For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, navigating the world of Steven Universe can be an exciting journey. With its intricate storyline, character-driven narratives, and emotional depth, knowing where to start or how to revisit specific arcs is key. This guide provides a comprehensive Steven Universe Episode Guide, including Steven Universe Future, designed to help you watch the series in the most impactful way. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a dedicated fan looking to relive your favorite moments or explore character-centric episodes, this guide is for you.
Watching Steven Universe from the Beginning
If you’re embarking on Steven Universe for the first time, following the chronological order is highly recommended to fully appreciate the unfolding narrative and character development. While some episodes might seem less critical initially, they often contain subtle foreshadowing and character nuances that enrich later viewing experiences. This curated list ensures you capture all the essential episodes and key moments as they were intended to be seen.
For quick reference, here are useful links to episode lists:
- Wikipedia List of Episodes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Steven_Universe_episodes
- Steven Universe Wikia Episode Guide: https://steven-universe.fandom.com/wiki/Episode_Guide
Season 1 Part A: Introduction to Beach City and the Crystal Gems
This initial segment of Season 1 lays the groundwork for the entire series, introducing Steven, the Crystal Gems, and the whimsical world of Beach City. These episodes establish the core characters, their relationships, and the fundamental concepts of Gem powers and history.
- Gem Glow
- Laser Light Cannon
- Cheeseburger Backpack
- Together Breakfast
- Cat Fingers
- Bubble Buddies
- Serious Steven
- Tiger Millionaire
- Steven’s Lion
- Arcade Mania
- Giant Woman
- So Many Birthdays
- Lars and the Cool Kids
- Steven the Sword Fighter
- Lion 2: The Movie
- Rose’s Room
- Coach Steven
- Monster Buddies
- An Indirect Kiss
- Mirror Gem
- Ocean Gem
Season 1 Part B: Deepening Mysteries and Gem Lore
The latter half of Season 1 significantly expands the Steven Universe universe. It introduces more complex themes, delves deeper into Gem history, and culminates in a dramatic season finale that changes everything for Steven and the Crystal Gems.
- House Guest
- Space Race
- Secret Team
- Keep Beach City Weird
- Fusion Cuisine
- Garnet’s Universe
- Watermelon Steven
- Lion 3: Straight to Video
- Alone Together
- Warp Tour
- The Test
- Future Vision
- On the Run
- Horror Club
- Winter Forecast
- Maximum Capacity
- Marble Madness
- Rose’s Scabbard
- Open Book
- Story for Steven
- The Message
- Political Power
- The Return
- Jail Break
Season 2: Exploring Relationships and Gem Society
Season 2 focuses on the aftermath of the Season 1 finale and explores the evolving relationships between characters. It also begins to reveal more about Gem society and the complexities of Gem history and culture, setting the stage for larger conflicts and revelations.
- Full Disclosure
- Joy Ride
- Love Letters
- Reformed
- Sworn to the Sword
- Keeping It Together
- We Need to Talk
- Chille Tid
- Cry for Help
- Keystone Motel
- Onion Friend
- Historical Friction
- Friend Ship
- Nightmare Hospital
- Sadie’s Song
- Catch and Release
- When It Rains
- Back to the Barn
- Too Far
- The Answer
- Steven’s Birthday
- It Could’ve Been Great
- Message Received
- Log Date 7 15 2
Season 3: Character Growth and Earth Adventures
Season 3 sees significant character development and more Earth-bound adventures, while still weaving in crucial Gem-related plot points. This season balances light-hearted episodes with emotionally resonant moments that contribute to the overarching narrative.
- Super Watermelon Island
- Gem Drill
- Same Old World
- Barn Mates
- Hit the Diamond
- Steven Floats
- Drop Beat Dad
- Mr. Greg
- Too Short to Ride
- Beach City Drift
- Monster Reunion
- Alone at Sea
- Greg the Babysitter
- Gem Hunt
- Crack the Whip
- Steven vs. Amethyst
- Bismuth
- Beta
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Bubbled
Season 4: Deeper Lore and Internal Conflicts
Season 4 delves into deeper Gem lore and introduces more internal conflicts for the characters. This season is marked by episodes that challenge the Crystal Gems’ perspectives and force them to confront uncomfortable truths about their past and present.
