Star Trek Watch Order - 24th Century
Hello my friends, and welcome back to my blog.
So lets begin shall we?
Star Trek: The Next Generation
101/102 Encounter at Farpoint
- The 2 part pilot. Its not the best episode of TNG for a new viewer as a lot of things would change over the years, but does introduce the entire cast. The story is a decent Star Trek adventure with a fun little mystery. First appearance of Q, and it directly ties into the finale episode.
103 The Naked Now
- Essentially an episode redoing a plot idea from the Original Series, but notable for an encounter between Data and Tasha Yar that is referenced later on.
104 Code of Honor
- An episode with a depressing amount of racist stereotypes. Feel free to skip.
105 The Last Outpost
- The episode that introduces the Ferengi, but not a great first impression. Skip.
106 Where No One Has Gone Before
- The introduction of the Traveller, and a big early episode for Wesley Crusher, so if you like that character its worth a watch.
107 Lonely Among Us
- Not essential, but a decent sci-fi concept. I think it does introduce the idea of Data becoming a fan of Sherlock Holmes though, which becomes a notable character trait.
108 Justice
- One of the horniest episodes of Star Trek ever made, but only really notable for Picard breaking the Prime Directive. A minor joke references it in Lower Decks.
109 The Battle
- Introduces Daimon Bok as a Ferengi nemesis for Picard, but he's only seen once more. A decent epsiode though. Also establishes the Stargazer, Picard's previous command.
110 Hide and Q
- Q's second appearance, but it tries to pair him with Riker, which is not as fun as his interactions with Picard. Probably the easiest Q episode to skip.
111 Haven
- The introduction of Lwaxana Troi, a notable recurring character. Also some good early stuff with Troi and Riker. Is out of order on some services, appearing earlier in the run.
112 The Big Goodbye
- The first real Holodeck episode, and introduction of Picard's Dixon Hill novels
- The introduction of Lore, and the "Shut Up Wesley" episode. A highlight in a muddled season.
114 Angel One
- Skippable. In fact I might stop saying that. Assume if no other notes you could easily skip. A lot of old Trek was very episodic. However if you like Star Trek I do still think many of them are worth watching, as even bad Star Trek is still pretty enjoyable sci-fi action adventure, and if I feel an episode is truly terrible or exceptional then I will mention it. The most notable thing here is its the first mention of the Romulans in this era.
115 11001001
- Fun but not essential. Does tie into a later episode and some of the Titan books though.
116 Too Short A Season
117 When the Bough Breaks
118 Home Soil
119 Coming of Age
- Wesley does an Academy entrance exam, while the crew is investigated by Dexter Remmick, setting up a plot for later. Remmick mentions several previous episodes' events, but not in a way you would be lost if you watched it out of order.
120 Heart of Glory
- First time we get proper Klingons back in TNG, but they are introduced better elsewhere in my opinion.
121 The Arsenal of Freedom
122 Symbosis
123 Skin of Evil
- The death of Tasha Yar at the hands of Armus. If you're skipping episodes to get a cliff notes of TNG then stick with this one. Her funeral scene especially is quite lovely. Armus later appears briefly in Lower Decks.
124 We'll Always Have Paris
125 Conspiracy
- This is the episode that pays of Remmick's appearance in Coming of Age. I quite like this one, and I was hoping the cliffhanger would get answered in Picard at some point. As it is Star Trek: Online and the Pocket books novels both have their own follow-ups to this.
126 The Neutral Zone
- First contact of Romulans and Federation in decades. Very important for later Romulan episodes, the plots of which will inspire elements of Picard's first Season.
201 The Child
- Dr Beverly Crusher has left the show and been temporarily replaced with Dr Pulaski, who I like a lot more than most. Worf becomes the new security chief and Geordi LaForge becomes the Chief Engineer. Wesley becomes the helmsman. Also introduces Guinan.
202 Where Silence Has Lease
203 Elementary, Dear Data
- The debut of the self-aware Moriarty hologram, who later appears in Picard as well as once more here.
204 The Outrageous Okona
- Okona does reappear in a few episodes of Prodigy, and has a cameo in Lower Decks, but the episode is not hugely important.
205 Loud As A Whisper
206 The Schizoid Man
- Introduces Dr Selar, who becomes a major character in Peter David's New Frontier novels.
207 Unnatural Selection
- I think this is Pulaski's best episode, and also features her antagonistic relationship with Data. The day is also saved by Chief O'Brien, who obviously goes on to be a central character in Deep Space Nine, so this is also a great early episode to highlight him and his intelligence.
208 A Matter of Honour
- The best episode to introduce the Klingons in my opinion, and a good Riker episode as well. Several of the Klingons introduced here have big roles in some of the novels.
209 A Measure of A Man
- ESSENTIAL. One of the best Data episodes ever, and a very great introduction episode to the Next Generation. Very good central moral question, with Guinan boiling it down perfectly. Great performances from Picard, Riker and Data. References Data and Tasha's encounter from The Naked Now but not in a way that makes that episode essential. Also introduces Bruce Maddox and his research, so becomes essential for watching Picard Season 1.
210 The Dauphin
211 Contagion
- An episode featuring the Romulans. However this episode is most notable for introducing the Iconians, who become a key part of Star Trek: Online. The Romulan Commander Taris is also a key character in the novel timeline.
212 The Royale
213 Time Squared
214 The Icarus Factor
- A great episode for Riker and Worf. Lots of good stuff exploring their connections to others, including Deanna, O'Brien, Data and Geordi. If you like those two characters I'd make this a priority.
215 Pen Pals
- A great Data episode anyway, and a pretty good introduction episode to be honest, however I want to highlight it because Sarjenka becomes a main character in the SCE novellas.
216 Q Who
- ESSENTIAL. The return of Q, some great stuff with Guinan, and the introduction of the Borg. Works really well as an engaging first episode as most backstory is easily picked up by context. Also features Sonya Gomez, who returns in the novels and Lower Decks.
217 Samaritan Snare
- This is the only episode featuring the Pakleds before Lower Decks, where they become a main antagonist. Also introduces Picard's artificial heart.
218 Up the Long Ladder
219 Manhunt
- Return of Lwaxana and the development of her interest in Picard.
220 The Emissary
- VERY important episode for Worf's development, introducing K'Ehleyr.
221 Peak Performance
- Return of the Ferengi. Shows the Federation starting to take action to the Borg threat restablished in Q Who.
222 Shades of Grey
- The only clip show Star Trek ever did and for very good reason - it was awful! Avoid like the plague! Last episode with Pulaski though as Beverly returns for the rest of the show.
301 Evolution
302 The Ensigns of Command
303 The Survivors
304 Who Watches the Watchers
305 The Bonding
306 Booby Trap
- Introduction of Leah Brahms via her hologram. Gets a sequel later on that makes Geordi look terrible in hindsight, but character flaws can be fun.
307 The Enemy
- First appearance of Tomalak, a recurring Romulan character. An interesting one for Worf as well, showing his disdain for the Romulans and expanding on his family's deaths.
308 The Price
- Features the Ferengi and the introduction of a wormhole. The two Ferengi here will reappear in Voyager.
309 The Vengeance Factor
310 The Defector
- More Romulan intrigue, and the return of Tomalak. Jarok's daughter, while only mentioned here, goes on to be a major recurring character in Star Trek Online.
311 The Hunted
312 The High Ground
- An episode banned on the BBC for years due to a line about the Irish Reunification of 2024. Otherwise unremarkable.
313 Deja Q
- A comedic episode featuring Q, creating a very different type of interaction between him and Picard. One of my favourites, and a great introduction to Trek in my opinion.
314 A Matter of Perspective
315 Yesterday's Enterprise
- Another great introduction episode. Features the return of Tasha Yar and an alternate history. One of the best episodes in TNG as well.
316 The Offspring
- A great Data focused episode, as he creates a child. Builds on ideas from Measure of a Man, and is a precursor to ideas seen later in Picard.
317 Sins of the Father
- ESSENTIAL. The first real episode in an important Klingon arc that runs for years. Features the introduction of Kurn and Duras, and is an important episode for Worf.
318 Allegiance
319 Captain's Holiday
- Introduction of Vash.
320 Tin Man
321 Hollow Pursuits
- The introduction of Reginald Barclay, one of the best supporting characters in Star Trek, and someone who becomes very important in Voyager. Kieran Duffy also goes on to become a character in the SCE novellas.
322 The Most Toys
- A fantastic Data focused episode, and the only appearance of one of the most despicable villains in the franchise.
323 Sarek
- The return of Spock's father from the Original Series leads to an important bit of development from Picard that I think is essential to who he becomes in the Picard series.
324 Menage A Troi
- More Lwaxana, Picard reciting Shakespeare and becoming a meme, and more Riker and Deanna development. Also sees Wesley get a promotion to wear a full uniform.
325 Tranfigurations
326/401 The Best of Both Worlds
- ESSENTIAL. As essential as it could be. Sees the return of the Borg, and the assimilation of Picard into Locutus, leading to the Battle of Wolf 359, which we won't get to see properly until the opening of Deep Space Nine's pilot. I think every member of the cast gets a chance to do something here, and it makes for one of the best episodes. If you want to watch Deep Space Nine or Picard then this is a must-watch. Shelby also reappears in Picard, and is a central character in the New Frontier novels.
402 Family
- Almost an epilogue to Best of Both Worlds. Lots of great character work for Picard and Wesley, as well as some development for Worf. I'd recommend watching it.
403 Brothers
- The return of Lore and the introduction of Noonien Soong, creator of Data. Introduction of Data's emotion chip.
404 Suddenly Human
405 Remember Me
- A great episode for Beverly, who doesn't get many chances to shine so I'm highlighting this one. Also features the return of the Traveller as he helps Wesley.
406 Legacy
- Features Tasha's sister. An interesting epilogue of sorts to Tasha's death.
407 Reunion
- ESSENTIAL. A Worf focused episode. Sees the introduction of Gowron and Worf's son Alexander, as well as the return of Duras and K'Ehleyr. Continues the Klingon arc.
408 Future Imperfect
- If you want to watch this I recommend watching 11001001 first.
409 Final Mission
- Wesley leaves to attend the Academy.
410 The Loss
411 Data's Day
- Told entirely from Data's perspective as he writes to Maddox. Sees the wedding of Chief O'Brien and Keiko. Also some more Romulan spycraft shenanigans.
412 The Wounded
- ESSENTIAL. An episode that focuses on O'Brien and introduces the Cardassians, who go on to be the central antagonists of Deep Space Nine for the majority of its run. Gul Macet will go on to reappear as a recurring character in the DS9 relaunch novels.
413 Devil's Due
414 Clues
- A mystery episode that works as a great introduction episode. Also first appearance of Nurse Ogawa, who becomes a regular recurring character in sickbay, and a main character in the Titan novels.
415 First Contact
416 Galaxy's Child
- Follows on from Booby Trap with the introduction of the real Leah Brahms.
417 Night Terrors
418 Identity Crisis
419 The Nth Degree
- Barclay's second episode.
420 Qpid
- The return of Vash and Q, and sees a Robin Hood adventure.
421 The Drumhead
- A tense episode with a great central Picard performance. The character of Simon Tarses is developed more in the novels. Otherwise a great episode showing the paranoia over the Romulan cold war.
422 Half a Life
- Lwaxana returns for what is probably her best episode in TNG.
423 The Host
- The first appearance of the Trill, but seems to conflict with some later information about them in Deep Space Nine and Discovery. Bear that in mind if watching.
424 The Mind's Eye
- If the Romulans were used to tell Cold War style spy stories in this era then this is the Manchurian Candidate for Star Trek. Features Klingons and Romulans. Also features the shadowy debut of Sela.
425 In Theory
- Data tries a relationship. Important for his overall development I think.
426/501 Redemption
- ESSENTIAL. This is the episode that culminates many of the building Klingon and Romulan plotlines. Brings back Gowron and Kurn, introduces the Duras Sisters Lursa and B'Etor, as well as Duras's son Toral, and has Worf leave Starfleet to fight in a Klingon Civil War. Full introduction of Sela, who has an interesting past, and the second part features some great development for Data as he takes his first command.
502 Darmok
- One of the best premises for an episode Star Trek ever had.
503 Ensign Ro
- ESSENTIAL. While some elements introduced here change as ideas evolve for Deep Space Nine, this episode introduces the Bajorans, and the idea of the Cardassian Occupation of their world. Also introduces the character of Ro Laren, who will recur throughout the rest of TNG and will reappear in Picard, as well as the novels.
504 Silicon Avatar
505 Disaster
- While this episode is most notable for the birth of Molly O'Brien, the Chief and Keiko's daughter, it is also a great episode for Deanna Troi, and goes on to influence some of her later character development as she gets a chance to command. Ro and O'Brien also feature, and every character gets something fun to do.
506 The Game
- Wesley returns for an adventure, and Robin Lefler is introduced. She goes on to be a main character in the New Frontier novels.
507/508 Unification
- ESSENTIAL. This episode features Data and Picard going to Romulus to find the missing Ambassador Spock, the return of Sela, and raises the idea of Romulan and Vulcan reunification, something that is explored in Discovery, as well as the novels and Star Trek: Online. Also features the death of Sarek, following on from his episode. On Paramount+ for some reason the episodes are in the wrong order, with Part 2 being before Part 1.
509 A Matter of Time
510 New Ground
- Alexander returns to the Enterprise to live with his father.
511 Hero Worship
512 Violations
513 The Masterpiece Society
514 Conundrum
515 Power Play
- An interesting one for O'Brien and Keiko's development, as he is possessed.
516 Ethics
- Worf contemplates suicide after his paralysis. Some interesting changes to his relationship with Alexander and Deanna.
517 The Outcast
518 Cause and Effect
- One of my personal favourites, and introduces recurring novel character Morgan Bateson, who also reappears in Lower Decks. I think this would work very well as an introductory episode - has a mystery tone with a real sci-fi edge.
