The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is widely popular due to its compelling storytelling and years of character build-up. In addition, the MCU was one of the first franchises to fully adapt the idea of a shared timeline, weaving different films and series together.
However, it could be intimidating for a new fan to start diving into the MCU. There are currently more than 33 films and several series that belong to the universe.
Fortunately, Marvel Studios launched a few standalone series that can be viewed without the pressure of learning the entire MCU. They have an independent storyline that can be understood without any MCU knowledge.
If you are looking for some Marvel series starters but don't have the time to explore the entire MCU, here are some standalone series that you can stream:
'What If...?'
"What If...?" is the best standalone story among Marvel shows as each episode portrays the MCU differently. The series fully embraces the multiverse concept, resulting in infinite alternate realities. This allows a big room of creative possibilities for the showrunners.
In addition, the series is also in animated style, making it easier for the production to create different storylines without spending a big fortune for a live-action alternate reality.
'Moon Knight'
The "Moon Knight" series was widely applauded for the performances of the actors, especially Oscar Isaac who portrayed Marc Spector and Steven Grant. The series is also short with only six episodes for its first season.
"Moon Knight" is part of phase four of the MCU but the story of the show can stand alone as it deals with different forces involving the Egyptian Gods instead of aliens. The story also sheds light on the challenges of dissociative identity disorder.
'I am Groot'
"I am Groot" is an animated series that features the life of the popular "Guardians of the Galaxy" character. The series follows Baby Groot's adventure as he grows up in the galaxy.
The fan-favorite character showcases his unique perspective of the world around him and his interactions with other characters. He also gets to resolve different challenges per episode.
'She-Hulk: Attorney at Law'
"She-Hulk" follows the story of Jennifer Walters, an attorney who gained superhuman power after a blood transfusion from Bruce Banner. Walters is uniquely compared with Banner as she can maintain her personality after transforming.
As of writing, "She-Hulk" remains to be an introductory show for the next MCU phase, making it the perfect series to watch without any prior knowledge. However, her presence in the MCU hints that more Hulk-related stories will unfold in the universe.
'Echo'
"Echo" is the newest MCU series. Despite being a sequel to the "Hawkeye" series, Maya Lopez's story can stand on its own. The titular character must come to terms with her past and reconnect with her Native American roots.
The series welcomes phase five of the MCU and is the first series under the Marvel Spotlight banner.
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