Recommendation: Consider watching the animated short “Steven’s Song Time” during this season for a fun, non-essential interlude.
- Kindergarten Kid
- Know Your Fusion
- Buddy’s Book
- Mindful Education
- Last One Out of Beach City
- Onion Gang
- Gem Harvest
- Three Gems and a Baby
- Steven’s Dream
- Adventures in Light Distortion
- Gem Heist
- The Zoo
- That Will Be All
- The New Crystal Gems
- Storm in the Room
- Tiger Philanthropist
- Room for Ruby
- Lion 4: Alternate Ending
- Doug Out
- The Good Lars
- Are You My Dad?
- I Am My Mom
Season 5: War and Resolution
Season 5 is the culmination of many storylines, leading to a major war and eventual resolution of long-standing conflicts. This season is packed with pivotal episodes that answer lingering questions and bring significant changes to the Steven Universe world.
- Stuck Together
- The Trial
- Off Colors
- Lars’ Head
- Dewey Wins
- Gemcation
- Raising the Barn
- Back to the Kindergarten
- Sadie Killer
- Kevin Party
- Lars of the Stars
- Jungle Moon
- Your Mother and Mine
- Pool Hopping
- Letters to Lars
- Can’t Go Back
- A Single Pale Rose
- Now We’re Only Falling Apart
- What’s Your Problem
- The Question
- Made of Honor
- Reunited
- Legs from Here to Homeworld
- Familiar
- Together Alone
- Escapism
- Change Your Mind
After the Main Series: The Movie and Steven Universe Future
To fully understand the complete narrative, especially Steven Universe Future, watching the movie is essential. It bridges the gap between the original series and the epilogue series, setting up crucial plot points and character arcs.
- Steven Universe: The Movie (Crucial for understanding Steven Universe Future)
Steven Universe Future: The Epilogue
Steven Universe Future serves as an epilogue series, exploring the aftermath of the main series events and focusing on Steven’s emotional journey and identity. It addresses the consequences of past conflicts and provides closure for many character arcs.
- Little Homeschool
- Guidance
- Rose Buds
- Volleyball
- Snow Day
- Why So Blue?
- Little Graduation
- Prickly Pair
- In Dreams
- Bismuth Casual
- Together Forever
- Growing Pains
- Mr. Universe
- Fragments
- Homeworld Bound
- Everything’s Fine
- I Am My Monster
- The Future
Animated Shorts: Enhancing the Experience
While not strictly essential for the main storyline, the animated shorts offer delightful insights into the Steven Universe world and characters. They are perfect for supplemental viewing and can enhance your overall enjoyment.
- Lion Loves to Fit in a Box
- What Are Gems?
- We Are the Crystal Gems
- How Are Gems Made?
- Unboxing
- Fusion
- Cooking with Lion
- Gem Karaoke
- Steven Reacts
- Video Chat
- Steven’s Song Time
Character Arc Episode Guides
For fans interested in focusing on specific character journeys, these curated lists highlight key episodes crucial to understanding the development of major characters in Steven Universe.
Steven’s Arc: The Heart of the Story
Steven’s journey is central to the entire series, and his arc encompasses a vast range of experiences and growth. To truly understand Steven, watching the whole series is ideal, but this list pinpoints key episodes that are particularly impactful for his development.
