How to watch

The Hunger Games movies in order in the correct order

The complete Hunger Games watch guide 🏹

Last updated: July 6 2025

Written by: ChronoChris

The Hunger Games is a dystopian science fiction franchise based on the bestselling novels by Suzanne Collins. It follows Katniss Everdeen, a girl from District 12 who becomes the face of rebellion against a tyrannical regime.

From brutal arena battles to a revolution that shakes a nation, The Hunger Games saga is a gripping journey. Whether you're a first-time viewer or revisiting Panem, choosing the right watch order can shape your experience.

This guide covers both chronological and release orders, especially now that the series includes a prequel that dives into the origins of the Games themselves.

⏱️ Chronological Order

Watching the films in chronological order starts with the origin story of President Snow and the early days of the Hunger Games, then moves on to Katniss's rise as the Mockingjay.

  1. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)IMDb
  2. The Hunger Games (2012)IMDb
  3. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)IMDb
  4. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014)IMDb
  5. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015)IMDb

This order is ideal for viewers who want to explore the world of Panem in its historical context—starting with the rise of the Capitol’s power and ending with its collapse.

đź“… Release Order

Release order delivers the story as audiences originally experienced it—unfolding from Katniss's point of view and saving the prequel for last, as a chilling backstory.

  1. The Hunger Games (2012)IMDb
  2. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)IMDb
  3. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (2014)IMDb
  4. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (2015)IMDb
  5. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)IMDb

Watching in release order preserves the mystery around President Snow’s past and makes the prequel hit even harder in retrospect.

Which Order Should You Choose?

If you’re new to the franchise, the release order offers the best dramatic arc. But if you’re rewatching or curious about the full timeline of Panem, chronological order offers a darker, more complete picture.

Whichever path you choose, prepare for a thrilling ride through rebellion, survival, and sacrifice.

đź”— Related Guides

  • Harry Potter Watch OrderGuide
  • The Star Wars SagaGuide
  • Maze Runner Watch OrderGuide

Noticed something missing? Let us know and we’ll update this guide!