519 The First Duty
- While this episode is mainly focusing on Wesley and Picard after an incident at the Academy, it introduces both Sito Jaxa and Nick Locarno, who both become more notable in Lower Decks. Features another great speech from Picard.
520 Cost of Living
- Lwaxana arrives for a wedding and bonds with Alexander. Not great. More development of Worf and Deanna's relationship though.
521 The Perfect Mate
522 Imaginary Friend
523 I Borg
- ESSENTIAL. The first Borg story since Best of Both Worlds, and one that introduces the idea that the Borg can develop beyond the Collective as demonstrated by Hugh, who returns in Picard. Great stuff for Picard and Guinan here as well.
524 The Next Phase
- A good development episode for Ro, who has appeared a few times since her debut, exploring the Bajoran faith for the first time, and features more Romulan intrigue.
525 The Inner Light
- ESSENTIAL. Widely regarded as one of TNG's best episodes, and a central episode for Picard's own development. Also the story that feels the least like Star Trek in some ways, making it a great introductory episode.
526/601 Time's Arrow
- Of all the Season cliffhangers TNG produced this one is probably the least impactful, but does have some fun stuff with Guinan. Inspired a mission chain in Star Trek: Online.
602 Realm of Fear
- Barclay's third episode.
603 Man of the People
- A good episode for Troi and one that shows more of her relationship with Riker.
604 Relics
- The return of Scotty from the Original Series. A great standalone episode to introduce people to, and one with some really quite poignant moments.
605 Schisms
- A really fun and tense horror episode. Also the best introduction for recurring character Ensign Rager, who goes on to be a cast member in the Titan novels. The unanmed enemies in this episode return as the Solonae in Star Trek: Online.
606 True Q
- Another comedic Q episode, and one that seems to conflict with later Q episodes in Voyager. I feel safe saying this episode could easily be skipped, as fun as it is.
607 Rascals
- A fun little adventure with Keiko, Ro, Guinan and Picard all being deaged and the crew having to deal with the Ferengi. Some fun stuff for O'Brien, and significant for Ro.
608 A Fistful of Datas
- Worf continues to be a pretty terrible dad, but it continues to show Deanna helping him.
609 The Quality of Life
- Introduction of the Exocomps, one of whom becomes a recurring character in Lower Decks.
610/611 Chain of Command
- ESSENTIAL. This is it, the final big Cardassian episode to set up Deep Space Nine. Features some incredible actor performances, and introduces Captain Jellico, who will reappear as an Admiral in several episodes of Prodigy. Both parts feel separate in tone and story in some regards while still having connections between them, something that later shows would also start to do.
From this point on Deep Space Nine begins. Now while the two shows tended to air concurrently, as did DS9 and Voyager later on, I will try not to jump between them too much. I can't think of anything more annoying in a watch order than being told to change shows every other episode, however your mileage may vary, and if that works better for you so that you don't forget ongoing plots than that is your perogative, but unlike more serialised shows like the Arrowverse, Buffy and Angel, or the MCU's Defenders Saga, the more episodic nature of Star Trek makes watching them in blocks a lot easier. As a result I will try to divide the shows in the best way I can, while keeping them relatively in line with their chronological order. However previous rules apply - if there are no notes under an episode just assume its fairly standard and serviceable Star Trek, which is great to watch, but can be easily skipped if you don't feel like watching it. Of course unless explicitly stated as a crossover then feel free to watch all of a particular season before the other one if you prefer - for example there is very little preventing you watching whole seasons of DS9 before a whole season of Voyager and vice versa.
Star Trek: Deep Space Nine
101/102 Emmissary
- ESSENTIAL. The pilot is a great episode and introduces many of the elements that run throughout the series. Has an opening that shows the Battle of Wolf 359 from Best of Both Worlds. I think this is the best Star Trek pilot overall, so I would definitely recommend it, and works well as an introduction as well. Introduces the Bajoran Wormhole, the Prophets, and establishes the Cardassian withdrawl from Bajor. O'Brien and Keiko move to DS9 and join the cast of this show. Jadzia Dax also works as a great introduction to the Trill, who return in Discovery as well.
103 Past Prologue
- The first episode featuring one of DS9's best recurring characters, the simple tailor Garak. Also features the Duras sisters setting up their return to TNG.
104 A Man Alone
- A great focus episode on Odo establishing this very interesting character. Also sees Keiko form a school, and starts the friendship with Jake and Nog. Recommend.
105 Babel
106 Captive Pursuit
107 Q-Less
- Last appearance of Vash, and Q's only appearance on DS9.
TNG
612 Ship In a Bottle
- The return of Moriarty. Also sees Barclay come back.
613 Aquiel
614 Face of the Enemy
- An episode that follows up on some of the ideas introduced in Unification, and gives Troi a great central role.
615 Tapestry
- A secret Q episode. One of Picard's best episodes as well as he gets a do-over on one of the most impactful moments in his history to avoid getting his artificial heart.
616/617 Birthright
- Bashir guests in the first part for a B-story with Data. The majority focuses on Worf looking for survivors of the massacre that killed his parents.
DS9
108 Dax
109 The Passenger
110 Move Along Home
- Widely regarded as the worst episode of DS9, but I think it has a quaint charm. YMMV.
111 The Nagus
- First appearance of the Ferengi Grand Nagus, Zek.
112 Vortex
113 Battle Lines
- An important episode for Kai Opaka, who was introduced as very important for Bajor in Emmissary.
TNG
618 Starship Mine
619 Lessons
620 The Chase
- An episode that introduces the idea of a common ancestor to a lot of races, which got some more exploration in the final season of Discovery.
621 Frame of Mind
622 Suspicions
DS9
114 The Storyteller
115 Progress
116 If Wishes Were Horses
117 The Forsaken
- Lwaxana Troi arrives on DS9 and gets interested in Odo. She's better in DS9 in my opinion.
118 Dramatis Personae
119 Duet
- An absolutely incredible episode focusing on Kira and looking quite starkly at the Occupation. Very heavily recommended.
120 In the Hands of the Prophets
- Sees the introductions of Bariel and Winn, two Bajoran religious figures that will be very important recurring characters for the show.
TNG
623 Rightful Heir
- Features Gowron, but doesn't really tie in to the main Klingon arc.
624 Second Chances
- Gives Riker a transporter created duplicate, an idea Lower Decks will revisit.
625 Timescape
626/701 Descent
- Final episode with Lore. Also sees the return of the Borg and Hugh. A lot of the cast gets some great stuff to do, and Data gets his emotion chip back, but doesn't install it yet.
702 Liasions
703 Interface
DS9
- DS9 does a lot of multi-part stories like this, where the parts have diferent names. This is the only three part story, and features some interesting changes for Bajor.
204 Invasive Procedures
205 Cardassians
TNG
704/705 Gambit
- A fun little two-parter, but relatively self-contained.
