The Ultimate Ranking of Star Wars Rebels Episodes

Summary

The best Star Wars Rebels episodes include action, emotional scenes, and big reveals that changed the Star Wars universe forever.

Each Star Wars episode develops characters further, making the show better as it progresses.

Every Star Wars Rebels season has at least one instant-classic episode.

Ranked below are the top 10 episodes of Star Wars Rebels, which feature thrilling action, touching goodbyes, and groundbreaking revelations that forever altered the Star Wars universe. Unlike its predecessor, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which showcased a myriad of characters from various corners of the galaxy, Rebels closely followed a core group of protagonists. This focused approach allowed for deeper character development in each episode, resulting in a consistently improving show.

With the inclusion of notable characters like Ahsoka, Star Wars Rebels has become increasingly significant within the Star Wars universe since its debut in 2014. Although the series does have a few filler episodes that may not stand out, as a whole, it consistently contributes to the growth of its characters and the expanding Star Wars canon. Without further ado, here are the ten finest episodes of Star Wars Rebels, listed in order.

10 Star Wars Rebels Season 2, Episode 18, “Shroud of Darkness”

One one hand,

9 Star War Rebels Season 1, Episode 4, “Rise of the Old Masters”

was quite reminiscent of a previous Star Wars Rebels episode, "Path of the Jedi," from season 1. On the other hand, in season 2, episode 18 of Rebels, there were numerous parallels to the initial time Kanan and Ezra ventured into a Jedi Temple together. By revisiting one of the earliest significant moments they shared, "Shroud of Darkness" emphasized the tremendous growth and transformation these two characters underwent since the start of the series. Although it takes time to adjust to Rebels' Yoda character model, witnessing the presence of the iconic Jedi Master was truly exceptional for Ezra. Lastly, Kanan's Jedi knighting ceremony provided a deeply satisfying and cathartic conclusion.

The Star Wars Rebels episode, "Rise of the Old Masters," in season 1, episode 4, remains one of the earliest and most exceptional adventures of Ezra Bridger. It flawlessly delves into the dynamic between Kanan, who never finished his own Jedi training, and his role as the ideal Jedi master for Ezra. This episode poses the question of what defines a Jedi master and pays homage to one of Star Wars' most iconic lines, Yoda's "Do or do not, there is no try," from The Empire Strikes Back. Additionally, "Rise of the Old Masters" introduces the Grand Inquisitor, showcasing his actions for the first time.

8 Star Wars Rebels Season 3, Episodes 21-23, “Zero Hour”

Rewatching Star Wars Rebels years later unveils the remarkable evolution the series underwent. In contrast to the crew of the Ghost attempting a daring rescue mission at an Imperial stronghold to save Kakan in the season 1 finale, the season 3 finale depicts an intense battle between the Empire and the rebels. Now integrated into a larger and more organized rebellion, the Phoenix Squad finds itself cornered by the formidable force of Grand Admiral Thrawn's fleet. Following numerous episodes of evading Thrawn's pursuit, the cunning Imperial strategist brings the fight directly to their doorstep. Brimming with breathtaking action sequences and escalating tensions, "Zero Hour" stands as an indispensable episode of Rebels.

7 Star Wars Rebels Season 4, Episode 13, “A World Between Worlds”

Star Wars Rebels made a significant improvement in its fourth season by focusing on the Ghost crew and their relationships, addressing a complaint from the previous seasons. The spotlight returned to Ezra and his comrades, demonstrating that the series still managed to expand the Star Wars universe. One pivotal moment in episode 13 of season 4, titled "A World Between Worlds," forever altered the Star Wars lore by introducing time travel through a self-contained narrative. This storyline came full circle with Ahsoka Tano's triumphant return from Malachor.

