The Mandalorian: Every episode from Season 1, ranked
The Mandalorian Season 1 featured several standout episodes that brought a new twist to Star Wars storytelling. But which one was the best?
The Mandalorian Season 1 has no bad episodes — straight up. Some were more small-scale like Episode 2, or featured some annoying characters like Episode 6. Still, each episode served its purpose and had moments to enjoy.
But which was the best? Everyone might have different answers. Here’s my ranking of all eight episodes, from good to “I can’t believe I’m seeing this.”
No. 8: “Chapter 5: The Gunslinger”
In this episode, Mando stumbles into a job with Toro Calican, an aspiring bounty hunter and hopeful guild member. The two eventually catch Calican’s assignment, Fennec Shand, who convinces Calican to turn on the Mandalorian. This leads to a tense hostage situation to end the chapter, with the experienced bounty hunter winning the showdown thanks to some smart sleight-of-hand.
This episode wasn’t the most memorable, which is why it comes in at No. 8. I didn’t particularly care for Calican in any capacity. Furthermore, Shand seemed like an interesting character, but she was easily apprehended and given a quick goodbye (sort of).
One highlight: Any scene with Peli Motto (Amy Sedaris). Her interactions with the repair droids and Baby Yoda injected some life into this episode.
No. 7: “Chapter 6: The Prisoner”
Here we see the Mandalorian team up with his old crew for a risky job aboard a New Republic prison ship. After rescuing their target, his questionable crew turns on him. Mando breaks out and proceeds to pick off each crew member one by one before saving Baby Yoda.
Frankly, most members of the crew are pretty annoying. And they aren’t as interesting as other supporting characters in Season 1. Their quick disposal also makes them hollow.
One highlight: Mando taking down the prison guard droids in the hallway. It was a reminder of how badass he is.
No. 6: “Chapter 4: The Sanctuary”
After an escape from Nevarro in episode 3, the Mandalorian looks for a quiet place to settle down. However, he stumbles into a conflict between local farmers and raiders. Thanks to his new acquaintance in Cara Dune, they’re able to take down an AT-ST and cause the raiders to flee.
This episode felt like a mini-movie. A lot of stuff happens but the story wraps up nicely by the end of the chapter. One moment the villagers need training, next they’re holding the frontlines. Besides the rushed pacing of the episode, it was a welcomed departure from the gray towns and tan deserts, as greenery features heavily on Sorgan. A more personal side of Mando is also shown as he contemplates his desire to settle down.
One highlight: Everything that Cara Dune does. She’s fierce while also being a good person. Saying “Come to mama” right before taking down the AT-ST was perfect.
No. 5: “Chapter 2: The Child”
The Mandalorian has now taken guardianship over Baby Yoda, but can’t get back to The Client as his ship is dismantled by Jawas. Kuiil helps the bounty hunter make a deal, sending Mando to face off with a mudhorn. He almost doesn’t survive until Baby Yoda steps in to help.
Chapter 2 is relatively low stakes and involves quite a bit of Jawa dialogue, but I found the episode highly enjoyable. It showed that not every episode of The Mandalorian needs to be an old-school western shootout. The Jawas produced several funny moments and Baby Yoda showed off some of its power.
One highlight: The negotiation between Mando and the Jawas. The bounty hunter unleashing his flamethrower after hearing he sounds like a Wookie is one of my favorite moments from Season 1.