MCU Watch Order: Chronological Guide For Marvel Fans!

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the sprawling cosmos of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a realm where heroes soar, timelines collide, and the fate of galaxies hangs in the balance? The chronological viewing order of the MCU is the definitive way to experience the interconnected narrative tapestry that has captivated audiences worldwide.

From the war-torn battlefields of World War II to the cosmic wonders of distant planets, the MCU presents a complex, multifaceted saga. While the release order offers a convenient way to consume the content, the chronological approach unveils the intricate threads that bind the various storylines. This allows viewers to witness the events as they unfold within the Marvel Universe itself, offering a fresh perspective on the characters, their relationships, and the overarching narrative.

Keeping track of the past and upcoming Marvel movies and shows can be difficult, but that's where a comprehensive guide comes in. We've dived deep into every Marvel movie and show released so far to create the ultimate watch order. This approach is perfect for both longtime Marvel fans and newcomers alike, providing a clear and engaging way to explore the MCU's rich narrative.

The fictional timeline of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) media franchise is a complex entity. This shared universe encompasses feature films, television series, television specials, short films, and the "I Am Groot" shorts, all produced by Marvel Studios. Additionally, it includes a group of Netflix series produced by Marvel Television. Stream these titles exclusively on Disney+ to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Here's how to experience the Marvel Cinematic Universe in chronological order:

This ultimate watch order for MCU completists meticulously organizes events to unfold in chronological order, although some rules had to be imposed to make it straightforward.

Here's a list of every single MCU title, both movies and TV shows, in chronological order. This list is constantly in flux, as with more releases come changes. It's a lot more than just the films, so if you're wanting more marvellous content, stay tuned.

Whether youre a newcomer stepping into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) for the first time or are gearing up for an epic rewatch, figuring out where to start can feel like a big decision. With 35+ films, a growing collection of shows on Disney+, and intertwining timelines with multiverse twists our comprehensive guide breaks it all down.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe reveals new layers of complexity when viewed through the lens of its actual timeline, rather than release dates. The First Avenger's World War II heroics and weaving through decades to the cosmic revelations of Iron Man, this provides a fresh perspective. For those who want to follow the events as they unfold within the Marvel universe itself, watching it in chronological order is your best bet.

Think youre one of the ultimate MCU fans? This list provides a look at the full MCU in chronological order, meaning it includes all the movies and TV shows in the order of their events.

Discover the ultimate Marvel movie watch order for the best viewing experience, including how to watch all 35 MCU movies chronologically and by release date.

Here is the chronological order, please note that some titles have overlapping timelines, the following list takes that into consideration to provide the most accurate and comprehensive experience.

Note: Titles marked with an asterisk (*) include some degree of ambiguity in their placement.

Phase One

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (Set primarily in 1942-1945)

Steve Rogers, a frail young man, transforms into Captain America to fight in World War II. This film sets the stage for the MCU, introducing the origins of the super-soldier program and key characters.

2. Agent Carter (TV Series) (Set primarily in 1946)

Following the events of "Captain America: The First Avenger," Peggy Carter navigates life as a secret agent.

3. Captain Marvel (Set primarily in 1995)

Carol Danvers gains superpowers and becomes Captain Marvel. This film provides context for the broader MCU, introducing key characters and concepts that come to fruition later.

4. Iron Man (2008)

Tony Stark builds the Iron Man suit and begins his journey as a superhero. The film establishes the modern era of the MCU and introduces the concept of advanced technology and its implications.

5. Iron Man 2 (2010)

Tony Stark faces new threats while grappling with the responsibilities of being Iron Man. This movie explores the consequences of publicly revealing his identity.

6. The Incredible Hulk (2008)

Bruce Banner battles the Hulk and the military while seeking a cure. This film introduces the Hulk and sets the stage for future collaborations.

7. Thor (2011)

Thor is banished to Earth and learns humility while battling his brother, Loki. This film introduces the concept of Asgard and cosmic threats to the MCU.

8. The Avengers (2012)

The Avengers team up to save the world from Loki and the Chitauri invasion. This movie marks the first major crossover event and solidifies the team dynamic.

Phase Two

9. Thor: The Dark World (2013)

Thor battles the Dark Elves to save Earth and Asgard. This film explores Thor's connection with Asgard and other realms.

10. Iron Man 3 (2013)

Tony Stark faces a terrorist known as the Mandarin. The film explores Tony's mental health and the impact of the events in "The Avengers."

11. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

Captain America uncovers a conspiracy within S.H.I.E.L.D. The film significantly alters the landscape of the MCU and introduces new characters.

12. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

A group of misfits teams up to save the galaxy from Ronan the Accuser. This film expands the scope of the MCU to include cosmic adventures.

13. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

The Guardians of the Galaxy continue their adventures, and Peter Quill learns more about his parentage.

14. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

The Avengers battle Ultron, a rogue AI. This movie explores the consequences of creating advanced technology and sets the stage for future conflicts.

15. Ant-Man (2015)

Scott Lang becomes Ant-Man and joins the fight against evil. This film introduces the concept of shrinking technology and expands the universe.

