The Mandalorian: Top 5 essential episodes of the show (so far)

Are you new to The Mandalorian and want an idea of the whole story, but you don't know where to start before you deep dive into all three seasons of the show? Or have you already watched the show and want a refresher before the upcoming movie, The Mandalorian & Grogu, is released? These five episodes are integral to the show and it makes them essential viewing.

Here are 5 must-watch episodes of The Mandalorian:

1. Chapter 3: The Sin

"Chapter 3: The Sin" is a must-watch episode for anyone, regardless of whether they're a Star Wars fan or not. It's character-driven plot and tense action scenes make it timeless, making it worth multiple viewings. The episode also changes Din Djarin and Grogu's lives forever. Din decides to take Grogu back from the Empire after handing him over in exchange for Beskar. In doing so, he goes against the code of The Guild and exposes his covert to danger. "The Sin" is rated 8.9/10 on IMDb.com.

2. Chapter 8- Redemption

The Mandalorian Season 1's finale, "Chapter 8: Redemption," is an important episode as it gives us more information on Din Djarin's background and how he ended up as a Mandalorian. Not only that, but this episode officially joins Din and Grogu together. The Armorer tells Din that he's earned his Mudhorn signet and must reunite the foundling with his kind, which sets Din up for his quest in Season 2. It's an exciting and heartwarming episode with its share of sadness and an ending that introduces the Darksaber in live-action. "Redemption" has a 9.2/10 rating on IMDb.com.

3. Chapter 13- The Jedi

Rosario Dawson makes her debut as Ahsoka Tano in The Mandalorian, "Chapter 13: The Jedi," and it received multiple award nominations for its fight sequences and cinematography. In the episode, Din Djarin and Grogu travel to Corvus to find Ahsoka Tano, and it's Din Djarin's first time meeting a Jedi. Din and Ahsoka team up together to defeat Morgan Elsbeth in an episode that includes Grogu's backstory and a Thrawn namedrop. "The Jedi" has a solid 9.3/10 on IMDb.com.

4. Chapter 15- The Believer

Season 2's exciting cameos take a backseat when the show focuses on the father and son bond at the heart of the story. With every Season 2 episode, Din Djarin's growing attachment to Grogu becomes more evident. In "Chapter 15: The Believer," he shows just how far he's willing to go to protect his child. He removes his helmet and armor when he heads to Morak with Boba Fett, Fennec Shand, Migs Mayfeld, and Cara Dune. The gang retrieves coordinates to Moff Gideon's ship so Din can make it in time to save Grogu. "The Believer" provides Pedro Pascal with enough screen time to show off his acting skills and has an 8.9/10 on IMDb.

5. Chapter 24- The Return

The Mandalorian Season 3 puts Bo-Katan Kryze in the spotlight. In the finale, "Chapter 24: The Return," she and her Mandalorian friends finally take back their planet from the Empire. Din and Grogu played a significant role in helping the Mandalorians win. This episode showcases large-scale action sequences and amazing visuals that set Season 3 apart. The ending sees Din adopting Grogu, a peek at the Mythosaur, and Din and Grogu settling down on Nevarro in their own home. Season 3 might have had some issues with writing and pacing, but this is a satisfying finale. It's rated 8.4/10.