Hey Marvel fans! Ever get a little lost trying to keep track of everything that happened in Phase 4? With so many new characters, storylines, and multiversal shenanigans, it’s easy to feel like you need a chronology cheat sheet. Well, you’re in luck! This is your one-stop guide to understanding the chronological order of the MCU's Phase 4. Let's dive into the timeline and break it all down, making sure we're all on the same page as we head into the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

What is Marvel Phase 4?

Marvel Phase 4 represents a significant and transformative period in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), following the culmination of the Infinity Saga. This phase, spanning from 2021 to 2022, introduced a plethora of new characters, explored uncharted territories, and delved into the complexities of the multiverse. After the emotionally charged events of Avengers: Endgame, Phase 4 served as both a fresh start and a continuation of the established narrative, setting the stage for future storylines and challenges. The phase aimed to redefine the MCU by expanding its scope and embracing diverse storytelling approaches.

Phase 4 comprised a wide array of films and television series, each contributing unique elements to the overarching narrative. Notable film releases included Black Widow, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Eternals, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, and Thor: Love and Thunder. These movies introduced new heroes and villains while also exploring the aftermath of the Infinity Saga. Simultaneously, television series such as WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Loki, Hawkeye, Moon Knight, Ms. Marvel, and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law provided deeper character development and expanded the MCU's reach into the realm of streaming content. Each series offered a unique perspective and contributed to the interconnectedness of the MCU.

One of the defining characteristics of Phase 4 was its exploration of the multiverse, a concept that opened up endless possibilities for storytelling. The introduction of alternate realities and timelines allowed for the appearance of familiar characters in new and unexpected ways. This multiversal element added layers of complexity and intrigue to the MCU, challenging viewers to consider the infinite possibilities that exist beyond the primary timeline. The exploration of the multiverse also served as a platform for introducing new characters and storylines that could potentially impact the future of the MCU. Furthermore, Phase 4 grappled with themes of grief, identity, and legacy. Many characters were shown dealing with the emotional fallout of the events in Avengers: Endgame, as well as confronting their own personal struggles and insecurities. This focus on character development added depth and relatability to the MCU, making the heroes and villains more human and multifaceted.

The Official Chronological Order of Marvel Phase 4

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty and lay out the official timeline. This is how the events of Phase 4 actually line up, so grab your calendars and let's dive in!

1. WandaVision (Weeks After Avengers: Endgame)

WandaVision kicks off mere weeks after the earth-shattering events of Avengers: Endgame. Seriously, can you imagine dealing with the grief of losing Vision AND saving the world? Our girl Wanda is going through it! The series focuses on Wanda Maximoff as she grapples with her grief over Vision's death by creating a sitcom-esque reality in Westview, New Jersey. Using her immense powers, Wanda constructs a world where Vision is alive and they live a seemingly perfect suburban life, complete with classic television tropes and aesthetics. As the series progresses, the idyllic facade begins to crack, revealing the underlying pain and trauma that drive Wanda's actions. The introduction of Agatha Harkness, a powerful witch with her own agenda, adds further complexity to the narrative. Agatha seeks to understand and harness Wanda's powers, leading to a confrontation that forces Wanda to confront the true nature of her abilities and the consequences of her actions. The series also introduces Monica Rambeau, who gains superpowers after entering Wanda's reality, setting her on a path toward becoming a superhero in her own right. WandaVision explores themes of grief, trauma, and the power of imagination, while also setting up future storylines within the MCU. The series blurs the lines between reality and illusion, inviting viewers to question the true nature of Wanda's world. WandaVision not only serves as a continuation of Wanda's story but also expands the boundaries of the MCU, paving the way for new characters and multiversal possibilities. The show's unique format and storytelling approach garnered critical acclaim and captivated audiences, solidifying its place as a pivotal entry in the MCU.

2. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (6 Months After Avengers: Endgame)

