Shell is that Ghost in the Shell: Arise has been placed midway through the watch instead of at the beginning, where it would be chronological. This is because it’s best to have knowledge of the show and characters before watching these OVAs.

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Ghost in the Shell watch order — all episodes & movies 2023

Continued reimagining. We’re pretty sure you’ve already come across a franchise that counts as one of those. A series that doesn’t get adapted often. But when it does, it usually runs for a short while, and then quickly gets rebooted after the last project ends. Any watch order is never given a damn, given the regular recasting and resetting.

Welcome to what essentially is the official Ghost in the Shell watch order . There isn’t really that much material watch-time-wise, to begin with, so the number of resets shouldn’t feel that many. Still, this isn’t typical of most standard anime series, and you would probably also have to deal with tiny updates reflecting the era of the latest version you are going to watch.

So put aside your expectations for long-form lists as with a Bleach watch order , Naruto watch order , or One Piece watch order , because this one is as short and as repeatable as it can be.

Recommended Watch Order

First of all, yes, there is merit in repeatedly watching every major reboot on this list. Of course, if you simply want to learn the story and the bigger world centered around its lore, the default option is to just watch the latest iteration. We’ll include steps to follow this option as well. But do keep in mind that the series was first conceptualized in a much earlier era. Therefore, there might be some themes and developments no longer as prominent as it was in the later iterations.

Chronological Watch Order

We’re going to provide gaps/spaces as splits, that indicate where the reboot ends or begins for each series. You may start at any of these anytime. If you really, really don’t want to bother checking out other reboots, we at least recommend watching the very first 1995 adaptation, and then pick the series of your choice.

It should be noted that while Arise is a prequel series (and should technically somewhat fit with the Stand Alone Complex series), some fundamental parts of the setting are different enough that some fans consider it an entirely different universe. We shall do the same for this list as well.

Lastly, The Laughing Man, Individual Eleven, and Alternative Architecture are just retellings of both seasons of Stand Alone Complex and the Arise series, squeezed into a single feature-length OVA for the first two, and recompiled to a series for the other. You can effectively skip the Stand Alone Complex retellings, but you can watch Alternative Architecture as a substitute for Arise OVAs.

• Ghost in the Shell (film)
• Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (film)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (All 26 Episodes)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig (All 26 Episodes)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society (film)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:1 Ghost Pain (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:2 Ghost Whispers (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:3 Ghost Tears (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:4 Ghost Stands Alone (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:5 Pyrophoric Cult (OVA)
• Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie (film)

Release Date Order

The dates should recontextualize some of the eras of the series. The rest of the non-recommended films and episodes are also added here for reference.

• Ghost in the Shell (1995)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig (2004)
• Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (2004)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society (2006)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – The Laughing Man (2006)
• Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Individual Eleven (2007)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:1 Ghost Pain (2013)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:2 Ghost Whispers (2013)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:3 Ghost Tears (2014)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:4 Ghost Stands Alone (2014)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Border:5 Pyrophoric Cult (2015)
• Ghost in the Shell: Arise – Alternative Architecture (2015)
• Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie (2015)

Plot of Ghost in the Shell

Set in sometime during the middle of the 21st century (supposed to be the late 2020’s, but…), we are presented with a considerably futuristic Earth and the fictional Japanese city of Niihama, also known as New Port City. This is where Public Security Section 9’s headquarters is located. This organization is a specialized anti-crime task force, comprised of professionals that deal with the ultra-modern illegal incursions and incidents of their day.

The main perspective of each show is usually centered on Major Motoko Kusanagi, a full-body cyborg who was forced into this artificial shell due to an accident as a child. She represents not only the task force’s main activities, but also the series’ society as a whole. This world, after all, is a post-cyberpunk world where brain-to-machine interfaces are simply a regular fact of life…

The ramifications of a cybernetic brain society

Ghost in the Shell has been a pivotal series for the entire anime and science-fiction realms. It has inspired many people within creative industries, and like Akira, provided a lot of artistic influences on Akiba-kei cyberpunk styles.

