Fans of animated fantasy often ask how many How to Train Your Dragon series exist across different formats. The franchise spans feature films, shorts, spin off stories, and streaming specials that can be confusing to track.
This guide breaks down the main film lineup, streaming expansions, and related media so you can quickly understand the full scope of the How to Train Your Dragon universe.
| Category | Title | Release Year | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature Film | How to Train Your Dragon | 2010 | Theatrical |
| Feature Film | How to Train Your Dragon 2 | 2014 | Theatrical |
| Feature Film | How to Train Your Dragon 3 | 2019 | Theatrical |
| Streaming Special | How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming | 2019 | Television |
Core Feature Films Overview
The main How to Train Your Dragon narrative arrives in three big screen chapters, each expanding the world of Berk and the bond between Hiccup and Toothless.
These theatrical releases set the tone for the entire series and define the visual style, character arcs, and emotional beats that fans remember.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
The origin story introduces Hiccup, an unlikely Viking who befriends a Night Fury and challenges tradition.
How to Train Your Dragon 2 (2014)
Set years later, this sequel explores family, legacy, and a new threat while deepening relationships between humans and dragons.
How to Train Your Dragon 3 (2019)
The trilogy finale uncovers hidden realms and brings the saga to a grand conclusion with sweeping action and heartfelt moments.
Expanded Television and Streaming Content
Beyond the three main films, the How to Train Your Dragon universe grows through short films, holiday specials, and streaming originals that add humor, backstory, and slice of life adventures.
These side stories are perfect for viewers who want more dragon driven comedy and heart without diving into feature length pacing.
DreamWorks Dragons: The Series
The television series continues the story after the first movie, following teen Hiccup and his dragon riders as they protect Berk.
How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming
A festive TV special that revisits beloved characters and offers a fresh perspective on holiday traditions in the dragon world.
Related Media and Spin Offs
The How to Train Your Dragon brand extends into books, video games, and theme park experiences that keep the world alive between major releases.
These adaptations do not follow a strict linear timeline, but they enrich the overall lore for dedicated fans.
Novels and Comic Books
Written by authors like Cressida Cowell and other contributors, these stories explore side quests, new dragons, and untold village legends.
Games and Interactive Experiences
From mobile adventures to console epics, digital titles let players train dragons, build islands, and join dragon races inspired by the films.
Exploring the Franchise Beyond the Screen
Fans who love the dragons, lore, and music often find new ways to enjoy How to Train Your Dragon through merchandise, theme parks, and live events.
Engaging with these elements helps you feel closer to the world of Berk even after the credits roll on the final film.
- Watch the three core feature films in chronological order to follow the character journey.
- Add the TV series and holiday special to deepen your understanding of daily life in Berk.
- Explore graphic novels and books for untold stories and extra dragon lore.
- Check out official games and soundtracks to keep the adventure alive between viewings.
- Visit themed attractions or watch behind the scenes content to appreciate the animation and design.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many How to Train Your Dragon feature films were officially released in theaters?
There are three main theatrical feature films in the core How to Train Your Dragon series released between 2010 and 2019.
Does How to Train Your Dragon include TV series that count as separate series?
Yes, the animated television series DreamWorks Dragons expands the story across multiple seasons and is often considered part of the larger franchise.
Are there How to Train Your Dragon specials or short films worth watching?
Yes, specials such as How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming and various short films add extra content, humor, and holiday charm to the universe.
How can I tell which media belongs to the main story timeline versus side stories?
Feature films and the DreamWorks Dragons series generally form the main timeline, while holiday specials and most games stand as fun, optional side stories.