Star Wars order of all movies and series

The multitude of main films, spin-offs and now also series from the Star Wars universe can easily lead to confusion about the correct order and chronology. To make sure you’re well prepared for this, we’re presenting various ways in which you can experience the adventures of Luke Skywalker and co.

In total, we have listed three well-known ways of following the plot of the Star Wars films. While the first two basically follow conventional guidelines, the third option is somewhat more individual. After that, we also provide you with an overview of the now well-filled series front of the franchise and place the respective plot correctly in time between the movies. So you’ll be well prepared for your next Star Wars movie session and will always know where you are in the timeline.

Star Wars Order – Option 1: Following the theatrical release

The easiest way to go through the “Star Wars” film series is to follow the order in which they were released. A total of twelve official films have been released since 1977. These include nine main films, two spin-off parts and one animated film. The two productions “Ewoks – Caravan of the Brave” and “Ewoks – Battle for Endor” are optional, as the plots are not part of the main canon.

The first trilogy, consisting of Episodes IV, V and VI, forms the original series and chronologically lies in the middle of the entire “Star Wars” universe. The prequel films followed with Episodes I, II and III. These take up events before the original trilogy. The three sequels, consisting of Episodes VII, VIII and IX, follow on from the end of Episode VI.

The animated film “The Clone Wars” fits directly between Episodes II and III. Finally, the spin-off films “Rogue One” and “Solo” complement the main series by providing additional stories and background to certain characters and events. This results in the following sequence:

• 1977: “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope“
• 1980: “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back“
• 1983: “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi”
• 1999: “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace“
• 2002: “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones“
• 2005: “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith“
• 2008: “Star Wars: The Clone Wars“
• 2015: “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens“
• 2016: “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story“
• 2017: “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi“
• 2018: “Solo: A Star Wars Story“
• 2019: “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker“

Star Wars Order – Option 2: Sorted by time

An alternative approach is to watch the films in chronological order of their plot. To do this, the titles of the original films were numbered consecutively and, in the case of the first part of “Star Wars“, renamed “A New Hope“.

• “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace“
• “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones“
• “Star Wars: The Clone Wars“
• “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith“
• “Solo: A Star Wars Story“
• “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story“
• “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” (Previously: “Star Wars”)
• “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” (Previously: “The empire strikes back”)
• “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” (Previously: “Return of the Jedi”)
• “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens“
• “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi“
• “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker“

Star Wars Order – Option 3: In “Machete Order”

The third option was established by blogger Red Hilton. This so-called “Machete Order” focuses mainly on Luke’s story and prevents important twists from being spoiled for first-time viewers. In contrast to the chronological order, the surprises of the original trilogy are preserved in this arrangement.

Episodes II and III act as a kind of flashback. Episode I is optional, as the plot here is not central to understanding the main story and makes it easier to focus on the important characters. In this way, the story begins and ends with Luke, which means that episodes VII, VIII and IX, in which the protagonist plays more of a supporting role, are also omitted.

The two spin-offs “Rogue One” and “Solo” can equally be omitted in this order, as neither story is crucial to understanding the overall plot.

• “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” (1977)
• “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back” (1980)
• “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones” (2002)
• “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” (2005)
• “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi” (1983)

You’ve already seen every Star Wars scene imaginable and are looking for other interesting stories? Take a look at our extensive article about the Marvel order.

What happens in the Star Wars movies?

In a distant galaxy, ruled by a tyrannical power, a group of courageous rebels form. Among them is the brave Princess Lea, who is determined to stand up to the oppressors. She has captured crucial blueprints for a dangerous superweapon from the enemy empire. By chance, this information ends up in the hands of young Luke Skywalker. Together with Obi-Wan Kenobi from the Jedi Order and other companions, he takes up the fight against the overpowering darkness in a desperate attempt to destroy the superweapon before it can wreak havoc. An epic battle for freedom and justice ensues, full of courage and hope.

