The Correct Order to Watch 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' and 'Star Wars Rebels'

Deciding whether to watch 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' (Clone Wars) or 'Star Wars Rebels' (Rebels) first can be a bit confusing given the numerous pieces of media in the Star Wars canon. Let's break down the optimal viewing order and why it matters.

Understanding the Star Wars Timeline

The Star Wars timeline is vast and intricate, with numerous transitional periods and events. To fully appreciate the characters and story arcs, it is crucial to know the proper sequence.

Chronological Order for Watching

The Chronological Order is the key to enjoying both series to their fullest. As Jason detailed, you should watch The Clone Wars before Rebels. This is due to the fact that part of Rebels' narrative is directly tied to the events that occur in the final season of The Clone Wars.

Why Start with The Clone Wars?

Character Development: The Clone Wars dives deeper into character development and provides more background than the prequels or movies. Story Continuity: Certain storylines in Rebels are a direct result of events that happen in The Clone Wars. Visual and Technological Advancements: The Clone Wars often showcases groundbreaking animation and storytelling techniques. Introduction of Key Characters: Ahsoka Tano, introduced in the The Clone Wars movie, is a pivotal character in the Rebels series.

When to Watch The Clone Wars Movie

It's recommended to start with the The Clone Wars 2008–2020 series and then watch the animated movie. The movie acts as a bridge, introducing characters and setting the stage for the series that follows.

Suggested Viewing Order

The Clone Wars (2008–2020) Watch the entire series, including the movie if you haven't already. This series is the prequel to Rebels and sets the stage for the Star Wars universe's transition from the Clone Wars to the Rebellion. The Clone Wars Season 7 (2020) Focusing on the final season, which takes place shortly before the events of the Rebels series. Important storylines and character arcs conclude here, setting the stage for Rebels. Star Wars Rebels (2014–2018) Finish with the entire four seasons of Rebels. Rebels picks up the narrative where The Clone Wars left off, introducing new characters and continuing the saga of the Rebellion.

Additional Recommendations

For a more comprehensive and enriched understanding, consider reading the books mentioned, such as Ahsoka. Books can provide additional depth and context that enhances your viewing experience.

Conclusion

Following the chronological order is essential for the Star Wars fan who wants to fully understand the continuity and history of the Star Wars galaxy. Enjoy the journey from the Clone Wars to the Rebellion and beyond!