- Gem Glow
- Laser Light Cannon
- Cheeseburger Backpack
- Together Breakfast
- Cat Fingers
- Bubble Buddies
- Serious Steven
- Steven the Sword Fighter
- Lion 2: The Movie
- Rose’s Room
- Coach Steven
- Monster Buddies
- An Indirect Kiss
- House Guest
- Lion 3: Straight to Video
- Alone Together
- Warp Tour
- The Test
- Open Book
- Shirt Club
- Political Power
- Full Disclosure
- Joy Ride
- Sworn to the Sword
- Onion Friend
- Sadie’s Song
- Steven’s Birthday
- Steven Floats
- The New Lars
- Kiki’s Pizza Delivery Service
- Steven vs. Amethyst
- Bismuth
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Bubbled
- Mindful Education
- Future Boy Zoltron
- Onion Gang
- The zoo arc (From Steven’s dream to That Will Be All)
- Storm in the Room
- Lion 4: Alternate Ending
- I Am My Mom
- Stuck Together
- The Trial
- Season 5 Arc from Dewey Wins to Kevin Party
- Jungle Moon
- Pool Hopping
- What’s Your Problem
- Reunited
- Familiar
- Together Alone
- Change Your Mind
- SU the movie
- The entire Future series
Pearl’s Arc: Loyalty and Identity
Pearl’s arc explores themes of loyalty, identity, and self-worth. These episodes showcase her growth beyond her past and her journey to define herself independently.
- Cheeseburger Backpack
- Giant Woman
- Steven the Sword Fighter
- Coach Steven
- Space Race
- Secret Team
- On the Run
- Rose’s Scabbard
- Sworn to the Sword
- We Need to Talk
- Sardonyx arc (Cry for Help- Historical Friction- Friend Ship)
- Back to the Barn
- Mr. Greg
- Gem Hunt
- Know Your Fusion
- Last One Out of Beach City
- Three Gems and a Baby
- Gem Heist
- That Will Be All
- Gemcation
- A Single Pale Rose
- Now We’re Only Falling Apart
- SU the movie Independent Together scene
- Volleyball
- Bismuth Casual
Amethyst’s Arc: Self-Acceptance and Growth
Amethyst’s arc is centered around self-acceptance, overcoming insecurities, and personal growth. These episodes highlight her struggles and triumphs as she learns to value herself.
- Tiger Millionaire
- Giant Woman
- Coach Steven
- An Indirect Kiss
- Secret Team
- On the Run
- Maximum Capacity
- Reformed
- Cry for Help
- Onion Friend
- Too Far
- Too Short to Ride
- Crack the Whip
- Steven vs. Amethyst
- Beta
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Know Your Fusion
- Last One Out of Beach City
- Three Gems and a Baby
- That Will Be All
- Tiger Philanthropist
- Back to the Kindergarten
- What’s Your Problem
- SU The Movie ¨No Matter What¨ scene
- Guidance
Garnet’s Arc: Love, Fusion, and Leadership
Garnet’s arc, inherently tied to Ruby and Sapphire, explores themes of love, fusion, and leadership. These episodes delve into the complexities of her being and her role as a leader within the Crystal Gems.
Note: This includes Ruby and Sapphire episodes as Garnet is a fusion.
- Serious Steven
- Arcade Mania
- Coach Steven
- Secret Team
- Garnet’s Universe
- Future Vision
- Winter Forecast
- Jail Break
- Love Letters
- Reformed
- Keeping It Together
- Cry for Help
- Keystone Motel
- Friend Ship
- The Answer
- Log Date 7 15 2
- Hit the Diamond
- Know Your Fusion
- Mindful Education
- Three Gems and a Baby
- Steven’s Dream
- Gem Heist
- That Will Be All
- Your Mother and Mine
- Pool Hopping
- The wedding arc(From Now We’re Only Falling Apart to Reunited)
- SU the movie- ¨Isn’t It Love?¨ and ¨True Kinda Love¨ scenes
- Together Forever
Peridot’s Arc: Redemption and Earth’s Charms
Peridot’s arc is a compelling redemption story, showcasing her transformation from antagonist to ally and her growing appreciation for Earth and its lifeforms.
- Warp Tour
- Marble Madness
- The Return
- Jail Break
- Keeping It Together
- Cry for Help
- Friend Ship
- Catch and Release
- When It Rains
- Back to the Barn
- Too Far
- It Could’ve Been Great
- Message Received
- Log Date 7 15 2
- Gem Drill
- Barn Mates
- Too Short to Ride
- Beta
- Earthlings
- Kindergarten Kid
- Gem Harvest
- The New Crystal Gems
- Raising the Barn
- Back to the Kindergarten
- SU the movie- ¨Who we are¨ scene
- In Dreams
Lapis Lazuli’s Arc: Trauma and Healing
Lapis Lazuli’s arc deals with themes of trauma, recovery, and finding peace after imprisonment and hardship. These episodes highlight her journey towards healing and forming meaningful connections.