Surprisingly, for a series centered on the complexity of technology and crime-solving, it is actually also fairly easy to get into. No convoluted timelines or decades-long story arcs to digest. All you need to do is to take a single step into its bigger world, and let each film and episode process the details of its lore bit by bit.

Looking for other non-convoluted and easy-to-watch episodes? Then might we suggest looking into our best short anime series list!

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Ghost in the Shell films and series in chronological order

Arise, Stand Alone Complex and Oshii's dilogy are three different franchise. But the timeline and plot (exept for Kôkaku kidôtai: Stand Alone Complex Solid State Society (2006) ) of each of them allows you to watch these films and series in this chronological order

• Movies or TV
• IMDb Rating
• In Theaters
• Release Year

1. Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 1: Ghost Pain (2013)

TV-MA | 58 min | Animation, Action, Sci-Fi

In this prequel set one year after the fourth World War, cyborg and hacker extraordinaire Motoko Kusanagi from the military's 501st Secret Unit finds herself wrapped up in the investigation of a devastating bombing.

Directors: Masahiko Murata , Kazuchika Kise | Stars: Maaya Sakamoto , Ikkyû Jaku , Ken'ichirô Matsuda , Tarusuke Shingaki

Votes: 4,273

Alternate version of 1-5 Arise OVAs - Koukaku Kidoutai Arise: Alternative Architecture (2015)

2. Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 2: Ghost Whispers (2013)

TV-MA | 57 min | Animation, Action, Sci-Fi

Witness the formation of the legendary Public Security Section 9. When a clandestine organization hacks every car in the city, Kusanagi recruits a lethal team of cyber operatives to clamp down on the chaos and make the city safe again.

Directors: Atsushi Takeuchi , Kazuchika Kise | Stars: Maaya Sakamoto , Ikkyû Jaku , Ken'ichirô Matsuda , Tomoyuki Dan

Votes: 3,149

3. Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 3: Ghost Tears (2014)

TV-MA | 55 min | Animation, Action, Sci-Fi

Motoko and Batou work to try to stop a terrorist organization whose symbol is the Scylla. Meanwhile, Togusa investigates a murder of a man who possessed a prosthetic leg manufactured by the Mermaid's Leg corporation.

Director: Kazuchika Kise | Stars: Maaya Sakamoto , Ikkyû Jaku , Ken'ichirô Matsuda , Tarusuke Shingaki

Votes: 2,856

4. Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 4: Ghost Stands Alone (2014)

TV-MA | 59 min | Animation, Action, Sci-Fi

When the riot squad starts shooting citizens during the holiday season, the Major and her team must track down a terrorist hacker who operates under the name Fire-Starter.

Directors: Susumu Kudô , Kazuchika Kise | Stars: Maaya Sakamoto , Ikkyû Jaku , Ken'ichirô Matsuda , Tarusuke Shingaki

Votes: 2,278

6. Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie (2015)

TV-MA | 100 min | Animation, Action, Sci-Fi

Newport-City 2029: Major, an advanced female cyborg, is in charge of the anti-terrorism etc. unit reporting directly to the government. Taking out terrorists and freeing hostages at an embassy doesn't go smoothly. Major investigates why.

Directors: Kazuchika Kise , Kazuya Nomura | Stars: Maaya Sakamoto , Ken'ichirô Matsuda , Ikkyû Jaku , Kazuya Nakai

Votes: 4,048 | Gross: $0.10M

7. Ghost in the Shell (1995)

TV-MA | 83 min | Animation, Action, Crime

A cyborg policewoman and her partner hunt a mysterious and powerful hacker called the Puppet Master.

Director: Mamoru Oshii | Stars: Atsuko Tanaka , Iemasa Kayumi , Akio Ôtsuka , Kôichi Yamadera

Votes: 151,888 | Gross: $0.52M

Alternate 3D-CG version - Kôkaku kidôtai 2.0 (2008) . Live action film based on the same part of the manga - Ghost in the Shell (2017) . Kôkaku kidôtai: Stand Alone Complex Solid State Society (2006) also based on the the same part of the manga, but the year in the plot was changed from 2029 to 2034

8. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex (2002–2005)

TV-MA | 24 min | Animation, Action, Crime

The futuristic adventures of a female cyborg counter intelligence agent and her support team.

