The Complete SAW Movies Guide: Watch Order & 2025 Franchise Update

Love it or hate it, SAW has become one of horror's most recognizable names. What started as a low-budget indie thriller in 2004 quickly evolved into a massive horror saga packed with grisly traps, twisted morality games, and a villain who remains unforgettable: John Kramer, aka Jigsaw.

> Fast fact: Across 10+ films, the SAW franchise has grossed over $1 billion worldwide, making it one of the top-earning horror series ever.

Where to Start (No Spoilers)

If you're new, the easiest way is to watch in release order. That way, you'll experience the story (and the iconic twists) as audiences originally did. But if you're already hooked, a chronological watch order offers a fresh perspective on how John Kramer's legacy unfolded.

The SAW Movies in Release Order (Recommended for First-Timers)

1. Saw (2004)

2. Saw II (2005)

3. Saw III (2006)

4. Saw IV (2007)

5. Saw V (2008)

6. Saw VI (2009)

7. Saw 3D (The Final Chapter) (2010)

8. Jigsaw (2017)

9. Spiral: From the Book of Saw (2021)

10. Saw X (2023)

11. Saw XI (2025, upcoming)

The SAW Movies in Chronological Order (For Return Visits)

- Saw X (flashbacks to Kramer's early work)

- Saw

- Saw II

- Saw III & IV (occur simultaneously)

- Saw V

- Saw VI

- Saw 3D

- Jigsaw

- Spiral (loosely connected, more of a spin-off)

- Saw XI (2025, details TBD)

What Makes SAW Unique (Without Spoiling Twists)

- Moral puzzles, not just gore: Every trap is tied to a moral or ethical failing, making the horror feel uncomfortably personal.

- Twist-driven storytelling: Nearly every entry ends with a reveal that reframes what you thought you knew.

- A legacy villain: Unlike supernatural slashers, John Kramer is grounded in reality—and his philosophy makes him disturbingly relatable.

- Continuity heavy: The timeline is intricate, with overlapping events and returning characters. Fans often rewatch to catch new details.

Light Content Advisory

Unlike supernatural horror, SAW is extremely graphic. Gore, torture devices, and high-intensity violence are central to its identity. If you're squeamish, this might be too much—but if you love complex narratives wrapped in blood-soaked puzzles, you're in for a ride.

Quick FAQ (No Spoilers)

Do I need to watch all the SAW movies in order? Release order is best for first-time viewers. Skipping will make the twists less impactful.

Is Spiral connected to the main story? Yes, but loosely. Think of it as a spin-off exploring Jigsaw's "influence" rather than a direct continuation.

Is John Kramer in every film? In one way or another—yes. Even after his death, his legacy drives the series.

When does Saw XI release? Scheduled for October 2025, right in time for Halloween.

Ready to Play the Game?

Whether you're here for the intricate traps, the moral dilemmas, or just to understand why people still whisper "I want to play a game" 20 years later—SAW remains a defining horror experience.

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Tip: Keep some popcorn (and maybe a stress ball) nearby. This series isn't for the faint of heart.