What Series Should I Watch First A Guide To Binge-Worthy Shows

Deciding what series to start first can feel like navigating a vast ocean of content. With so many options available across various streaming platforms, genres, and networks, the sheer volume of choices can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate this sea of possibilities and pinpoint the perfect series to dive into, tailored to your specific tastes and preferences. We’ll explore key factors to consider, popular genres, highly-rated shows, and even offer tips on how to discover hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned binge-watcher or a newcomer to the world of serialized television, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to confidently choose your next viewing adventure.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Series

When figuring out what series should I start, several factors come into play. Your personal preferences, viewing habits, and even your current mood can all influence your decision. It's essential to consider these elements to ensure you select a show that you'll genuinely enjoy and be able to commit to. Let's delve into the key aspects to keep in mind:

Genre Preferences

One of the first steps in choosing a series is to identify your preferred genres. Are you drawn to the intricate plots and suspenseful narratives of crime dramas? Or perhaps you prefer the fantastical worlds and epic battles of the fantasy genre? Maybe you enjoy the heartwarming stories and relatable characters of comedies or the thought-provoking themes and complex characters of dramas. Understanding your genre preferences narrows down your options significantly. Think about the types of movies and books you enjoy, as this can provide valuable clues about the kinds of series you'll find appealing. Don’t be afraid to venture outside your usual comfort zone, but starting with genres you already know you love is a safe bet.

Time Commitment

The time commitment required by a series is another crucial factor. Some shows have a limited number of episodes and seasons, making them ideal for a quick binge. Others span multiple seasons with dozens of episodes, demanding a more significant investment of your time. Consider how much time you're willing to dedicate to a series. If you have limited time, a miniseries or a show with shorter episodes might be a better choice. If you're looking for a long-term commitment, a series with multiple seasons and ongoing storylines could be just what you need. Also, think about the episode length. A show with 30-minute episodes is easier to fit into a busy schedule than one with hour-long episodes.

Critical Acclaim and Reviews

Critical acclaim and reviews can be valuable indicators of a show's quality. While personal taste is subjective, highly-rated series often have compelling storylines, strong performances, and excellent production values. Sites like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic provide aggregate scores and reviews from both critics and viewers, giving you a well-rounded perspective. Reading reviews can also help you understand a show's strengths and weaknesses, as well as potential trigger warnings or content that might not align with your preferences. However, it's important to remember that reviews are just one piece of the puzzle. A show that's critically acclaimed might not be to your liking, and vice versa. Use reviews as a guide, but ultimately trust your own instincts.

Availability on Streaming Platforms

The availability of a series on your preferred streaming platforms is a practical consideration. There's nothing more frustrating than getting excited about a show only to discover that it's not available on any of the services you subscribe to. Before making a decision, check which platforms carry the series. Many popular shows are exclusive to specific streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or HBO Max. If you're not already subscribed to a particular service, you might need to factor in the cost of a subscription. Alternatively, you could consider renting or purchasing episodes or seasons through digital platforms like iTunes or Google Play. Services like JustWatch can help you quickly find where a show is streaming.

Your Current Mood

Your current mood can also play a significant role in choosing a series. Are you looking for something lighthearted and funny to lift your spirits? Or are you in the mood for a dark and intense drama? Perhaps you're seeking a thought-provoking series that will challenge your perspective. Consider what you're hoping to get out of your viewing experience. If you're feeling stressed, a calming and escapist show might be the perfect choice. If you're feeling adventurous, a series with a complex plot and unexpected twists could be more appealing. Tuning into your emotional state can help you select a series that resonates with you on a deeper level.

Popular Genres and Highly-Rated Series

To further assist you in your quest for the perfect series, let’s explore some popular genres and highly-rated series within each category. This overview will provide you with a starting point for your research and introduce you to some of the most acclaimed shows in recent years. Whether you're a fan of crime, fantasy, comedy, drama, or science fiction, there's a series out there waiting to captivate you.

