The Stargate franchise has captivated audiences for over two decades, transforming a singular 1994 film into a sprawling universe of television series. If you are new to the mythology or a casual fan trying to catch up, you might find yourself asking a fundamental question: how many Stargate shows are there? The answer is more nuanced than a simple number, as it depends on how one defines a "show" and where one draws the line between main series and spin-offs.
The Core Trifecta: The Main Television Series
When discussing the primary television output of the franchise, the answer to "how many Stargate shows are there" generally refers to three flagship series. These are the foundational texts of the Stargate universe, produced sequentially by MGM and distributed by Sci-Fi Channel (now Syfy). They share the same continuity, mythology, and core characters, making them the essential viewing for anyone wanting to understand the saga of the Stargate Program.
Stargate SG-1
The undisputed cornerstone of the franchise is Stargate SG-1. Premiering in 1997 and running for ten seasons, this is the longest-running of the three main shows. It follows the adventures of Colonel Jack O'Neill and his team (Teal'c, Daniel Jackson, and Samantha Carter) as they explore distant planets through the Stargate, primarily encountering the Goa'uld System Lords. For the purpose of counting the main shows, SG-1 is the first and most significant entry, establishing the template for exploration, political intrigue, and serialized mythology that the franchise would follow.
Stargate Atlantis
Stargate Atlantis launched in 2004, spinning directly off the success of SG-1. Set in the Pegasus galaxy, this series follows a new team traveling to the ancient city of Atlantis submerged in the ocean of the planet Lantea. While it maintained connections to the Ori arc from SG-1, Atlantis introduced new threats like the Wraith and the Ancients, offering a darker, more isolationist tone. For anyone tallying the main series, Atlantis is the definitive second show, expanding the universe with new characters and a fresh setting.
Stargate Universe
Concluding the main trilogy is Stargate Universe, which debuted in 2009. Taking a bold narrative turn, Universe abandoned the traditional "planet-of-the-week" formula in favor of a serialized drama. The story follows the crew of the Ancient starship Destiny, stranded light-years from Earth with no clear path home. This show explored mature themes and character dynamics, providing a grittier, more survival-focused experience compared to its predecessors. As the third and final core series, it completes the essential lineup for fans answering the question of how many Stargate shows form the main saga.
Beyond the Core: Spin-Offs and Related Series
While the trio of SG-1, Atlantis, and Universe forms the heart of the television franchise, the broader answer to "how many Stargate shows are there" includes several other screen productions. These are typically categorized as spin-offs, direct-to-DVD movies, or web series that expand the lore without being central to the main continuity. Understanding these is crucial for a complete overview of the medium.
Stargate: The Ark of Truth and Continuum
Technically classified as "Direct-to-DVD films," these two productions function as de facto television movies. "The Ark of Truth" and "Continuum" were released following the conclusion of Stargate SG-1 and feature the original cast resolving plotlines left open by the series finale. While not weekly television shows, they are significant narrative extensions that fans of the show often include when discussing the franchise's complete television output.
