Binge-Watching Guide: All Star Trek Series in Order

Hey there, Trekkies! If you're ready to boldly go where no one has gone before, you've come to the right place. We're about to embark on a journey through the final frontier, but first, let's get one thing straight: watching all Star Trek series in order can be a bit of a challenge. With over 50 years of content, numerous reboots, and a complex timeline, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. But don't worry, we've got you covered. Grab your phaser, buckle up, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and all star trek in order.

The Original Series (TOS) - Where It All Began

Kicking off our list is the series that started it all, Star Trek: The Original Series (TOS), which first aired in 1966. This is where you'll meet the iconic crew of the USS Enterprise: Captain Kirk, Spock, Dr. McCoy, and the rest of the gang. TOS is set in the 23rd century and follows the crew as they explore the galaxy, make first contact with new civilizations, and face off against various threats.

Fun fact: TOS was created by the legendary Gene Roddenberry and was initially intended to be a Wagon Train to the stars. But with its unique blend of science fiction, adventure, and social commentary, it quickly became something much more.

Why you should watch it: TOS is where it all began, and it's filled with classic episodes that have stood the test of time. It's also a great starting point for new viewers, as it introduces many of the themes and concepts that would become hallmarks of the franchise.

The Animated Series (TAS) - The Next Generation of Star Trek

After TOS ended in 1969, it wasn't until 1973 that we got more Star Trek goodness with Star Trek: The Animated Series (TAS). This series continued the adventures of the original crew, with the same voice actors reprising their roles. TAS is unique in that it's the only other Star Trek series to feature the original cast (aside from the movies).

Why you should watch it: TAS is a fun and nostalgic trip back to the original series. It also features some interesting stories and concepts that could only be explored in animation.

The Movies - The Original Series Continues on the Big Screen

Following TAS, the original crew returned to the big screen with a series of movies. These films, collectively known as the Star Trek films, continued the adventures of the original crew and introduced new characters and storylines.

Why you should watch them: The movies are a great way to continue the story of the original crew and see how their adventures evolved over time. They also introduce some iconic characters and concepts, like Khan Noonien Singh and the Genesis Device.

The Next Generation (TNG) - A New Generation of Star Trek

In 1987, Star Trek: The Next Generation (TNG) premiered, marking a new era for the franchise. Set approximately a century after TOS, TNG follows the crew of a new USS Enterprise, the NCC-1701-D, as they explore the galaxy. This series introduced us to new characters like Captain Picard, Data, and the enigmatic Q.

Why you should watch it: TNG is a must-watch for any Star Trek fan. It's filled with memorable episodes, complex characters, and thought-provoking storylines. It also introduced many new concepts and technologies that would become integral to the Star Trek universe.

Deep Space Nine (DS9) - Star Trek Goes Stationary

Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (DS9) followed in 1993, marking another departure from tradition. Set aboard a space station rather than a starship, DS9 delves deeper into the politics and intrigue of the Star Trek universe. The series follows the crew of DS9 as they deal with the fallout of a recent war and the arrival of a mysterious new alien race.

Why you should watch it: DS9 is a unique addition to the Star Trek franchise, with a darker and more serialized tone. It's also notable for its exploration of long-term conflicts and their consequences, as well as its diverse cast of characters.

Voyager (VOY) - Lost in the Delta Quadrant

Premiering in 1995, Star Trek: Voyager (VOY) follows the crew of a starship stranded in the Delta Quadrant, far from Federation space. The series explores their efforts to return home while dealing with the challenges of the strange new world they find themselves in.

Why you should watch it: VOY is a great series for fans who enjoy exploration and first contact stories. It also introduces some unique characters and concepts, like the Borg and the Delta Quadrant.

Enterprise (ENT) - The Early Days of Star Trek

Star Trek: Enterprise (ENT) is a prequel series that premiered in 2001, set in the early days of human space exploration. The series follows the crew of the first human starship, the NX-01, as they explore the galaxy and make first contact with new civilizations.

Why you should watch it: ENT is a must-watch for fans who want to see the early days of Star Trek and the evolution of human space exploration. It's also notable for its exploration of the Romulan civilization and the events leading up to the formation of the Federation.

Discovery (DIS) - Star Trek for a New Generation

Star Trek: Discovery (DIS) is the most recent addition to the Star Trek franchise, premiering in 2017. Set in the Prime timeline, DIS follows the crew of the USS Discovery as they explore the galaxy and deal with the fallout of a war with the Klingons.