About six months post-Endgame, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier takes flight. This series sees Sam Wilson, aka Falcon, struggling with the weight of Captain America's shield. Can he live up to Steve Rogers' legacy? Bucky Barnes, the Winter Soldier, is also on a journey of redemption as he confronts his past as a brainwashed assassin. Together, they team up to stop the Flag Smashers, a group of super-soldiers who believe the world was better during the Blip. The series delves into themes of patriotism, identity, and justice as Sam and Bucky navigate a world grappling with the aftermath of Thanos's snap. As Sam grapples with the responsibility of wielding Captain America's shield, he confronts the systemic racism and inequality that has plagued the United States. Bucky, meanwhile, seeks to atone for his past actions as the Winter Soldier, attending therapy and attempting to make amends for the lives he took under Hydra's control. The dynamic between Sam and Bucky evolves throughout the series, as they learn to trust and rely on each other in their fight against the Flag Smashers. The series also introduces John Walker, a new Captain America chosen by the government, whose actions raise questions about what it means to be a hero. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier addresses complex social and political issues while delivering action-packed sequences and compelling character arcs. The series culminates in Sam Wilson embracing the mantle of Captain America, solidifying his role as a symbol of hope and inspiration for a new generation. The show's exploration of relevant themes and its emphasis on character development resonated with audiences, earning it critical acclaim and cementing its place as an important chapter in the MCU.

3. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (Sometime After The Falcon and the Winter Soldier)

Next up, we have Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. While the exact timing is a bit vague, we can place it after The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Shang-Chi is living a normal life in San Francisco when his past catches up to him. He's forced to confront his father, Wenwu, the leader of the Ten Rings organization, and his own destiny. The film introduces a fresh perspective to the MCU with its focus on martial arts and Chinese mythology. Shang-Chi must come to terms with his family's legacy and his own powers as he battles against his father's dark ambitions. The film's action sequences are breathtaking, showcasing a blend of martial arts styles and visual effects. As Shang-Chi delves deeper into his family's history, he uncovers secrets that challenge his understanding of his father and the Ten Rings organization. The film also introduces Katy, Shang-Chi's best friend, who provides comedic relief and unwavering support throughout his journey. Together, Shang-Chi and Katy embark on a quest to stop Wenwu from unleashing a dangerous force upon the world. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings celebrates cultural diversity and offers a unique perspective within the MCU. The film's themes of family, identity, and redemption resonate with audiences, making it a standout entry in the franchise. The film's success paved the way for future explorations of Asian and Asian American stories within the MCU, further expanding its global appeal.

4. Black Widow (Takes Place Between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War)

Here's a bit of a flashback! Black Widow fills in the gaps between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War. Natasha Romanoff confronts her past as a trained assassin and faces the Red Room, the program that turned her into Black Widow. It's an action-packed spy thriller that gives us more insight into Natasha's background and her relationships with her makeshift family: Yelena Belova, Alexei Shostakov, and Melina Vostokoff. The film explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the impact of trauma as Natasha confronts her past and fights to protect those she cares about. As Natasha delves deeper into the Red Room's operations, she uncovers a global conspiracy that threatens to destabilize governments and exploit vulnerable women. Yelena Belova, Natasha's surrogate sister, joins her in the fight, bringing her own unique skills and perspective to the mission. Together, they must overcome their personal differences and confront the ghosts of their past to stop the Red Room from continuing its nefarious activities. Black Widow pays homage to Natasha Romanoff's legacy while also setting up future storylines within the MCU. The film's exploration of female empowerment and its themes of sisterhood resonate with audiences, making it a powerful and poignant addition to the franchise.

5. Eternals (Set Around the Same Time as Spider-Man: No Way Home)

Eternals drops us into a story that spans millennia, but its main events occur around the same time as Spider-Man: No Way Home. These immortal beings, sent to Earth to protect humanity from the Deviants, must reunite to face a new threat. The film explores complex themes of duty, destiny, and the nature of humanity. The Eternals grapple with their own identities and their roles in the universe as they confront the impending emergence of a Celestial. As the Eternals confront the impending emergence, they uncover secrets about their origins and their true purpose on Earth. The film delves into the moral implications of their actions and the sacrifices they must make to protect humanity. Each Eternal brings their own unique powers and perspectives to the group, creating a dynamic and diverse ensemble cast. Eternals expands the cosmic scope of the MCU and introduces new mythologies and lore to the franchise. The film's exploration of complex themes and its emphasis on character development make it a thought-provoking and visually stunning addition to the MCU.