After a decisive victory over their powerful opponents, the rebels seek refuge on the ice planet Hoth. But the peace does not last long, as the resistance fighters are discovered and attacked, leading to their renewed escape. Meanwhile, our young Luke Skywalker goes in search of a wise master to learn more about the mysterious forces that pervade the universe. Meanwhile, his friends seek shelter in a floating city, led by an old acquaintance. But they fall into a devious trap that puts them in great danger. When Luke learns of the threat to his friends, our hero once again faces a dangerous opponent.

The combined forces of the Resistance prepare for a decisive confrontation to destroy another powerful and dangerous weapon capable of destroying entire worlds. Meanwhile, one of the Resistance’s bravest fighters finds himself in the grip of the ruthless criminal Jaaba. With the help of his loyal friends, including our courageous Princess Lea and other companions, a daring rescue operation succeeds. But Luke, the young leader of the resistance, still faces his greatest challenge yet: our hero must once again face a feared opponent who is closely linked to his fate.

On a peaceful planet called Naboo, a conflict breaks out that requires the intervention of the Jedi Knights. Together with the determined ruler Amidala, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi from the Jedi Order search for support. Their path leads the group to a remote desert planet where a young slave named Anakin Skywalker with extraordinary abilities ekes out a humble existence. Despite trying to get help from the Galactic Council, the fighters realize that no one will come to their aid. A decisive battle begins on Naboo, in which not only the fate of the planet but also that of Skywalker is at stake. A battle for freedom and justice begins, challenging the balance of power in the galaxy.

In the midst of an escalating galactic crisis, the young Jedi student Skywalker increasingly develops into a capable and serious warrior. However, his abilities and ambition also bring him into conflict with his own weaknesses and the strict rules of the Jedi Order. At this time, several unsuccessful attempts are made on Princess Amidala’s life. While the young Jedi is made her bodyguard, his mentor discovers a secret army and a renegade Jedi. His investigations reveal a deep conspiracy that once again threatens the fate of the galaxy and presents the Jedi with a new challenge. Events come to a head and draw Skywalker deeper and deeper into a web of power games, conflicts and personal struggles.

The galaxy is on the brink of a decisive turning point as the Clone Wars draw to a close after three years. As the all-important battle against the enemy Separatists enters its final phase, Obi-Wan is tasked with bringing their leader Grevious to justice. In the meantime, a dark force in the form of Chancellor Palpatine seizes the opportunity to win over the talented Skywalker. The latter is faced with a tug-of-war between loyalty and temptation. Amidst personal conflicts and political intrigue, will the young Jedi turn to the dark side and herald the beginning of a new era that will steer the entire galaxy in a dark direction?

While the Republic and the Separatists are locked in bitter conflict in the Clone Wars, Rotta, the son of the influential gangster boss Jabba, is unceremoniously kidnapped. A daring move by the Separatists to get the criminal on their side. To prevent the situation from getting out of hand, the Republic sends two of its most capable Jedi. Their mission is to free the abductee and restore balance in these troubled times. Pilot film for the series of the same name.

Decades after a major triumph against the dark forces, the balance in a distant galaxy has shifted once again. A new, dangerous organization called the First Order has risen up, determined to impose its rule in all corners of the universe. In this turbulent time, young Rey lives on a remote desert planet, unaware of the far-reaching events taking place at the time. Her everyday life is characterized by the search for remains, which she sells for a living. Her life takes an unexpected turn when the girl unexpectedly meets the deserted stormtrooper Finn.

Jyn Erso, a young woman who has been on her own since the age of 15, unexpectedly becomes embroiled in a crucial mission for the Rebel Alliance. Her connection to her father, a key scientist for the Empire, makes her a valuable ally for the Rebels, who are desperately trying to unlock the secrets of the Empire’s new superweapon. Jyn joins a team tasked with finding her father and gathering information that could give the Resistance a decisive advantage. In a race against time, the group must risk everything to outwit the Empire and its ruthless military director.

