Should I Watch The Bad Batch Before Star Wars: The Clone Wars Season 7?

When it comes to enjoying the Star Wars universe, the chronological order of viewing can significantly enhance the experience. This is especially true when considering whether to watch The Bad Batch before diving into the final season of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. Both series are interconnected, and understanding the relationship between them can provide a more immersive and comprehensive view of the storylines. Here’s a detailed exploration of whether it’s beneficial to watch The Bad Batch before The Clone Wars Season 7.

1. Overview of The Bad Batch and The Clone Wars Season 7:

The Bad Batch is an animated series that debuted in 2021. It follows the adventures of Clone Force 99, a group of elite clone troopers with unique abilities. The show picks up where Star Wars: The Clone Wars left off, specifically after the events of Order 66. On the other hand, The Clone Wars Season 7, released in 2020, serves as the concluding chapter of the beloved series, wrapping up long-standing story arcs and exploring pivotal moments leading up to the rise of the Empire.

2. Timeline and Plot Continuity:

The Clone Wars Season 7 takes place during the final days of the Clone Wars and leads directly into the events of Revenge of the Sith. The season covers the Siege of Mandalore and the dramatic conclusion of Ahsoka Tano’s storyline. This season is crucial for understanding the broader implications of the Clone Wars and the characters’ development leading up to the rise of the Empire.

The Bad Batch begins shortly after the end of The Clone Wars and deals with the aftermath of Order 66. It focuses on the titular squad's attempts to find their place in a galaxy that is rapidly changing due to the emergence of the Empire. The series explores the impact of the Empire’s rise on the remaining clone troopers and introduces new characters and storylines.

3. Viewing Order Recommendations:

a. Watching The Clone Wars Season 7 First:

• Understanding Key Events: Viewing The Clone Wars Season 7 first provides essential context for the events that unfold in The Bad Batch. It helps viewers appreciate the conclusion of major storylines, such as Ahsoka Tano’s departure from the Jedi Order and the Siege of Mandalore.
• Character Development: Characters introduced in The Clone Wars Season 7 have a significant influence on the narrative of The Bad Batch. Watching the final season of The Clone Wars first allows for a deeper understanding of their backgrounds and motivations.
• Emotional Impact: The ending of The Clone Wars is emotionally charged and sets the stage for the turmoil that follows. Experiencing this before The Bad Batch can enhance the emotional weight of the new series.

b. Watching The Bad Batch First:

• Fresh Perspective: If you start with The Bad Batch, you get introduced to the new characters and their struggles in a galaxy transitioning from the Republic to the Empire. This can be a refreshing way to experience the Star Wars universe from a different angle.
• Understanding References: The Bad Batch frequently references events from The Clone Wars. Watching The Bad Batch first might make these references intriguing, as they will prompt viewers to look up the backstory, potentially leading to a more engaged viewing experience.

4. Conclusion:

In summary, watching The Clone Wars Season 7 before The Bad Batch is generally recommended for a more cohesive understanding of the timeline and character arcs. The final season of The Clone Wars provides closure to important storylines and sets up the context for the world The Bad Batch explores. However, if you prefer to dive straight into the new series and experience the Star Wars universe from a fresh perspective, starting with The Bad Batch is also a viable option. Ultimately, the best viewing order depends on your preference for narrative depth versus new perspectives.