Ballad → Sunrise → trilogy order explained
In Panem’s timeline the prequels come first; the Katniss trilogy is much later. Release order is the opposite for newcomers.
Story step 1 · 10th Hunger Games
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (book 2020 / film 2023) — optional before Sunrise.
Story step 2 · ~50th Hunger Games
Sunrise on the Reaping (book 2025 / film ~2026-11-20 US target).
Story step 3 · 74th–76th era
The Hunger Games trilogy — books 2008–2010; films 2012–2015.
If you are new
Watch/read the original trilogy first (release/publication). Add Ballad when curious. See Sunrise when it arrives.
If you are rewatching
Chronological film path: Ballad → Sunrise → HG → Catching Fire → Mockingjay Pts 1–2.