At a critical time for the Republic, weakened by devastating attacks, the last line of defense depends on a tenacious resistance led by the determined General Lea. Fighting under her wing are brave fighters, including former Stormtrooper Finn, who has escaped his dark origins. Meanwhile, Rey, freshly returned from a thrilling adventure, seeks the wisdom of the last remaining representative of an ancient, honorable knighthood on a remote island, the Jedi Order. But dark forces, led by the torn warrior Kylo Ren and a mysterious leader, cast their menacing shadows over them, determined to continue pursuing sinister plans.

Around a decade before the events of “Star Wars: Episode IV”, Han Solo, a young man with no family backing who makes his way on the streets of his home planet Corellia, finds himself in the midst of turbulent adventures. After Solo has left the Imperial Flight Academy behind him, the smuggler becomes directly involved in a train robbery. On this mission, Han meets his future friend Chewbacca and joins forces with a group of more or less trustworthy allies, including an old acquaintance from his past. Together, the group roams the dangerous depths of a criminal world.

Around a year after the resistance, from which the rebels narrowly escaped, a small but determined group of remaining rebels consisting of Rey, Finn and ace pilot Poe continue to fight Kylo Ren and his henchmen from the shadows. Together, the three embark on a challenging mission to once again keep the peace throughout the galaxy and finally decide the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith for themselves. But an old enemy who was thought to be dead finally reveals himself.

How do the Star Wars series fit into the story?

The Star Wars universe is no longer just made up of books, movies and numerous merchandise items. Today, you can also find plenty of series spin-offs set in different eras of the saga. These take a closer look at the stories of other characters and provide you with additional background and information. To help you keep track of the wealth of content and know exactly in which era the stories take place, we will reveal below where the Star Wars series are embedded in time:

• “Star Wars: The Acolyte“
• “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace“
• “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones“
• “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” (Movie)
• “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” (Series)
• “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith“
• “Star Wars: The Bad Batch“
• “Star Wars: Rebels“
• “Star Wars: Ahsoka“
• “Solo: A Star Wars Story“
• “Star Wars: Andor“
• “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story“
• “Star Wars: Obi-Wan Kenobi“
• “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope“
• “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back“
• “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi“
• “Star Wars: The Mandalorian“
• “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew“
• “Star Wars: The Book of Boba Fett“
• “Star Wars: Resistance“
• “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens“
• “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi“
• “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker“

What are the Star Wars series about?

A group of Separatists, supported by the Dark Sith Lords, strive to extend their power over the population. This leads to a widespread conflict in all parts of the Republic and requires the solidarity of brave warriors and wise leaders. Among them are the experienced Jedi Masters Obi-Wan Kenobi and Mace Windu, the young protégé Anakin Skywalker and the 14-year-old Jedi student Ahsoka. They all fight side by side against the growing darkness to preserve peace and justice in the galaxy. Follow-up series to the pilot of the same name.

At a time when the Empire is oppressing the galaxy and persecuting the remaining Jedi, a courageous rebellion begins to form. Among the rebels is Ezra, who, despite his dubious past, realizes that he must fight for a greater cause. Growing up without guidance, the former con man has always had to rely on his acumen and intuition. His life takes a decisive turn when he meets a mysterious stranger who reveals his hidden identity as one of the last Jedi Knights. Kanan, who once had to flee the downfall of his order, reluctantly becomes the leader of a small but determined group.

Pilot Kazuda is rescued from the clutches of the First Order by resistance fighter and experienced flying ace Poe and introduced to the world of espionage. Before the boy knows it, he finds himself in the middle of a covert mission in which his skills are required in a completely different way. Accompanied by BB-8, a loyal robot friend, he meets a motley crew. Despite the initial doubts of some team members, he has to face a challenge that puts his flying skills to the test.

