What Counts as the DCAU?
The DC Animated Universe (DCAU) is a shared continuity spanning multiple series and films primarily produced between 1992 and 2006. It includes Batman: The Animated Series, Superman: The Animate Series\, The New Batman Adventures, Batman Beyond, Static Shock\ (select crossover episodes), Justice League, Justice League Unlimited, and specific features like Mask of the Phantasm and Return of the Joker. Shows like Young Justice or the DC Animated Movie Universe (2013–2020) are separate continuities.
Release Order vs. Chronological Order
Our streamlined order minimizes continuity whiplash while keeping arcs cohesive. Movie placements avoid plot spoilers.
The Chronological Watch Order (Spoiler‑Free)
Below is the concise slotting. Episode‑level micro‑ordering is intentionally omitted to keep this guide spoiler‑free and binge‑friendly.
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1Batman: The Animated SeriesSeries
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2Batman: Mask of the PhantasmFeature
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3The New Batman AdventuresSeries
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4Superman: The Animated SeriesSeries
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5Batman BeyondSeries
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6Batman Beyond: Return of the JokerFeature
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7Static ShockCrossovers
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8Justice LeagueSeries
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9Justice League UnlimitedSeries
Where to Stream the DCAU in 2025
Platforms change. We keep this section updated regularly. Availability varies by region—check your local catalog.
| Title | Platform(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Batman: The Animated Series | Currently on: [Platform] | HD remaster available |
| Mask of the Phantasm | [Platform] | Feature film |
| The New Batman Adventures | [Platform] | — |
| Superman: The Animated Series | [Platform] | — |
| Batman Beyond | [Platform] | — |
| Return of the Joker | [Platform] | Uncut version if available |
| Static Shock (crossovers) | [Platform] | Selected episodes only |
| Justice League | [Platform] | — |
| Justice League Unlimited | [Platform] | — |
Affiliate note: Some outbound links may be marked as
rel="sponsored".
Essential Episodes (No‑Spoiler Picks)
Hand‑picked standouts that showcase the DCAU’s best writing, animation, and character work. No plot twists revealed.
- Batman: TAS — A selection of early landmark episodes and key character spotlights.
- Superman: TAS — Crossover‑ready arcs that set up Justice League chemistry.
- Batman Beyond — World‑building episodes before Return of the Joker.
- Justice League / JLU — Team‑defining mini‑arcs and finale‑tier storytelling.
DCAU vs. Other DC Animated Lines
Don’t mix the DCAU with the later DC Animated Movie Universe (New 52‑inspired films) or standalone animated features. If a title isn’t explicitly connected via story or creative continuity to the core shows above, treat it as separate. When in doubt, follow the watch list here.