Marvel might dominate on the big screen with the MCU, but the Arrowverse is pure entertainment for comic fans seeking enjoyment on the small screen. So, if you are late to the party, use this simple and easy guide to break in.
The Shows
There are four main shows in this universe. Arrow, Flash, Supergirl, and Legends of Tomorrow. Note that each has their own appeal, and that some of them might not be your cup of tea. And you know what? That's ok. There is actually limited crossover between the shows, and most of it is minor little references.
Personally, I enjoy them all.
Arrow, to put crudely, is a lot like watching a Batman series. Oliver Queen is a dark, brooding rich kid with no super powers that dresses in dark clothes and takes out bad guys. The next season is the last one.
Flash is much lighter than Arrow, with Barry Allen and crew providing a lot more laughs and action than drama.
Supergirl is the lightest of the bunch, and at times seems like a bubblegum series. The tone does darken a bit as the show moves along.
And then you have Legends of Tomorrow, which is a time traveling action-comedy.
Alongside these, you have secondary additions such as Vixen and Freedom Fighters: The Ray. They also have teased possible connections to the 90's Flash series and Constantine, and there are a few references in other shows, such as Black Lightning, which allude to Arrowverse shows. None of these are required viewing when talking about this shared universe.
A Batwoman pilot has been ordered following an appearance of the character in a recent crossover event and other characters, like Green Lantern, have been teased for future shows.
Where to Start
So, where do you begin? Start with the first two seasons of Arrow. After that, we begin the first season of Flash. Supergirl and Legends jump in during the 4th season of Arrow.
If you'd like an in depth, episode by episode viewing order, you can go here.
If you don't want to jump around that much, just look at the next section.
Crossover Events
While there are references and minor moments that mix in, you can largely watch the shows in any order. That is, except for during crossover events.
Here's how to watch them properly:
Flash vs Arrow
Watch Flash Season 1 Episode 8 and then Arrow Season 3 Episode 8.
Heroes Join Forces
Watch Flash Season 2 Episode 8 and then Arrow Season 4 Episode 8.Watch Supergirl Season 1 Episode 18 and Flash Season 2 Episode 18.
Invasion!
Watch Flash Season 3 Episode 8, then Arrow Season 5 Episode 8, and finish with Legends Season 2 Episode 7.
Duet
Watch Supergirl Season 2 Episode 16 and then finish with Flash Season 3 Episode 8.
Crisis on Earth-X
Watch Supergirl Season 3 Episode 8, Arrow Season 6 Episode 8, Flash Season 4 Episode 8, and then finish with Legends Season 4 Episode 8.
Elseworlds
Start with Flash Season 5 Episode 9, move to Arrow Season 7 Episode 9, and end on Supergirl Season 4 Episode 9.
Dig in and enjoy!
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