A lone bounty hunter named Din Djarin earns his living by traveling through the far-flung and often dangerous regions of the universe. This period is marked by the emergence of new powers and the struggle for political supremacy in response to the collapse of the Empire. His journey takes a decisive turn when the Manalorian encounters an unexpected and unique creature that not only touches his heart, but also plunges him into risky and unpredictable adventures.

Picking up directly after the dramatic upheaval in the Revenge of the Sith movie, this animated series focuses on a special group of clone troopers known as the elite Clone Troop 99. The members of this group are set apart from other clone troopers by their unique genetic modifications. They include a massive strongman, a brilliant marksman, a technology expert and a born leader named Hunter. As the new empire begins to rise, the unconventional fighters search for their place in the universe. In the process, they meet a mysterious girl who leads their journey down unknown paths.

After the two notorious bounty hunters Boba Fett and Fennec Shand had assisted the Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Jarin in battle, the two take control of a formerly powerful criminal empire on the dusty planet Tatooine. They quickly realize that running a criminal syndicate is far more complex than their previous hunter routine. They are faced with the challenge of consolidating their new role as leaders, while at the same time having to deal with a number of adversaries who challenge their claim to power.

As a prequel to the Star Wars spin-off film “Rogue One”, Star Wars: Andor tells the story of Cassian Andor. Five years before the events, his days are characterized by petty theft and the search for his lost sister. But an unexpected encounter entangles him in a conflict and forces Andor to flee. On his odyssey, his path crosses with an up-and-coming resistance movement that is rebelling against the empire. Motivated by personal reasons, he joins the fight. His actions lay the foundations for his later role as a courageous spy on a key mission and later captain of the rebels.

In a distant galaxy characterized by darkness and tyranny, the last defenders of a once peaceful order find themselves on the run from merciless persecution. The heroes of this time are forced to remain hidden in order to survive. One of them is Obi-Wan Kenobi. Once a wise teacher and leader, the Jedi Master now spends a reclusive life in exile, plagued by the burden of betrayal by his apprentice Anakin. He watches over the boy’s fate from afar. But his destiny will not let him rest, and the past catches up with him as an inevitable confrontation with Anakin looms.

The time after the fall of the mighty Galactic Empire, when the New Republic is trying to stabilize the galaxy. Rumors arise of the return of the infamous Imperial strategist Thrawan. The admiral is said to be secretly working to form a new military force, posing a direct threat to the fragile peace. Ahsoka, the former Jedi student of Anakin Skywalker, picks up his trail. Supported by her loyal companions Hera Syndulla and Saine Wren, the Jedi Knight embarks on a dangerous mission. Her goal: to track down the villain and his accomplices and thwart their plans. At the same time, she hopes to find a lost ally who once disappeared with the Imperial commander in the depths of space.

Set in the aftermath of the final collapse of the Galactic Empire, the first spin-off of “The Mandalorian” tells the story of a group of children who make a mysterious discovery on their home planet. Lost in a threatening, alien galaxy, the four youngsters search for a way to get back home. During their journey, they run into unlikely allies and devious enemies.

100 years before the events surrounding Luke, Obi-Wan and Rey take place, “The Acolyte” sheds light on the final days of the “High Republic” era. An era in which the legendary Jedi Knights were at the peak of their power and influence and were convinced that they had finally wiped out the Sith. The story follows Auro, an ex-Jedi student, who is torn between the dark machinations of the Sith and her former master’s attempts to return her to the path of light.

Which Star Wars order is the right one?

Ultimately, there is no correct answer as to which order is actually best for watching the ‘Star Wars’ series, as each method offers its own advantages and disadvantages. When viewed by release date, the twists remain unexpected.

The chronological order of the episodes allows for a deeper understanding of the plot and provides all the important background information, but anticipates some of the iconic surprises. Meanwhile, Machete Order avoids spoilers by including Episodes II and III, but can be distracting due to the stylistic difference between the trilogies. Of course, we can’t dictate which order you should ultimately choose.