The first season of the Mandalorian, the first live-action Star Wars TV show, has concluded, and after numerous little references and callbacks, the final episode dropped a major easter egg connection to the previous animated TV shows, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, that were written by Mandalorian executive producer Dave Filoni. As a result, I've seen a major uptick in interest in watching these two shows, which many consider to be among the best Star Wars media of all time. However, watching the entire series is a somewhat daunting prospect; the Clone Wars has over a hundred episodes and many of them are largely standalone without greater relevance to galactic events, not to mention written and released out of chronological order. As a result, it is often recommended that one use a viewing guide to watch only the best and most relevant episodes. You've probably seen an image that is often posted in these threads; however, that viewing guide was made back in 2013 and in the years since, some episodes it did not strongly recommend have since become much more important.
The animated shows are a major part of the Star Wars universe: Lucasfilm, like George Lucas before them, considers them to be of equal importance to the films in terms of story and canon, and elements from the shows have been sprinkled liberally throughout other media, including the live-action films, Fallen Order, the Mandalorian, and more. With the final season of the Clone Wars finally coming to Disney+ next February, there has never been a better time to jump in to the animated shows. Both shows are available in full on Disney+ right now.
You may know that there is also a third animated show, Star Wars Resistance, that currently airs on Disney XD. That series is almost universally considered deeply inferior to the Clone Wars and Rebels; it is aimed at a much younger audience and has almost no relevance to anything in the wider Star Wars universe. It can be safely ignored.
Note that these lists are intended to be very "quick and dirty" to introduce only the most important episodes; there are more recommendations to be made if you like certain characters or storylines. If you have a strong recommendation for episodes you think should be in this guide, post them below.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Begun, the Clone War has. Following the mysterious discovery of an army of clones on Kamino, the Republic has been thrust into war against the Confederacy of Independent Systems, with the peaceful Jedi being forced to serve as generals on the battlefield. Hoping to reign in his headstrong impulses, the Jedi Council grants the newly knighted Anakin Skywalker a padawan learner of his own, a young girl named Ahsoka Tano. Over the next three years, the Jedi and their loyal clone troopers will seek to defeat the Separatists, while encountering a wide variety of new friends, unusual allies, and dangerous enemies -- including old faces thought long gone. At the backdrop of it all is the strong bond between Anakin and Ahsoka that will help set into motion tragic events that will shatter the Jedi Order and the Republic forever and eventually give rise to a Rebellion.
Note that the Clone Wars differs from most TV shows in two respects: one, there is no "ongoing" storyline; instead, most story arcs are standalone while moving character development forward. Two, sort of like classic Doctor Who, most "episodes" are actually part of a larger continuous story arc that lasts 2-4 consecutive episodes. Finally, I've chosen not to recommend the Clone Wars movie, which serves as the first couple episodes of the show. The movie is largely irrelevant except for introducing Ahsoka; if you want, you can watch the first 20-30 minutes or so and then turn it off.
As a reminder, the Clone Wars was cancelled after these episodes. Thirteen more episodes will be released on Disney+ next February to serve as a conclusion; most notably, the final episodes will feature the siege of Mandalore, in which Ahsoka returns to Mandalore to liberate the planet from Maul and the events of Order 66 are set into motion.
Star Wars Rebels
Fourteen years after the rise of the Empire, the Jedi are extinct and there is no hope for rebellion against tyranny. On the Imperial-occupied planet Lothal, young street rat Ezra Bridger meets the crew of the starship Ghost: brave pilot Hera Syndulla; confident Mandalorian exile Sabine Wren; the strong warrior Zeb Orrelios, last of his people; and Kanan Jarrus, a former Jedi padawan who senses the Force within Ezra. As Kanan reluctantly begins training Ezra as a Jedi, the Ghost crew light the spark that will form a Rebel Alliance that could one day take down the Empire and free the galaxy.
Unlike the Clone Wars, Rebels tells a single continuous story following the same cast of characters, and each episode is a single story (except for two-part episodes).
Note that season 3 is now when the show is "officially very good" and almost every episode is either plot-relevant or at least worth watching. I've put only the most important below.
Season 4 is even more serialized than season 3, with every episode being worth a watch, so I've only listed the ones directly relevant to the plot.
I hope that you find these episode guides helpful!
The animated shows are a major part of the Star Wars universe: Lucasfilm, like George Lucas before them, considers them to be of equal importance to the films in terms of story and canon, and elements from the shows have been sprinkled liberally throughout other media, including the live-action films, Fallen Order, the Mandalorian, and more. With the final season of the Clone Wars finally coming to Disney+ next February, there has never been a better time to jump in to the animated shows. Both shows are available in full on Disney+ right now.
You may know that there is also a third animated show, Star Wars Resistance, that currently airs on Disney XD. That series is almost universally considered deeply inferior to the Clone Wars and Rebels; it is aimed at a much younger audience and has almost no relevance to anything in the wider Star Wars universe. It can be safely ignored.
Note that these lists are intended to be very "quick and dirty" to introduce only the most important episodes; there are more recommendations to be made if you like certain characters or storylines. If you have a strong recommendation for episodes you think should be in this guide, post them below.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Begun, the Clone War has. Following the mysterious discovery of an army of clones on Kamino, the Republic has been thrust into war against the Confederacy of Independent Systems, with the peaceful Jedi being forced to serve as generals on the battlefield. Hoping to reign in his headstrong impulses, the Jedi Council grants the newly knighted Anakin Skywalker a padawan learner of his own, a young girl named Ahsoka Tano. Over the next three years, the Jedi and their loyal clone troopers will seek to defeat the Separatists, while encountering a wide variety of new friends, unusual allies, and dangerous enemies -- including old faces thought long gone. At the backdrop of it all is the strong bond between Anakin and Ahsoka that will help set into motion tragic events that will shatter the Jedi Order and the Republic forever and eventually give rise to a Rebellion.
Note that the Clone Wars differs from most TV shows in two respects: one, there is no "ongoing" storyline; instead, most story arcs are standalone while moving character development forward. Two, sort of like classic Doctor Who, most "episodes" are actually part of a larger continuous story arc that lasts 2-4 consecutive episodes. Finally, I've chosen not to recommend the Clone Wars movie, which serves as the first couple episodes of the show. The movie is largely irrelevant except for introducing Ahsoka; if you want, you can watch the first 20-30 minutes or so and then turn it off.
"Rookies" (Season 1, Episode 5)
Synopsis: At a remote facility, a group of clone recruits are prematurely forced into action against a droid incursion.
Reason for recommendation: This episode introduces a number of recurring clone trooper characters. One of the show's biggest strengths is providing individual characterization to the clone troopers.
"Hostage Crisis" (Season 1, Episode 22)
Synopsis: A bounty hunter called Cad Bane takes a group of senators hostage, forcing the Jedi to take action.
Reason for recommendation: This episode introduces Cad Bane, a recurring bounty hunter villain and general badass.
"Holocron Heist" / "Cargo of Doom" / "Children of the Force" (Season 2, Episodes 1-3)
Synopsis: Cad Bane steals a holocron containing the location of Force-sensitive younglings as part of a sinister plot.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Cad Bane story from the previous season, and will also seem familiar to players of Fallen Order.
"Landing at Point Rain" / "Weapons Factory" / "Legacy of Terror" / "Brain Invaders" (Season 2, Episodes 5-8)
Synopsis: The Republic returns to Geonosis to destroy a new droid factory, while Ahsoka befriends a fellow padawan, Barriss Offee.
Reason for recommendation: Introduces the friendship of Ahsoka and Barriss that is relevant later, and features some darkness from Anakin.
"The Mandalore Plot" / "Voyage of Temptation" / "Duchess of Mandalore" (Season 2, Episodes 12-14)
Synopsis: Anakin and Obi-Wan are called to meet with Duchess Satine Kryze of Mandalore, who has chosen to remain neutral in the war despite threats against her life. Obi-Wan may have difficulty remaining level-headed, as he and Satine have a history.
Reason for recommendation: The far-reaching Mandalorian storyline running across multiple shows begins here, as we are introduced to Mandalore, its culture, the Duchess Satine, the Death Watch cult and its leader Pre Vizsla, and the mysterious darksaber.
"Clone Cadets" / "ARC Troopers" (Season 3, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: In the first episode, the clones of the 501st legion train to become a squad. In the second, the clones attempt to protect Kamino from an attack led by General Grievous and Dooku's protege, Asajj Ventress.
Reason for recommendation: Another good set of episodes featuring the clones. These episodes occur chronologically before and after "Rookies," and you may choose to watch them in that order if you want.
"Nightsisters" / "Monster" / "Witches of the Mist" (Season 3, Episodes 12-14)
Synopsis: Asajj Ventress returns to her childhood home of Dathomir after Dooku attempts to kill her. She and her Nightsister brethren prepare to take revenge on her former master.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are a major focus on the recurring character of Ventress, introduce the Nightsisters and Dathomir who appear elsewhere in the Star Wars universe, and set up the return of a fan-favorite villain.
