The correct order to watch the Battlestar Galactica franchise

“Battlestar Galactica” by Glenn A. Larson has grown into a major franchise since the original series (of the same name) aired in 1978. Regardless of the medium, these stories always find their way back to the Twelve Colonies – a group of planets representing humanity during the Cylon War – when it comes under attack. We are talking about intruders Cylons who want to destroy the human race at any costand to this end they destroy the colonies, except for a small group which manages to escape. Among the remaining spaceships, only the Battlestar Galactica, which doubles as a battleship and an aircraft carrier, is capable of sheltering the survivors in search of a mysterious new colony: Earth.

Yes, it’s a really cool premise, and Battlestar Galactica explores age-old themes of morality, survival, conflict, and faith through an intriguing narrative lens. The techno-jargon used throughout is anything but decorative, and the awe evoked by such a futuristic setting is consciously undermined by pressing, practical concerns of survival. The very existence of the human race poses complex socio-political questions, and the enduring attraction of religion makes the situation even more complex. How do cybernetic alien races like the Cylons perceive divinity and how does their concept of self evolve as opposed to that of a human? Similar existential questions are posed throughout the Battlestar Galactica franchise.whose rich mythology is as compelling as its distinctive addition to the science fiction genre.

However, ordering a watch for “Battlestar Galactica” can be very confusing if you are new to the property. There are two main television series, a miniseries, two prequels, and other reimagined sequels (aside from the novels and video games). So let’s try to sort through these recordings in a way that allows you to get the most out of Larsson’s wonderful, captivating work.

You it is possible make 1978’s Battlestar Galactica your starting point, but since the original series isn’t required to watch, you can skip anything leading up to the 2003 reimagined miniseries. ​​​​​​While there is some benefit to going to a show after you’re done with the reimagined and companion entries, you’re bound to run into continuity differences that will further complicate the timeline. Moreover, the two prequels are the best starting point: the 2010 short-lived series Caprica and the web series Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome, which fit perfectly with the events of the 2003 miniseries. With that in mind, let’s take a quick look at the final watch order for the franchise:

• Battlestar Galactica (1978) – The Original Series (Optional)

• Galaxy 1980 (1980) – Spin-off of the 1978 series (optional)

• Caprica (2010) is a prequel to the 2003 miniseries

• Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome (2012) is a prequel web series

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2003) is a reimagined miniseries

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2004) – 1 season

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2005) – Season 2 (up to 17 episodes)

• “Battlestar Galactica: Razor” (2007) – TV movie (extended version + flashbacks)

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2005) – Season 2 (from 18 episodes)

• The Resistance (2006) is a web series

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2006) – Season 3

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2008) – Season 4 (up to 11 episodes)

• Battlestar Galactica: The Face of the Enemy (2008) – 10-episode webisodes

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2008) – Season 4 (Episodes 12-15)

• The Plan (2009) is a TV movie

• “Battlestar Galactica” (2008) – Season 4 (with 16 episodes)

Yes, it is a a lot. However, the order of observation will not be so daunting once you feel comfortable with the basic principles and knowledge. In any case, it will be an unforgettable adventure with exciting ups and downs.

I won’t spoil anything about the reimagined miniseries or the other series in this continuity, but here are some things you need to know before committing to this viewing order. The first break comes in the middle of season 2, with episode 17 — titled “The Captain’s Hand” — delved into the Pegasus arc. This storyline continues in Battlestar Galactica: Razor, whose elongated cut are to be followed by deleted scenes called “Razor Flashbacks” (which are available to watch as webisodes). Another mid-season break worth explaining is The Plan, which tells the story of the first two seasons from the perspective of the Cylonsdetailing their motivations while adding more context to the knowledge established thus far.

We’re almost done here, but if you’re interested in the paperback novellas written by Larson himself, be sure to check them out. I wouldn’t recommend them because of their quality, but they do offer a fun little look at a previously reimagined room concept. In addition, there is Richard Hatch (who played Adam’s Captain Apollo in the 1978 Battlestar Galactica series) book series that attempts to revive and continue the original premise, focusing on a new human colony and the threat of a new war looming. And before you ask, yes, there are comics too. Marvel Comics produced a 23-issue series based on the original show, with artist Walt Simonson at the helm.

As for the games, the franchise has spawned several board games, among which I recommend 2008’s Battlestar Galactica: The Board Game (which follows the reimagined 2003 miniseries and requires a minimum of three people for the strategy to work). Moving on to video games, there are many early Xbox and PlayStation games that have been released over the years, but the one entry worth noting is 2017’s Battlestar Galactica Deadlock, which uses a turn-based strategy to navigate the first Cylon War. Have fun!