Since its debut, Andor has surprised audiences with its mature, political, and deeply human approach to the Star Wars universe. Far from lightsabers, the series has become a masterpiece of tension-building, with complex characters, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable scenes. With 24 episodes across two seasons, I’ve selected the 10 episodes that best encapsulate the strength of this narrative. Whether through emotional power, plot twists, or thematic weight, each of these chapters shows why Andor is already considered one of the best productions in the saga.

1. Who Are You (Season 2, Episode 8) and Jedha, Kyber, Erso (Season 2, Episode 12)

The psychological peak of the entire series is Who Are You, as it focuses on identity, loyalty, and consequences with an intimate and suffocating buildup. While Cassian faces irreversible decisions, Bix experiences one of the most devastating moments of her journey. The restrained direction amplifies the silent terror of surveillance and imperial control. An episode that leaves the viewer emotionally disarmed.

Still, it’s only fitting that the saga’s final episode before Rogue One shares the top spot. It picks up directly from the ending of the previous episode, Who Else Knows?, which depicted the Imperial Security Bureau’s raid on the Axis’s hideout and Cassian Andor’s attempt to escape with Ruescott Melshi and Kleya Marki. From there, we head straight into the events of the film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), preparing Andor’s mission to the Ring of Kafrene to verify Marki’s information about the Death Star. The episode ends with a surprising and unforgettable final scene.

2. Narkina (Season 1, Episode 5)

This episode introduces the industrial prison world of Narkina 5, and the bureaucratic horror of the Empire reaches a new level. Through the ruthless routines and dehumanization of prisoners, Narkina expands the scope of imperial repression and sets the stage for revolt. The cold aesthetics and oppressive repetition of the factory create a harrowing allegory of control and resistance.

3. One Way Out (Season 1, Episode 10)

The climax of the prison arc’s mounting tension. The war cry “One way out!” resounds with emotional and symbolic force. Kino Loy’s (Andy Serkis) speech is one of the series’ most memorable. The escape is both triumphant and tragic, with personal sacrifices that echo through the rest of the season. A breathtaking episode with flawless pacing and a cathartic payoff.

4. Welcome to the Rebellion (Season 2, Episode 10)

The rebellion finally reveals itself as a complex web of pain, fragile alliances, and desperate acts. The episode’s strength lies in the convergence of multiple storylines — Mon Mothma, Vel, Dedra, and Syril — all colliding in events that change the course of the season. The ironic title reflects the true cost of “belonging” to the cause. It’s a welcome to the hell of political struggle.

5. Make it Stop (Season 2, Episode 10)

Luthen Rael discovers the existence of the Death Star just as Dedra Meero closes in on him in her hunt for the Axis network. It’s a powerful episode that reveals how Luthen and Kleya got involved in the fight against the Empire.

6. Who Else Knows? (Season 2, Episode 11)

“Who else knows?” is the question driving both the Rebels and the Empire, but spoken in Krennic’s voice, it becomes unforgettable and chilling. A masterclass in building tension, this episode shows Kleya’s sacrifice for the rebellion, Dedra’s downfall due to her ambition, and Cassian solidifying his loyalty and role as a true “Rogue.”

7. Rix Road (Season 1, Episode 12)

The Season 1 finale is pure tension. The explosion of rebellion in Ferrix proves that even a crushed people can rise up. Maarva’s funeral scene turns into a powerful and visually striking uprising. With raw emotion, the episode closes the arc in a coherent, brutal, and hopeful way, without ever romanticizing war.

8. What a Festive Evening (Season 2, Episode 6)

Under the façade of an elegant party, this episode reveals the rot at the heart of the imperial elite. The title is dripping with sarcasm. Mon Mothma and Dedra Meero shine in a tense game of appearances, veiled threats, and blackmail. The luxurious setting contrasts sharply with the emotional brutality at play. It’s a political thriller in gala attire.

9. Harvest (Season 2, Episode 3)

A slow-paced but thematically rich episode. Harvest shows the consequences of imperial power on agricultural communities and innocent civilians. Cassian reappears in a moment of personal reevaluation, as we witness the impact of occupation on secondary characters. The natural beauty of the setting contrasts with the social decay caused by the Empire.

10. Nobody’s Listening (Season 1, Episode 9)

Claustrophobic and despairing, this episode highlights the extreme psychological pressure inside the prison. The revelation that no one actually leaves Narkina 5 completely changes the tone of the narrative. It’s the episode where hope breaks — and thus where the will to fight begins to grow. The performances by Diego Luna and Andy Serkis are absolute standouts.

Andor has built an impressive gallery of unforgettable episodes. More than just entertainment, these chapters explore themes such as fascism, resistance, trauma, and sacrifice with a depth rarely seen in Star Wars. Andor has already carved out its place as the dramatic masterpiece of a galaxy far, far away.