"Overlords" / "Altar of Mortis" / "Ghosts of Mortis" (Season 3, Episodes 15-17)
Synopsis: Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Ahsoka find themselves stranded on a mysterious planet where they encounter beings that embody the light and dark side of the Force.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are famous for their deep-dive examination of the nature of the Force, the light side, and the dark side, featuring great introspective character work and some surprise cameos.
"The Citadel" / "Counterattack" / "Citadel Rescue" (Season 3, Episodes 18-20)
Synopsis: Anakin and his forces attempt to rescue a Jedi master, Even Piell, and his Republic officer, Wilhuff Tarkin, from a Separatist prison.
Reason for recommendation: Just a good set of episodes that sets up storylines involving Anakin, Ahsoka, and Tarkin.
"Darkness on Umbara" / "The General" / "Plan of Dissent" / "Carnage of Krell" (Season 4, Episodes 7-10)
Synopsis: The clones of the 501st legion are temporarily placed under the command of a different Jedi general who has mysterious ulterior motives.
Reason for recommendation: Another good clone story with a dark twist to it and a fairly interesting villain. Also, everybody's favorite prequel meme.
"Deception" / "Friends and Enemies" / "The Box" / "Crisis on Naboo" (Season 4, Episodes 15-18)
Synopsis: Obi-Wan fakes his death to go undercover in disguise as part of Cad Bane's operation to abduct Palpatine.
Reason for recommendation: Just a pretty good series of episodes in general, and also show how fucked up the Jedi can get in their lengths to keep secrets.
"Massacre" / "Bounty" (Season 4, Episodes 19-20)
Synopsis: Dooku and Grievous initiate a plot to rid themselves of the Nightsisters, forcing Ventress down a different path in life.
Reason for recommendation: A major turning point in Ventress' story arc. Also relevant to the backstory of Merrin from Fallen Order.
"Brothers" / "Revenge" (Season 4, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: Savage Opress is sent by Mother Talzin of the Nightsisters to find his brother, the long-lost Sith lord Darth Maul, before setting out on a warpath of revenge.
Reason for recommendation: Yes, after being cut in half, Darth Maul is back. His story begins here.
"Revival" (Season 5, Episode 1)
Synopsis: Savage and Maul are tracked by Obi-Wan and Adi Gallia, who attempt to stop Maul with tragic consequences.
Reason for recommendation: A continuation of the previous episodes.
"A War on Two Fronts" / "Front Runners" / "The Soft War" / "Tipping Points" (Season 5, Episodes 2-5)
Synopsis: Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Ahsoka travel to Onderon to help a group of freedom fighters that include Lux Bonteri, a young man with whom Ahsoka has a previous connection.
Reason for recommendation: Begins to establish some of the differences in view between Anakin and Ahsoka. Also introduces Saw Gerrera, better known for his appearances in Rebels, Rogue One, and Fallen Order.
"Eminence" / "Shades of Reason" / "The Lawless" (Season 5, Episodes 14-16)
Synopsis: Maul and Savage begin to build a crime syndicate with eyes on conquering Mandalore and taking revenge against all who have wronged them.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are absolutely pivotal to numerous storylines, including Maul's, Obi-Wan's, Mandalore's, and the formation of Maul's crime empire as seen in Solo. Also featuring Sheev styling on some fools.
"Sabotage" / "The Jedi Who Knew Too Much" / "To Catch a Jedi" / "The Wrong Jedi" (Season 5, Episodes 17-20)
Synopsis: When a bomb goes off at the Jedi Temple, Ahsoka is framed for the incident, forcing her on the run not only from the Republic, but from the Jedi she trusted.
Reason for recommendation: Probably the most important and famous storyline of the entire show, these episodes send Ahsoka on a new destiny and do a better job of establishing Anakin's fall to the dark side than the actual films.
"The Unknown" / "Conspiracy" / "Fugitive" / "Orders" (Season 6, Episodes 1-4)
Synopsis: Fives, a clone trooper in the 501st, discovers a horrific secret about the clone army and the Jedi. But who would ever believe that kindly old Sheev could be a bad guy?
Reason for recommendation: A great, dramatic series of episodes that explain the logistics of Order 66 with a sinister and tragic ending.
"The Lost One" (Season 6, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Who was Jedi Master Sifo-Dyas, and why did he order a clone army for the Republic? Anakin and Obi-Wan look into a conspiracy about his death that goes all the way to the top.
Reason for recommendation: The most famous unanswered question of the prequel trilogy is finally resolved.
"Voices" / "Destiny" / "Sacrifice" (Season 6, Episodes 11-13)
Synopsis: An old friend sends Yoda on a spiritual journey to discover the greatest mystery of the Force: how to live on after death.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes provide the backstory for Yoda learning how to become a Force ghost and also feature a fun cameo from Mark Hamill as Darth Bane.