706 Phantasms
707 Dark Page
- Final TNG Lwaxana episode. Quite dark compared to her previous ones. A great one for Deanna as well. Recommend.
708 Attached
709 Force of Nature
DS9
206 Melora
- Introduces Melora Pazlar, who joins the Titan novels.
207 Rules of Acquisition
- An interesting one for the Ferengi development. Zek returns. First mention of the Dominion.
208 Necessary Evil
- Gives us a chance to see Bajor and DS9 during the Occupation for the first time.
209 Second Sight
210 Sanctuary
211 Rivals
TNG
710 Inheritance
711 Parallels
- Introduces alternate realities and sets up the Worf/Deanna romantic relationship, which impacts the finale. I don't think its a great development, but it is a good episode.
712 The Pegasus
- An important one for Riker. The final Enterprise episode, These Are the Voyages, supposedly takes place offscreen here as Riker uses the Holodeck to use those events to inform his own decisions. Also explains why Starfleet don't have cloaking devices.
713 Homeward
714 Sub Rosa
- A very bad episode this late in the run. Kind of so bad its fun though.
715 Lower Decks
- Sito Jaxa returns, and this episode is called back to by Lower Decks.
DS9
212 The Alternate
- We get to meet Mora Pol, the scientist who studied Odo, as he searches for his people.
213 Armageddon Game
214 Whispers
215 Paradise
216 Shadowplay
- Second mention of the Dominion, and a much more ominous one.
TNG
716 Thine Own Self
717 Masks
718 Eye of the Beholder
719 Genesis
- Barclay has a key role here, and the episode is quite fun, but isn't his best.
720 Journey's End
- A new treaty between Cardassia and the Federation sees a colony told to evacuate. Wesley appears for the final time, and leaves Starfleet to join the Traveller. Important for Picard and Prodigy.
DS9
217 Playing God
218 Profit and Loss
- Star Trek does Casablanca, and we get the idea of a civilian rebellion beginning on Cardassia. Garak gets a great role in this one as well.
219 Blood Oath
- Sees Klingon characters Kang, Kor and Koloth return from the Original Series.
220/221 The Maquis
- Abandoned colonies near Cardassian space form a rebellion called the Maquis, making enemies of Cardassia and the Federation.
222 The Wire
- A Garak focused episode that expands on his past. Introduces spymaster Enabran Tain.
TNG
721 Firstborn
- An episode focusing on Alexander. Probably his best episode. Also has a Quark cameo and an appearance from the Duras Sisters.
722 Bloodlines
- Daimon Bok returns to menace Picard.
723 Emergence
724 Preemptive Strike
- Ro Laren is sent undercover to investigate the Maquis. Sees a major shift in her relationship with Picard, which is elaborated in different ways in the novels and Picard.
725/726 All Good Things
- ESSENTIAL. The final episode of TNG. Very focused on Picard as he travels between past, present and future while dealing with Q. I'd say this is absolutely essential if you plan to watch Picard, and as its one of my favourite TV finales ever made I'd recommend it anyway. The rest of the TNG entries are films.
DS9
223 Crossover
- The first of several Mirror Universe episodes in DS9.
224 The Collaborator
- An important one for Bajor, with Winn and Bariel as well as Opaka being involved.
225 Tribunal
- O'Brien is accused of working with the Maquis and put on trial by Cardassians.
226 The Jem'Hadar
- This is the episode that introduces the Jem'Hadar, the soldiers of the Dominion, and establishes them as an important new threat for the Federation. However...
301/302 The Search
- ESSENTIAL. This two-parter is the one I would mark as the more essential one. DS9 is given a warship, the Defiant, which has a Romulan cloaking device, and is sent to find the Dominion leaders. We also meet Odo's people, led by the Female Changeling, and Starfleet officer Michael Eddington, who joins the crew of DS9. A big change for the show and the universe.
303 The House of Quark
- Introduces Grilka, a Klingon ally for Quark. Also Gowron in his first DS9 appearance. Keiko closes the school and O'Brien gets her botany work on Bajor.
304 Equilibrium
- A very good episode for Dax, and important reveals for the Trill as a whole. Possibly worth watching before watching Discovery.
305 Second Skin
- Progresses the idea of the Cardassian civilian rebellion. Introduces Illiana Ghemor, a key character in the DS9 relaunch novels, and Tekeny Ghemor, who returns later.
306 The Abandoned
- Some important development for the Jem'Hadar.
Star Trek: Voyager
Season One of Voyager was cut short, with four of its episodes held for Season 2. As a result these blocks may be smaller for a bit. Also Voyager tends to be a lot more episodic than DS9, especially at first, and so I may have far fewer notes for a lot of these episodes, as while they can all be perfectly serviceable and entertaining there are very few that have ongoing effects on the series or characters as a whole unfortunately.
101/102 Caretaker
- ESSENTIAL. A very strong pilot. Sees a Maquis crew and a Starfleet crew trapped across the galaxy and forced to work together. I'm not the biggest fan of Voyager, but most of it is perfectly serviceable Star Trek, and Prodigy returns to the Delta Quadrant a lot. Quark cameos.
103 Parallax
- The crew really come together as half-Klingon Maquis soldier B'Elanna Torres becomes chief engineer over Starfleet officer Joe Carey, who's actor had a cameo in TNG Justice as possibly the same character. Shows the two crews slotting together. Debut of Seska.
DS9
307 Civil Defense
- Garak and Gul Dukat get some great scenes here highlighting their emnity.
308 Meridian
309 Defiant
- Riker guest stars, and we get some interesting progressions in plots concerning the Maquis and the Cardassian Obsidian Order, who have been a part of several previous episodes including The Wire, Profit and Loss and Second Skin.
310 Fascination
- Lwaxana comes in for one of the funniest episodes of DS9 in my opinion.
311/312 Past Tense
- I'm hesitant to suggest this as essential, but it is a very pertinent episode, and has a look at the early 21st Century in Star Trek, something we do see again in Picard. Recommend.
Voy
104 Time and Again
105 Phage
- Introduces the Vidiians, one of the better recurring factions in early Voyager.
106 The Cloud
DS9
313 Life Support
- Bariel is gravely injured while working with Winn on a Cardassian treaty.
314 Heart of Stone
- While the A-story focuses on Odo's feelings for Kira, for me the highlight here is the B-story, as Nog asks Sisko to sponsor him to be the first Ferengi in Starfleet.
315 Destiny
316 Prophet Motive
- Zek returns, as do the Prophets, and Quark and Rom have save the Ferengi.
317 Visionary
318 Distant Voices
319 Through the Looking Glass
- Second episode of a loose trilogy of sorts in the Mirror Universe. Mirror Jennifer is introduced as "our" Sisko is recruited to help a Terran rebellion.
Voy
107 Eye of the Needle
- The crew try to contact home using a wormhole link to a Romulan ship.
108 Ex Post Facto
109 Emanations
TNG
Star Trek: Generations
- Sees Picard meet Kirk to help stop a madman. Final appearance of the Duras sisters. Also sees the destruction of the Enterprise-D. Picard's family from Family are mentioned in an important moment. The film also gives some answers about some mysteries for Guinan, as this is her only real film appearance. Data also installs his emotion chip and struggles with the rush of emotions. Not a bad film, but not essential.
