Hey guys! Ever get that itch to dive headfirst into the gritty, thrilling world of the Breaking Bad universe? With its complex characters, nail-biting suspense, and unforgettable moments, it's a wild ride. But, with a show, a movie, and a prequel series, it can be a bit tricky to figure out the best way to experience it all. Don't worry, I've got you covered! This guide will break down the Breaking Bad universe watch order, helping you decide whether you want to watch everything in chronological order or stick to the order it was released. We'll explore the best ways to enjoy this incredible story, ensuring you don't miss a single beat of Walter White's transformation, Saul Goodman's shenanigans, or Jesse Pinkman's journey. Let's get started, shall we?

Understanding the Breaking Bad Universe

Before we jump into the watch orders, let's get a handle on the main players in this sprawling story. The Breaking Bad universe primarily consists of three main components: the original series, the spin-off series, and the movie.

• Breaking Bad: This is where it all began. The show follows high school chemistry teacher Walter White, who, after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, teams up with former student Jesse Pinkman to cook and sell methamphetamine to secure his family's financial future. Trust me, it's a wild journey, starting with a desperate decision and escalating into a world of crime, violence, and moral compromises. You'll witness Walter's transformation from a mild-mannered teacher into the ruthless Heisenberg. It's a must-watch for anyone getting into the universe.
• Better Call Saul: This prequel series takes us back in time to explore the origins of the quirky and morally flexible lawyer Saul Goodman (originally known as Jimmy McGill). It shows us how he transformed into the guy we all know and love (or love to hate) from Breaking Bad. We're introduced to his relationships, career challenges, and the events that shaped his persona. It gives a deep dive into the lives of other characters like Mike Ehrmantraut. This series adds layers of complexity to the Breaking Bad narrative.
• El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie: This film serves as an epilogue to Breaking Bad, picking up right after the series finale. It focuses on Jesse Pinkman's escape and his struggle to start a new life. It ties up some loose ends and gives closure to Jesse's story. It's a great watch, especially after you've finished the series, so you can see where his character ends up.

Now that we know the basics, let's dig into the watch orders!

The Release Order: The Classic Way to Watch

If you want to experience the Breaking Bad universe the way it was originally intended, the release order is the way to go. This approach lets you experience the story as it unfolded for everyone else. You'll get to experience the twists and turns, the surprises, and the characters as they were introduced to audiences. Here's how it breaks down:

1. Breaking Bad (Seasons 1-5): Start with the OG! This is where everything begins. Watch all five seasons to fully grasp the story of Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. It's where the heart of the story lies.
2. El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie: Once you've finished Breaking Bad, watch the movie. It provides a satisfying conclusion to Jesse's arc and gives you a glimpse into his future. It works perfectly after the series, so all the events are fresh in your mind.
3. Better Call Saul (Seasons 1-6): Finally, dive into the prequel series. This series does a fantastic job of expanding the world and adding depth to the characters. Watching it last allows you to appreciate the callbacks, references, and easter eggs sprinkled throughout the show. It's like a delicious dessert after your main course.

Pros of the Release Order

• Surprise and Suspense: The release order lets you experience the story's twists and turns as they were meant to be. This means you will go through all the surprises that made Breaking Bad a cultural phenomenon.
• Cultural Relevance: You get the same experience as the original audience, allowing you to understand and appreciate all the references and memes.
• Best for First-Timers: It's the most straightforward way to experience the universe.

Cons of the Release Order

• Spoilers for Better Call Saul: Since Better Call Saul is a prequel, you'll already know some of the fates of certain characters.
• Timeline Jumps: The release order can create some disjointedness since Better Call Saul takes place before Breaking Bad. But really, this isn't that big of a deal since the story flows very nicely.

This order offers a clean and simple approach, so the majority of first-time viewers choose this method.

The Chronological Order: Diving into the Past

For those who love to experience a story in its complete timeline, the chronological order is your best bet. This order lets you experience the events as they happened in the Breaking Bad universe, from beginning to end. This means you'll start with Better Call Saul, see the events unfold, then watch Breaking Bad, and finish up with El Camino. Here's the breakdown:

1. Better Call Saul (Seasons 1-6): Begin with the prequel series to see how Saul Goodman came to be and learn about key characters before they appear in Breaking Bad. You'll get to see the events that shaped the world.
2. Breaking Bad (Seasons 1-5): Watch the original series, picking up where Better Call Saul leaves off. See the characters and stories you are familiar with.
3. El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie: Finish with the movie. It provides the concluding story to the events of Breaking Bad, tying up the loose ends.

Pros of the Chronological Order

• Complete Story: You experience the story in order, without any timeline jumps or spoilers.
• Character Development: Seeing the evolution of characters like Saul Goodman from the very beginning adds a new dimension to their arcs.
• Fresh Perspective: It offers a different way to experience the story. You might pick up on things you didn't see before!

Cons of the Chronological Order

• Spoilers for Breaking Bad: It reveals information about Breaking Bad that may have been a surprise if you had watched in release order.
• Pacing Issues: There can be pacing issues due to the different tones and styles of the two series.
• Reduced Impact of Reveals: Some of the shocking moments in Breaking Bad might lose some of their impact since you've already seen where things are headed.

While the chronological order has its advantages, it's generally recommended for those who have already seen the series once.

Which Watch Order is Right for You?

Choosing the best watch order really depends on you, my friends. Both the release and chronological orders have their merits. Here's a quick guide to help you choose:

• First-Time Watchers: Release order is generally the best choice. It gives you the intended experience. It's designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Plus, it's easier to grasp and enjoy the story.
• Fans of Saul Goodman: If you're particularly interested in Saul, start with Better Call Saul in any order. This will give you the most in-depth understanding of the character.
• Re-Watchers or Detail-Oriented Viewers: Chronological order can provide a fresh perspective. You might discover connections and nuances that you missed the first time around.
• Those Who Like a Straightforward Experience: The release order is the simplest way. It flows naturally and ensures you experience the story the way it was meant to be seen.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of which watch order you choose, you're in for a treat! The Breaking Bad universe is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and suspense. Each show and movie is packed with memorable moments, complex characters, and thrilling plots that will keep you hooked from start to finish. So, grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Breaking Bad universe. Enjoy the ride, and don't forget, stay out of the desert!