Synopsis: At a remote facility, a group of clone recruits are prematurely forced into action against a droid incursion.
Reason for recommendation: This episode introduces a number of recurring clone trooper characters. One of the show's biggest strengths is providing individual characterization to the clone troopers.
"Hostage Crisis" (Season 1, Episode 22)
Synopsis: A bounty hunter called Cad Bane takes a group of senators hostage, forcing the Jedi to take action.
Reason for recommendation: This episode introduces Cad Bane, a recurring bounty hunter villain and general badass.
"Holocron Heist" / "Cargo of Doom" / "Children of the Force" (Season 2, Episodes 1-3)
Synopsis: Cad Bane steals a holocron containing the location of Force-sensitive younglings as part of a sinister plot.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Cad Bane story from the previous season, and will also seem familiar to players of Fallen Order.
"Landing at Point Rain" / "Weapons Factory" / "Legacy of Terror" / "Brain Invaders" (Season 2, Episodes 5-8)
Synopsis: The Republic returns to Geonosis to destroy a new droid factory, while Ahsoka befriends a fellow padawan, Barriss Offee.
Reason for recommendation: Introduces the friendship of Ahsoka and Barriss that is relevant later, and features some darkness from Anakin.
"The Mandalore Plot" / "Voyage of Temptation" / "Duchess of Mandalore" (Season 2, Episodes 12-14)
Synopsis: Anakin and Obi-Wan are called to meet with Duchess Satine Kryze of Mandalore, who has chosen to remain neutral in the war despite threats against her life. Obi-Wan may have difficulty remaining level-headed, as he and Satine have a history.
Reason for recommendation: The far-reaching Mandalorian storyline running across multiple shows begins here, as we are introduced to Mandalore, its culture, the Duchess Satine, the Death Watch cult and its leader Pre Vizsla, and the mysterious darksaber.
"Clone Cadets" / "ARC Troopers" (Season 3, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: In the first episode, the clones of the 501st legion train to become a squad. In the second, the clones attempt to protect Kamino from an attack led by General Grievous and Dooku's protege, Asajj Ventress.
Reason for recommendation: Another good set of episodes featuring the clones. These episodes occur chronologically before and after "Rookies," and you may choose to watch them in that order if you want.
"Nightsisters" / "Monster" / "Witches of the Mist" (Season 3, Episodes 12-14)
Synopsis: Asajj Ventress returns to her childhood home of Dathomir after Dooku attempts to kill her. She and her Nightsister brethren prepare to take revenge on her former master.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are a major focus on the recurring character of Ventress, introduce the Nightsisters and Dathomir who appear elsewhere in the Star Wars universe, and set up the return of a fan-favorite villain.
"Overlords" / "Altar of Mortis" / "Ghosts of Mortis" (Season 3, Episodes 15-17)
Synopsis: Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Ahsoka find themselves stranded on a mysterious planet where they encounter beings that embody the light and dark side of the Force.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are famous for their deep-dive examination of the nature of the Force, the light side, and the dark side, featuring great introspective character work and some surprise cameos.
"The Citadel" / "Counterattack" / "Citadel Rescue" (Season 3, Episodes 18-20)
Synopsis: Anakin and his forces attempt to rescue a Jedi master, Even Piell, and his Republic officer, Wilhuff Tarkin, from a Separatist prison.
Reason for recommendation: Just a good set of episodes that sets up storylines involving Anakin, Ahsoka, and Tarkin.
"Darkness on Umbara" / "The General" / "Plan of Dissent" / "Carnage of Krell" (Season 4, Episodes 7-10)
Synopsis: The clones of the 501st legion are temporarily placed under the command of a different Jedi general who has mysterious ulterior motives.
Reason for recommendation: Another good clone story with a dark twist to it and a fairly interesting villain. Also, everybody's favorite prequel meme.
"Deception" / "Friends and Enemies" / "The Box" / "Crisis on Naboo" (Season 4, Episodes 15-18)
Synopsis: Obi-Wan fakes his death to go undercover in disguise as part of Cad Bane's operation to abduct Palpatine.
Reason for recommendation: Just a pretty good series of episodes in general, and also show how fucked up the Jedi can get in their lengths to keep secrets.
"Massacre" / "Bounty" (Season 4, Episodes 19-20)
Synopsis: Dooku and Grievous initiate a plot to rid themselves of the Nightsisters, forcing Ventress down a different path in life.
Reason for recommendation: A major turning point in Ventress' story arc. Also relevant to the backstory of Merrin from Fallen Order.
