Unraveling The Skies: How Many How To Train Your Dragon Movies Are There?

For over a decade, the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has soared into the hearts of audiences worldwide, captivating viewers with its stunning animation, compelling characters, and breathtaking adventures. The journey began with a simple premise: a hapless young viking who aspires to hunt dragons becomes the unlikely friend of a young dragon himself, and learns there may be more to the creatures than he assumed. This heartwarming and action-packed narrative quickly established itself as a beloved cornerstone of modern animated cinema, prompting many to wonder about the full scope of its universe.

As the story of Hiccup and Toothless unfolded, the world of Berk expanded far beyond the initial cinematic release. From the original big-screen adventures to captivating television series and charming short films, the "How to Train Your Dragon" saga has grown into a rich tapestry of tales. If you're looking to dive into this incredible world or simply trying to figure out how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there, you've come to the right place. We'll explore every facet of this expansive franchise, ensuring you have all the information needed to navigate its thrilling narrative in order.

The Core Cinematic Trilogy: How Many How to Train Your Dragon Movies?
Beyond the Big Screen: The How to Train Your Dragon Television Series
Short Films and Specials: Expanding the Dragon World
The Evolution of a Franchise: From Books to Screen
Why the How to Train Your Dragon Franchise Resonates
Navigating the Dragon World: Watch Order Explained
The Enduring Legacy of How to Train Your Dragon
Frequently Asked Questions About the How to Train Your Dragon Franchise

The Core Cinematic Trilogy: How Many How to Train Your Dragon Movies?

When most fans ask, "how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there?", they are typically referring to the main theatrical releases that form the backbone of Hiccup and Toothless's epic journey. The answer to this specific question is clear: there are three primary "How to Train Your Dragon" feature films. These movies tell a complete, overarching story, chronicling the growth of their protagonists from unlikely friends to legendary figures. Each installment builds upon the last, deepening the characters, expanding the world, and raising the stakes.

These three films are renowned for their groundbreaking animation, emotionally resonant storytelling, and breathtaking action sequences. They have collectively grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide, cementing their place as one of DreamWorks Animation's most successful and critically acclaimed franchises. Let's delve into each of these cinematic masterpieces that define how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there in the main series.

How to Train Your Dragon (2010): The Beginning of a Legend

The original 'How to Train Your Dragon' was released in 2010, introducing audiences to the Viking island of Berk, where dragon fighting is a way of life. We meet Hiccup, a scrawny, awkward teenager who doesn't fit the mold of a traditional Viking warrior. Instead of slaying dragons, he befriends one—a Night Fury he names Toothless. This unlikely bond challenges centuries of prejudice and tradition, leading to a profound shift in the relationship between Vikings and dragons. The film was praised for its stunning visuals, thrilling aerial sequences, and a deeply emotional core that resonated with viewers of all ages. It laid the groundwork for the entire franchise, establishing the unique bond that would become its heart. This foundational film is crucial when considering how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there and understanding their impact.

How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014): Expanding Horizons

Released four years after the original, "How to Train Your Dragon 2" picks up five years later, with Hiccup and Toothless having successfully integrated dragons into Berkian society. The film explores new territories and introduces new characters, including Hiccup's long-lost mother, Valka, and the formidable dragon hunter, Drago Bludvist. This sequel delves deeper into themes of leadership, family, and the responsibility that comes with power. It expanded the world of dragons, showcasing new species and complex ecosystems, while pushing the animation boundaries even further. The narrative maturity and emotional depth of this installment solidified the franchise's reputation for delivering more than just typical animated fare, proving that the answer to how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there would be a journey of growth.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019): A Grand Finale

The final chapter in the main trilogy, "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World," brought Hiccup and Toothless's story to a poignant and powerful conclusion. Released in 2019, this film sees Hiccup as the chief of Berk, striving to create a safe haven for dragons. However, the emergence of a new, ruthless dragon hunter, Grimmel, and the discovery of the mythical Hidden World, force Hiccup and Toothless to make difficult choices about their future and the future of all dragons. The film beautifully wraps up the central narrative, exploring themes of letting go, finding one's true self, and the enduring power of love and friendship. It delivered an emotional farewell that resonated deeply with fans, making it a definitive part of the answer to how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there in the core series.

