If you’ve ever wanted to dive into the world of Kamen Rider, you might have asked the classic question:
👉 “Where should I start watching?”
With more than 30 Rider series released over five decades, the franchise has evolved far beyond its “masked hero vs. monster” origins. It now explores themes like technology, morality, identity, and even AI consciousness.
This guide will help you understand the different eras, unique styles, and — most importantly — which Kamen Rider series are the best for beginners in 2025.
1. The Three Eras of Kamen Rider
🦸 Showa Era (1971–1994)
The original age of Kamen Rider. Simple, heroic stories about modified humans fighting evil organizations.
It’s nostalgic, old-school, and the foundation of everything that came later.
Notable series:
Kamen Rider 1, V3, Black, and Black RX
⚙️ Heisei Era (2000–2018)
The modern rebirth of the franchise, starting with Kamen Rider Kuuga (2000).
These series introduced deeper character arcs, moral conflicts, and complex world-building.
Notable series:
Kuuga, Ryuki, W (Double), OOO, Gaim, Build
🤖 Reiwa Era (2019–Present)
The newest era embraces advanced CGI, stronger storytelling, and cutting-edge themes like AI, identity, and digital life.
Perfect for younger audiences and tech enthusiasts.
Notable series:
Zero-One, Revice, Geats, Gotchard
2. Kamen Rider Style Categories — Find Your Type!
Not every Rider show feels the same. Here’s how the major styles break down:
| Style | Representative Series | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| 🕵️ Detective / Mystery | Kamen Rider W (Double) | Crime cases, dual personalities, stylish storytelling |
| ⚔️ Battle Royale / Survival | Kamen Rider Ryuki | Multiple Riders fighting for survival in a mirror world |
| 🧠 Philosophical / Multi-Character Drama | Kamen Rider Gaim | Heavy themes about destiny, power, and morality |
| 💥 Science & Technology | Kamen Rider Build | Smart scientist hero, complex gadgets, strong plot twists |
| ❤️ Family & Emotional | Kamen Rider Revice | Human vs. inner demon — explores family and trust |
| 🚀 Youth & Friendship | Kamen Rider Fourze | High school setting, cheerful tone, heartwarming friendships |
| 🤖 AI & Future | Kamen Rider Zero-One | Human-AI coexistence and questions about consciousness |
| 🦸 Classic / Heroic Roots | Kamen Rider Kuuga | A grounded, emotional take on heroism and humanity |
3. Top 5 Kamen Rider Series for Beginners (2025 Edition)
🥇 1. Kamen Rider W (Double)
Best Entry Point — 5/5
- Genre: Mystery × Detective × Dual Personality
- Why it’s great: Two characters (Shotaro & Philip) merge into one Rider, balancing mystery, emotion, and action perfectly.
- Tone: Stylish, emotional, and beginner-friendly.
- Bonus: Its sequel anime Fuuto PI continues the story beautifully.
🥈 2. Kamen Rider Ryuki
Excitement Level — 4.5/5
- Genre: Battle Royale × Psychological Drama
- Why it’s great: Over a dozen Riders fight in a deadly “Mirror World.” It’s intense, unpredictable, and full of emotional stakes.
- For you if: You enjoy survival games or psychological thrillers.
🥉 3. Kamen Rider Revice
Emotional Impact — 4.5/5
- Genre: Human × Demon × Family Bonds
- Why it’s great: The protagonist partners with his inner demon to protect humanity.
- Explores family, guilt, and identity in a heartfelt and modern way.
🏅 4. Kamen Rider Build
Complex Storyline — 4/5
- Genre: Science × Conflict × Parallel Worlds
- Why it’s great: The “smartest Rider ever.” Full of transformations, gadgets, and plot twists.
- Perfect for fans who like strategy and deep storylines.
🎖️ 5. Kamen Rider Gaim
Depth & Philosophy — 4/5
- Genre: Multi-Character × Destiny × Power Struggles
- Why it’s great: Written by Gen Urobuchi (Puella Magi Madoka Magica), Gaim mixes fruit armor, mythology, and moral dilemmas.
- Thoughtful, stylish, and unforgettable.
4. Other Notable Mentions
| Series | Why You Should Watch |
|---|---|
| Kamen Rider Kuuga | The rebirth of the franchise. Simple yet deeply emotional. |
| Kamen Rider Fourze | Feel-good school drama with Rider friendship energy. |
| Kamen Rider Zero-One | Sleek visuals, modern tech vibe, AI-driven storylines. |
| Kamen Rider Geats | A high-speed “battle royale” with creative game mechanics. |
5. Recommended Watching Order (Beginner Path)
1️⃣ Kamen Rider W — Perfect entry point
2️⃣ Kamen Rider Ryuki — Experience Rider vs. Rider tension
3️⃣ Kamen Rider Revice — Modern emotion and psychological depth
4️⃣ Kamen Rider Build — Smart, fast-paced, and thrilling
5️⃣ Kamen Rider Gaim — Philosophical storytelling
6️⃣ Kamen Rider Zero-One — Welcome to the Reiwa Era
6. The Spirit of Kamen Rider
At its heart, every Kamen Rider series carries the same message:
“True strength comes from courage, not power — from the will to protect others.”
From Kuuga’s compassion to Revice’s inner struggle, each Rider reflects a different aspect of humanity — bravery, kindness, and the constant battle between light and darkness.
So if you’re new to this universe, start with Kamen Rider W.
And once you hear the word “Henshin!” echo in your heart, you’ll understand why the legend of Kamen Rider continues to inspire generation after generation.