In this Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1 review, I’ll explore each arc, highlight standout episodes, and explain why this series is a must-watch for Star Wars fans and nerdy families alike.
Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1 marks the beginning of one of the most beloved animated series in the Star Wars franchise. While some fans were initially skeptical about its connection to the 2008 movie (It’s me, I’m that fan…I hated every second I spent in the theater watching it), the first season quickly proves that it’s more than a kids’ show.
What is amazing about this series is that it created one of the most iconic figures in Star Wars: Ashoka Tano. Let’s face it, in the movies, Count Dooku is cool because he was played by one of the coolest people ever in Christopher Lee. However, the series transforms him into a more compelling character.
What the series does well is explain how the Republic’s military really became the Empire’s and sets up how the Separatists’ equipment eventually becomes the tools of the Rebellion.
With compelling story arcs, rich character development, and thoughtful exploration of war, this season lays the groundwork for what’s to come.
Season 1 Overview
What stood out to me most in Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1 was how it expanded the Star Wars universe. It didn’t just focus on the main characters—it gave life to the clones, explored the politics of the galaxy, and even tackled heavy themes like colonization and biological warfare. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first, but by the end of the season, I was hooked.
Ambush (S1E1)
The season opens with Yoda leading a group of clones against the Separatists. At first, I thought it was strange that Anakin, Ahsoka, and Obi-Wan weren’t in the premiere. But this episode does something so special—it shows Yoda not just as a wise teacher but as a warrior. Watching him navigate the battlefield while mentoring the clones was a perfect introduction to the series.
Image Attribution: Images sourced from StarWars.com are used under the principles of fair use for purposes of criticism and review. Copyright belongs to Lucasfilm Ltd. and Disney.What really stood out to me in this episode was Yoda’s relationship with the clones. He doesn’t treat them as expendable soldiers but as individuals, which sets the tone for how the show approaches the clones throughout Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1.
The Malevolence Arc (S1E2-4)
This arc introduces General Grievous and his new weapon: an ion cannon that disables entire fleets.
I loved how this storyline immediately gave us high stakes while also showing Anakin’s recklessness. He constantly puts the needs of a few above the many, which I know is going to come back to haunt him in later seasons.
Ahsoka’s role here is fascinating. She’s eager to prove herself, but no one seems to take her seriously, even when she’s right. It’s frustrating to watch, but it makes her growth as a character even more rewarding.
Ahsoka is the linchpin to the series. We know the fates of all the major characters from the movies, except hers. She is what will keep us watching because the stakes are always high for her.
One thing that bugged me, though, was how Grievous always seems to escape punishment. I kept thinking, “How is this guy still in charge?”
Rookies (S1E5)
This episode blew me away. I didn’t expect to care so much about a group of clones I’d just met, but Rookies does an incredible job of showing their individuality. The clones aren’t just copy-pasted soldiers—they’re people with their own personalities, dreams, and fears.
Image Attribution: Images sourced from StarWars.com are used under the principles of fair use for purposes of criticism and review. Copyright belongs to Lucasfilm Ltd. and Disney.Rex and Cody really shine in this episode. Their leadership and camaraderie feel so authentic, and it’s episodes like this that make me appreciate how much thought went into Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1.
Droid Arc (S1E6-7)
When R2-D2 goes missing, I thought, “Okay, this is going to be one of those filler episodes.” But I was wrong. This arc does a great job of showing Anakin’s emotional attachment to R2, which ties into his tendency to form unhealthy attachments.
There’s also a fun twist here: at first, you think Anakin’s frustration with his new droid (R3-S6) is just him being impatient, but it turns out the droid is actually working against him. It’s clever storytelling that keeps things interesting.
Nute Gunray Captured Arc (S1E8-9)
If you had told me Jar Jar Binks would save the day, I wouldn’t have believed you.
But here we are.
While Jar Jar provides the usual comic relief, what I loved about this arc was Ahsoka’s growth. Her duel with Asajj Ventress shows just how far she’s come in such a short time.
This arc also gave me a new appreciation for Padmé. She’s such a strong character, and it’s great to see her in action rather than just in political discussions.
The Lair of General Grievous (S1E10)
This is one of my favorite episodes of Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1. We finally get a deeper look at General Grievous and his internal struggles. The idea that he has to prove himself to Count Dooku adds a layer of complexity to his character.
Kit Fisto is another highlight. His calm and confident demeanor is such a contrast to Grievous’s desperation, making their confrontation all the more satisfying.
This is again where the series excels. It takes characters who had minor screen time in the movies and makes them important here.
Dooku Captured Arc (S1E11-12)
Enter Hondo Ohnaka, one of the most entertaining characters in the Star Wars universe. His witty dialogue and morally ambiguous nature make him such a joy to watch.
This arc is also fun because it shows Dooku, Anakin, and Obi-Wan all stuck in the same predicament. Watching them interact under those circumstances adds a lot of humor and tension to the story.
The Pacifists Arc (S1E13-14)
These episodes are some of the smartest in the season. For the first time, the Jedi’s philosophy is questioned by a neutral faction. It’s refreshing to see a perspective that doesn’t fall neatly into the Jedi vs. Sith binary. Also, the droids here looked terrifying for the first time.
Image Attribution: Images sourced from StarWars.com are used under the principles of fair use for purposes of criticism and review. Copyright belongs to Lucasfilm Ltd. and Disney.The story raises important questions: Are the Jedi really peacekeepers, or have they become tools of war? It’s thought-provoking and makes you see the Jedi in a new light.
Trespass (S1E15)
This episode tackles colonization and the rights of indigenous people, which isn’t something I expected from a Star Wars show. The moral dilemma here is fascinating: should the Jedi protect a ruler whose cause isn’t just?
I also found it troubling how the clones are treated as expendable in this episode. It raises uncomfortable questions about the Republic’s reliance on them as soldiers.
The Hidden Enemy (S1E16)
This episode introduces the first clone traitor, marking a significant turning point. His reasons for defecting make sense—he feels like the clones are being treated as slaves.
While he ultimately sides with the Separatists, his actions force the Jedi to confront the ethical issues surrounding the clone army.
The Blue Shadow Virus Arc (S1E17-18)
Biological warfare is a heavy topic for a kids’ show, but The Clone Wars doesn’t shy away from it. While the villain, Dr. Nuvo Vindi, is over-the-top, the storyline itself is surprisingly dark and engaging.
The Ryloth Arc (S1E19-21)
This arc is one of the best in Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1. It shows the human cost of war by focusing on the civilians caught in the crossfire. The emotional depth here is unmatched, and the action scenes are incredible.
Hostage Crisis (S1E22)
The season finale introduces Cad Bane, who immediately establishes himself as one of the most dangerous bounty hunters in Star Wars. He is also a favorite villain in this house.
The episode also develops Anakin and Padmé’s relationship, which has way more chemistry here than in the prequels.
Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1 Review: Final Thoughts
Star Wars The Clone Wars exceeded my expectations. It’s more than just a prequel-era filler—it’s a thoughtful exploration of war, morality, and the Star Wars universe. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Star Wars, this season is a must-watch.
I hope this Star Wars The Clone Wars Season 1 review helps you decide to give the show a try. Have you watched this season? Share your favorite arcs and characters in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Nola Nerd Couple for more fandom reviews and family-friendly adventures.
Also, check out these other Reviews of The Clone Wars from us:
- The Second Season of The Clone Wars
- The Clone Wars Season 3 Breakdown: Episodes 1-11
- The Clone Wars Season 3 Ep 11-22
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