Beyond the Big Screen: The How to Train Your Dragon Television Series

While the three main movies define the core cinematic experience, the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has expanded significantly into television, offering fans even more adventures with their favorite characters. The how to train your dragon series beyond the movies has provided crucial bridges between the films, filled in character backstories, and introduced new dragons and locations, enriching the lore of this fantastical world. These series are essential viewing for anyone who wants a complete understanding of the franchise and contributes significantly to the overall count of how many How to Train Your Dragon movies and TV shows are there.

Dragons: Riders of Berk / Defenders of Berk

Serving as a direct bridge between the first and second movies, "Dragons: Riders of Berk" (later renamed "Defenders of Berk" for its second season) premiered in 2012 on Cartoon Network. This series follows Hiccup and his friends as they navigate the challenges of integrating dragons into Berkian society. It focuses on training dragons, discovering new species, and dealing with various threats, both human and draconic. The series deepens the relationships between the characters and their dragons, providing valuable context for their growth seen in the subsequent films. It's an important part of the extended universe when considering how many How to Train Your Dragon movies and related content exist.

Dragons: Race to the Edge

Picking up where "Defenders of Berk" left off and leading directly into "How to Train Your Dragon 2," "Dragons: Race to the Edge" premiered on Netflix in 2015. This series significantly expands the world, introducing the Dragon Eye, a mysterious artifact that leads Hiccup and the Dragon Riders to new islands and face new dangers, including the villainous Ryker and Viggo Grimborn. With six seasons, "Race to the Edge" delves into more complex storylines, develops the characters further, and introduces a vast array of new dragons. It's arguably the most substantial television contribution to the franchise, offering hundreds of hours of content that are crucial to the overall narrative, going beyond just how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there.

Dragons: Rescue Riders

A spin-off aimed at a younger audience, "Dragons: Rescue Riders" debuted on Netflix in 2019. Set in the town of Huttsgalor, the series follows twins Dak and Leyla, who were raised by dragons and possess the unique ability to communicate with them. They lead a team of five young dragons on rescue missions, helping people and creatures in need. While it exists in the same universe, "Rescue Riders" features a different cast of characters and a lighter tone, making it accessible for very young viewers. It adds to the breadth of the franchise, showcasing its appeal across different age groups, though it doesn't directly continue Hiccup and Toothless's story when discussing how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there in the main timeline.

Dragons: The Nine Realms

The newest television series in the franchise, "Dragons: The Nine Realms," premiered on Hulu and Peacock in 2021. Set 1,300 years after the events of "The Hidden World," this series introduces a new generation of characters who discover dragons living secretly in a massive crevice on Earth. It explores a modern world where dragons are largely forgotten, but a new group of kids forms bonds with them, mirroring the original themes. This series offers a fresh take on the dragon world, allowing for new stories while maintaining a connection to the beloved lore. It's a significant expansion of the universe, demonstrating the enduring appeal beyond the question of how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there in the core narrative.

Short Films and Specials: Expanding the Dragon World

In addition to the main movies and extensive television series, the "How to Train Your Dragon" universe is further enriched by a collection of charming and insightful short films and holiday specials. These often provide delightful side stories, fill in gaps, or offer festive cheer, expanding the world and characters in smaller, digestible chunks. While not full-length features, they are integral to the complete franchise experience and contribute to the overall count of the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise comprises a total of eight movies and tv shows, including three main films. They are often released around the same time as the main movies or holiday seasons, adding to the excitement and lore.

Some of the notable short films and specials include:

Legend of the Boneknapper Dragon (2010): Released shortly after the first film, this short follows Gobber as he recounts his lifelong quest to find the elusive Boneknapper dragon. It's a humorous and adventurous tale that expands on the mythical creatures of the Viking world.
Book of Dragons (2011): This animated short serves as an in-universe guide, featuring Hiccup, Toothless, and the gang explaining various dragon species from the "Book of Dragons." It's an informative and entertaining piece for fans eager to learn more about the diverse dragon population.
Gift of the Night Fury (2011): A heartwarming holiday special set during Snoggletog (the Viking equivalent of Christmas), this short explores what happens when all the dragons mysteriously fly away from Berk just before the holiday. It's a touching story about family, tradition, and the unbreakable bond between Vikings and dragons.
Dawn of the Dragon Racers (2014): Released with "How to Train Your Dragon 2," this short provides a fun look at the origins of Dragon Racing, a popular sport in Berk. It showcases the competitive yet friendly rivalry among Hiccup and his friends.
How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (2019): A holiday special set ten years after the events of "The Hidden World," this short sees Hiccup and Astrid trying to remind their children and the new generation of Vikings about the importance of dragons, especially during Snoggletog. It offers a glimpse into the future and provides a comforting return to beloved characters.

