The End of Evangelion is required viewing. It completes the plot threads left dangling by Episode 24.
Inside Instrumentality (a forced evolution of humanity), Shinji is asked: "What do you desire?" The resolution is a psychological breakdown and reconstruction. Episode 26 ends with the entire cast applauding Shinji, saying "Omedetou" (Congratulations).
Just finished NGE all episodes — what did I just watch? (Spoilers, obviously) Neon Genesis Evangelion All Episodes
A 60-minute recap of episodes 1–24. It is often considered optional if you have just finished the TV series. The End of Evangelion
By Episode 13, "Lilliputian Hitcher" , the series has firmly established that the real enemy is not the Angels, but the broken psychology of its child pilots. The End of Evangelion is required viewing
The main narrative arc. Note that "Director's Cut" versions of episodes 21–24 are the standard versions found on modern platforms like Netflix and Blu-ray, as they include extra scenes crucial for the finale. Episodes 25 & 26:
When Evangelion was released on home video, Episodes 21-24 were re-edited into "Director's Cuts." To truly watch correctly, you must seek these versions. They add approximately 30 minutes of crucial footage: Episode 26 ends with the entire cast applauding
The original broadcast of Neon Genesis Evangelion consists of 26 episodes. However, the narrative splits into two distinct halves: the action-oriented "Monster of the Week" arc and the psychologically abstract conclusion.