Voy
110 Prime Factors
111 State of Flux
- Seska is revealed to have been a Cardassian spy, and joins the Kazon.
112 Heroes and Demons
113 Cathexis
DS9
- ESSENTIAL. Odo and Garak uncover a plot between the Cardassian Obsidian Order and the Romulan Tal Shiar to attack the Dominion's Founders. Features Tain and Eddington.
322 Explorers
- A great episode for Sisko and Jake, and the first mention of Kasidy Yates. Debut of Leeta. Also introduces Elisabeth Lense, who reappears in the novels.
Voy
114 Faces
- A good episode for B'Elanna as the Vidiians split her into two people.
115 Jetrel
116 Learning Curve
DS9
323 Family Business
- Introduction of Kasidy Yates, Ishka, and Brunt. Some interesting Ferengi stuff too.
324 Shakaar
- Introduction of Shakaar, who becomes an important character for Kira and Bajor.
325 Facets
- A very good Dax focused episode, as she gets to "meet" her past selves.
326 The Adversary
- A very important development in the ongoing Dominion plotline.
Voy
- These are the leftover Season 1 episodes, listed in production order, however you could easily watch all of them in any order with the following two episodes.
- This one sees Tom and Harry on Earth rather than on Voyager. An interesting idea and reveals what Starfleet thinks happened to Voyager.
DS9
401/402 The Way of the Warrior
- ESSENTIAL. A key part of both the Klingon and Dominion arcs. Brings Worf onto DS9. Features Gowron and introduces Martok. A civilian government has taken over Cardassia as well, building from the plotlines there. Garak and Dukat are featured here.
403 The Visitor
- One of DS9's best and most emotional episodes, and one of a few that focuses on Jake.
404 Hippocratic Oath
- Bashir focused episode that reveals more about the Jem'Hadar.
405 Indiscretion
- An important episode for Dukat, featuring Kira, and first appearance of the Breen.
406 Rejoined
- Another good look at Trill society through Dax, which may be good for Discovery.
Voy
207 Parturition
208 Persistence of Vision
209 Tattoo
210 Cold Fire
- A big development for Kes's growing mental powers.
211 Maneuvers
- Seska returns and Chakotay confronts her. Sets up the next key part of her plot.
DS9
407 Starship Down
- Introduction of the Karemma, who return in Lower Decks.
408 Little Green Men
- Nog travels to Earth to join Starfleet Academy.
409 The Sword of Kahless
- Kor and Toral return.
410 Our Man Bashir
- Star Trek does James Bond. A very fun episode and a great introductory episode.
- Dominion infiltration nearly causes a Starfleet civil war. Sisko and Odo are on Earth trying to help Starfleet find ways to spot the Founders. Get to see Nog as a cadet.
Voy
212 Resistance
213 Prototype
214 Alliances
- Introduces Michael Jonas, and continues to develop the building Kazon plotlines.
215 Threshold
- Considered by the fandom to be one of the worst episodes in the franchise, but features a reference in Lower Decks, so might be worth a watch.
216 Meld
- Debut of Lon Suder, and a great episode for Tuvok.
DS9
413 Crossfire
- Kira and Shakaar start a relationship.
414 Return to Grace
- An important step for Dukat, and the debut of Damar, who becomes very important later.
415 Sons of Mogh
- In an epilogue of sorts to Way of the Warrior, Kurn returns.
416 Bar Association
- A great episode for Rom, as he starts the firtst Ferengi strike, and joins the engineers.
417 Accession
- Keiko and O'Brien learn they are expecting. The Prophets reappear.
418 Rules of Engagement
419 Hard Time
420 Shattered Mirror
- Third Mirror Universe episode. Return of Mirror Jennifer.
Voy
217 Dreadnought
- While B'Elanna deals with a Maquis weapon Jonas and Seska start work to sabotage Voyager.
218 Death Wish
- Q comes to Voyager for the first time, and we get to see the Q Continuum.
219 Lifesigns
- Continues the Jonas and Seska plotline with the Kazon, while Vidiians return.
220 Investigations
- Concludes several of the plotlines over previous episodes, with Jonas being exposed.
221 Deadlock
- A great episode featuring the return of the Vidiians, but most important to the status quo is the birth of Naomi Wildman, who's mother Samantha learned she was pregnant in the Delta Quadrant.
DS9
421 The Muse
- Lwaxana's final episode as she seeks help from Odo.
422 For the Cause
- Kasidy is suspected of helping the Maquis, but Eddington betrays Sisko for them as well.
423 To The Death
- Another episode with Iconian technology, but also the debut of the character of Weyoun.
424 The Quickening
425 Body Parts
- Keiko's baby has to be carried by Kira due to sci-fi shenanigans. Quark loses his business license after tangling with Brunt.
426 Broken Link
- Odo is punished by the Founders for the actions of The Adversary.
Voy
222 Innocence
223 The Thaw
224 Tuvix
- Heavily referenced in a Lower Decks episode, and one of Janeway's most controversial.
225 Resolutions
226/301 Basics
- The culmination of Seska's arc, and the last major appearance of the Kazon. Also brings back Lon Suder who redeems himself.
302 Flashback
- Tuvok relives memories of his time on the Excelsior during the events of Star Trek VI.
303 The Chute
304 The Swarm
DS9
501 Apocalypse Rising
- Martok and Gowron return as the crew try to stop war with the Klingons.
502 The Ship
- Sisko claims salvage on a crashed Jem'Hadar ship.
503 Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places
- Grilka returns and Worf and Dax start a relationship.
504 Nor the Battle to the Strong
- A great episode for Jake on the frontlines against the Klingons.
505 The Assignment
- Keiko is possessed by a Pah-Wraith, the devils to the Prophets' angels, and uses O'Brien, and by extent Rom, to try to attack the Wormhole.
506 Trials and Tribble-ations
- The crew ends up time-travelling to the events of Original Series episode The Trouble With Tribbles, and have to prevent changes in the background of those events.
Voy
305 False Profits
- The Ferengi from The Price return in the Delta Quadrant.
306 Remember
307 Sacred Ground
308/309 Future's End
- Introduces the character of Braxton, a captain from the future who has a grudge with Voyager, leading to time travel adventures that see Voyager arrive on 90s Earth. The Doctor also gets his mobile emitter, a piece of 29th century technology.
310 Warlord
- An important episode for Kes, expanding her powers further.
311 The Q and the Grey
- Q returns to get Janeway's help to stop a Q civil war.
DS9
507 Let He Who Is Without Sin
- Leeta ends her relationship with Bashir, which I'm telling you so you can skip this one. The plot is terrible, as Worf gets tricked into helping an eco-terrorist group. Seriously when the episode's sole highlight is Dax spends the majority of it in a swimsuit you know its bad. Skip it. You aren't missing much.