Phase Three

16. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

The Avengers split into two factions over the Sokovia Accords. The film explores the complexities of superhero regulation and introduces new heroes.

17. Black Widow (2021) (Set during the events of "Captain America: Civil War")

Natasha Romanoff confronts her past. While released later, this film's main events occur during the period of Civil War.

18. Black Panther (2018)

T'Challa becomes the Black Panther and protects Wakanda. This film explores themes of identity, heritage, and global politics.

19. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Peter Parker balances his life as a high school student and a superhero. The film introduces Spider-Man to the MCU and his connection to the wider world.

20. Doctor Strange (2016)

Stephen Strange becomes a master of the mystic arts. This film introduces the concept of the multiverse and mystical threats to the MCU.

21. Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

Thor faces Ragnarok, the destruction of Asgard. This film offers a comedic tone and expands the cosmic scope of the MCU.

22. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)

Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne team up again to rescue Janet van Dyne from the Quantum Realm. The film has a lighter tone and introduces new technology.

23. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

The Avengers and their allies fight Thanos to prevent him from acquiring the Infinity Stones. The film ends with a cliffhanger, setting the stage for the next chapter.

24. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

The remaining Avengers and their allies confront Thanos to undo his actions. This movie concludes the Infinity Saga and provides closure to several storylines.

25. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

Peter Parker deals with the aftermath of "Endgame" and faces new threats. The film explores the implications of the multiverse.

Phase Four and Beyond

26. WandaVision (TV Series) (Set shortly after "Avengers: Endgame")

Wanda Maximoff creates a new reality in Westview. This show explores Wanda's grief and powers.

27. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (TV Series) (Set after "Avengers: Endgame")

Sam Wilson struggles to take on the mantle of Captain America. This series explores themes of identity and legacy.

28. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

Shang-Chi confronts his past and the Ten Rings organization. This film introduces new characters and expands the MCU.

29. Eternals (2021)

The Eternals, a group of immortal beings, must protect Earth from the Deviants. The film introduces new heroes and explores cosmic themes.

30. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

Peter Parker deals with the consequences of revealing his identity and explores the multiverse. The film includes characters from previous Spider-Man franchises.

31. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Doctor Strange travels through the multiverse. The film explores the dangers of the multiverse and features a variety of characters.

32. Hawkeye (TV Series) (Set during the holiday season after "Avengers: Endgame")

Clint Barton trains Kate Bishop. This series introduces a new generation of heroes and explores Hawkeye's personal life.

33. Moon Knight (TV Series)

Steven Grant discovers he has dissociative identity disorder and becomes the Moon Knight. This series explores themes of mental health and identity.

34. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)

Thor faces Gorr the God Butcher. The film explores Thor's personal life and introduces new threats.

35. Ms. Marvel (TV Series)

Kamala Khan gains superpowers and becomes Ms. Marvel. This series introduces a new generation of heroes and explores themes of identity and family.

36. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (TV Series)

Jennifer Walters becomes She-Hulk and navigates her life as a superhero and a lawyer. This series explores themes of law and superheroes.

37. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

The people of Wakanda must protect their nation after the death of T'Challa. This film explores themes of grief, loss, and legacy.

38. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

The Guardians of the Galaxy celebrate the holidays on Knowhere. The special is fun and offers a glimpse into the characters lives.

39. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

Scott Lang and Hope van Dyne explore the Quantum Realm. The film sets the stage for future conflicts.

40. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

The Guardians of the Galaxy embark on a new adventure. This movie offers a satisfying conclusion to the Guardians' story.

41. Secret Invasion (TV Series) (Set after "Avengers: Endgame")

Nick Fury investigates a Skrull invasion of Earth.

42. Loki: Season 2 (TV Series) (Set after the events of season 1)

Loki continues his adventures through time.

43. Echo (TV Series)

Maya Lopez, also known as Echo, returns to her hometown to confront her past.

44. The Marvels (2023)

Carol Danvers, Monica Rambeau, and Kamala Khan team up to fight a new threat.

45. What If...? Season 2 (TV Series)

An anthology series that explores alternate timelines in the MCU.

46. X-Men '97 (TV Series)

A revival of the animated series featuring the X-Men.

Upcoming MCU Titles (Timeline placement TBD):

47. Deadpool 3 (2024)

48. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)

49. Thunderbolts (2025)

50. Fantastic Four (2025)

51. Blade (TBD)

52. Avengers: The Kang Dynasty (2026)

53. Avengers: Secret Wars (2027)

Keep in mind that the MCU is a constantly evolving entity, and the exact timeline is subject to change with each new release. As the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand, new stories, characters, and timelines are being added, keeping fans constantly on the edge of their seats.

By following the chronological order, you'll experience the events of the MCU in a unique and engaging way. Each film and show builds upon the previous ones, revealing hidden connections and deepening your understanding of the characters and the overall narrative. For those wanting to follow the events as they unfold within the Marvel universe itself, watching it in chronological order is your best bet.

So, whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned fan, embracing the chronological order is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the incredible saga of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.