Crime Dramas

Crime dramas are a perennial favorite, offering intricate plots, suspenseful narratives, and compelling characters. These shows often delve into the dark side of human nature, exploring themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of law enforcement. If you enjoy solving mysteries, unraveling conspiracies, and watching brilliant detectives at work, crime dramas might be the perfect genre for you. Some of the most highly-rated crime dramas include:

• The Wire: Widely regarded as one of the greatest television shows of all time, The Wire offers a realistic and unflinching portrayal of the drug trade in Baltimore, exploring the perspectives of law enforcement, drug dealers, politicians, and ordinary citizens. Its complex characters and intricate storylines have earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
• Breaking Bad: This critically acclaimed series follows a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking methamphetamine to secure his family's financial future. Breaking Bad is known for its compelling characters, suspenseful plot twists, and exploration of moral ambiguity.
• Mindhunter: Set in the early days of criminal profiling, Mindhunter follows two FBI agents as they interview serial killers to understand their motives and behavior. The show is praised for its meticulous research, psychological depth, and unsettling atmosphere.
• True Detective: An anthology series, each season of True Detective features a new cast and a new crime to solve. The show is known for its atmospheric cinematography, complex characters, and exploration of existential themes.

Fantasy Series

Fantasy series transport viewers to fantastical worlds filled with magic, mythical creatures, and epic battles. These shows often feature intricate world-building, compelling characters, and grand narratives that explore themes of good versus evil, power, and destiny. If you enjoy escaping into imaginative realms and immersing yourself in epic adventures, fantasy series are an excellent choice. Some popular and highly-rated fantasy series include:

• Game of Thrones: Based on the A Song of Ice and Fire novels by George R.R. Martin, Game of Thrones is a sprawling epic set in the fictional world of Westeros, where noble families vie for control of the Iron Throne. The show is known for its complex characters, political intrigue, and stunning visual effects.
• The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power: Set thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, this series explores the Second Age of Middle-earth, a time of great upheaval and the forging of the Rings of Power. The show is praised for its epic scope, visual splendor, and faithful adaptation of Tolkien's lore.
• The Witcher: Based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter for hire, as he navigates a world filled with magic, monsters, and political intrigue. The show is known for its action-packed fight sequences, compelling characters, and dark fantasy setting.

Comedy Series

Comedy series offer a welcome escape from the stresses of everyday life, providing laughter, lightheartedness, and relatable characters. These shows can range from sitcoms with laugh tracks to more sophisticated comedies that explore complex themes with humor and wit. If you're looking for a series that will make you laugh and brighten your day, comedy is the perfect genre. Some highly-rated comedy series include:

• Parks and Recreation: This beloved sitcom follows the employees of the Parks and Recreation Department in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. Parks and Recreation is known for its ensemble cast, optimistic tone, and heartwarming storylines.
• The Office: A mockumentary-style sitcom, The Office follows the employees of a paper company in Scranton, Pennsylvania. The show is praised for its quirky characters, awkward humor, and relatable workplace scenarios.
• Arrested Development: This critically acclaimed comedy follows the dysfunctional Bluth family as they navigate financial ruin and personal crises. Arrested Development is known for its witty writing, eccentric characters, and innovative storytelling.

Drama Series

Drama series delve into complex characters, explore profound themes, and often tell stories that resonate on an emotional level. These shows can range from character-driven dramas that focus on personal relationships to epic sagas that tackle societal issues. If you're looking for a series that will make you think and feel, drama is an excellent genre to explore. Some highly-rated drama series include:

• Succession: This critically acclaimed drama follows the Roy family, owners of a global media empire, as they vie for control of the company. Succession is known for its sharp writing, compelling characters, and exploration of wealth, power, and family dynamics.
• The Queen’s Gambit: A miniseries set in the 1950s and 1960s, The Queen's Gambit follows Beth Harmon, a young orphan who becomes a chess prodigy. The show is praised for its compelling protagonist, stylish visuals, and exploration of addiction and mental health.
• Better Call Saul: A prequel to Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul follows the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. The show is known for its meticulous storytelling, complex characters, and exploration of moral compromise.