These shorts, along with the main films and TV series, paint a comprehensive picture of the "How to Train Your Dragon" universe, making it clear that the franchise is far more extensive than just the answer to how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there.

The Evolution of a Franchise: From Books to Screen

It's important to remember that the beloved "How to Train Your Dragon" universe, which has captivated audiences worldwide, originated not on the big screen but in the pages of children's books. The entire franchise, including the answer to how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there, is based on the bestselling books by children’s author Cressida Cowell. Her series of twelve books, beginning with "How to Train Your Dragon" (published in 2003), laid the foundational concepts of a young Viking befriending a dragon in a world where they were traditionally enemies.

While the films take significant creative liberties with the plot, characters, and even the appearance of Toothless (who is a much smaller, common garden dragon in the books, not a sleek Night Fury), they retain the core spirit and themes of Cowell's work. The essence of Hiccup's journey from an outcast to a leader, and the profound bond he forms with his dragon, remains central. The books explore a broader range of Viking tribes and dragon species, offering a slightly different, yet equally enchanting, narrative. Understanding this literary origin adds another layer to appreciating the depth and breadth of the "How to Train Your Dragon" universe, highlighting the rich source material that inspired the cinematic journey.

Why the How to Train Your Dragon Franchise Resonates

Beyond the impressive animation and thrilling action, the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has captivated audiences worldwide with its stunning animation, compelling characters, and profound emotional depth. The reason for its enduring appeal goes beyond simply asking how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there; it lies in the universal themes it explores and the masterful way it tells its story. The narrative of Hiccup and Toothless is a powerful allegory for acceptance, understanding, and challenging preconceived notions. It teaches valuable lessons about empathy, courage, and the importance of finding one's own path, even if it deviates from societal expectations.

The franchise excels in character development, showing Hiccup's transformation from an insecure teenager to a wise and compassionate leader. His relationship with Toothless is one of the most iconic friendships in animated history, evolving from a tentative alliance to an unbreakable bond of mutual respect and love. The films also tackle complex themes such as loss, responsibility, and the bittersweet nature of growth, resonating with both children and adults. The world-building is rich and immersive, filled with diverse dragon species and vibrant Viking culture. This combination of visual spectacle, emotional intelligence, and relatable characters ensures that the "How to Train Your Dragon" saga remains a timeless favorite, prompting many to revisit its world again and again.

Navigating the Dragon World: Watch Order Explained

With a comprehensive understanding of how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there, along with the numerous TV series and short films, the next natural question is: how do you watch them all in order? To fully appreciate the chronological progression of Hiccup and Toothless's story and the expansion of their world, following a specific release order of the movies, series, and specials in the franchise is highly recommended. Here's everything to know about how to watch the franchise in order and where to stream, ensuring you experience the narrative as intended:

How to Train Your Dragon (2010): Start with the original film that introduces Hiccup, Toothless, and the world of Berk.
Legend of the Boneknapper Dragon (2010): A short film that can be watched after the first movie.
Book of Dragons (2011): Another short film, good to watch after the first movie.
Gift of the Night Fury (2011): A holiday special, best watched after the first movie, perhaps around the holiday season for extra cheer.
Dragons: Riders of Berk (2012-2013): Seasons 1 and 2 of the TV series, bridging the gap between the first and second movies.
Dragons: Race to the Edge (2015-2018): Seasons 1-6 of this Netflix series, directly leading into the second film. This is a substantial watch.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014): The second main feature film. Note its release date is earlier than "Race to the Edge" concluded, but chronologically, it follows the events of "Race to the Edge."
Dawn of the Dragon Racers (2014): A short film that can be watched after HTTYD 2.
How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (2019): The third and final main feature film in Hiccup and Toothless's saga.
How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (2019): A holiday special set after "The Hidden World," providing a comforting epilogue.
Dragons: Rescue Riders (2019-present): This spin-off series is separate from the main timeline and can be watched at any time, especially if you have younger viewers.
Dragons: The Nine Realms (2021-present): Set 1,300 years in the future, this series is also separate from the main timeline and can be watched independently.