6 Star Wars Rebels Season 3, Episode 15, “Trials of the Darksaber”

The Ahsoka show marks Sabine Wren's second encounter with a lightsaber. In the 15th episode of Star Wars Rebels season 3, titled "Trials of the Darksaber," Sabine took part in lightsaber training alongside Kanan. Armed with the iconic Mandalorian Darksaber, Sabine not only honed her swordsmanship skills but also learned to forge a deep connection with this unique blade. The juxtaposition of the Mandalorian fighting techniques, encompassing an array of weapons and gadgets, with the Jedi's more graceful combat style, resulted in a captivating training sequence that showcased Sabine's growth as a character. The episode not only showcased her progression with the Darksaber but also brought her face to face with her inner struggles, making it one of the standout moments in Rebels.

5 Star Wars Rebels Season 1, Episode 1, “Sparks of Rebellion”

The premiere episode of Star Wars Rebels season 1, titled "Sparks of Rebellion," surpasses expectations as a remarkable introduction to the series. Despite being twice the length of a typical episode, "Sparks of Rebellion" masterfully captures viewers' attention within minutes by skillfully introducing and endearing them to the show's diverse cast of characters. With the daunting task of succeeding the beloved Clone Wars series and without the presence of iconic Star Wars movie characters, Rebels seamlessly merges the visual style of the original trilogy with the addition of compelling and original characters. As Rebels continues to establish itself as an indispensable part of the Star Wars universe, the significance of "Sparks of Rebellion" becomes even more pronounced.

4 Star Wars Rebels Season 3, Episode 10, “Twin Suns”

3 Star Wars Rebels Season 4, Episode 15,” Family Reunion – and Farewell”

Rebels season 3, episode 10 instantly became a classic with its return to Tatooine, long-awaited rematch between famous Star Wars characters, and stunning visuals. In "Twin Suns," the season's first half concluded with Ezra Bridger discovering Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi in Tatooine's desert. After Maul's return in the season 2 finale, Rebels continued to build anticipation for Maul's revenge against Kenobi. However, the rematch between Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul was surprisingly brief and filled with poetic significance. Obi-Wan had found inner peace, while Maul tragically remained lost in his pursuit for purpose.

The conclusion of Star Wars Rebels serves as a satisfying end for a series that introduced numerous beloved characters. The most thrilling battles in Star Wars Rebels had already occurred, and the most heartbreaking death in the series had already taken place. Nevertheless, in season 4, episode 15 of Rebels, a gripping and high-stakes finale unfolds as Ezra Bridger willingly sacrifices himself to thwart the plans of Grand Admiral Thrawn. The aftermath of Ezra Bridger's fate following the conclusion of Rebels sets the stage for the upcoming Ahsoka series and potentially shapes the future of the entire Star Wars universe. Serving as a fitting finale for a technically prequel series, Rebels' epilogue unveils the destiny of each character after the events of Return of the Jedi.

2 Star Wars Rebels Season 2, Episodes 21-22, “Twilight of the Apprentice”

“Twilight of the Apprentice,” widely regarded as the most beloved episode in the Star Wars Rebels series, showcases some of the most captivating moments in the history of Star Wars television. It can be argued that the season 2 finale of Rebels placed a significant emphasis on characters outside of the core Rebel group, including Ahsoka Tano, Maul, and Vader. However, the impact of episodes 21-22 in season 1 should not be dismissed. These episodes featured Ezra placing his trust in a character reminiscent of "Empire Strikes Back Yoda" who turned out to be Maul, the Inquisitors' unsuccessful attempts to capture the elusive Sith, and the intense duel between Vader and Ahsoka. Consequently, “Twilight of the Apprentice” transcended from a mere episode to a monumental Star Wars event.

1 Star Wars Rebels Season 4, Episode 10, “Jedi Night”

Star Wars Rebels season 4, episode 10 lacks the intense action of episodes like "Twilight of the Apprentice" or "Zero Hour." There are no notable appearances by iconic Star Wars characters, as seen in "Twin Suns," and it doesn't introduce any significant new lore, like "A World Between Worlds." However, "Jedi Night" manages to transform one of the most heartbreaking deaths in the Star Wars universe into a deeply emotional journey lasting just 22 minutes. Focusing on Caleb Dume, this introspective episode bids farewell to the Jedi Knight whom viewers have followed since the show's inception. Kanan's final scene beautifully encapsulates the essence of a true Jedi and solidifies him as an unforgettable character.