Stars: Shirô Saitô , Atsuko Tanaka , Osamu Saka , Mary Elizabeth McGlynn

Votes: 20,537

Season 1 recompilation - Kôkaku kidôtai: Stand Alone Complex - The Laughing Man (2005) . Season 2 recompilation - Kôkaku kidôtai: S.A.C. 2nd GIG - Individual eleven (2006)

9. Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence (I) (2004)

PG-13 | 100 min | Animation, Drama, Mystery

In the year 2032, Batô, a cyborg detective for the anti-terrorist unit Public Security Section 9, investigates the case of a female robot--one created solely for sexual pleasure--who slaughtered her owner.

Director: Mamoru Oshii | Stars: Akio Ôtsuka , Atsuko Tanaka , Tamio Ôki , Kôichi Yamadera

Votes: 39,723 | Gross: $1.04M

10. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - Solid State Society (2006 TV Movie)

108 min | Animation, Action, Adventure

A.D. 2034. It has been two years since Motoko Kusanagi left Section 9. Togusa is now the new leader of the team, that has considerably increased its appointed personnel. The expanded new ... See full summary  »

Director: Kenji Kamiyama | Stars: Atsuko Tanaka , Osamu Saka , Akio Ôtsuka , Kôichi Yamadera

Votes: 7,382

Based on the the same part of the manga as Kôkaku kidôtai (1995) , but the year in the plot was changed from 2029 to 2034. Alternate 3D-CG version - Kôkaku kidôtai S.A.C. Solid State Society 3D (2011)

11. Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 (2020– )

TV-MA | 25 min | Animation, Action, Crime

Hired as a mercenary unit, the former members of Japan's elite Section 9 are faced with the sudden appearance of "Post-Human," a being with tremendous intelligence and physical capabilities.

Stars: Richard Epcar , Mary Elizabeth McGlynn , Melissa Fahn , Dave Wittenberg

Votes: 2,836

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Ghost In The Shell Watch Order [Where To Watch]

Ghost in the Shell is one of those series that you get to know about, only after you have become a hardcore anime fan. And that’s because this anime is a lot more than just mindless action.

It is a story that dives into deeper themes and uses convoluted plots to tell its story. And while it does add the essence of creativity to its storytelling, it also creates a confusing situation for fans.

Since a lot of the Ghost in the Shell series occur in different timelines, it is important to know the best order for you as a viewer. And that’s what we will provide here today.

I hope you enjoy it.

Ghost in the Shell Chronological Watch Order

It is important to note that Ghost in the Shell: Arise is placed at the top of the list. However, it is recommended that you watch this instalment way later.

This is because you need to know the basics of the Ghost in the Shell world in order to understand the events that take place in this instalment. Moreover, since there are multiple timelines, you can either watch Ghost in the Shell Movie from 1995 and call it a day or watch different timelines to experience the entire series.

Also, Here are the alternatives for the actual segments if you don’t wish to watch them.

1. Ghost in the Shell Movie, 1995 - Ghost in the Shell 2.0, 2008

2. Ghost in the Shell: S. A. C. 2nd GIG - Individual Eleven

3. Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Ghost in the Shell: Arise – Alternative Architecture

Where to watch: Netflix, FUNIMATION, Crunchyroll

You can enjoy the original Ghost in the Shell movie from 1995, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - Solid State Society, and Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 on Netflix.

Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie can be enjoyed on Netflix as well as Crunchyroll. Ghost in the Shell Arise can be watched on Crunchyroll and FUNIMATION. Whereas, Ghost in the Shell: Innocence can only be enjoyed on FUNIMATION.

Ghost in the Shell Watch Order Based on Release Date

The watch order for Ghost in the Shell based on the release date is not much different from the chronological watch order. The only difference here is that Ghost in the Shell: Arise appears later in this order than in the chronological one.

However, it is recommended to enjoy Arise, after a few instalments anyway so this watch order will be quite something.

