The year 2024 was transformative for Star Wars, as the iconic franchise ventured into uncharted territories across various media platforms. Fans were treated to immersive narratives that spanned comics, live-action series, animated adventures, and audio dramas, each exploring diverse stories set throughout the extensive Star Wars timeline.
Whether your preference lies in live-action, animation, novels, or comics, 2024 brought an abundance of thrilling experiences. But what stood out as the most significant moments in Star Wars this year? Here’s a curated list of the highlights.
10
The Jedi Council Returns For A New Adventure
Star Wars: The Living Force
In April, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace, Star Wars: The Living Force, authored by John Jackson Miller, debuted. This exciting book immerses readers in an adventurous narrative centered on the Jedi Council, echoing the visual style of Episode I.
The plot kicks off with Qui-Gon Jinn examining the Republic’s shortcomings and addressing the Council. The Jedi Council soon resolves to take their discussions beyond words, embarking on a mission to the planet Kwenn, where they celebrate a significant event related to the Jedi Temple’s closure. However, their festivities are thwarted by a band of Outer Rim pirates, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation. This deep exploration of the Council members’ distinct personalities adds both depth and humor to their characters.
9
Darth Vader’s Assault On Exegol
Darth Vader (2020) By Greg Pak & Raffaele Ienco
In a spectacular climax to the acclaimed 2020 comic series, Darth Vader made a historic strike against Exegol. This pivotal attack unfolded as Vader, propelled by resentment towards his master, Palpatine, initiated a massive confrontation during the build-up to the events of Return of the Jedi.
Vader’s quest was driven by a fundamental Sith philosophy: the desire to usurp his master. Throughout the series, tension escalated as he aligned with Sly Moore, resulting in a rebellion within the Empire. This schism ultimately culminated in an epic showdown filled with giant creatures, marking a memorable highlight in Star Wars comics for 2024.
8
Omega And Crosshair Escape From The Empire
The Bad Batch Season 3
The final season of The Bad Batch delivered a captivating narration, particularly in the arcs featuring Omega and Crosshair. Following a dramatic cliffhanger, viewers were left on edge regarding the fate of the duo, who had become captives at the Empire’s Mount Tantiss facility.
As the season unfolds, Omega and Crosshair formed an unlikely alliance, successfully orchestrating a daring escape from the Empire’s clutches. Their reunion with the rest of the Bad Batch epitomized a heartwarming moment that set the tone for an exhilarating season ahead.
7
Jedi Romance Hits It Big Time In The High Republic
The High Republic: Temptation Of The Force
As the High Republic saga entered its fourth year, it showcased a surge of thrilling content, including the novel Temptation of the Force by Tessa Gratton, released in June. This continuation of the vibrant narrative introduced fans to Jedi Avar Kriss and Elzar Mann, revisiting their complicated emotional history.
Despite the Jedi Code prohibiting attachments, the escalating Nihil crisis reignites their feelings as they reunite on Naboo. This forbidden romance adds a compelling layer to the ongoing narrative, amplifying the stakes within their tumultuous environment.
6
Viewers Are Introduced To At Attin In Skeleton Crew
Star Wars Suburbs Are More Than They Seem
The premiere of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew captivated audiences, presenting engaging characters and a narrative shrouded in mystery. The backdrop of the “lost planet of eternal treasure”added an intriguing element, particularly as viewers learned about At Attin—a seemingly idyllic suburban planet.
Yet, underneath its picturesque façade lies a dark secret, as revealed through ominous hints that suggest its existence is questioned. The evolution of At Attin throughout the series has left a lasting impression, making it one of the standout features of 2024’s Star Wars offerings.
5
Luke Skywalker’s Jedi Lesson For Ben Solo
Star Wars (2020) #50 by Charles Soule & Madibek Musabekov
As the significant storyline of the 2020 Star Wars comic by Charles Soule drew to a close, readers witnessed a pivotal lesson imparted from Jedi Master Luke Skywalker to Ben Solo at the Ossus Jedi Temple. This closing chapter brought depth and closure to a series of narratives centered on themes of light versus dark.
Within the plot, Luke grapples with a crucial decision about harnessing a dark Force artifact to eliminate Palpatine, with the knowledge that its use could sacrifice countless lives. This moral dilemma serves as a powerful lesson for the conflicted Ben Solo, reinforcing the enduring themes of consequence in the Star Wars universe.
4
The Return Of Grand Moff Adelhard & The Iron Blockade
Star Wars: Battle of Jakku By Alex Segura
Previously unexplored, the story surrounding Grand Moff Adelhard from the mobile game Star Wars: Uprising finally finds its voice in the 2024 comic maxi-series Battle of Jakku by Alex Segura. Set in the aftermath of the Battle of Endor, this series depicts the efforts of Luke, Leia, and their New Republic allies as they confront Adelhard’s terrifying Imperial remnants.
By bringing iconic characters back into the spotlight, ‘Battle of Jakku’ creates a captivating narrative that enhances the legacy of the established Star Wars canon, earning its place among the highlights of the franchise in 2024.
3
The Bad Batch Destroys The Empire’s Work At Mount Tantiss
The Bad Batch Season 3
Mount Tantiss served as a pivotal setting throughout the final chapters of The Bad Batch, spotlighting the unsavory cloning operations by the Empire. This location became particularly dramatic as it housed not only Omega and Crosshair but also various cloning experiments.
The finale showcased the Bad Batch executing a daring raid to liberate Omega, culminating in an explosive sequence where they faced both the released Zillo Beast and Clone X Troopers. With stunning animation and emotional storytelling, this action-packed conclusion destroyed the Empire’s cloning operations and set the stage for future narratives, albeit ominously redirecting remnants to Project Stardust.
2
Star Wars Introduced Its First New Live-Action Sith Lord Since 2005
Star Wars: The Acolyte
The introduction of The Acolyte, a live-action Star Wars series set outside the Skywalker Saga, captured the attention of fans in 2024. Set in the High Republic era, the story revolves around twin sisters whose paths intertwine with the dark forces of the Sith.
A standout character, Qimir, known as The Stranger, emerges in an exhilarating sequence where he confronts Jedi in Khofar woods, displaying formidable skills with the dark side. As the series progresses, he unveils his connections to Darth Plagueis and his past as a Jedi. Qimir’s introduction as a compelling Sith lord revitalizes interest in the franchise’s darker elements.
1
Barriss Offee’s Fate As An Inquisitor Is Finally Revealed
Star Wars: Tales Of The Empire
The enigmatic fate of Barriss Offee captured the intrigue of fans for over a decade. Following her rebellious acts during The Clone Wars, her disappearance raised numerous questions about her alignment. 2024’s Tales of the Empire finally provided closure.
The series of animated shorts reveal that Barriss joined the Inquisitorius soon after the rise of the Empire, learning under the Grand Inquisitor and Darth Vader. Ultimately, she leaves this role, choosing instead to become an independent Jedi healer who dedicates her life to saving others, showcasing the enduring nature of her ideals.
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