"Brothers" / "Revenge" (Season 4, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: Savage Opress is sent by Mother Talzin of the Nightsisters to find his brother, the long-lost Sith lord Darth Maul, before setting out on a warpath of revenge.
Reason for recommendation: Yes, after being cut in half, Darth Maul is back. His story begins here.
"Revival" (Season 5, Episode 1)
Synopsis: Savage and Maul are tracked by Obi-Wan and Adi Gallia, who attempt to stop Maul with tragic consequences.
Reason for recommendation: A continuation of the previous episodes.
"A War on Two Fronts" / "Front Runners" / "The Soft War" / "Tipping Points" (Season 5, Episodes 2-5)
Synopsis: Anakin, Obi-Wan, and Ahsoka travel to Onderon to help a group of freedom fighters that include Lux Bonteri, a young man with whom Ahsoka has a previous connection.
Reason for recommendation: Begins to establish some of the differences in view between Anakin and Ahsoka. Also introduces Saw Gerrera, better known for his appearances in Rebels, Rogue One, and Fallen Order.
"Eminence" / "Shades of Reason" / "The Lawless" (Season 5, Episodes 14-16)
Synopsis: Maul and Savage begin to build a crime syndicate with eyes on conquering Mandalore and taking revenge against all who have wronged them.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes are absolutely pivotal to numerous storylines, including Maul's, Obi-Wan's, Mandalore's, and the formation of Maul's crime empire as seen in Solo. Also featuring Sheev styling on some fools.
"Sabotage" / "The Jedi Who Knew Too Much" / "To Catch a Jedi" / "The Wrong Jedi" (Season 5, Episodes 17-20)
Synopsis: When a bomb goes off at the Jedi Temple, Ahsoka is framed for the incident, forcing her on the run not only from the Republic, but from the Jedi she trusted.
Reason for recommendation: Probably the most important and famous storyline of the entire show, these episodes send Ahsoka on a new destiny and do a better job of establishing Anakin's fall to the dark side than the actual films.
"The Unknown" / "Conspiracy" / "Fugitive" / "Orders" (Season 6, Episodes 1-4)
Synopsis: Fives, a clone trooper in the 501st, discovers a horrific secret about the clone army and the Jedi. But who would ever believe that kindly old Sheev could be a bad guy?
Reason for recommendation: A great, dramatic series of episodes that explain the logistics of Order 66 with a sinister and tragic ending.
"The Lost One" (Season 6, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Who was Jedi Master Sifo-Dyas, and why did he order a clone army for the Republic? Anakin and Obi-Wan look into a conspiracy about his death that goes all the way to the top.
Reason for recommendation: The most famous unanswered question of the prequel trilogy is finally resolved.
"Voices" / "Destiny" / "Sacrifice" (Season 6, Episodes 11-13)
Synopsis: An old friend sends Yoda on a spiritual journey to discover the greatest mystery of the Force: how to live on after death.
Reason for recommendation: These episodes provide the backstory for Yoda learning how to become a Force ghost and also feature a fun cameo from Mark Hamill as Darth Bane.
As a reminder, the Clone Wars was cancelled after these episodes. Thirteen more episodes will be released on Disney+ next February to serve as a conclusion; most notably, the final episodes will feature the siege of Mandalore, in which Ahsoka returns to Mandalore to liberate the planet from Maul and the events of Order 66 are set into motion.
Star Wars Rebels
Fourteen years after the rise of the Empire, the Jedi are extinct and there is no hope for rebellion against tyranny. On the Imperial-occupied planet Lothal, young street rat Ezra Bridger meets the crew of the starship Ghost: brave pilot Hera Syndulla; confident Mandalorian exile Sabine Wren; the strong warrior Zeb Orrelios, last of his people; and Kanan Jarrus, a former Jedi padawan who senses the Force within Ezra. As Kanan reluctantly begins training Ezra as a Jedi, the Ghost crew light the spark that will form a Rebel Alliance that could one day take down the Empire and free the galaxy.
Unlike the Clone Wars, Rebels tells a single continuous story following the same cast of characters, and each episode is a single story (except for two-part episodes).
"Spark of Rebellion" (Season 1, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: Ezra meets the crew of the Ghost and decides to accompany them on a mission to free prisoners.
Reason for recommendation: It's the first episodes of the show and introduces all the main characters.
"Empire Day" / "Gathering Forces" (Season 1, Episodes 8-9)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew meet and rescue a fugitive who may know what happened to Ezra's parents.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the storyline of Ezra and his parents.