- Mirror Gem
- Ocean Gem
- The Message
- The Return
- Jail Break
- Chille Tid
- Super Watermelon Island
- Same Old World
- Barn Mates
- Hit the Diamond
- Alone at Sea
- Beta
- Gem Harvest
- Room for Ruby
- Raising the Barn
- Can’t Go Back
- Reunited
- Steven universe The movie ¨Who we are¨ Scene
- Why So Blue?
Jasper’s Arc: Pride and Downfall
Jasper’s arc is a cautionary tale of pride, unwavering loyalty, and eventual downfall. These episodes trace her descent from a formidable warrior to a figure consumed by her beliefs and failures.
- The Return
- Jail Break
- Chille Tid
- Super Watermelon Island
- Gem Hunt
- Crack the Whip
- Beta
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Zoo arc (shows how gems from Earth are treated by Homeworld which is important for Jasper’s character)
- Mindful Education
- Change Your Mind (Ending)
- Little Homeschool
- Fragments
Bismuth’s Arc: Ideals and Conflict
Bismuth’s arc explores themes of conflicting ideals, revolutionary spirit, and the complexities of friendship and betrayal. These episodes delve into her powerful personality and her impact on the Crystal Gems.
- Bismuth(Episode)
- Mindful Education
- Made of Honor
- Reunited
- SU the movie ¨Who we are¨ scene
- Bismuth Casual
Connie’s Arc: Friendship and Growth Alongside Steven
Connie’s arc is about friendship, growing up alongside Steven, and developing her own strengths and independence while being an integral part of Steven’s life.
- Bubble Buddies
- Lion 2: The Movie
- An Indirect Kiss
- Fusion Cuisine
- Alone Together
- Winter Forecast
- Open Book
- Full Disclosure
- Sworn to the Sword
- Nightmare Hospital
- Steven’s Birthday
- Gem Hunt
- Crack the Whip
- Mindful Education
- The New Crystal Gems
- Doug Out
- Are You My Dad
- I Am My Mom
- Dewey Wins
- Kevin Party
- Lars of the Stars
- Jungle Moon
- Together Alone
- Bismuth Casual
- Together Forever
Greg Universe’s Arc: Fatherhood and Support
Greg Universe’s arc focuses on fatherhood, unconditional support, and his own journey of understanding and accepting the extraordinary aspects of Steven’s life and the Gem world.
- Laser Light Cannon
- Cat Fingers
- House Guest
- Fusion Cuisine
- Maximum Capacity
- Shirt Club
- Story for Steven
- The Message
- The Return
- We Need to Talk
- Mr. Greg
- Greg the Babysitter
- Gem Harvest
- Three Gems and a Baby
- Steven’s dream
- The zoo
- Gemcation
- The Big Show
- Growing Pains
- Mr. Universe
Rose Quartz Episodes and Lore: Mystery and Legacy
Rose Quartz’s arc is shrouded in mystery and explores her complex legacy, her relationships, and the profound impact she had on the Steven Universe world, even after her absence.
- Laser Light Cannon
- Steven’s Lion
- Lars and the Cool Kids
- Lion 2: The Movie
- Rose’s Room
- Monster Buddies
- An Indirect Kiss
- Watermelon Steven
- Lion 3: Straight to Video
- Alone Together
- On the Run
- Maximum Capacity
- Rose’s Scabbard
- Story for Steven
- The Return
- Jail Break
- Sworn to the Sword
- We Need to Talk
- The Answer
- Mr. Greg
- Greg the Babysitter
- Bismuth
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Bubbled
- Buddy’s Book
- Mindful Education
- Three Gems and a Baby
- The entire Zoo arc( From Steven’s Dream to That Will Be All)
- Storm in the Room
- Lion 4: Alternate Ending
- I Am My Mom
- The Trial
- Lars’ Head
- Gemcation
- Jungle Moon
- Your Mother and Mine
- A Single Pale Rose
- Now We’re Only Falling Apart
- What’s Your Problem
- Made of Honor
- Reunited
- Legs from Here to Homeworld
- Familiar
- Together Alone
- Change Your Mind
- Steven universe: The movie
- Rose Buds
- Volleyball
- Prickly Pair
Diamonds Arc/Episodes: Authority and Change
The Diamonds’ arc is about authority, power, and eventual change and understanding. These episodes chart their evolution from antagonists to figures capable of growth and empathy.
