After a nearly six-year absence, The Clone Wars has finally returned for its seventh and final season. That wait was as long as the original run of the series, which is a bit mind-blowing… and once again great at making you feel old. The first story, dubbed “The Bad Batch Arc”, was released online a few years back with unfinished animation. At the time, fans thought it would be all we’d ever see of the canceled series. Much like the previous Star Wars series, The Mandalorian, The Clone Wars episodes will be released weekly on Fridays.
Right out of the gate, we are given the spectacular upgraded 3D visuals that wouldn’t have been possible six years ago. A long, panning shot across Republic shipyards introduces us to the story, and the trademark Tom Kane voiced introduction states that Admiral Trench is STILL alive and pummeling the Republic with his forces.
Episode One introduces The Bad Batch, a group of non-clone Republic soldiers. Their leader, Hunter, bears more than a passing resemblance to Rambo. The team is very effective at their job, and prove more than a match for the massive droid armies. Of course, their lack of respect for clones makes for a clash of attitudes in between battles. On top of all this, fan-favorite Captain Rex can’t shake his belief that Echo, the last remaining clone from the team introduced way back in Season One’s Rookies, may still be alive.
Rejoice Clone Wars fans! The series is back, and it’s as great as ever! The only disappointment is knowing this will be the final episodes of a series that has encompassed just about everything we love about Star Wars at some point. But nothing lasts forever, so we should just be thankful we are getting this last look at our prequel heroes.