"Path of the Jedi" (Season 1, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Kanan brings Ezra to an old Jedi temple on Lothal, where Ezra communes across the Force with Yoda.
Reason for recommendation: Continues Ezra's Jedi training storyline.
"Call to Action" / "Rebel Resolve" / "Fire Across the Galaxy" (Season 1, Episodes 13-15)
Synopsis: Grand Moff Tarkin comes to Lothal and begins dismantling the Ghost crew's attempts at rebellion, leading to Kanan's capture and a rescue mission.
Reason for recommendation: This is where the show finally opens up, leaving Lothal, introducing higher stakes, the introduction of an old friend, and officially becoming a sequel to the Clone Wars.
"The Siege of Lothal" (Season 2, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: Darth Vader arrives on Lothal to crush the burgeoning resistance movement, forcing the Ghost crew to flee.
Reason for recommendation: A major storyline episode that officially moves the show off Lothal and into the wider galaxy. Also, Vader!
"The Lost Commanders" / "Relics of the Old Republic" (Season 2, Episodes 3-4)
Synopsis: Ahsoka sends the Ghost crew to meet with some old clone friends and recruit them to the Rebellion.
Reason for recommendation: The return of Rex and some other clones from the Clone Wars!
"The Future of the Force" (Season 2, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka seek to stop their two Inquisitor nemeses from abducting Force-sensitive children.
Reason for recommendation: Just a cool episode with Ahsoka being a badass and an (again) similar plot to Fallen Order.
"Legacy" (Season 2, Episode 11)
Synopsis: Ezra learns of important information that might allow him to reunite with his parents.
Reason for recommendation: Concludes Ezra's storyline with his missing parents.
"The Call" (Season 2, Episode 15)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew attempts to refuel at a station where Ezra makes a connection with large whale-like creatures that can travel through hyperspace.
Reason for recommendation: This episode doesn't seem important. It is. Trust me.
"The Honorable Ones" (Season 2, Episode 17)
Synopsis: Zeb and Agent Kallus are stranded together on a planet, forcing the two archenemies to work together.
Reason for recommendation: A good episode that begins Kallus's redemption arc.
"Shroud of Darkness" (Season 2, Episode 18)
Synopsis: Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka return to the Lothal Jedi temple, where they experience visions of their past and future.
Reason for recommendation: Moves the main plot forward.
"Twilight of the Apprentice" (Season 2, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: Traveling to Malachor, Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka make their final stand against the Inquisitors, while Ezra meets an untrustworthy new friend and Ahsoka confronts her destiny.
Reason for recommendation: Cool lightsaber duels, the return of a familiar face from Clone Wars, and the best scene in the entire series that brings closure to Ahsoka's storyline across both shows.
Synopsis: Ezra meets the crew of the Ghost and decides to accompany them on a mission to free prisoners.
Reason for recommendation: It's the first episodes of the show and introduces all the main characters.
"Empire Day" / "Gathering Forces" (Season 1, Episodes 8-9)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew meet and rescue a fugitive who may know what happened to Ezra's parents.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the storyline of Ezra and his parents.
"Path of the Jedi" (Season 1, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Kanan brings Ezra to an old Jedi temple on Lothal, where Ezra communes across the Force with Yoda.
Reason for recommendation: Continues Ezra's Jedi training storyline.
"Call to Action" / "Rebel Resolve" / "Fire Across the Galaxy" (Season 1, Episodes 13-15)
Synopsis: Grand Moff Tarkin comes to Lothal and begins dismantling the Ghost crew's attempts at rebellion, leading to Kanan's capture and a rescue mission.
Reason for recommendation: This is where the show finally opens up, leaving Lothal, introducing higher stakes, the introduction of an old friend, and officially becoming a sequel to the Clone Wars.
"The Siege of Lothal" (Season 2, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: Darth Vader arrives on Lothal to crush the burgeoning resistance movement, forcing the Ghost crew to flee.
Reason for recommendation: A major storyline episode that officially moves the show off Lothal and into the wider galaxy. Also, Vader!
"The Lost Commanders" / "Relics of the Old Republic" (Season 2, Episodes 3-4)
Synopsis: Ahsoka sends the Ghost crew to meet with some old clone friends and recruit them to the Rebellion.
Reason for recommendation: The return of Rex and some other clones from the Clone Wars!
"The Future of the Force" (Season 2, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka seek to stop their two Inquisitor nemeses from abducting Force-sensitive children.
Reason for recommendation: Just a cool episode with Ahsoka being a badass and an (again) similar plot to Fallen Order.
"Legacy" (Season 2, Episode 11)
Synopsis: Ezra learns of important information that might allow him to reunite with his parents.