Science Fiction Series

Science fiction series explore the possibilities of the future, often tackling themes of technology, space exploration, and the nature of humanity. These shows can range from futuristic adventures to thought-provoking explorations of ethical dilemmas. If you're fascinated by the unknown and enjoy imagining the world of tomorrow, science fiction is a captivating genre. Some popular and highly-rated science fiction series include:

• Battlestar Galactica: A reimagining of the classic 1970s series, Battlestar Galactica follows the last remnants of humanity as they flee from the Cylons, a race of robotic beings. The show is known for its complex characters, political intrigue, and exploration of existential themes.
• Black Mirror: An anthology series, each episode of Black Mirror explores the dark side of technology and its impact on society. The show is praised for its thought-provoking stories, unsettling atmosphere, and cautionary tales.
• Stranger Things: Set in the 1980s, Stranger Things follows a group of kids as they encounter supernatural forces and government conspiracies in their small town. The show is known for its nostalgic atmosphere, compelling characters, and blend of science fiction and horror.

Tips for Discovering Hidden Gems

Beyond the well-known and critically acclaimed series, there's a vast world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These are the shows that might not have the same level of mainstream recognition but are just as deserving of your attention. Finding these hidden gems can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to experience unique stories and perspectives that you might otherwise miss. Here are some tips for uncovering these hidden treasures:

Explore Niche Streaming Services

While Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video dominate the streaming landscape, there are many niche streaming services that cater to specific interests and genres. These platforms often feature independent films, international series, and lesser-known shows that might not be available elsewhere. Services like Criterion Channel, Shudder, Mubi, and Acorn TV offer curated collections of high-quality content in specific genres. Exploring these niche services can expose you to a wider range of programming and help you discover hidden gems that align with your interests.

Seek Recommendations from Friends and Online Communities

Recommendations from friends and online communities can be invaluable when searching for hidden gems. People who share your tastes are likely to have discovered shows that you'll also enjoy. Ask your friends for recommendations, and participate in online forums, subreddits, and social media groups dedicated to television. These communities are often filled with passionate viewers who are eager to share their favorite lesser-known series. Reading discussions and reviews can provide insights into shows that might not be on your radar.

Pay Attention to International Series

International series offer a fresh perspective and unique storytelling styles that can be incredibly captivating. Many countries have vibrant television industries producing high-quality dramas, comedies, and thrillers. Shows from the UK, France, Spain, South Korea, and other countries have gained international recognition for their compelling narratives and excellent production values. Exploring international series can broaden your horizons and introduce you to new favorites. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video have invested heavily in international content, making it easier than ever to discover shows from around the world.

Read Independent Reviews and Blogs

While mainstream reviews provide a general overview of a show's quality, independent reviews and blogs often offer more in-depth analysis and highlight hidden gems. Many independent critics and bloggers are passionate about television and are dedicated to uncovering underappreciated series. Reading their reviews can provide you with a more nuanced understanding of a show's strengths and weaknesses, and help you identify series that might be worth checking out. Websites like The A.V. Club, IndieWire, and Vulture feature independent reviews and articles that can guide your viewing choices.

Don't Be Afraid to Try Something New

Ultimately, the best way to discover hidden gems is to be open to trying something new. Step outside your comfort zone and explore genres and series that you might not typically consider. You might be surprised at what you discover. Give a show a few episodes to hook you, and don't be afraid to abandon it if it doesn't resonate with you. The more you explore, the more likely you are to find hidden gems that become your new favorites. Embrace the adventure of discovery, and enjoy the journey of finding your next binge-worthy obsession.

Conclusion

Choosing what series to start first is an exciting endeavor. By considering your genre preferences, time commitment, critical acclaim, availability on streaming platforms, and current mood, you can narrow down your options and select a show that you'll genuinely enjoy. Exploring popular genres and highly-rated series is a great starting point, and venturing into the realm of hidden gems can lead to unexpected discoveries. Remember to seek recommendations, read reviews, and be open to trying new things. With a little exploration and a sense of adventure, you'll find the perfect series to immerse yourself in and enjoy countless hours of entertainment. Happy watching!