1. Ghost in the Shell

In the year 2029, the city of Niihama transformed into a technologically advanced metropolis, allowing its inhabitants to replace body parts with cybernetic enhancements. Public Security Section 9, led by the determined Major Motoko Kusanagi, is responsible for maintaining order in this interconnected world.

Their latest mission involves tracking down a mysterious hacker known as the "Puppet Master," who erases the memories of their victims. Equipped with a nearly fully robotic body, the Puppet Master possesses extraordinary abilities.

As Motoko and her team delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter other interested parties, including Section 6, adding complexity to the case. Amidst the pursuit, Motoko reflects on profound philosophical questions and realizes that the answers lie with the enigmatic Puppet Master.

2. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex

In the not-too-distant future, humanity has reached a remarkable stage where full-body transplants from flesh to machine are feasible, blurring the boundaries of physical and cybernetic capabilities. This technological progress brings both great advancements and new dangers as criminals exploit these possibilities.

To combat these emerging threats, the Japanese Government establishes Section 9, an independent police unit dedicated to tackling high-profile crimes resulting from this technology. Led by Daisuke Aramaki and Motoko Kusanagi, Section 9 handles a wide range of cases across society with notable success.

3. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig

After successfully closing the "Laughing Man" case, Section 9 is reassembled by Japan's newly elected Prime Minister, Youko Kayabuki, to combat the ongoing menace of cyber-terrorism. A mysterious group named "The Individual Eleven" emerges, instigating acts of terror across Japan.

While Motoko Kusanagi, Daisuke Aramaki, Batou, and their team delve into the investigation, the Japanese government faces a separate crisis—providing asylum to foreign refugees displaced by the Third World War.

However, as Section 9 confronts Gouda Kazundo, a prominent figure in the Cabinet Intelligence Service, they begin to suspect his involvement and uncover unexpected connections between the refugee crisis and The Individual Eleven.

4. Ghost in the Shel 2: Innocence

Following the disappearance of Major Motoko Kusanagi, Batou from Section 9 is assigned to probe a series of brutal murders believed to be committed by defective gynoids, or sex robots.

However, when Batou receives a cryptic message from one of these malfunctioning robots, he starts to question the true source of their abnormalities. Political motives and the existence of an illicit "ghost" entity enter the picture, ensnaring Batou and his partner Togusa in a dangerous conspiracy.

As their investigation progresses, the line between human and machine becomes increasingly blurred, and the boundaries of reality and perception merge. Battling formidable foes, Batou and Togusa navigate a futuristic world inhabited by machines and lifelike dolls, where genuine human connection appears to be absent.

5. Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society

The year is 2034, and Motoko Kusanagi has been absent from Section 9 for two years. Togusa has taken on the mantle of leadership, and the team has grown in size.

They find themselves entangled in a series of complex incidents, uncovering the presence of a skilled hacker known as the Puppeteer who is orchestrating these events. During his independent investigation, Batou encounters Motoko unexpectedly, only for her to warn him about the enigmatic Solid State Society before disappearing.

This encounter leaves Batou questioning whether Motoko could be the Puppeteer himself.

6. Ghost in the Shell: Arise

The anime is set in the year 2027, following the aftermath of a non-nuclear war. New Port City, still reeling from the war's impact, becomes the target of a bombing carried out by a self-propelled mine.

In the midst of the turmoil, Daisuke Aramaki from the Public Security Section crosses paths with Motoko Kusanagi, a highly skilled cyborg hacker affiliated with the military's 501st Secret Unit.

Batou, known for his ever-watchful eye, suspects Kusanagi's involvement in the bombing incident. Meanwhile, Togusa, a detective from the Niihama Prefectural Police, finds himself investigating two separate cases: a shooting and the murder of a prostitute.

Unbeknownst to them, Kusanagi is being monitored by Kurutsu, the leader of the 501st Secret Unit, along with her team of cyborg agents.

7. Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie

Taking place in the year 2027, following the conclusion of non-nuclear World War IV, a devastating bomb detonates in Newport City. The target is a renowned arms dealer who is believed to have affiliations with the elusive 501 Organization.

