Godzilla: Heisei Continuity Watch Order (1954, 1984-1995)

Toho released their first Godzilla film in 9 years with 1984's Return of Godzilla, which ignored the continuity of every previous film except for the first, essentially acting as a reboot and setting the stage for a new set of stories. These seven films, released primarily during the Heisei period of Japan, work well enough as solo films, but combine to tell a larger, grander story about the life and death of Godzilla.

Quality:★★★☆☆ Cohesion:★★★★★ Accessiblity:★★★★★

1. Godzilla (1954)
• The original Godzilla film is the start of continuity here, and although it isn't immediately relevant, it becomes increasingly important later on.
2. The Return of Godzilla (1984)
• The first film released during the Heisei era, with updated technical effects.
3. Godzilla vs. Biollante (1989)
• The first film in the continuity to feature another monster, namely Biollante.
4. Godzilla vs. King Ghidorah (1991)
• The first appearance of King Ghidorah, which heavily references the 1954 film.
5. Godzilla vs. Mothra (1992)
6. Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla II (1993)
7. Godzilla vs. SpaceGodzilla (1994)
• These films make up the middle of the Heisei continuity, all introducing new monsters and building off of each other. Despite the continuity, these films still largely stand on their own.
8. Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995)
• The final film in the continuity, bringing everything to a close in dramatic fashion.