Ghost in the Shell

zal said:
Ghost in the shell is a movie and its sequel is ghost in the shell innocence
Ghost in the shell stand alone complex is an alternate version in the same world, with same characters but unrelated story. Stand alone's sequel is 2nd GIG

It's better to see ghost in the shell the movie first then watch the tv series. Innocence is kinda optional.

Andan210 said:
The best option is the release order. However, you have to remember that there are three separate continuities for Ghost in the Shell: the Mamoru Oshii movie series, the Stand Alone Complex series and the Arise series. They are are all set in different timelines.
Both the Mamoru Oshii movie series and the Stand Alone Complex series are based on Shirow Masamune's manga, but the stories are completely different. They share main characters, world-setting and sometimes make reference to scenes from the manga, but they're different timelines with different events and stories.
The Arise series is a prequel to Shirow Masamune's manga, not to the Mamoru Oshii movies or the SAC series.

So, the best order to watch the Ghost in the Shell franchise is:

1. Mamoru Oshii movie series:
Ghost in the Shell 2.0 (this is a remastered edition of the original 1995 movie) > Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence

2. Stand Alone Complex series:
Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex > Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd GIG > Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - Solid State Society

3. Arise series:
Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border:1 Ghost Pain > Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border:2 Ghost Whispers > Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border:3 Ghost Tears > Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border:4 Ghost Stands Alone > Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Alternative Architecture > Ghost in the Shell (2015)