Ranked · Universes · Updated June 2026
The Biggest Shared Universes, Ranked
Some sagas don't just tell stories — they build worlds that bleed into each other across decades, mediums, and dozens of titles. These are the most ambitious "everything connects" universes ever assembled, ranked by sheer scope, depth, and how rewarding it is to chase every thread.
- 1 See the order
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BSFrequently asked questions
Which shared universe is the best to start with?
The MCU is the most accessible on-ramp — begin with Iron Man (2008) and follow release order. If you prefer books, the Cosmere starts beautifully with Mistborn or Sanderson's standalone Elantris.
Should I watch in release order or chronological order?
For most of these, release order is the way — the MCU, Star Wars, and the Arrowverse were built to be experienced as they came out, with reveals timed to that pacing. Chronological rewatches are a fun second pass, not a first.
How long would it take to binge an entire universe?
The MCU alone is roughly 90+ hours across films and shows. Star Wars and Doctor Who run even longer once you include every series. The Cosmere is thousands of pages and still growing — these are commitments, not weekends.