By following this order, you'll experience the full narrative arc and character development that makes the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise so compelling, far beyond just the answer to how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there.

The Enduring Legacy of How to Train Your Dragon

The "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has left an indelible mark on animated cinema and popular culture. Its legacy extends beyond its impressive box office numbers and critical acclaim; it lies in its ability to tell a story that is both epic in scope and intimately personal. The saga of Hiccup and Toothless has redefined what animated films can achieve, pushing boundaries in visual storytelling, character depth, and emotional resonance. It proved that a children's film could tackle mature themes like loss, responsibility, and the complex nature of progress without sacrificing its sense of wonder and adventure. This profound impact is why so many fans continue to ask about the full extent of the universe, including how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there.

The franchise has inspired countless fans, fostering a love for mythical creatures and encouraging empathy towards those who are different. Its themes of environmentalism, finding common ground, and the importance of leadership have resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. The world of Berk, with its vibrant characters and breathtaking landscapes, has become a place of comfort and excitement for many. Even after the main trilogy concluded, the expansion into television series like "Dragons: The Nine Realms" demonstrates the enduring power and flexibility of its core concept. The "How to Train Your Dragon" saga is not just a series of films; it's a cinematic journey that has captivated audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy of imagination, friendship, and the boundless potential of the human-dragon bond.

Frequently Asked Questions About the How to Train Your Dragon Franchise

As one of the most beloved animated franchises, it's natural for fans to have many questions about its scope and content. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries, providing clear answers to help you navigate the world of Vikings and dragons, especially concerning how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there and beyond.

Q: How many main How to Train Your Dragon movies are there?

A: There are three main theatrical "How to Train Your Dragon" movies: "How to Train Your Dragon" (2010), "How to Train Your Dragon 2" (2014), and "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World" (2019).

Q: Does the franchise include TV shows?

A: Yes, the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise has significantly expanded into television with several series. These include "Dragons: Riders of Berk" / "Defenders of Berk," "Dragons: Race to the Edge," "Dragons: Rescue Riders," and "Dragons: The Nine Realms."

Q: How many total movies and TV shows are in the How to Train Your Dragon franchise?

A: The "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise comprises a total of eight movies and tv shows, including three main feature films. This count typically refers to the three main movies and the major television series, though if every single short film is counted, the number of distinct productions would be even higher.

Q: Are the How to Train Your Dragon movies based on books?

A: Yes, the movies are based on the bestselling book series by children's author Cressida Cowell. While the films take creative liberties, they retain the core spirit and characters from her original stories.

Q: What is the correct watch order for the How to Train Your Dragon franchise?

A: The recommended watch order to follow the main story chronologically is: "How to Train Your Dragon" (2010), then "Dragons: Riders of Berk" / "Defenders of Berk" TV series, followed by "Dragons: Race to the Edge" TV series, then "How to Train Your Dragon 2" (2014), and finally "How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World" (2019). Short films and spin-off series like "Rescue Riders" and "The Nine Realms" can be watched at various points or independently.

Q: Where can I stream the How to Train Your Dragon movies and series?

A: Streaming availability can vary by region and over time. Generally, the movies and series have been available on platforms like Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, and various digital rental/purchase services. It's best to check your preferred streaming service for current availability.

These answers should help clarify the vastness of the "How to Train Your Dragon" universe, extending far beyond the simple question of how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there.

The "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise is a testament to the power of imaginative storytelling and breathtaking animation. While the answer to "how many How to Train Your Dragon movies are there" is a concise three for the main cinematic saga, the universe extends much further into captivating television series and delightful short films. This rich tapestry of tales offers a complete and immersive experience, chronicling the extraordinary bond between a young Viking and his dragon, and their journey to change their world forever.

Whether you're a long-time fan revisiting Berk or a newcomer eager to explore its skies, the depth and breadth of this franchise promise an unforgettable adventure. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the insights needed to appreciate the full scope of this incredible world. Which part of the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise is your favorite, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or explore more of our articles on animated classics and fantasy sagas!