The original light novel 'Welcome to the N.H.K.' written by Tatsuhiko Takimoto was first published in Japan, introducing the story and characters that would later be adapted into anime and manga.
The anime adaptation of 'Welcome to the N.H.K.' was broadcasted in Japan, gaining popularity for its portrayal of social withdrawal and otaku culture.
The anime was officially licensed for English release, making the series accessible to a wider international audience.
A manga adaptation of 'Welcome to the N.H.K.' was published, expanding on the story and reaching different audiences.
Tatsuhiro Sato attends high school but starts to become a hikikomori due to social anxiety and fear of the outside world.
After enrolling in university, Tatsuhiro drops out and becomes a complete recluse, deepening his hikikomori lifestyle.
Misaki Nakahara approaches Tatsuhiro with the goal of helping him escape his hikikomori lifestyle through a self-improvement program called the 'Project NHK'.
Misaki officially starts the Project NHK to help Tatsuhiro overcome his social anxiety and reintegrate into society.
Tatsuhiro teams up with his classmates Kaoru Yamazaki and Hitomi Kashiwa to develop a visual novel game, hoping it will give him purpose and help his socialization.
Kaoru reveals his own deep involvement in otaku culture and his dream of working in the game industry.
Tatsuhiro learns about Misaki's history of attempted suicide and her complex feelings towards him.
Hitomi undergoes a significant personal transformation, trying to overcome her own psychological struggles and contributing to the group.
Tatsuhiro faces the reality of his delusions, confronting the false conspiracy by NHK and trying to accept his own responsibilities.
With Misaki's help and support from his friends, Tatsuhiro takes his first real steps out of isolation towards social reintegration and self-acceptance.