How to Watch Star Trek Series and Movies in Release Order for Beginners
If you're new to Star Trek and want to watch the series and movies in the order they originally appeared, this guide will help you. Watching in release order shows you how the franchise developed over time, how characters and stories evolved, and how each installment builds on what came before. While Star Trek’s in-universe timeline can be complex and jump around, following the release order keeps things simple and lets you experience the series and movies as original audiences did.
What is the release order of all Star Trek series and movies?
Here is the complete list of Star Trek TV series and movies arranged by their original release dates:
- Star Trek: The Original Series (TV series, 1966–1969)
- Star Trek: The Animated Series (TV series, 1973–1974)
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (movie, 1979)
- Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (movie, 1982)
- Star Trek III: The Search for Spock (movie, 1984)
- Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (movie, 1986)
- Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV series, 1987–1994)
- Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (movie, 1989)
- Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country (movie, 1991)
- Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (TV series, 1993–1999)
- Star Trek: Generations (movie, 1994)
- Star Trek: Voyager (TV series, 1995–2001)
- Star Trek: First Contact (movie, 1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (movie, 1998)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (movie, 2002)
- Star Trek: Enterprise (TV series, 2001–2005)
- Star Trek (movie reboot, 2009)
- Star Trek Into Darkness (movie, 2013)
- Star Trek Beyond (movie, 2016)
- Star Trek: Discovery (TV series, 2017–present)
- Star Trek: Short Treks (web series, 2018–2020)
- Star Trek: Picard (TV series, 2020–present)
- Star Trek: Lower Decks (animated TV series, 2020–present)
- Star Trek: Prodigy (animated TV series, 2021–present)
- Star Trek: Strange New Worlds (TV series, 2022–present)
This order reflects the original release dates, offering a clear path to follow Star Trek from its earliest to its latest entries.
Why should beginners watch Star Trek in release order?
Watching Star Trek in the order it was released helps you see how the franchise changed and grew over time. Each series and movie introduced new characters, technologies, and storytelling styles that reflect their production eras.
For example, starting with The Original Series lets you meet the characters and ideas that shaped the entire franchise. Then, as you move to The Next Generation and later series, you’ll notice more complex stories and a broader range of themes.
Release order also preserves the impact of callbacks and character developments. Some episodes and movies refer back to earlier events. Watching in release order means you encounter these references naturally, without confusion or spoilers. This mirrors how longtime fans experienced Star Trek and can make your viewing more satisfying.
How does release order differ from the in-universe timeline?
The in-universe timeline sorts Star Trek stories by when their events happen in the franchise’s fictional future. This timeline jumps around because some series and movies are prequels or set in alternate realities.
For example, Star Trek: Enterprise is set before The Original Series but was produced many years later. The 2009 Star Trek movie reboot creates an alternate timeline that runs alongside the original one.
Watching by in-universe chronology can be confusing for newcomers because it involves jumping between different eras and storytelling styles, sometimes revealing character backstories or plot twists too early.
Release order presents the stories as the creators originally shared them with audiences. This approach helps you understand how Star Trek expanded over time without getting tangled in its complicated timeline.
Which Star Trek series or movies are best for beginners to start with?
If you want to follow release order strictly, start with Star Trek: The Original Series and its related movies. This is where the franchise began.
However, some new viewers prefer to start with more modern series for easier access. Star Trek: The Next Generation is a popular choice because its storytelling and production feel more current, and it introduces many well-known characters.
If you prefer a movie introduction, the 2009 Star Trek reboot is designed for new fans. It’s fast-paced and visually updated, and you don’t need previous knowledge to enjoy it.
Your starting point depends on what you want. For the full historical experience, begin with The Original Series. To jump into more recent storytelling, try The Next Generation or the 2009 movie reboot.
How to approach watching Star Trek if you want to binge or sample key stories?
If you have time to binge, watching the series and movies in release order lets you see Star Trek’s growth and recurring themes.
If you have less time, focus on key entries:
- Start with The Original Series to understand the roots.
- Watch important Original Series movies: The Wrath of Khan, The Voyage Home, and The Undiscovered Country.
- Move to The Next Generation for many acclaimed episodes.
- Include Deep Space Nine and Voyager for their unique stories.
- Watch later movies like First Contact.
For sampling, pick standout episodes or movies known for strong stories or character moments, such as "The City on the Edge of Forever" (The Original Series) or "The Best of Both Worlds" (The Next Generation).
Mixing series and movies can keep your viewing fresh without overwhelming you.
Where can you watch the Star Trek series and movies today?
Most Star Trek series and movies are available on streaming platforms that hold the rights. Paramount+ offers nearly the entire Star Trek catalog, including new series like Discovery and Picard.
Other platforms, such as Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play, offer select movies or older series for purchase or rent.
Physical media like Blu-rays and DVDs are also available if you prefer owning copies or want extras like behind-the-scenes content.
For beginners, subscribing to Paramount+ is the easiest way to watch Star Trek in release order because it organizes the content clearly and includes both classic and new installments.
Conclusion
Starting with the original Star Trek series and moving through the movies and newer shows in the order they were released provides a clear path for newcomers. This approach respects how the franchise grew and helps you follow characters and stories naturally. Whether you watch everything or select highlights, release order keeps things straightforward and enjoyable. After exploring the foundational titles, you can explore alternate timelines and spin-offs with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch Star Trek out of release order?
Yes, you can watch Star Trek out of release order, especially if you want to start with newer series or alternate timelines. But for beginners, release order usually gives the clearest understanding of the franchise’s progression.
Do I need to watch all the Star Trek series to understand the movies?
Not all of them. Many movies, especially those with The Original Series or The Next Generation casts, stand on their own. Watching the related series improves understanding but isn’t required.
Is the 2009 Star Trek movie a good starting point?
Yes, the 2009 reboot is designed for new fans with a modern story and style. It’s a good starting point if you want a cinematic introduction rather than starting with classic TV series.