Which DC Superhero TV Show Should You Watch?

By BrainFall Staff - Updated: April 30, 2024

If choosing between a chocolate sundae and a banana split has you sweating bullets, just imagine the pressure when faced with the epic decision of which DC superhero TV show to binge-watch next. We’ve all been there—you get comfy on the couch, snacks at the ready, only to get caught in the vortex of indecision as you scroll through the seemingly endless options of spandex-clad heroes.

Fear not, fellow couch crusaders! We're about to dive into the glorious ocean of DC TV shows without the need for a Batboat. Whether you're in the mood for brooding crime fighters, time-traveling rogues, or metahumans running faster than our Wi-Fi on a good day, there's a show that fits the bill. So grab your cape (or, you know, your favorite fuzzy blanket), because we're on a mission to match you with the ideal show that'll have you hooked faster than you can say "We are the Flash!"

Just remember, as we fly faster than a speeding bullet into the world of capes and cowls, it's not just about what powers these heroes pack, but also about the heart, the humor, and the hairdos that really make them stand out. It's a tough job, but someone's got to do it. Ready to find out which super show will be the Robin to your late-night Batman binges? Let's go!

Deciphering the Arrowverse Maze

So, you’re ready to dive into the grand tapestry of DC superhero shows, eh? Well, fasten your utility belts because we’re about to guide you through the labyrinthine world of the Arrowverse. Trust us, with our help, you won't need X-ray vision to see how to navigate these colorful corridors!

The Arrow's Quiver: Starting Your Journey

Arrow kicked off our heroic binge-watching spree, introducing us to Oliver Queen and his vigilante justice. Starting with Arrow is like hitting the gym before a superhero stint—you’ve got to build that foundation. It’s where the multiverse begins, and where you'll meet a slew of characters who'll pop up in other shows. Remember, it's not just about the guy with the hood; it's the beginning of something much, much bigger.

Zipping Through The Flash

After whetting your appetite with Arrow, it’s time to lace up those red boots and zoom through The Flash. Startling revelations and time-wimey shenanigans ensue, making Barry Allen's super-speed escapades a thrilling next step. Plus, who doesn’t want to see what happens when a forensic scientist gets struck by lightning and becomes the fastest man alive? Talk about electrifying television!

Soaring with Supergirl and Black Lightning

Next up, we'll take you flying high with Supergirl. It's a bird, it's a plane, it's... Superman's cousin? That’s right, and she's got her own share of villains to battle in National City. Then, unleash some serious wattage with Black Lightning. Jefferson Pierce may be a high school principal by day, but by night, he's all about lighting up the streets of Freeland. These shows add a dazzling depth to the Arrowverse canvas, highlighting that heroism comes in many forms.

Converging Paths: Crossovers and Crisis Events

And now, for the pièce de résistance: the crossovers. Prepare to have your mind blown, because when these heroes team up, it's nothing short of epic. From Invasion! to Crisis on Earth-X, and the universe-shattering Crisis on Infinite Earths, these crossovers are the Arrowverse's Super Bowl. Need a roadmap for these bad boys? Think of them as the ultimate team-ups where the Justice League might envy our beloved Arrowverse characters. Every crossover is a like a comic book splash page come to life, so make sure you don't skip these spectacles!

So, there you have it, our super-fans. We've laid out the breadcrumbs through the Arrowverse, now it's time for you to follow them. Whether you fancy the gritty streets of Gotham with Batwoman or fancy a detour to the golden age with Stargirl and the Justice Society of America, the adventure never ends. Grab your remotes, superheroes-in-training, and let the binge begin!

Diving Into DC's Universe of TV Shows

Before we zip into the action, remember that DC's TV landscape extends well beyond the Arrowverse. It’s like a superhero buffet - you can choose from different eras, styles, and universes!

Venturing Beyond the Arrowverse

After the credits roll on that last Crisis on Infinite Earths episode, you might be craving more. Good news! DC’s universe brims with shows that exist outside the Arrowverse continuum. Strap in for some time travel with Rip Hunter in DC's Legends of Tomorrow, or follow Clark Kent as he grows from a small-town boy to Superman in Smallville. For those preferring a darker vibe, Matt Ryan as Constantine tackles the occult and the supernatural, bringing a gritty Vertigo comic to life. If you're into law enforcement with a twist, the human and zombie detective combo in iZombie is both quirky and brainy—pun intended!

• Krypton: Superman's granddaddy has his own tale to tell on this prequel series.
• Gotham: See the city before Batman, with a focus on a young Jim Gordon and the villains we all love to hate.
• Lucifer: The Devil himself takes a vacation to solve crimes and indulge in earthly pleasures.
• Doom Patrol: The strangest team of heroes you’ve never heard of—until now.

What to Watch After the Arrowverse

Once you've checked off the Arrowverse, it's time for some fresh supers. Have a laugh as you catch Harley Quinn leading her oddball crew in her self-titled animated adventure. For a twist, Peacemaker will hit your screens with an explosion of comedy and action; it's as if the Suicide Squad had a reality show. Craving something family-oriented but with capes? Tune into Superman & Lois to watch the iconic duo tackle the world's weight while raising teenagers—yikes! Last but not least, don't sleep on the next generation with Titans—it's like the Teen Titans grew up and got a grittier upgrade.

• Titans: Follow the young heroes as they come of age and fight evil together.
• Superman & Lois: Get into the family drama and super-foe smashing—Smallville style, with a twist.
• Birds of Prey: Dive into the female-fronted series from the early 2000s that was way ahead of its time.
• Watchmen: This dark and complex tale is for all of us who like their heroes deeply flawed and their storylines rich.