6. Spider-Man: No Way Home (Late 2024)

Peter Parker's world goes completely bonkers in Spider-Man: No Way Home. Set in late 2024, this film picks up right after Spider-Man: Far From Home. After his identity as Spider-Man is revealed, Peter seeks help from Doctor Strange, leading to a spell gone wrong that brings villains from other universes into their world. It's a multiversal adventure that sees Peter teaming up with alternate versions of himself to save the day. The film explores themes of responsibility, sacrifice, and the importance of second chances. As Peter confronts villains from other universes, he is forced to make difficult choices that have far-reaching consequences. The arrival of alternate versions of himself provides Peter with new perspectives and insights into his own journey. Spider-Man: No Way Home celebrates the legacy of Spider-Man while also pushing the boundaries of the MCU. The film's emotional depth and its nostalgic callbacks resonate with audiences, making it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

7. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (Sometime After No Way Home)

Following the multiversal chaos of No Way Home, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness takes us on an even wilder ride. Doctor Strange must protect America Chavez, a young girl who can travel between universes, from the Scarlet Witch, who seeks to steal her powers. The film is a mind-bending journey through alternate realities, filled with horror elements and unexpected twists. Doctor Strange must confront his own demons and make difficult choices to save the multiverse from destruction. As Doctor Strange navigates the treacherous landscape of the multiverse, he encounters alternate versions of himself and faces unimaginable threats. The Scarlet Witch's descent into darkness forces Doctor Strange to confront the consequences of his own actions. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness expands the scope of the MCU and delves into the darker corners of the multiverse. The film's visual spectacle and its exploration of complex themes make it a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience.

8. Thor: Love and Thunder (Sometime After Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness)

Thor: Love and Thunder brings the God of Thunder back for another cosmic adventure. Thor teams up with Valkyrie, Korg, and his ex-girlfriend Jane Foster, who is now the Mighty Thor, to stop Gorr the God Butcher from eliminating all gods. The film is a vibrant and action-packed adventure filled with humor and heart. Thor must confront his past and find new purpose as he battles Gorr to save the gods and protect the universe. As Thor faces the threat of Gorr, he is forced to confront his own mortality and the legacy he wants to leave behind. Jane Foster's transformation into the Mighty Thor challenges Thor's understanding of worthiness and inspires him to become a better hero. Thor: Love and Thunder celebrates the power of love and friendship while also delivering epic battles and stunning visual effects. The film's humor and heart resonate with audiences, making it a fun and unforgettable cinematic experience.

9. Moon Knight (Sometime After Thor: Love and Thunder)

Moon Knight introduces us to Steven Grant, a mild-mannered gift shop employee who discovers he has dissociative identity disorder and shares a body with mercenary Marc Spector. Marc is the avatar of the Egyptian moon god Khonshu, thrusting Steven/Marc into a world of ancient mysteries and deadly enemies. The series explores themes of identity, mental health, and the power of belief. Steven/Marc must come to terms with their dual identities and their connection to Khonshu as they battle forces seeking to unleash chaos upon the world. As Steven/Marc navigates the treacherous landscape of Egyptian mythology, they uncover secrets about their past and their destiny. The series delves into the complexities of mental illness and challenges viewers to question the nature of reality. Moon Knight is a dark and gritty addition to the MCU, offering a unique perspective on the superhero genre.

10. Ms. Marvel (Summer 2025)

Kamala Khan, a teenage Pakistani-American from Jersey City, gets her own series in Ms. Marvel. Set in the summer of 2025, Kamala discovers she has superpowers and becomes the hero Ms. Marvel. The series is a coming-of-age story that celebrates cultural diversity and the power of imagination. Kamala must balance her responsibilities as a student, a daughter, and a superhero as she navigates the challenges of adolescence. As Kamala embraces her powers, she learns more about her family's history and her connection to the ancient world. The series explores themes of identity, family, and community, making it a relatable and inspiring addition to the MCU. Ms. Marvel is a vibrant and heartwarming series that showcases the importance of representation and the power of believing in yourself.

11. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (Sometime After Ms. Marvel)

Jennifer Walters, a lawyer and cousin of Bruce Banner, gets her own series in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law. After an accident, Jennifer gains Hulk-like powers and becomes She-Hulk. The series is a legal comedy that follows Jennifer as she balances her career as a lawyer with her newfound superhero abilities. Jennifer must navigate the challenges of being a super-powered lawyer while also dealing with the pressures of fame and public scrutiny. As Jennifer embraces her role as She-Hulk, she learns to control her powers and use them to help others. The series explores themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the power of female empowerment. She-Hulk: Attorney at Law is a fun and irreverent addition to the MCU, offering a unique perspective on the superhero genre.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! The complete chronological timeline of Marvel Phase 4. It was a wild ride, right? From Wanda's sitcom reality to multiversal battles with Spider-Man and Doctor Strange, Phase 4 definitely kept us on our toes. Now you're all prepped and ready to dive even deeper into the MCU. Keep your eyes peeled for what comes next because, with Marvel, you never know what exciting adventures are just around the corner!