508 Things Past
- An interesting one showing Odo during the Occupation.
509 The Ascent
510 Rapture
- Bajor is in final talks to join the Federation, but Sisko starts recieiving cryptic visions. Kasidy is also released from prison after helping the Maquis.
511 The Darkness and the Light
512 The Begotten
- Mora Pol returns to help Odo with an infant changeling. Kira gives birth.
Voy
312 Macrocosm
- Another one referenced in Lower Decks. A fun action episode though. In fact I'd say it would make a good introduction episode for action fans.
313 Fair Trade
- The Ship starts travelling through a strange area of space that causes strange effects on the crew in several subsequent episodes.
314 Alter Ego
315 Coda
316 Blood Fever
317 Unity
- The Borg appear on Voyager for the first time. They will become a bigger threat soon.
TNG
Star Trek: First Contact
- ESSENTIAL. This film is essentially a sequel to The Best of Both Worlds, with the introduction of the Borg Queen and Picard obsessively confronting the Borg. Also features a time travel story that sheds light on a key part of Starfleet history. Barclay cameos. Geordi has new artificial eyes. Amazing action sequences including the Defiant being part of a space battle. Lots of great stuff for Data as well.
DS9
513 For the Uniform
- Sisko chases Eddington and the Maquis.
- ESSENTIAL. A huge status quo shift for DS9 and the entire Alpha Quadrant as the threat of the Dominion looms larger than ever. Guest roles from Martok, Gowron, Tain, Garak, Dukat and Ziyal, and the reveal that one of the crew has been an imposter for quite some time...
516 Doctor Bashir I Presume
- An important reveal for Bashir, a pivotal change for Rom and Leeta, and a guest role from the inventor of Voyager's EMH Doctor, Lewis Zimmerman.
517 A Simple Investigation
518 Business as Usual
519 Ties of Blood and Water
- Return of Tekeny Ghemor and Weyoun.
520 Ferengi Love Songs
- Ishka and Zek start a romance, and Brunt ends up giving Quark his license back.
Voy
318 Darkling
319 Rise
320 Favourite Son
321 Before and After
- An interesting time travel story, first mention of the Krenim, and one of Kes's highlights.
322 Real Life
- A great episode for the Doctor as he creates a family. Wish it had more lasting impact, but well worth a watch. Great standalone episode.
DS9
521 Soldiers of the Empire
- Worf and Dax join Martok as he takes command of the Rotarran. Important for Worf's overall story and the best look at life on a Klingon ship.
522 Children of Time
- Kira learns about Odo's feelings for her, but as a result of time travel shenanigans.
523 Blaze of Glory
- As the Dominion exterminate the Maquis, Eddington and Sisko join forces to save them.
524 Empok Nor
525 In the Cards
- Bajor signs a non-aggression pact with the Dominion.
526 Call to Arms
- ESSENTIAL. Rom helps create mines to block the Wormhole, stopping the Dominion supplying troops to Cardassia. This kickstarts the Dominion War, and Weyoun and Dukat take the station. Jake, Odo and Kira remain, along with Quark, Rom and Leeta, while the Starfleet and Klingon crews leave on the Defiant and Rotarran. When we next pick up with DS9 six months will have passed.
Voy
323 Distant Origin
- This episode introduces the Voth, who become an important faction in Star Trek: Online.
324 Displaced
325 Worst Case Scenario
- Tuvok and Paris deal with a little surprise that Seska left onboard the ship.
326/401 Scorpion
- ESSENTIAL. Voyager encounters both the Borg and new enemy Species 8572, who return in Star Trek: Online as the Undine. Debut of Seven of Nine, who goes on to become a key character going forward. Janeway gets a chance to shine, as does Chakotay, and some important developments happen for Kes.
402 The Gift
- ESSENTIAL. Kes's final episode as a main cast member. She uses her powers to push Voyager a large part of the way through Borg space. Seven is deassimilated and joins the crew.
403 Day of Honor
- Paris and B'Elanna start their relationship.
404 Nemesis
405 Revulsion
406 The Raven
- One of the more important episodes for Seven as we learn how she was assimilated.
407 Scientific Method
DS9
- ESSENTIAL. While all six episodes contribute to a single story arc, with the Dominion in control of the station and the Starfleet and Klingon forces fighting, only the last two episodes are really essential, as they try to retake the station and stop the Dominion bringing down the minefield. Features one of the best battle sequences in the franchise, and has guest roles from many characters across these six episodes, including Dukat, Weyoun, Damar, Rom, Leeta, Martok, Alexander, Admiral Ross, Female Changeling, the Prophets, Nog and Ziyal. A lot of dynamics are changed going forward from this storyline. The Vorta Keevan is captured early on as well.
607 You Are Cordially Invited
- Worf and Dax get married, with guests including Martok and Alexander. A lighter story after the recent high stakes drama.
Voy
408/409 Year of Hell
- ESSENTIAL. The appearance of the Krenim. A great episode in its own right and a sign of things Voyager could have done. A lot of references to this in Star Trek: Online.
410 Random Thoughts
411 Concerning Flight
412 Mortal Coil
413 Waking Moments
414 Message in a Bottle
- Finding a way to send the Doctor to the Alpha Quadrant, where he stops Romulans stealing a new Starfleet warship with the help of another EMH, the crew is able to tell Starfleet they are alive.
DS9
608 Resurrection
- The fourth Mirror Universe episode. Really easy to recommend skipping this one though.
609 Statistical Probabilities
- Introduces a group of genetically engineered humans to work with Bashir, and they try to stop the war with Starfleet's surrender as they think the Dominion will win.
610 The Magnificent Ferengi
- The Dominion capture Ishka, so Zek gets Quark to exchange Keevan for her.
611 Waltz
- A huge evolution in Dukat's character arc building from Sacrifice of Angels. Recommend.
612 Who Mourns For Morn?
613 Far Beyond the Stars
- ESSENTIAL. While not a pivotal part of the war storyline I am calling this one essential because its is easily one of the best episodes of television ever made, never mind Star Trek. Has a powerful and important message that I think everyone should see, and is incredible standalone making it easy for anyone to watch.
Voy
415 Hunters
- First appearance of the Hirogen, and Voyager gets letters from home.
416 Prey
417 Retrospect
418/419 The Killing Game
- The Hirogen take over Voyager.
420 Vis a Vis
421 The Omega Directive
- A very interesting one for Janeway and Seven and their evolving relationship.
DS9
614 One Little Ship
615 Honor Among Thieves
616 Change of Heart
617 Wrongs Darker Than Death or Night
- Kira learns some dark secrets about her mother during the Occupation.
618 Inquisition
- The introduction of Section 31, as Sloan investigates Bashir, suspecting him of being a traitor to Starfleet. References several recent episodes. Section 31 as a concept go on to be a key part of Enterprise, Discovery, Lower Decks, and the Section 31 spin-off film.
619 In The Pale Moonlight
- ESSENTIAL. Sisko and Garak manipulate events to bring the Romulans into the War on Starfleet's side. A great episode and important to overall dynamics.
