Star Wars in order of release follows the sequence in which the films reached theaters, not necessarily internal chronology. The original release order begins with Episode IV: A New Hope (1977), followed by The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983), then the prequels—Episode I (1999), Episode II (2002), and Episode III (2005)—and the sequel trilogy—The Force Awakens (2015), The Last Jedi (2017), and The Rise of Skywalker (2019). This viewing path preserves cinematic milestones and cultural touchstones while allowing you to experience the saga as audiences originally did.
Below you will find a concise reference for Star Wars in order of release, including formats and rereleases, a chronological viewing alternative, production context, and practical recommendations for how to engage with the saga over time.