The ultimate guide to watch Star Wars movies in order

Star Wars movies are a cinematic phenomenon that has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world since the release of the original film in 1977. George Lucas’ franchise has become a massive cultural phenomenon, spawning numerous movies, television shows, books, and merchandise. 

This article will explore the Star Wars universe and provide a comprehensive guide to watch this epic saga.

Disclaimer: This isn't a spoiler-free guide!

First, let’s learn the basics

Are you ready to embark on a journey to a galaxy far, far away? Before you strap in for the ride, it's essential to understand the fundamental forces that govern the Star Wars universe.

From the noble Jedi Order of the Light Side to the insidious Sith of the Dark Side, this epic world is full of action, adventure, and intergalactic battles. Let's dive into the basics of Star Wars!

The dark side

The Dark Side is a central theme in Star Wars movies and refers to the evil forces that oppose the Jedi and the Rebellion. Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, and Kylo Ren represent the Dark Side. These characters use the power of the Force for their gain, often causing destruction and chaos in the process.

The light side

The Light Side represents the Jedi Order, an ancient organization of peacekeepers and guardians of the galaxy. They use the Force to protect the innocent, maintain order, and defend the galaxy against evil. The Jedi follow a strict code emphasizing selflessness, compassion, and detachment from personal desires.

Watch the movies

Before diving into the details of the movies, it's important to mention that Star Wars movies should be watched in a particular order to appreciate the storyline fully. 

There are two ways to watch the movies: in chronological order or the original release dates.

The chronological order follows the storyline from the earliest events to the latest, while the release order follows the order in which the movies were released. Both orders have their advantages, and it's up to personal preference on which one to choose. 

The release order

For those who want to watch the Star Wars movies and relieve the OG feel, the recommended viewing order is, of course, the release dates as George Lucas planned.

1. The original trilogy

The original trilogy introduced us to some of the most iconic characters in cinema history, including Darth Vader, Yoda, and Boba Fett. The original trilogy consists of Episodes IV, V, and VI, depicting the story of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo as they fight against the Galactic Empire. 

Episode IV: A New Hope (1977) 

Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy on a remote planet, joins forces with a Jedi Knight, a smuggler, and their droids to rescue a princess and destroy the Death Star, a superweapon capable of destroying entire planets.

Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980) 

The Galactic Empire, led by Darth Vader, hunts down the Rebel Alliance, while Luke trains with Jedi Master Yoda to become a Jedi Knight and confronts the truth about his past.

Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)

Return of the Jedi concludes the story of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Han Solo as they attempt to destroy the Death Star and defeat the Galactic Empire. The movie features some of the most iconic characters (like the Ewoks) and the most memorable scenes in cinema history, including the epic battle on the forest moon of Endor and the confrontation between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader.

1. Prequel Trilogy

The prequel trilogy consists of Episodes I, II, and III and tells the story of the rise of the Galactic Empire and the fall of the Jedi Order. The prequels depict the events that led to the original trilogy's start.

Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999) 

Set 32 years before the original Star Wars film, this movie follows the young Jedi Knight, Qui-Gon Jinn, and his apprentice, Obi-Wan Kenobi, as they protect Queen Amidala from the evil Trade Federation and encounter a young boy named Anakin Skywalker.

Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002)

Set 10 years after the events of The Phantom Menace. This movie follows Anakin Skywalker as he becomes a Padawan learner to Obi-Wan Kenobi and falls in love with Senator Padmé Amidala. Meanwhile, a separatist movement threatens to tear the galaxy apart.

Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005) 

The Clone Wars between the Republic and the Separatists continue to escalate. Anakin Skywalker becomes increasingly torn between his loyalties to the Jedi and his attachments, ultimately leading to devastating consequences. The film sets the stage for the original trilogy, including Darth Vader's rise and the Jedi's fall.

1. Sequel Trilogy

The sequel trilogy consists of Episodes VII, VIII, and IX and continues the original trilogy's story by introducing new characters such as Rey, Finn, and Poe. The trilogy also features the return of classic characters such as Han Solo, Princess Leia, and Luke Skywalker. 