620 His Way
- Introduction of Vic Fontaine, a sentient hologram who helps Odo to woo Kira.
Voy
422 Unforgettable
423 Living Witness
- Actually set in the far future with the Doctor on an alien planet.
424 Demon
- Introduces the Silver Blood.
425 One
426 Hope and Fear
- Another important one for Seven and Janeway's development, and deals with ramifications of Voyager's brief alliance with the Borg in Scorpion. Debut of the slipstream drive and the Dauntless, both of which return in Prodigy.
DS9
621 The Reckoning
- A Prophet and a Pah-Wraith clash on the station after possessing Kira and Jake.
622 Valiant
623 Profit and Lace
- Sees some important changes for Ferengi society, but has some problematic elements in its execution as Quark has to become a woman briefly.
624 Time's Orphan
625 The Sound of Her Voice
626 Tears of the Prophets
- ESSENTIAL. Dukat uses a Pah-Wraith to close the wormhole, Cardassia suffers a major defeat in the War, and Jadzia is killed, although Dax survives. Sisko leaves DS9.
Voy
501 Night
- Echoes back to a lot of ideas from Caretaker. Introduces both Paris' Captain Proton holo-program and the Malon.
502 Drone
- A great episode for Seven.
503 Extreme Risk
- A good episode for B'Elanna as she deals with survivor's guilt over the deaths of the Maquis. Also the debut of Delta Flyer.
504 In the Flesh
- Return of Species 8572
505 Once Upon a Time
- A good episode for Naomi's development.
506 Timeless
- A good time travel story for the hundreth episode featuring a slipstream drive, and a cameo from Geordi.
DS9
- ESSENTIAL. Debut of Ezri Dax, and sees the return of Sisko and some developments for the Prophets and Bajor. Also a good Romulan story as well.
703 Afterimage
- An episode that focuses on Ezri and Garak, with some great developments for both.
704 Take Me Out to the Holosuite
705 Chrysalis
- Return of Sarina and the other genetically engineered humans. Important for her later development in the novels.
Voy
507 Infinite Regress
508 Nothing Human
509 Thirty Days
- Paris ends up demoted and spends 30 days in the Brig.
510 Counterpoint
511 Latent Image
- A great episode for the relationship between the Doctor and Janeway.
512 Bride of Chaotica!
- The best episode to show off the Captain Proton program and the villain Chaotica, who returns in Lower Decks.
DS9
706 Treachery Faith and the Great River
- Weyoun gives Odo some important information about the Dominion, and Nog has a great role in the B-story.
707 Once More Unto the Breach
- Final appearance of Kor as he joins Martok and Worf for a mission.
708 The Siege of AR-558
- An important episode for Nog.
709 Covenant
- The return of Dukat as the leader of a Pah-Wraith cult.
Voy
513 Gravity
514 Bliss
- Seven and Naomi team up to save Voyager.
515/516 Dark Frontier
- ESSENTIAL. The most essential Borg focused Voyager episode. Focuses on Seven and gives more of her history, including showing her family. Features the Borg Queen.
517 The Disease
518 Course: Oblivion
- The return of the Silver Blood, and the wedding of Paris and B'Elanna.
TNG
Star Trek: Insurrection
- This movie has a pretty decent central moral question, and we get to see the cast doing some fun things, but the villains are a bit weak. I think its still pretty fun though. The biggest status quo shift is that Riker and Deanna get back together.
DS9
710 Its Only A Paper Moon
- An episode that takes place over quite a long time as Nog recovers from his injury with the help of Vic. A highlight in Nog's character arc, which is one of the strongest.
711 Prodigal Daughter
712 The Emperor's New Cloak
- The final Mirror Universe episode, that sees Zek, Quark and Rom crossing over. Has an inconsistency with an earlier episode set there, but its fun enough.
713 Field of Fire
- Ezri deals with the Trill lives that Dax gove her while hunting a serial killer. A good sequel to Equilibrium.
714 Chimera
- The introduction of changeling Laas, who goes on to be a key part of Star Trek: Online.
715 Bada-Bing Badda-Bang
716 Inter Arma Enim Silent Leges
- ESSENTIAL. This episode, near the end of the War, is probably the best one to set the tone of the Federation and Romulan relationship going in to Picard, and features Sloan and Section 31 trying to affect that relationship.
Voy
519 The Fight
520 Think Tank
521 Juggernaut
522 Someone to Watch Over Me
- A nice one featuring Seven and the Doctor that works well to advance their characters.
523 11:59
524 Relativity
- Braxton returns using time travel to seek revenge on Janeway.
525 Warhead
DS9
- ESSENTIAL. The end of the Dominion War. So many plotlines come to a conclusion here, as beyond the main cast of Sisko, Jake, Kira, Odo, Bashir, O'Brien, Worf, Ezri and Quark these stories also feature Rom, Nog, Dukat, Garak, Winn, the Prophets, Kasidy, Leeta, Zek, Brunt, Weyoun, the Female Changeling, the Breen, Damar, Gowron, Martok, Sloan, Admiral Ross, and Vic Fontaine. Features huge shifts for the Federation, Cardassia, the Dominion, Bajor, The Klingon Empire and the Ferengi that affect stories in the novels, in Star Trek: Online, in Picard, in Lower Decks, and Discovery.
Voy
All Voyager from here on until the very end when we get the last TNG film.
526/601 Equinox
- Voyager encounters the Equinox, another Federation ship stranded in the Delta Quadrant that has made very different choices in its journey. Not essential but very good.
602 Survival Instinct
- A very good episode for Seven as she confronts a decision she made as a drone.
603 Barge of the Dead
604 Tinker Tenor Doctor Spy
- First appearance of the Hierarchy, who return in Star Trek: Online.
605 Alice
606 Riddles
607 Dragon's Teeth
- Only appearance of the Vaadwuar, who become a major faction in Star Trek: Online, along with Gaul, who first appears here.
608 One Small Step
609 The Voyager Conspiracy
610 Pathfinder
- ESSENTIAL. Barclay and Deanna return, as Barclay is a member of the Pathfinder project on Earth, a Starfleet group trying to get in touch with the Voyager.
611 Fair Haven
- Introduces the Fair Haven Holodeck program. Referenced in Lower Decks.
612 Blink of An Eye
- Another episode with a terrific sci-fi premise. Recommended.
613 Virtuoso
614 Memorial
615 Tsunkatse
616 Collective
- Introduction of Icheb, who becomes a major part of Seven's life and returns in Picard.
617 Spirit Folk
- A good followup to Fair Haven, as the Holodeck characters become aware of the crew.
618 Ashes to Ashes
- Only appearance of Jhet'Laya and the Kobali, who are a major faction in Star Trek: Online. Also features some interesting stuff for Seven and Icheb.
619 Child's Play
- Another important one for Seven and Icheb.
620 Good Shepherd
621 Live Fast and Prosper
622 Muse
623 Fury
- Final appearance of Kes. Features time travel as well. Not bad, but The Gift is a better send-off for the character.
