Top 25 Must-Read Star Wars Comics for Every Fan

Essential Insights

The Star Wars franchise extends far beyond its cinematic origins, with comics exploring the rich lore and stories of legendary Jedi Masters.
Discover some of the top Star Wars comics, featuring original concepts and narratives about the survivors of Order 66, offering profound insights and fresh viewpoints.
Fans can look forward to thrilling new stories in upcoming Star Wars comics, with New York Comic Con hinting at graphic novels featuring General Grievous and Qui-Gon Jinn.

Star Wars has expanded tremendously since its launch over 40 years ago, encompassing countless books, comic series, and television shows derived from the original intellectual property. Following Luke Skywalker’s departure from Tatooine in 1977, Star Wars comics quickly gained traction and have since proliferated.

Following Disney’s acquisition of the Star Wars franchise, many previously established narratives from the Expanded Universe were discredited, but this does not diminish their quality. Fans delving into these comics may find that some represent far more compelling stories than previously thought.

Updated October 29, 2024 by Rhenn Taguiam: With New York Comic Con 2024 showcasing graphic novels featuring General Grievous and Qui-Gon Jinn, plus the upcoming release of Star Wars: Skeleton Crew in December 2024, Star Wars enthusiasts have much to anticipate in the storylines from this vast Galaxy.

For those wanting to explore further into the Star Wars comic realm, several notable titles await. These include a comic retelling of George Lucas’s original Star Wars concept, a deeper dive into the Galactic Empire from a young Darth Vader’s perspective, and the thrilling journey of a Padawan who survived Order 66.

1 The Star Wars

Unveiling the Original Draft

Artist: Mike Mayhew
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Publication Date: September 2013

Star Wars aficionados eager to uncover George Lucas’s initial narrative do not need to search archives, as The Star Wars brings this vision to life. Set against the backdrop of turmoil within the galaxy, the plot revolves around Annikin Starkiller, the son of a former Jedi, who embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Leia from the clutches of General Darth Vader, all while being mentored by Obi-Wan Kenobi. In this reinterpretation of the galaxy, the Jedi-Bendu act as the Emperor’s staunch protectors until the treacherous Sith Knights incite strife leading to the New Galactic Empire’s emergence. The thrilling storyline culminates in an epic confrontation at the Death Star.

The comic may echo certain themes from Episode 4, but it uniquely offers a vivid portrayal originating from Lucas’s drafts, influenced by Akira Kurosawa’s cinematic masterpiece The Hidden Fortress, adding layers to its allure for film enthusiasts. Even if it never graces the big screen, Mike Mayhew’s breathtaking illustrations and the comic’s fresh aesthetic make The Star Wars a visual delight and a must-read.

2 Kanan: The Last Padawan

Chronicles Kanan’s Struggle During Order 66

Artists: Pepe Larraz, Jacopo Camagni, Andrea Broccardo, David Curiel, Joe Caramagna, Mark Brooks
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Publication Date: April 1, 2015

The Kanan comic series illustrates the experiences of Kanan Jarrus amid Order 66 and the Clone Wars. For those intrigued by Kanan’s intricate backstory, Kanan: The Last Padawan serves as a compelling introduction. The inaugural storyline highlights Kanan Jarrus’s formative years as Caleb Dume, a Padawan training under the esteemed Master Depa Billaba shortly before the Jedi’s execution.

Fans of Star Wars: Rebels will appreciate the added depth afforded to Kanan’s persona, who was presented as a witty and somewhat brash character contrary to traditional Jedi ideals. While narratives from The Bad Batch may present contradictions, many fans can piece together insights into Kanan’s evolution during his years on the run. Although it unfolds like a conventional escapade, there’s ample to relish in The Last Padawan.

3 Darth Vader (2015)

Explores Vader’s Inner Struggle Between Episodes 4 and 5

Artists: Max Fiumara, Salvador Larroca, Leinil Yu, Gerry Alanguilan, Joe Caramagna, Edgar Delgado, Jason Keith, Kaare Andrews, Mark Brooks, Juan Gimenez, Adi Granov
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Publication Date: February 11, 2015

For readers interested in understanding Darth Vader before his ultimate treachery, Darth Vader emerges as an indispensable narrative, particularly due to Kieron Gillen’s adept handling of the character. Gillen’s affinity for the Saga and his prowess in writing other complex villains reveal a more nuanced side of the Sith Lord. This series adds depth to Vader’s character beyond the grandiose brutality exhibited in the earlier 2015 Star Wars comics.

The comics delve into Vader’s psyche, illustrating his motivations influenced by earlier films while providing foreshadowing of future consequences. Readers witness Vader’s navigation through the political rivalries within the Empire, depicting the intricate power dynamics that define his character arc.

4 Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

An Excellent Contribution to Sequel Era Lore

Artist: Will Sliney
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Publication Date: April 24, 2019

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a recent addition to the modern canon, intersects with the Disney theme park of the same name. This five-volume series unfolds between Episode 8: The Last Jedi and Episode 9: The Rise of Skywalker.

The narrative takes place at the chaotic Black Spire Outpost on the Outer Rim planet of Baatu, a locale bustling with pirates, merchants, and smugglers. Notably, Han Solo and Chewbacca make appearances, engaging in their trademark escapades.

5 Star Wars: Princess Leia

Offers Insight into a Beloved Character

Artist: Terry Dodson
Publisher: Marvel Comics
Publication Date: March 2015

While Leia is undeniably a vital figure in the Star Wars saga, she has often lacked the recognition she deserves. Thankfully, the mini-series Star Wars: Princess Leia, penned by Mark Waid, provides her with the spotlight, making it one of the standout Star Wars comics.

Following the devastation of Alderaan, the comic chronicles Leia’s journey alongside Queen Breha and Bail Organa as they confront the aftermath of the Empire’s actions. Although the original trilogy offers little reflection on this tragedy, Star Wars: Princess Leia fills that void, allowing readers to grasp how this pivotal event shaped Leia and her companions.

6 Star Wars: Crimson Empire

Presents a Distinct Perspective

An armored figure wielding a dual blade in Star Wars - Crimson Empire

Artist: Doug Wheatley
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Publication Date: December 10, 1997

Star Wars: Crimson Empire delves into the lives of the Stormtroopers, often dismissed as mere faceless henchmen. The narrative focuses on Kir Kanos, a former member of the Emperor’s elite guard, providing a unique perspective both before and after the Empire’s fall.

This captivating characterization makes Kir an engaging protagonist, enriching the lore of the Star Wars universe, and showcasing the multi-faceted nature of these soldiers.

7 Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Slaves Of The Republic

Features Significant Lore Adapted for Television

star wars comics slaves of the republic key art

Artists: Scott Hepburn, Ramon Perez, Lucas Marangon, Dan Parsons, Michael Heisler, Michael E. Wiggam
Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
Publication Date: September 10, 2008

Slaves of the Republic, alongside its companions In Service of the Republic and Hero of the Confederacy, comprises a series illustrating the darker aspects of the Star Wars universe. Originally a six-issue series, it was later adapted into a compelling three-part arc in the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series, highlighting the ruthless operations of the Zygerrian slave empire and their impact on Anakin’s psyche.

As Anakin, Obi-Wan, Ahsoka, and Rex investigate the mysterious vanishing of the inhabitants of Kiros, the depth of Anakin’s backstory as a former slave becomes evident. The comic contributes essential character development for Anakin, showcasing his inner conflicts as he navigates a harrowing mission.

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