Episode VII: The Force Awakens (2015)

Set 30 years after the events of the original trilogy, The Force Awakens introduces a new cast of characters while also bringing back familiar faces. The film follows the journey of scavenger Rey, ex-Stormtrooper Finn, and Resistance pilot Poe Dameron as they try to find the missing Jedi Knight Luke Skywalker and fight against the evil First Order, led by Kylo Ren, a dark warrior who serves the mysterious Supreme Leader Snoke.

Episode VIII: The Last Jedi (2017)

Continuing the story from The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi sees Rey seeking guidance from Luke Skywalker while the Resistance faces increasing threats from the First Order. Meanwhile, Kylo Ren struggles with his inner conflict as he tries to prove himself to Snoke. 

Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)

The Rise of Skywalker concludes the story of Rey, Finn, and Poe as they face off against the evil First Order and the resurrected Emperor Palpatine. The movie is notable for featuring the return of classic characters such as Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Lando Calrissian.

Movie Spin-offs

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016)

The film takes place just before the events of the original 1977 Star Wars movie, and it follows a group of rebels as they attempt to steal the plans for the Empire's new superweapon, the Death Star.

The main character of the movie is Jyn Erso, a young woman who is recruited by the Rebel Alliance to help them obtain the plans for the Death Star. She is joined on her mission by a group of rebels, including Cassian Andor, a rebel intelligence officer; K-2SO, a reprogrammed Imperial droid; Chirrut Îmwe, a blind warrior-monk; and Baze Malbus, his heavily-armed companion.

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)

Solo: A Star Wars Story is a space Western film set in the Star Wars universe. The film is directed by Ron Howard and stars Alden Ehrenreich as the young Han Solo, who was originally played by Harrison Ford in the original trilogy

The movie follows the young Han Solo and his adventures in the criminal underworld before he became the smuggler we all know and love from the original Star Wars trilogy. Along the way, he meets new characters and old favorites, like Chewbacca and Lando Calrissian, as he tries to pull off a dangerous heist that could make him a fortune.

Shows over the years

Star Wars has expanded beyond the original movies and into numerous shows, offering fans more adventures and characters to explore. These shows delve deeper into the Star Wars universe, exploring different periods, characters, and conflicts.  

For this section, we've made a list. However, if you want us to delve more into the shows, don't hesitate to comment below!

• Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008 - 2020)
• Star Wars Rebels (2014 - 2018)
• Star Wars: Resistance (2018 - 2020)
• The Mandalorian (2019 - present)
• The Book of Boba Fett (2021 - present)
• Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022 - present)

Watch Star Wars in chronological order (including the shows)

We know the Star Wars movies and the spin-off movies and shows are a must-watch for any sci-fi or action fan. The epic storyline, though, can be a bit confusing, so we also made a chronological list for anyone who might need it:  

1. Episode I: The Phantom Menace
2. Episode II: Attack of the Clones
3. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (animated movie)
4. Star Wars: The Clone Wars (animated tv show series)
5. Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
6. Star Wars: The Bad Batch
7. Solo: A Star Wars Story
8. Obi-Wan Kenobi
9. Star Wars Rebels (animated tv show series)
10. Andor season 1
11. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
12. Episode IV: A New Hope
13. Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
14. Episode VI: Return of the Jedi
15. The Mandalorian (seasons 1 and 2)
16. The Book of Boba Fett
17. The Mandalorian (season 3)
18. Star Wars Resistance (season 1)
19. Episode VII: The Force Awakens
20. Episode VIII: The Last Jedi
21. Star Wars Resistance (season 2)
22. Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker

Praise the Force because we still have much of Star Wars left.

Star Wars movies have profoundly impacted popular culture and have become one of the most beloved and influential franchises of all time. 

Incredible special effects and memorable characters make these movies timeless classics. It doesn't matter if you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the franchise; there's something for everyone in the Star Wars franchise. 

From the original trilogy to the sequel trilogy and the shows, Star Wars has captured the imaginations of fans worldwide and inspired countless homages. 

Whether you prefer to watch the movies chronologically or in the order they were released, Star Wars movies are essential to any movie lover's collection. With new projects such as The Mandalorian and the Obi-Wan Kenobi series, the Star Wars universe continues to grow and evolve, delighting fans of all ages.

Here at Gamestate, we'd love to know if you want to see more Star Wars-related content! 

Have you followed the recommended viewing order, or do you have your way of watching the movies? Share your thoughts and join the discussion now!