624 Life Line
- An important one for the Doctor as he is sent to the Alpha Quadrant to help Zimmerman. Also features Deanna and Barclay.
625 The Haunting of Deck Twelve
626/701 Unimatrix Zero
- A connection Seven makes to some other Borg allows Janeway a chance to strike at the Borg Queen. Sets some ideas for the Borg that are similar to ideas approached in Picard.
702 Imperfection
- An important episode for Seven and Icheb as the other Borg children leave the ship.
703 Drive
- A big one for Paris and B'Elanna's relationship.
704 Repression
705 Critical Care
706 Inside Man
- Barclay and Troi return as Pathfinder works with Voyager again.
707 Body and Soul
708 Nightingale
709/710 Flesh and Blood
- The Hirogen return and Voyager has to deal with the ramifications of their last meeting.
711 Shattered
- After Chakotay ends up injured he ends up back in the events of several other episodes, including Macrocosm, Bride of Chaotica, Basics, Scorpion, and Caretaker.
712 Lineage
- B'Elanna learns that she is pregnant.
713 Repentance
714 Prophecy
- B'Elanna's child may be a Klingon religious figure. Star Trek: Online followed up on this plotline.
715 The Void
716/717 Workforce
- As I usually highlight the 2-parters, this one is okay. The crew end up with new identities on a alien planet.
718 Human Error
- An emotional development episode for Seven as she explores relationships.
719 Q2
- Q drops his son on Voyager to teach him discipline. A good role for Icheb here.
720 Author Author
- Similar to Measure of A Man, with the Doctor fighting for his rights after a holonovel he wrote is stolen. Has some callbacks to Life Line.
721 Friendship One
- Voyager is given its first official mission from Starfleet, with some dark twists.
722 Natural Law
723 Homestead
- Neelix finds some other Talaxians and leaves Voyager.
724 Renaissance Man
725/726 Endgame
- ESSENTIAL. The end of Voyager. The Borg Queen returns, and the final confrontation with her affects a lot of the following stories featuring them in the novels especially.
TNG
Star Trek: Nemesis
- ESSENTIAL. I'll be honest, Nemesis is not a great film, however it is essential for several character arcs in Picard as well as the Novels. A big change for the Romulans, and introduces the character of Donatra who becomes a major one in the Novels. It sees Riker and Deanna marry and move to the Titan as Riker finally becomes a Captain, and both reappear in Lower Decks as well as Picard, and of course there are a whole series of Novels on the Titan. And finally there is a big change for Data that inspires a lot of Picard, especially in Season 1.
So from here you have a few options, as there are a couple of different ways to experience the rest of Star Trek.
The most obvious progression from here is the new streaming shows. Nemesis is set in 2379 in the Star Trek Universe. Lower Decks follows it in 2380, with the five seasons released taking place over the next two to three years. Prodigy then begins in 2383, with its two seasons ending around the same time as the flashbacks in Picard Season 1 occur, tying in with the Short Trek episode Children of Mars, set in April 2385. The Romulan star going supernova in 2387 sends Spock and Nero back in time to create the so-called Kelvin Timeline, consisting of the film trilogy Star Trek (2009), Into Darkness, and Beyond, which take place in an alternate 2250s. Picard itself then takes place between 2399 and 2402. Finally seasons 3-5 of Discovery take place centuries after this in the 32nd Century.
However Star Trek also has a large expanded novel timeline published by Pocket Books, which started with the tie-in novels to TNG, DS9 and Voyager as they were airing, before spreading out to new original series, that all gradually started to connect. Comic legend Peter David wrote the excellent New Frontier series designed as a new series of Star Trek just for the Novels. There was the Starfleet Corps of Engineers novellas released online. David Mack led the DS9 relaunch beginning with the novel Avatar after that series ended with several plotlines still unresolved, starting in 2376, the year after the end of the Dominion War. Voyager later got a relaunch of its own, beginning with the novel Homecoming, and the Nemesis prequel novels the A Time To... series bought together several 24th Century characters to build a new status quo for the TNG relaunch novel Death in Winter after that film, with Riker spinning off into the Star Trek: Titan novel series as well. Eventually these series all connected with the Destiny Trilogy, a series of novels bringing Picard, Riker and new Captain Ezri Dax together as the Federation dealt with a full-scale Borg invasion. The Novel timeline continued on from there and eventually got the chance to come to a proper conclusion as a result of the new shows, ending in the Coda Trilogy, and establishing the Novel universe from First Contact onwards as taking place in the First Splinter Timeline. However despite the timeline being closed there are a lot of great books here, and some incredible characters that get introduced, as well as some interesting ways of ending certain storylines, such as the fate of the Mirror Universe and the evolution of the Borg.
There's also a series of Star Trek comics currently being published by IDW, which starts an ongoing adventure in 2378 after the end of Voyager, bringing a diverse range of characters together to tell its story, including Sisko, Data, Scotty, Beverly, Worf, Spock, Lore, Sela, Ro, Tom Paris, B'Elanna, and even Shaxs from Lower Decks. I've not read much of them yet but I have heard very good things. They will all fit into the timeline between Voyager's Endgame and Star Trek: Nemesis.
The final option to experience Star Trek from here is the Star Trek Online MMORPG, starting in 2409. A lot of notable Star Trek actors have lent their voices to this game, and it tried to provide its own answers to several unresolved plotlines from across the franchise. Like most MMORPGs your mileage may vary, and the combat loop can become a bit repetitive, however the story is generally a highlight of the game, and it features a very different take on the universe, with a new war between the Federation and Klingon Empire, a greatly dimished Romulan Empire, and plenty of new threats manipulating events, leading to a War against the long thought extinct Iconian race. As the game has continued alongside the new streaming shows it has begun to incorporate elements from them, to mixed results, and this has created some inconsistencies with earlier parts of the game, however the original story of the game at least up until the conclusion of its Iconian War arc was very interesting, with some incredible building tension, and saw many returning characters in prominent roles, such as Sela, Tuvok, Worf, Nog, Tom Paris, Seven of Nine and Harry Kim. There was also a very good DS9 expansion that saw Martok, Kira, Quark, Rom, Leeta, Odo, Garak and Bashir returning, as well as several other suprising inclusions, as well as adding the Dominion as a playable faction. Recent episodes are still continuing the storylines of the game in high-production releases, and have seen the return of more great characters of this era including Janeway, Beverly Crusher, Wesley, and Ezri Dax. The people behind the game have also leant several of their ship designs to the creators of Star Trek: Picard, including the Enterprise-F, which first appeared here. Once again though the game's timeline is probably incompatible with the current shows, but if you have a modern console or PC and want to hang out on DS9, or spend time with the Voyager characters, or fly into battle with the Enterprise, then this is the way to do it, and its free.
So I hope you all found this useful. I'll probably do more Watch Orders here soon, but as I can think of at least 3 or 4 Podcast episodes that I can link to this then I thought this was the best one to release first. I'll sign off for now but as always please look after yourselves out there, especially your mental health.
Until next time. Bye for now.
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