The MonsterVerse, a cinematic universe brimming with colossal creatures and epic battles, has captivated audiences since its inception. If you’re new to this universe, navigating its timeline can feel as daunting as facing off against Godzilla himself. Fear not! This guide will help you make sense of the MonsterVerse, starting with its origins and walking you through each MonsterVerse film in chronological order.

The Birth of the MonsterVerse

The MonsterVerse officially kicked off in 2014 with the release of Godzilla, directed by Gareth Edwards. This film reintroduced the legendary kaiju to modern audiences, setting the stage for an interconnected universe where giant monsters, or “Titans,” roam the Earth.

But the origins of the MonsterVerse timeline stretch far beyond this starting point. To fully appreciate this universe, let’s dive into the chronological sequence of MonsterVerse movies.

1. Kong: Skull Island (2017)

Though released after Godzilla (2014), the events of Kong: Skull Island take place much earlier, in 1973. The film explores the discovery of Skull Island, a mysterious, uncharted location in the Pacific Ocean. Here, a team of scientists and soldiers encounters the mighty King Kong, who rules over the island’s deadly ecosystem.

This film sets the stage for Kong’s pivotal role in the MonsterVerse and introduces Monarch, a secret organization dedicated to studying and containing these ancient creatures.

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2. Godzilla (2014)

Fast forward to 2014, where the MonsterVerse truly begins with Godzilla. The film follows Monarch scientists as they track the reappearance of Godzilla, who rises from the ocean’s depths to combat a new threat—massive creatures known as MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organisms). The film reestablishes Godzilla as a force of nature and protector of balance.

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3. Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019)

In 2019, the stakes rise dramatically in Godzilla: King of the Monsters. This sequel reveals the existence of numerous Titans, including fan-favorite Mothra, the fearsome Rodan, and Godzilla’s arch-nemesis, King Ghidorah. As the Titans awaken, humanity must grapple with their place in the natural order.

The film dives deeper into Monarch’s operations, the Titans’ connection to ancient myths, and the ongoing battle for Earth’s dominance.

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4. Godzilla vs. Kong (2021)

Godzilla vs. Kong takes place in 2024 and delivers the long-awaited clash between two of cinema’s greatest titans. As Godzilla and Kong square off, secrets about their origins and the history of the Titans are unveiled.

The film culminates in an epic showdown that has massive implications for the future of the MonsterVerse.

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5. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

Released in 2024, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire picks up after the events of Godzilla vs. Kong. In this film, Godzilla and Kong team up to face a new threat emerging from the Hollow Earth, an unexplored world beneath the surface. The film expands the lore of the MonsterVerse, delving deeper into the mysterious origins of these titans.

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The Future of the MonsterVerse

MonsterVerse is continuing to expand, and not just in movies! The next MonsterVerse film has been announced, with a release date set for March 26, 2027. We know the director (Grant Sputore), this upcoming entry promises to continue the saga, though specific plot details remain under wraps. Sputore takes over from Adam Wingard, who directed the previous entries in this arc of the franchise.

As the MonsterVerse continues to grow from movies, books and games, it’s sure to just keep building the anticipation about what new monsters and titanic battles will be coming for Godzilla, Kong, and the rest of the MonsterVerse (more Mothra, please!)

Isn’t Peter Jackson’s King Kong part of the MonsterVerse?

Peter Jackson’s King Kong (2005)

Technically, no.

Before the actual start of the MonsterVerse, there’s been dozens of Godzilla and King Kong movies, along with many other monsters.  Peter Jackson’s King Kong (2005) might come to mind as a potential start of the MonsterVerse.  Though it brought the giant ape to life in a way that captivated audiences worldwide, Jackson’s King Kong does not officially belong to the MonsterVerse. This film is a standalone work, a reimagining of the classic 1933 King Kong story, and is not connected to the ongoing MonsterVerse timeline.

That said, Jackson’s King Kong played a significant role in rekindling interest in the character, paving the way for Kong’s eventual inclusion in the MonsterVerse. For fans of King Kong, Godzilla, and other classic monster movies, this earlier film serves as a nostalgic trip down memory lane. However, the MonsterVerse presents a fresh take, building an interconnected story where these titans coexist and clash on a scale we’ve never seen before.

  1. Kong: Skull Island (2017) – Start here to understand Kong’s origins and the early history of the Titans.
  2. Godzilla (2014) – Follow this up to see Godzilla’s modern reintroduction.
  3. Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019) – Dive deeper into the mythology and meet more Titans.
  4. Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) – Watch the epic battle between Godzilla and Kong.
  5. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024) Continue with the latest battle and explore more of the Hollow Earth.

Final Thoughts

The MonsterVerse is a thrilling universe filled with awe-inspiring battles, deep lore, and unforgettable creatures. Whether you’re here for the epic showdowns or the rich world-building, understanding the timeline enhances your viewing experience. While Peter Jackson’s King Kong holds a special place in the hearts of many, the MonsterVerse offers a new chapter where legendary titans reign supreme. So grab some popcorn, start at Skull Island, and enjoy the ride through the MonsterVerse!