Daisuke Aramaki, an official in Public Security, enlists the assistance of Motoko Kusanagi, an exceptional hacker known for her use of full-body cyber prostheses. Their mission is to delve into the details of the bombing and uncover the connections between the incident and the mysterious 501 Organization.

This movie will give you a good understanding of what the show wants to tell. And that’s why you need to watch it as soon as possible.

8. Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045

In the year 2045, artificial intelligence has undergone remarkable advancements, transforming into a weapon exploited by governments for unending warfare. Major Motoko Kusanagi, at the helm of the mercenary group GHOST, is well-versed in this environment.

However, the swift evolution of AI technology introduces a fresh menace. After departing from Public Security Section 9, Kusanagi and her team engage in global operations connected to proxy wars.

Their mission appears straightforward—to locate an arms dealer—but it draws GHOST into a clandestine conflict against cybernetically enhanced individuals called "post-humans."

Top Rated Episodes of Ghost in the Shell

If you decide to rewatch this anime then you need to watch these 5 episodes no matter what. And if you are going to watch the anime for the first time, then make sure that you have your eyes open during these episodes.

They are the best that the series can offer and you shouldn’t miss out on them at all.

1. Shouendan-u/Barrage

As the sole survivors of Section 9, Batou and Motoko embark on a perilous mission to retrieve her concealed arsenal from her apartment. The episode will have a ton of moments that will hype you up like crazy and that’s why you need to watch it as soon as you can.

It is absolutely unreal.

2. Endless Gig

As refugees on Dejima desperately try to escape on makeshift rafts and boats, the JMSDF unleashes another round of naval artillery fire and missile strikes. This episode is jam-packed with unreal action that can’t be compared to anything else.

So all those who are in it for the fights must give this one a go.

3. Okizari no Kiseki/Eraser

While Section 9 is actively searching for the fugitive doctor Imakurusu, they are not the only ones on his trail. Another hyped episode that will give you the chills that you need and thus, you need to be cautious about it.

The moment you reach this episode, prepare yourself for some fascinating experiences.

4. Affection

Batou and Togusa are testing eight potential new recruits for Section 9. However, this entire process will showcase emotions that you weren’t anticipating from this series. After all, the surprise element of Ghost in the Shell is what makes it so amazing.

And so, when you decide to watch Affection, make sure that you keep an open mind.

5. Kojou Rakujitsu/Annihilation

With Section 9's security compromised, the authorities are actively pursuing strategies to dismantle the entire division. Needless to say, this attempt won’t go unnoticed. And that’s where the fun of this episode actually aligns for the audience.

As one of the best episodes from the series, it has a lot more than you expect.

1. Is Ghost in the Shell SAC_2045 a sequel?

Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045 serves as both a continuation and an adaptation of the preceding anime series, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex. Therefore, it is a sequel that can be watched on its own.

However, it is advised that watching it in a sequence is comprehensive.

2. Should I watch Ghost in the Shell anime before the movie?

It is advised that the order in which you watch the series must contain the original movie as the first instalment. Since the original Ghost in the Shell movie is the most appreciated and comprehensive piece, it is a good decision to watch that before starting with anything else within the franchise.

3. What is the chronological release of Ghost in the Shell?

The following is the chronological order of Ghost in the Shell: Ghost in the Shell: Arise, Ghost in the Shell, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd Gig, Ghost in the Shel 2: Innocence, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex – Solid State Society, Ghost in the Shell: The New Movie, Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045

4. Can you watch Ghost in the Shell movie without watching the series

Yes. The movies have a standalone story that doesn’t require much backing from any anime series. Therefore, if you decide to only watch the movies from the franchise and nothing else, you will still be able to enjoy the series as a whole.

5. Are Ghost in the Shell and 2.0 the same?

Yes but no. 2.0 is just a rerelease of the original series with some marginal changes. These changes are done in the animation department and a few in the overall screenplay.

However, in the grand scheme of things, it can’t be considered a sequel altogether.

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