How Rogue One Fits Into the SW Timeline
In This Guide
Have you ever wondered where Rogue One: A SW Story fits in the larger Saga timeline? Released in 2016, it quickly became one of the most beloved entries in modern SW—gritty, emotional, and essential to understanding the original trilogy.
This guide breaks down Rogue One's timeline placement, its direct connection to Episode IV, and why every SW fan should watch it.
Where Rogue One Falls in the Timeline
The SW saga spans thousands of years. Here's exactly where Rogue One sits:
| Era | Films | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Prequel Trilogy | Episodes I-III | 32-19 BBY |
| Imperial Era | Solo, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Rebels | 10-5 BBY |
| Rogue One | Rogue One: A SW Story | 0 BBY |
| Original Trilogy | Episodes IV-VI | 0 BBY - 4 ABY |
| Sequel Trilogy | Episodes VII-IX | 34-35 ABY |
Rogue One occupies a unique position—bridging the prequel era's fall of the Republic with the original trilogy's Rebel Alliance victory. It depicts the final days before Luke Skywalker's journey begins.
The Connection to Episode IV
Rogue One answers a question fans asked for decades: How did the Rebels obtain the Death Star plans?
The film's final scene connects directly to Episode IV's opening crawl. As Darth Vader's Star Destroyer attacks the Rebel flagship, soldiers desperately pass the plans forward. Moments later, Princess Leia's ship escapes—leading directly into the original SW.
This seamless transition makes Rogue One essential viewing before Episode IV.
Darth Vader's Hallway Scene
The film's climax features Vader at his most terrifying. Armed with his iconic red neopixel saber, he cuts through Rebel soldiers in a dimly lit corridor. This two-minute sequence showcases the Sith Lord's raw power and explains why the galaxy fears him.
→ Explore authentic Darth Vader neopixel saber replicas
Key Events Leading to Rogue One
Understanding the timeline requires context:
19 BBY — The Empire rises. Galen Erso, a brilliant scientist, is forced to work on the Death Star project.
13 BBY — Jyn Erso is abandoned after her mother's death. Saw Gerrera, a radical rebel, raises her as a fighter.
0 BBY — The events of Rogue One unfold:
- Jyn Erso is recruited by the Rebel Alliance
- The team travels to Jedha, a holy city for Force believers
- They discover the Death Star's hidden weakness
- The Battle of Scarif results in the plans' transmission
The Rogue One Team
Each member brought unique skills to the mission:
→ Discover screen-accurate collectibles
Weapons and Gear Featured
Kyber Crystals — Rogue One reveals Jedha as a primary source of kyber crystals—the power source for both neopixel sabers and the Death Star's superlaser. Jyn's pendant contains one, a gift from her mother.
Chirrut's Lightbow Staff — A wooden staff containing a kyber crystal. The Guardian uses it to defeat armored Stormtroopers through Force-guided precision.
Death Trooper Gear — Elite Imperial soldiers with distinctive black armor and scrambled voice communications.
Darth Vader's Neopixel Saber — The Sith Lord's weapon appears briefly but memorably. Its red blade cuts through the darkness in the film's most iconic scene.
Build your collection with screen-accurate Crystals replicas
Shop Crystals CollectionFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to watch Rogue One before Episode IV?
Not required, but highly recommended. Rogue One enhances Episode IV by providing context for the Death Star plans and Darth Vader's pursuit of Princess Leia.
Is Rogue One part of the Skywalker Saga?
Technically no—it's a standalone "SW Story." However, its events directly impact the Skywalker Saga's original trilogy.
Are there neopixel sabers in Rogue One?
Yes. Darth Vader wields his red neopixel saber in the film's climax. Kyber crystals, which power all neopixel sabers, also play a central role in the plot.
What happened to the Rogue One team?
All members sacrificed themselves during the Battle of Scarif. Their heroism enabled the Rebel Alliance's first major victory against the Empire.
Conclusion
Rogue One occupies a critical position in SW history. Set in 0 BBY, it bridges the prequel era with the original trilogy while telling a powerful standalone story of sacrifice and hope.
The film introduced memorable characters, expanded neopixel saber lore through kyber crystals, and delivered one of cinema's most memorable Darth Vader sequences.
For collectors, Rogue One offers endless inspiration—from Chirrut's Guardian staff to Vader's iconic saber. Each piece connects to a larger story of rebellion against impossible odds.
Ready to bring Rogue One home?
Browse Our Full Collection
Follow our fan community and grab exclusive perks!