Introduction and Answer-First Summary
To watch Star Wars in order as of 2017, begin with the six released episodes in release order: Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999), Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002), Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005), Episode IV: A New Hope (1977), Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983). This sequence follows the Skywalker saga’s chronological release timeline and preserves the intended narrative reveals. The sequel trilogy (Episodes VII–IX) premiered after 2017, so this path reflects the available canon through that date.
Below, we break down the choices, define key terms, and provide a reliable framework you can use for a consistent, complete viewing experience.
Why Follow Release Order
Release order preserves the intended theatrical experience, including pacing, reveals, and cultural context. By 2017, Episodes I–VI were complete, and the impact of story twists (e.g., character origins and key deaths) is strongest when seen as originally presented. This ordering also aligns with in-universe chronology for the core saga, while keeping post-2017 additions separate until after the foundational saga is understood.
The Pre-2017 Canon Core
The core episodic saga released before 2017 consists of the original and prequel trilogies. These films introduce Anakin and Luke Skywalker, the rise of the Empire, and the fall and redemption of Anakin. Staying within this set ensures you experience the primary arc that was fully available and finalized by 2017.
Recommended Viewing Path
Below is the recommended watch path for a viewer using this guide in 2017, with brief notes on pacing and prerequisites.
Option A: Simple Release Path (Episodes I–VI)
- Episode I: The Phantom Menace (1999)
- Episode II: Attack of the Clones (2002)
- Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (2005)
- Episode IV: A New Hope (1977)
- Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
- Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (1983)
This path presents the story as theaters originally delivered it, maintaining surprise and dramatic momentum for first-time viewers.
Option B: Chronological Within Each Trilogy
If you prefer strict in-universe progression within each distinct trilogy, follow these groupings:
| Path | Viewing Order | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prequel trilogy | I → II → III | Anakin’s origin to fall |
| Original trilogy | IV → V → VI | Luke’s journey to the conclusion |
After completing each trilogy using internal chronological order, you can merge them by ending with Return of the Jedi to preserve the legacy arc.
Episode Reference Table (Released by 2017)
| Episode | Title | Year | Thematic Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode I | The Phantom Menace | 1999 | Introduces the Republic, Anakin, and political stakes |
| Episode II | Attack of the Clones | 2002 | Expands the war and deepens Anakin and Padmé’s relationship |
| Episode III | Revenge of the Sith | 2005 | Delivers Anakin’s fall and the rise of the Empire |
| Episode IV | A New Hope | 1977 | Rebellion origin and classic hero’s journey |
| Episode V | The Empire Strikes Back | 1980 | Major reveal and darker tone |
| Episode VI | Return of the Jedi | 1983 | Closes the Skywalker saga’s first chapter |
Key Terms and Concepts
Canon: The authoritative Star Wars narrative as defined by Lucasfilm, including Episodes I–VI released by 2017. After 2017, Disney expanded canon with new films and series, but this guide focuses on the established set.
Skywalker Saga: The nine-film story arc spanning the fall of the Republic, the rise of the Empire, and the defeat of the Galactic Empire, centered on Anakin and Luke Skywalker.
Prequel vs. Original: The prequel trilogy (Episodes I–III) explains how the conflict began and how Anakin becomes Vader, while the original trilogy (Episodes IV–VI) follows Luke, the hero who confronts the consequences and topples the Empire.
Viewing Tips and Practical Considerations
Plan around your available time and attention span. The prequel trilogy is tightly connected and benefits from consecutive viewing, whereas the original trilogy can stand alone well. If you pause between trilogies, note where key character arcs resolve to maintain continuity. Subtitles and audio options vary by platform, so verify your setup ahead of marathon sessions.
Beyond Episode VI (Post-2017 Content Notice)
After completing the six core episodes, you may encounter newer stories released after 2017, such as The Force Awakens and related series. Treat these as extensions of the saga rather than replacements for the core journey. By mastering the foundational arc first, you will be better prepared to appreciate new characters and plotlines without losing the context that made the earlier saga impactful.
Conclusion
By following the six released films in order through 2017—Episodes I, II, III, IV, V, and VI—you get the complete Skywalker saga as intended at that point. This path balances narrative impact, character development, and clarity. Use this guide as a durable foundation, then expand outward to later stories when you are ready.
FAQ
Reader questions
Should I watch the movies before shows like The Clone Wars?
For the 2017 context, focus on Episodes I–VI first. Animated series and films released after 2017 (e.g., The Clone Wars) provide additional context but are not required to understand the core saga’s narrative arc.
Is there an order that matches in-universe chronology exactly?
The release order (I–VI) largely follows in-universe chronology for the main saga. Some spin-off material diverges in timeline, but the core six-film path preserves the intended story beats through 2017.
What if I want a shorter experience?
If time is limited, prioritize the original trilogy (IV–VI) to experience the core conflict and resolution. This provides the central arc even if you skip the prequels, though key backstory about Anakin and the Republic will be less detailed.