The X-Men movies have been a staple in the superhero genre since the first film was released in 2000. With a total of 13 films in the franchise, it can be confusing to figure out the proper order to watch them in. Here are some tips on how to watch the X-Men movies in order.

1. X-Men: First Class (2011)

The first movie in chronological order is X-Men: First Class. Set in the 1960s, the film explores the early years of Professor X and Magneto’s friendship and their journey to forming the X-Men. This movie also introduces us to many of the characters and events that will become significant in later films.

2. X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)

This prequel delves deeper into the backstory of one of the most beloved X-Men, Wolverine. We see how he became the mutant that we know and love, and how he came to be a member of the X-Men. Be warned, though, that this movie was not well received by fans, so it may not be a great place to start the franchise.

3. X-Men (2000)

The first film in the X-Men franchise, this movie brings together the team of Professor X’s X-Men, including Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, and pits them against Magneto and his Brotherhood. This film is a great introduction to the X-Men universe and its characters.

4. X2: X-Men United (2003)

The sequel to X-Men, X2: X-Men United picks up where the first film left off. It sees the team of X-Men battling against William Stryker, a military scientist who has a deep hatred for mutants. We also see more development of the characters and their relationships.

5. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)

The third and final movie in the original X-Men trilogy, The Last Stand sees the team of X-Men facing off against a cure for mutants, as well as the emergence of the Phoenix Force. This movie has mixed reviews, but it does offer a satisfying conclusion to the original trilogy.

6. The Wolverine (2013)

The Wolverine takes place after the events of X-Men: The Last Stand and sees Wolverine travel to Japan to say goodbye to an old friend. This movie provides more insight into Wolverine’s character and his past.

7. X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)

Days of Future Past is a time-traveling adventure that merges the original X-Men trilogy with the prequel series. In the future, the X-Men must send Wolverine back in time to prevent an event that could lead to the extinction of mutants. This movie is a great way to tie up loose ends and bring the franchise into a new era.

8. X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)

Set in the 1980s, Apocalypse sees the emergence of the world’s first mutant, Apocalypse, who wants to destroy the world and start anew. This movie brings back many of the characters from the original trilogy, as well as introducing new ones, and sets up the events of future films.

9. Logan (2017)

The final film in the X-Men franchise, Logan is a darker take on the character of Wolverine. Set in the future, we see an aged and vulnerable Wolverine trying to protect a young mutant girl. This movie offers a fitting conclusion to the character and the franchise as a whole.

In conclusion, the X-Men movies can be watched in chronological order or release order, but watching them in chronological order can offer a better understanding of the timeline and the characters’ development. No matter which order you choose, the X-Men movies offer a unique take on the superhero genre and provide an entertaining experience for fans and newcomers alike.