Main Skywalker Saga in Release Order
The Star Wars film series is large, but the core Skywalker saga has a definitive release timeline. The following table lists the main episodic saga films in the order they first appeared in theaters, from the original trilogy through the High Republic era arrivals and the sequel trilogy, including their years and how they map to in-universe chronology.
| Release Year | Title | In-Universe Era |
|---|---|---|
| 1977 | Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope | 0 ABY |
| 1980 | Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back | 3 ABY |
| 1983 | Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi | 4 ABY |
| 1999 | Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace | 32 BBY |
| 2002 | Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones | 22 BBY |
| 2005 | Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith | 19 BBY |
| 2015 | Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens | 34 ABY |
| 2017 | Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi | 34 ABY |
| 2019 | Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker | 35 ABY |
Fast chronological viewing order (for context)
If you prefer story chronology rather than release sequence, the saga begins with The Phantom Menace and proceeds through Revenge of the Sith, then shifts to A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, followed by The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker.
Animated Features and Standalone Releases
Beyond the episodic saga, several animated films and live-action standalones extend the franchise. While not part of the main Skywalker timeline, they offer additional stories and expand the galaxy. This list separates theatrical animated features and major standalone live-action titles by their release years for clarity.
- Star Wars: The Clone Wars (2008) — animated feature bridging Episodes II and III
- Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016) — live-action, set immediately before Episode IV
- Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) — live-action, explores Han Solo’s origins
- Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker — Not part of the sequel trilogy; this entry refers to Episode IX as a standalone feature
Streaming and Viewing Order Recommendations
For new viewers, a release-order path aligns with how the films shaped audience expectations and cultural context. This approach preserves iconic reveals and evolving production aesthetics. Alternatively, chronological viewing is useful for understanding lineage and mythic structure, especially for the prequels and sequels.
Canon, Legends, and Continuity Context
Since Disney’s acquisition, the official continuity is defined by the Skywalker saga films and selected TV projects, while the Legends label applies to older Expanded Universe material no longer considered canon. The table above reflects current theatrical canon placements; dates and eras for television projects and comics are tracked separately in official reference works.
Releases, Re-releases, and Format Notes
Theatrical versions often differ slightly from later releases due to restorations and cuts. Formats span 35mm, IMAX, and modern digital, with certain milestones such as the 40th anniversary restoration of A New Hope and various technical upgrades across the saga. These revisions underscore how presentation formats have evolved alongside exhibition technology.
Where to Watch and Plan Your Viewing
Availability varies by region and platform, with streaming homes on official services and periodic windows for premium viewing. Release schedules for physical media and specialty screenings follow campaign calendars and licensing windows, so checking local listings is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many main Star Wars movies are there? — Nine feature films in the Skywalker saga released between 1977 and 2019.
- Should I watch in release or chronological order? — Release order reflects cultural impact and evolving storytelling; chronological order preserves timeline logic, especially for the prequels.
- Are the animated features part of the main saga? — The primary theatrical animated feature (Clone Wars) bridges Episodes II and III; other animated projects are typically considered canon within the broader timeline but outside the core saga.