- The Answer
- Message Received
- Earthlings
- Back to the Moon
- Zoo arc (Steven’s Dream to That Will Be All)
- The Trial
- Jungle Moon
- Can’t Go Back
- Now We’re Only Falling Apart
- Reunited
- Diamond days arc (From Legs from Here to Homeworld to Change your Mind)
- SU the movie Opening scene and Ending when they arrive
- Homeworld Bound
- I Am My Monster
Lars’ Arc: Transformation and Heroism
Lars’ arc is a remarkable transformation from a somewhat flawed teenager to a heroic and selfless individual. These episodes showcase his dramatic growth and self-discovery.
- Lars and the Cool Kids
- Joking Victim
- Island Adventure
- Horror Club
- The New Lars
- The Good Lars
- I Am My Mom
- Stuck Together
- The Trial
- Off Colors
- Lars’ Head
- Lars of the Stars
- Letters to Lars
- Little Graduation
Sadie’s Arc: Independence and Self-Discovery
Sadie’s arc is about finding independence, self-discovery, and stepping out of her comfort zone to pursue her passions and define her own path.
- Joking Victim
- Horror Club
- Sadie’s Song
- The Good Lars
- I Am My Mom
- Dewey Wins
- Sadie Killer
- Lars of the Stars
- The Big Show
- SU the movie Disobedient scene
- Little Graduation
Lion’s Episodes and Lore: Mystery and Connection to Rose
Lion’s arc is shrouded in mystery, exploring his unique connection to Rose Quartz and his enigmatic nature. These episodes offer glimpses into his secrets and his special bond with Steven.
- Steven’s Lion
- Lion 2: The Movie
- Lion 3: Straight to Video
- Rose’s Scabbard
- Crack the Whip
- Bismuth
- Buddy’s Book
- Lion 4: Alternate Ending
- Lars’ Head
Off-Colors Episodes: Acceptance and Belonging
The Off-Colors’ arc is about acceptance, finding belonging, and celebrating individuality, even in the face of societal norms and expectations.
- Off Colors
- Lars’ Head
- Lars of the Stars
- Letters to Lars
- Little Graduation
Gems-Townie Arc: Gem and Human Interaction
The Gems-Townie arc focuses on the delightful and sometimes complicated interactions between the Crystal Gems and the human residents of Beach City, highlighting the blend of fantastical and everyday life.
- Frybo
- Lars and the Cool Kids
- Beach Party
- Keep Beach City Weird
- Fusion Cuisine
- Political Power
- The Return
- Joy Ride
- Love Letters
- Rising Tides, Crashing Skies
- Onion Friend
- Historical Friction
- Kiki’s Pizza Delivery Service
- Buddy’s Book
- Last One Out of Beach City
- Gem Harvest
- Rocknaldo
- Dewey Wins
- Letters to Lars
Fusion Episodes: Exploring Gem Relationships
Fusion episodes are central to Steven Universe, exploring the profound relationships between Gems and the unique beings they create when they fuse. These episodes are key to understanding Gem culture and emotional bonds.
- Giant Woman
- Coach Steven
- Fusion Cuisine
- Alone Together
- Jail Break
- Keeping It Together
- We Need to Talk
- Chille Tid
- Cry from Help
- Keystone Motel
- Friend Ship
- The Answer
- Super Watermelon Island
- Beach City Drift
- Alone at Sea
- Crack the Whip
- Earthlings
- Know Your Fusion
- Mindful Education
- Stuck Together
- Off Colors
- The Question
- Reunited
- Together Alone
- Change Your Mind
- Guidance
- Volleyball
- Bluebird
- A Very Special Episode
- Snow Day
- Bismuth Casual