Why you should watch it: DIS is a great series for both new and veteran Trekkies. It features stunning visual effects, diverse characters, and a unique take on the Star Trek formula.

Picard (PIC) - The Next Chapter in the Captain's Life

Star Trek: Picard (PIC) is a spin-off series that premiered in 2020, focusing on the next chapter in the life of Captain Jean-Luc Picard. The series follows Picard as he deals with the fallout of a recent tragedy and embarks on a new adventure.

Why you should watch it: PIC is a must-watch for any TNG fan, as it brings back many familiar faces and explores the consequences of the events of the series. It's also notable for its exploration of themes like aging, loss, and redemption.

Lower Decks (LDS) - Star Trek Gets Animated Again

Star Trek: Lower Decks (LDS) is the latest animated series in the Star Trek franchise, premiering in 2020. The series follows the crew of a support starship, the USS Cerritos, as they deal with the mundane and often humorous challenges of life in Starfleet.

Why you should watch it: LDS is a great series for fans who want a lighter, more comedic take on Star Trek. It's also notable for its unique animation style and its exploration of the less glamorous side of Starfleet.

The Kelvin Timeline - A New Alternate Reality

The Kelvin timeline is an alternate reality introduced in the 2009 Star Trek reboot film. This timeline features a new cast of characters and a revised history, with the original series crew encountering new threats and challenges.

Why you should watch them: The Kelvin timeline movies are a great way to experience Star Trek from a new perspective. They also feature stunning visual effects and action-packed storylines.

The Section 31 Universe - A Darker Side of Star Trek

The Section 31 universe is a series of films and TV shows set in an alternate timeline where the secretive organization Section 31 has a greater influence on Starfleet and the galaxy at large. This universe features darker, more serialized storylines and a focus on political intrigue and espionage.

Why you should watch them: The Section 31 universe is a must-watch for fans who want a darker, more adult take on Star Trek. It's also notable for its exploration of the consequences of unchecked power and the moral compromises made in the name of security.

Watching Star Trek in Order: A Timeline

Now that we've covered all the major Star Trek series and movies, let's talk about watching them in order. The Star Trek timeline is complex, with numerous reboots, prequels, and alternate realities. So, it's important to have a plan if you want to watch everything in order.

Here's a suggested viewing order that follows the main timeline, from the earliest events to the latest:

1. 1. Enterprise (ENT) - Set in the early days of human space exploration, ENT is the first series in the main timeline.
2. 2. The Original Series (TOS) - TOS follows the adventures of the original crew of the USS Enterprise, set in the 23rd century.
3. 3. The Animated Series (TAS) - TAS continues the adventures of the original crew, with the same voice actors reprising their roles.
4. 4. The Movies - The Star Trek films continue the story of the original crew and introduce new characters and storylines.
5. 5. The Next Generation (TNG) - Set approximately a century after TOS, TNG follows the crew of a new USS Enterprise as they explore the galaxy.
6. 6. Deep Space Nine (DS9) - DS9 is set concurrently with TNG and follows the crew of DS9 as they deal with the fallout of a recent war and the arrival of a mysterious new alien race.
7. 7. Voyager (VOY) - VOY is set concurrently with TNG and DS9, following the crew of a starship stranded in the Delta Quadrant.
8. 8. Discovery (DIS) - DIS is set in the Prime timeline, following the crew of the USS Discovery as they explore the galaxy and deal with the fallout of a war with the Klingons.
9. 9. Picard (PIC) - PIC is a spin-off of TNG, following the next chapter in the life of Captain Jean-Luc Picard.
10. 10. Lower Decks (LDS) - LDS is an animated series set in the Prime timeline, following the crew of a support starship as they deal with the mundane challenges of life in Starfleet.

And what about the Kelvin timeline and the Section 31 universe? These are alternate realities, so they can be watched at any point in your Star Trek journey. They don't directly impact the main timeline, so you can watch them whenever you feel like a change of pace.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks! That's our ultimate guide to watching all Star Trek series in order. Whether you're a seasoned Trekkie or a new recruit, we hope this guide has helped you navigate the complex and wonderful world of Star Trek. So, grab your phaser, set your course for the nearest star system, and prepare to boldly go where no one has gone before. Live long and prosper!