Reason for recommendation: Concludes Ezra's storyline with his missing parents.
"The Call" (Season 2, Episode 15)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew attempts to refuel at a station where Ezra makes a connection with large whale-like creatures that can travel through hyperspace.
Reason for recommendation: This episode doesn't seem important. It is. Trust me.
"The Honorable Ones" (Season 2, Episode 17)
Synopsis: Zeb and Agent Kallus are stranded together on a planet, forcing the two archenemies to work together.
Reason for recommendation: A good episode that begins Kallus's redemption arc.
"Shroud of Darkness" (Season 2, Episode 18)
Synopsis: Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka return to the Lothal Jedi temple, where they experience visions of their past and future.
Reason for recommendation: Moves the main plot forward.
"Twilight of the Apprentice" (Season 2, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: Traveling to Malachor, Ezra, Kanan, and Ahsoka make their final stand against the Inquisitors, while Ezra meets an untrustworthy new friend and Ahsoka confronts her destiny.
Reason for recommendation: Cool lightsaber duels, the return of a familiar face from Clone Wars, and the best scene in the entire series that brings closure to Ahsoka's storyline across both shows.
Note that season 3 is now when the show is "officially very good" and almost every episode is either plot-relevant or at least worth watching. I've put only the most important below.
"Steps Into Shadow" (Season 3, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew continue helping the Rebels with various missions, but Ezra feels a connection to the darkness that concerns Kanan, while the Imperials call in Grand Admiral Thrawn to help crush them.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main plot and introduces Thrawn, the main villain of the second half of the series.
"The Holocrons of Fate" (Season 3, Episode 3)
Synopsis: Ezra and Kanan are forced to help Maul retrieve two holocrons that can help him with his evil plot.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
"Imperial Supercommandos" (Season 3, Episode 7)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew head to Concord Dawn to help their Mandalorian allies fight Imperial soldiers.
Reason for recommendation: This is not the first Mandalorian episode in the show, but it is the first directly relevant to Sabine and Mandalore's story.
"Visions and Voices" (Season 3, Episode 11)
Synopsis: Maul forces Ezra to come with him to Dathomir to complete a ritual for his quest of revenge, while Kanan and Sabine give chase.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Ezra/Maul plot.
"Ghosts of Geonosis" (Season 3, Episodes 12-13)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew meet Saw Gerrera on the dead world of Geonosis, where together they investigate the possibility that the Empire is building a superweapon.
Reason for recommendation: Sort of a quasi-prequel to Rogue One.
"Trials of the Darksaber" / "Legacy of Mandalore" (Season 3, Episodes 15-16)
Synopsis: Now possessing the darksaber, Sabine decides to initiate a rebellion among the Mandalorians and try to rebuild her relationship with her family.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Sabine/Mandalorian storyline.
"Secret Cargo" (Season 3, Episode 18)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew escort Mon Mothma, an important Rebel leader, to safety so she can make an important broadcast.
Reason for recommendation: A good chase episode with a particularly cool sequence and the official creation of the formal Rebel Alliance.
"Twin Suns" (Season 3, Episode 20)
Synopsis: Ezra heads to Tatooine to try and find the legendary Obi-Wan Kenobi and warn him of the arrival of his oldest nemesis.
Reason for recommendation: Hello there! The conclusion of Maul's storyline, with a great ending.
"Zero Hour" (Season 3, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: The Rebels on Atollon are forced into a desperate battle when Thrawn springs his trap.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
Synopsis: The Ghost crew continue helping the Rebels with various missions, but Ezra feels a connection to the darkness that concerns Kanan, while the Imperials call in Grand Admiral Thrawn to help crush them.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main plot and introduces Thrawn, the main villain of the second half of the series.
"The Holocrons of Fate" (Season 3, Episode 3)
Synopsis: Ezra and Kanan are forced to help Maul retrieve two holocrons that can help him with his evil plot.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
"Imperial Supercommandos" (Season 3, Episode 7)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew head to Concord Dawn to help their Mandalorian allies fight Imperial soldiers.
Reason for recommendation: This is not the first Mandalorian episode in the show, but it is the first directly relevant to Sabine and Mandalore's story.
"Visions and Voices" (Season 3, Episode 11)
Synopsis: Maul forces Ezra to come with him to Dathomir to complete a ritual for his quest of revenge, while Kanan and Sabine give chase.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Ezra/Maul plot.
"Ghosts of Geonosis" (Season 3, Episodes 12-13)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew meet Saw Gerrera on the dead world of Geonosis, where together they investigate the possibility that the Empire is building a superweapon.
