One Chicago: A Watching Order Odyssey (For Those Who Don't Want to Get Lost in the Windy City)
Ah, the Windy City. Deep dish pizza, brutal winters, and a universe of interconnected cop shows so vast it makes the Marvel Cinematic Universe blush. Yes, we're talking about the Chicago franchise: Fire, P.D., Med, Justice (RIP), and a sprinkle of crossovers with Law & Order: SVU and FBI. Buckle up, because figuring out how to watch these shows in order can be trickier than dodging a rogue hockey puck on Michigan Avenue.
But fear not, intrepid binge-watcher! This guide will be your compass through this fictional Chicago, where firefighters swap high fives with doctors and cops share intel over steaming mugs of joe (because seriously, who has time for fancy lattes when there's crime to fight?).
Option 1: The Purist Path (For the Chronologically Obsessed)
You, my friend, are a stickler for order. You wouldn't dare watch Star Wars out of sequence (gasp!), and the thought of jumping between burning buildings and police investigations gives you hives. Here's your jam:
- Start with Chicago Fire (Season 1). Get to know the brave souls of Firehouse 51, from the ever-charming Kelly Severide to the grumpy-but-lovable Captain Boden.
- Once you're hooked (because, let's face it, you will be), introduce Chicago P.D. in Season 2, Episode 6. This is where the crossover magic begins, as Intelligence Unit Sergeant Hank Voight and his crew enter the scene.
- Repeat step 2 with Chicago Med in Season 1, Episode 11. Now you've got the medical drama side of things covered, with the brilliant Dr. Will Halstead and the ever-resourceful April Sexton saving lives.
- Chicago Justice (Seasons 1-6) can be slotted in wherever you fancy. It's no longer part of the current lineup, but some storylines weave between the shows. Treat it like a bonus round!
This method ensures you catch all the crossovers chronologically, but be warned: it can feel like whiplash switching between fires, shootouts, and surgeries.
Option 2: The Genre-Bouncing Bonanza (For the ADD Binge-Watcher)
You crave variety? You like your emergencies served with a side of medical drama and a sprinkle of police procedural? This is your turf:
- Pick a show based on your mood! Craving action? Dive into Chicago P.D. Want a dose of medical heroism? Chicago Med awaits. Feeling nostalgic for smoky rescues? Chicago Fire is your haven.
- Don't sweat the crossovers too much. While some storylines connect, you'll generally get enough context within each episode.
- Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure through the streets of Chicago. Just avoid getting caught in a literal firefight while you're at it.
This approach is perfect for those with commitment issues (to a specific show, that is). But be prepared for the occasional "wait, who is this character again?" moment.
Ultimately, the way you watch the Chicago franchise is a personal odyssey. There's no wrong answer, just hours of entertainment (and maybe a few emotional meltdowns - these shows do love their cliffhangers!). So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be swept away by the Windy City's finest fictional first responders.