TheStar Warssaga is divided into several storytelling eras, and nearly twenty years after its conclusion, the prequel trilogy is still the best era of theStar Warstimeline. Although the prequels have received heavy criticism, they have also garnered a passionate fanbase, leading many to reevaluate the movies since their release. Much of this can be attributed to the prequel era itself, which is ripe for quality stories thanks to strong characters, compelling conflicts, and detailed worldbuilding.
The otherStar Warseras have different qualities that make them stand apart, both in the current Disney canon andthe originalStar WarsExpanded Universe(now known as “Legends”). However, the prequel era remains special because it is part of theStar Warsmovies, plus another advantage that has made it better with time. The other eras can learn from what made theStar Warsprequel trilogyera so successful to make their stories even better.
Making the overarching narrative even more compelling
TheStar Warsprequel trilogy laid a solid foundation, butStar Wars: The Clone WarsandStar Wars: The Bad Batchmade the gaps between films just as enthralling. Not only wasThe Clone Warshighly entertaining, but I remember how satisfying it was to learn about characters and concepts not fully explored in the movies. Now the story of the prequels feels more satisfying and makes me want to dive further into the books, comics, video games, etc.
Knowing the aftermath ofStar Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sithand how the galaxy reacted to the rise of the Empire gives greater closure to the prequel era.
The Bad Batchis set directly after the prequel trilogy but still enhances its story. Knowing the aftermath ofStar Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sithand how the galaxy reacted to the rise of the Empire gives greater closure to the prequel era.The Bad Batchalso starts like an eighth season ofThe Clone Warsbefore shifting into its own style, building off its predecessor while transitioning into the next era of theStar Warstimeline.
Other Star Wars Eras Need Stories Like These Shows, Too
Giving fans more incentive to visit different parts of the timeline
While there are manyStar Warsshows besidesThe Clone WarsandThe Bad Batch, they don’t do as much to enhance their respective eras. The closest equivalent isStar Wars Rebels, which covers the beginning of the Rebel Alliance in the five years leading up to theStar Warsoriginal trilogy.Most otherStar Warsshows focus more on their individual stories rather than expanding the timeline, but one series has offered a glimpse at what could be.
Complete Timeline Of All Star Wars TV Shows
There are several TV shows in the Star Wars canon. Here’s a breakdown of every finished, ongoing, and upcoming Star Wars show in chronological order.
Star Wars: Tales of the Empire, while largely set close to the prequel trilogy, also features episodes set around the same time as shows likeStar Wars RebelsandThe Mandalorian.The 3D animation allowsStar Warsto feel consistent with its live-action projects while gaining the benefits of animation, allowing differentStar Warseras more potential with their stories. For now, theStar Warsprequel trilogy remains the franchise’s best era until other eras learn from its success.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
Cast
Star Wars: The Clone Wars is an animated series that explores the intense conflict between the Republic and the Separatists. Featuring a mix of loyalty shifts and alliances, it delves into complex mysteries of the Force and showcases pivotal moments for characters like Anakin Skywalker and Master Yoda.
Star Wars: The Bad Batch
Star Wars: The Bad Batch is an action-adventure animated series set after the events of The Clone Wars, following Clone Force 99 (a.k.a. the Bad Batch.) Finding themselves immune to the brainwashing effects of Order 66, the Bad Batch become mercenaries for hire while outrunning the empire, now seeing them as fugitives of the law.