Reason for recommendation: Sort of a quasi-prequel to Rogue One.
"Trials of the Darksaber" / "Legacy of Mandalore" (Season 3, Episodes 15-16)
Synopsis: Now possessing the darksaber, Sabine decides to initiate a rebellion among the Mandalorians and try to rebuild her relationship with her family.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the Sabine/Mandalorian storyline.
"Secret Cargo" (Season 3, Episode 18)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew escort Mon Mothma, an important Rebel leader, to safety so she can make an important broadcast.
Reason for recommendation: A good chase episode with a particularly cool sequence and the official creation of the formal Rebel Alliance.
"Twin Suns" (Season 3, Episode 20)
Synopsis: Ezra heads to Tatooine to try and find the legendary Obi-Wan Kenobi and warn him of the arrival of his oldest nemesis.
Reason for recommendation: Hello there! The conclusion of Maul's storyline, with a great ending.
"Zero Hour" (Season 3, Episodes 21-22)
Synopsis: The Rebels on Atollon are forced into a desperate battle when Thrawn springs his trap.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
Season 4 is even more serialized than season 3, with every episode being worth a watch, so I've only listed the ones directly relevant to the plot.
"Heroes of Mandalore" (Season 4, Episodes 1-2)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew head back to Mandalore to help Bo-Katan Kryze and rescue Sabine's father.
Reason for recommendation: Concludes the Sabine/Mandalorian storyline and sets up what is likely an important plot point for season 2 of The Mandalorian.
"In the Name of the Rebellion" (Season 4, Episodes 3-4)
Synopsis: Ezra reluctantly agrees to help Saw Gerrera, who has been disowned by Rebel leadership, with a covert mission.
Reason for recommendation: Another sort of quasi-prequel to Rogue One.
"Rebel Assault" (Season 4, Episode 9)
Synopsis: The Rebels begin an attempt at invading Lothal, but things do not go as planned.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
"Jedi Night" (Season 4, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Kanan leads a rescue mission to save Hera from the Imperials and fulfill his destiny.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline, and features a great ending.
"DUME" (Season 4, Episode 11)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew grieve after a tragic loss and try to find the strength to go on.
Reason for recommendation: A good epilogue to the previous episode.
"Wolves and a Door" / "A World Between Worlds" (Season 4, Episodes 12-13)
Synopsis: Ezra infiltrates an Imperial digsite at the Jedi temple on Lothal, where he discovers a mysterious world outside of time and space.
Reason for recommendation: Introduces a major concept and concludes a certain character's unresolved storyline.
"A Fool's Hope" / "Family Reunion and Farewell" (Season 4, Episodes 14-16)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew lead a ragtag band of fighters to liberate Lothal from Imperial control, while Thrawn launches his final gambit and Palpatine makes Ezra a tantalizing offer.
Reason for recommendation: The series finale and a great ending to the show.
Synopsis: The Ghost crew head back to Mandalore to help Bo-Katan Kryze and rescue Sabine's father.
Reason for recommendation: Concludes the Sabine/Mandalorian storyline and sets up what is likely an important plot point for season 2 of The Mandalorian.
"In the Name of the Rebellion" (Season 4, Episodes 3-4)
Synopsis: Ezra reluctantly agrees to help Saw Gerrera, who has been disowned by Rebel leadership, with a covert mission.
Reason for recommendation: Another sort of quasi-prequel to Rogue One.
"Rebel Assault" (Season 4, Episode 9)
Synopsis: The Rebels begin an attempt at invading Lothal, but things do not go as planned.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline.
"Jedi Night" (Season 4, Episode 10)
Synopsis: Kanan leads a rescue mission to save Hera from the Imperials and fulfill his destiny.
Reason for recommendation: Continues the main storyline, and features a great ending.
"DUME" (Season 4, Episode 11)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew grieve after a tragic loss and try to find the strength to go on.
Reason for recommendation: A good epilogue to the previous episode.
"Wolves and a Door" / "A World Between Worlds" (Season 4, Episodes 12-13)
Synopsis: Ezra infiltrates an Imperial digsite at the Jedi temple on Lothal, where he discovers a mysterious world outside of time and space.
Reason for recommendation: Introduces a major concept and concludes a certain character's unresolved storyline.
"A Fool's Hope" / "Family Reunion and Farewell" (Season 4, Episodes 14-16)
Synopsis: The Ghost crew lead a ragtag band of fighters to liberate Lothal from Imperial control, while Thrawn launches his final gambit and Palpatine makes Ezra a tantalizing offer.
Reason for recommendation: The series finale and a great ending to the show.
I hope that you find these episode guides helpful!
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