All 9 Star Wars Original Animated Series, Ranked

Star Wars has always been a universe that thrives on bold storytelling, and its animated series have carved out a special place in fans’ hearts. From kid-friendly adventures to deep dives into the lore, these shows expand the galaxy in ways the films often can’t, bringing fresh characters and stunning visuals to life.

I’ve ranked all nine Star Wars original animated series available on Disney+, judging them on story, characters, animation, and their impact on the franchise. Starting from the bottom, here’s my take on what makes each series worth your time, building up to the very best.

9. ‘Star Wars: Droids’ (1985-1986)

‘Star Wars: Droids’ follows C-3PO and R2-D2 on lighthearted adventures before ‘A New Hope’. Voiced by Anthony Daniels, the droids tangle with gangsters and bounty hunters in a kid-focused show that leans on slapstick humor and simple plots.

The series is a nostalgic curiosity, but its dated animation and basic stories feel thin compared to modern Star Wars. It’s charming for young viewers or diehard fans, though it lacks the depth to compete with later entries.

8. ‘Star Wars: Ewoks’ (1985-1986)

‘Star Wars: Ewoks’ centers on Wicket and his tribe on Endor’s forest moon, set before ‘Return of the Jedi’. The series follows their misadventures against quirky foes, with English-speaking Ewoks and a fantasy vibe aimed at kids.

The animation is a step up from ‘Droids’, and the adorable Ewoks carry some charm. Still, its simplistic plots and disconnect from broader Star Wars lore make it a niche watch for completists or those craving 80s nostalgia.

7. ‘Star Wars: Resistance’ (2018-2020)

Set before ‘The Force Awakens’, ‘Star Wars: Resistance’ follows young pilot Kazuda Xiono spying on the First Order for the Resistance. Its cel-shaded style and episodic stories aim for a younger crowd, with cameos from Poe Dameron adding sequel trilogy ties.

The vibrant animation pops, but the show’s light tone and lack of narrative drive hold it back. It’s fun for kids or casual fans, though it doesn’t match the ambition of other series.

6. ‘Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures’ (2023-present)

‘Young Jedi Adventures’ is set in the High Republic era, following Jedi younglings like Kai Brightstar and Lys Solay on gentle missions. Aimed at preschoolers, it uses bright animation and short episodes to teach teamwork and kindness, with Yoda popping in.

The show’s cutesy style and simple stories are perfect for young kids but lack the stakes older fans crave. It’s a sweet entry point to Star Wars, though it doesn’t add much to the lore.

5. ‘Star Wars: Visions’ (2021-present)

‘Star Wars: Visions’ is a bold anthology of shorts crafted by global animation studios, mostly Japanese in season one, with season two expanding worldwide. Each episode offers a unique spin on Star Wars, from samurai-inspired Jedi to dream-chasing droids.

The diverse art styles and fresh stories are a visual feast, though the non-canon status limits its lore impact. It’s a must-watch for fans open to creative takes on the galaxy.

4. ‘Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi’ (2022)

‘Star Wars: Tales’ is an anthology series, including ‘Tales of the Jedi’, ‘Tales of the Empire’, and ‘Tales of the Underworld’. Shorts focus on characters like Ahsoka, Count Dooku, and Cad Bane, exploring key moments in their lives with sleek animation.

The concise storytelling and stunning visuals are a treat, but the quality varies across episodes. It’s a great pick for fans wanting deeper character insights, though some shorts feel less essential.

3. ‘Star Wars: The Bad Batch’ (2021-2024)

A spin-off from ‘The Clone Wars’, ‘Star Wars: The Bad Batch’ follows Clone Force 99, a squad of rogue clones, navigating the Empire’s rise post-Order 66. With Omega, a young clone, they face missions and heartbreak, voiced by Dee Bradley Baker.

The series blends action, emotional depth, and gorgeous animation, bridging prequel and original trilogy eras. Some episodes feel filler-heavy, but the strong character arcs make it a fan favorite.

2. ‘Star Wars: Rebels’ (2014-2018)

Set before ‘A New Hope’, ‘Star Wars: Rebels’ tracks the Ghost crew—Ezra Bridger, Hera Syndulla, and others—fighting the Empire. It brings back Ahsoka Tano and Darth Vader, delivering epic moments like Obi-Wan’s duel with Maul.

The show starts light but grows darker, with rich characters and ties to live-action like ‘Ahsoka’. Its animation shines, making it a near-perfect blend of heart and action for all ages.

1. ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ (2008-2020)

‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ dives into the prequel-era conflict, following Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Ahsoka Tano. Across seven seasons, it explores Jedi, clones, and Sith, with arcs like the Siege of Mandalore tying into ‘Revenge of the Sith’.

Its evolving animation, complex stories, and iconic characters like Captain Rex make it essential. It deepens the prequels and shapes the franchise, earning its top spot.

These animated series show how versatile Star Wars can be, from epic wars to quiet character moments. Which one’s your go-to, or is there a hidden gem I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments!