A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars Expanded Universe flourished, offering fans a vast and rich tapestry of stories set in the beloved universe created by George Lucas.
However, with the arrival of Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, the Expanded Universe was rebranded as Legends, and its extensive collection of stories and characters were relegated to non-canon status.
While this decision brought about the creation of a new official Star Wars canon, it left many fans yearning for the return of beloved Expanded Universe tales.
So here’s a look at some Expanded Universe stories that we dearly wish to see made canon again.
Knights of the Old Republic
Among the many Expanded Universe tales that have captured the hearts of fans, the Knights of the Old Republic video game series stands out as a shining example of Star Wars storytelling at its finest.
The Backstory
Taking us back thousands of years before the iconic events of the Star Wars films, the KOTOR series immerses players in the complex conflicts between the Jedi and Sith during the Old Republic era.
The Old Republic era is a captivating period in Star Wars lore, distinct from the familiar settings of the Skywalker saga.
Set approximately 4,000 years before the events of the films, this era offers a unique glimpse into the galaxy’s past.
It’s a time when the Jedi Order was at its zenith, and the Sith, though in the shadows, posed a significant threat to the galaxy’s stability.
The KOTOR series allows players to explore this era in exquisite detail, offering a fresh perspective on the Force and the enduring struggle between light and dark.
The Cast
One of the hallmarks of the KOTOR series is its diverse and compelling cast of characters.
From the wise and stalwart Jedi masters to the cunning and manipulative Sith Lords, players are introduced to a wide range of personalities, each with their own motivations and backstories.
Notable characters like Bastila Shan, HK-47, and Kreia have become iconic figures in Star Wars lore, demonstrating the depth of storytelling within the series.
At the heart of the KOTOR series is the enigmatic protagonist, Revan.
A Jedi who fell to the dark side, Revan’s journey is one of redemption and self-discovery.
Players are given the agency to shape Revan’s destiny, making choices that determine whether they embrace the light or succumb to the dark side.
This moral ambiguity and the exploration of the fine line between good and evil offer a fresh perspective on the Force and challenge traditional notions of heroism and villainy.
The rich lore, complex characters, and morally ambiguous narrative of the KOTOR series provide a wealth of storytelling potential.
Making It Canon Again
Reincorporating KOTOR into the Star Wars canon could open the door to new novels, comics, animated series, and even live-action adaptations.
It would allow both longtime fans and a new generation of Star Wars enthusiasts to experience the epic struggles of the ancient Jedi and Sith, shedding light on the origins of the conflict that continues to shape the galaxy in the films.
The KOTOR video game series is a testament to the enduring appeal and depth of storytelling within the Star Wars universe.
Transporting us back thousands of years before the events of the films, it offers a fresh perspective on the Jedi, the Sith, and the Force itself.
Reincorporating KOTOR into the canon would not only honor its legacy but also unlock a treasure trove of storytelling potential, enriching the Star Wars galaxy and ensuring that the epic struggles of the ancient Jedi and Sith continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Xbox.
X-Wing Series by Michael A. Stackpole and Aaron Allston
The X-Wing series emerges as a thrilling departure from the main saga, shining a spotlight on the daring pilots of the New Republic.
The Backstory
Led by the indomitable Wedge Antilles, these novels take readers on a journey alongside Rogue Squadron and Wraith Squadron as they confront remnants of the Empire and grapple with personal challenges.
With a dynamic cast of characters and exhilarating dogfights, the X-Wing series celebrates the courage and resilience of ordinary individuals fighting for a noble cause.
The X-Wing series offers readers a fresh perspective on the Star Wars universe by focusing on the everyday heroes of the New Republic.
While the main saga often centers on the Jedi and their battles with the Sith, these novels delve into the lives of pilots who put their lives on the line in the cockpit of X-Wing starfighters.
This shift in focus allows for a deeper exploration of the struggles, sacrifices, and camaraderie of these unsung heroes.
By restoring these tales to the canon, the Star Wars universe gains a more comprehensive and relatable narrative, showcasing that heroism comes in many forms.
Wedge in the Spotlight
Wedge Antilles, a character often overlooked in the films, takes center stage in the X-Wing series.
As the leader of Rogue Squadron and later Wraith Squadron, Wedge exemplifies resilience and determination.
His leadership skills and unwavering dedication to the New Republic serve as an inspiration to both his fellow pilots and readers alike.
Reintroducing Wedge and his squadron’s exploits into the canon would provide a well-deserved opportunity to explore the character’s depth and significance in the larger Star Wars narrative.
The Cast
One of the strengths of the X-Wing series is its diverse and engaging ensemble of characters.
From the charismatic Corran Horn to the unorthodox tactics of Wraith Squadron, each member brings a unique perspective and backstory to the table.
These characters face personal challenges, forge deep connections, and evolve throughout the series, making them relatable and endearing.
Making It Canon Again
Their inclusion in the canon would enrich the Star Wars universe with a broader array of personalities and experiences.
At the heart of the X-Wing series are the exhilarating dogfights that capture the essence of Star Wars space battles.
These gripping aerial skirmishes not only serve as a testament to the bravery of the pilots but also offer readers an immersive and pulse-pounding experience.
Coupled with personal challenges and moral dilemmas faced by the characters, the series explores the human side of the conflict, making it more emotionally resonant and thought-provoking.
By refocusing the narrative on the unsung heroes of the New Republic and providing a platform for characters like Wedge Antilles to shine, these novels offer a unique and vital perspective.
Restoring these Expanded Universe tales to the Star Wars canon would not only deepen the galaxy far, far away but also pay homage to the courage and resilience of those who fought for freedom in a galaxy torn by war.
It’s time to soar once again with the heroes of Rogue Squadron and Wraith Squadron and rediscover the untold adventures that make the Star Wars universe so enduringly captivating.
Dark Empire Comic Series
The Dark Empire comic series stands as a bold exploration of the post-Return of the Jedi era.
The Backstory
Set six years after the iconic events of the original trilogy, it delves into the audacious resurrection of Emperor Palpatine and Luke Skywalker’s relentless battle against the seductive allure of the dark side.
With its visually stunning artwork and its ability to push the boundaries of the Force, the Dark Empire saga not only tested the resolve of our beloved characters but also challenged the very essence of the Star Wars narrative.
While bringing it into alignment with the established canon might require some creative adjustments, the Dark Empire storyline presents an irresistible opportunity for epic visuals and profound character development within the Star Wars universe.
Somehow, Palpatine Returns
One of the most striking elements of the Dark Empire series is the resurrection of Emperor Palpatine.
The audacity of bringing back this iconic villain is a testament to the series’ willingness to challenge conventions.
Palpatine’s return, enabled by Sith alchemy and clones, adds a layer of complexity to the conflict, forcing both characters and readers to confront the enduring power of the dark side. While the concept of Palpatine’s return has been explored differently in the sequel trilogy, the Dark Empire storyline provides an alternate and equally captivating perspective.
Luke’s Struggle
At the heart of the this Expanded Universe saga is Luke Skywalker’s internal struggle against the temptations of the dark side.
This nuanced exploration of a beloved character’s vulnerability adds depth to Luke’s journey, as he grapples with the shadow of his own potential fall.
His internal conflict and determination to resist the dark side create a compelling character arc that resonates with fans.
Making It Canon Again
Incorporating this aspect of Luke’s character into the canon could further enrich the legacy of the Jedi and their ongoing battle with the Sith.
The Dark Empire comics take the Force to new and visually stunning heights. From massive Force storms to the revelation of ancient Sith powers, the series showcases the limitless potential of the Force.
These displays of power challenge our understanding of what’s possible in the Star Wars universe and add a sense of mysticism and wonder to the narrative. Reintroducing these Force concepts into the canon would expand the lore and offer fresh avenues for storytelling.
The Dark Empire comics are known for their visually striking artwork, capturing the grandeur and scale of the Star Wars galaxy.
The epic space battles, intricate lightsaber duels, and cosmic landscapes provide a feast for the eyes.
Moreover, the series delves into the inner workings of characters like Leia, Han, and Chewbacca, offering readers a chance to see their favorite heroes evolve in the face of daunting challenges.
These elements make the Dark Empire storyline a treasure trove of potential for cinematic adaptation or animated series that could captivate both longtime fans and newcomers.
It may require some creative adjustments to align with established canon, its potential for epic visuals and intense character development is undeniable.
This saga invites us to explore the boundaries of the Force, the resilience of our favorite characters, and the enduring struggle between light and dark in a galaxy far, far away.
It’s time to consider the resurrection of the Dark Empire storyline as a captivating addition to the ever-expanding Star Wars narrative.
Read on Amazon Comixology.
Darth Plagueis by James Luceno
This gripping narrative delves deep into the sinister backstory of Darth Sidious and his enigmatic master, Darth Plagueis, shedding light on the inner workings of the Sith, their dark side practices, and the mysterious nature of the Force.
Reintroducing it into the Star Wars universe holds the potential to unearth the origins of the Sith, enrich their lore, and add layers of depth and complexity to the galaxy far, far away.
Additionally, the adaptation of Darth Plagueis could serve as a catalyst, inspiring a wealth of new novels, comics, video games, and even movies set in the era of Darth Plagueis, offering fresh content for fans and promising substantial revenue opportunities through merchandising and expanded media.
Sith Lore
Darth Plagueis is a treasure trove of Sith history and lore.
It delves into the mysterious origins of the Sith lineage, offering insights into their ancient traditions, dark side practices, and their insatiable thirst for power.
Reintroducing this novel would allow Star Wars enthusiasts to explore the roots of the Sith Order, tracing its evolution through the ages.
This exploration could unveil previously untold stories of Sith lords, their rise to power, and their relentless pursuit of dominance in the galaxy.
The Force
One of the most intriguing aspects of “Darth Plagueis” is its exploration of the Force itself.
The novel delves into the esoteric aspects of the Force, uncovering its intricate interplay with life, death, and the machinations of the Sith.
By reintroducing this book, the Star Wars universe could invite fans to delve deeper into the metaphysical aspects of the Force, expanding their understanding of this central, enigmatic element of the series.
The reintroduction of Darth Plagueis into the Star Wars canon would be more than a mere addition; it would be a significant enrichment.
The expanded Sith lore, the intricate backstory of Darth Plagueis and Sidious, and the deeper insights into the Force could add layers of depth and complexity to the Star Wars universe.
This would, in turn, enhance the storytelling potential across various media platforms, offering a wealth of opportunities for writers, artists, and filmmakers to explore uncharted territories within the galaxy.
Making It Canon Again
Adapting Darth Plagueis could be the catalyst for a renaissance of Sith-related content.
The novel could serve as a launchpad for new novels, comics, video games, and even movies set in the era of Darth Plagueis.
Fans would eagerly devour stories featuring Sith lords, Jedi conflicts, and the intricate web of politics and power.
This expanded media would not only cater to existing fans but also attract new audiences, ensuring the longevity of the franchise.
Expanding the Star Wars universe with Darth Plagueis at its core could be a lucrative venture.
New characters, starships, and planets introduced through these stories could become merchandise goldmines.
Collectibles, action figures, apparel, and other merchandise inspired by this expanded lore would not only appeal to devoted fans but also attract a broader consumer base, driving significant revenue for the franchise.
Reintroducing Darth Plagueis to the Star Wars canon is more than just revisiting a beloved novel; it’s an opportunity to unlock the secrets of the Sith, delve deeper into the nature of the Force, and enrich the Star Wars universe with untold stories and experiences.
By embracing this expanded lore, the franchise can inspire new generations of fans and creators, ensuring that the galaxy far, far away continues to thrive and evolve while offering lucrative opportunities for merchandise and revenue generation.
It’s time to unveil the shadows and let Darth Plagueis rise again.
Buy on Amazon.
Shadows of the Empire
Shadows of the Empire stands as a unique and unforgettable multimedia project within the Star Wars universe.
The Backstory
Released during a time when the original trilogy had seemingly concluded, this Expanded Universe ambitious endeavor filled the narrative gap between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.
It comprised a novel, comic books, and a video game, weaving a captivating storyline that delved into the criminal underworld and the heroic struggles of familiar faces like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Chewbacca to rescue Han Solo.
This project introduced new characters, including Dash Rendar and Prince Xizor, and unveiled a villainous organization known as Black Sun. For many fans who experienced it during its initial release, Shadows of the Empire holds a special place in their hearts.
The period between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi has long been a point of intrigue for Star Wars fans.
Shadows of the Empire addressed this narrative gap, providing essential context for the events leading up to the rescue of Han Solo from the clutches of Jabba the Hutt.
By reintroducing this multimedia project into the canon, Lucasfilm can offer fans a comprehensive and seamless storytelling experience, bridging the events of the two films and expanding upon the characters’ journeys during this crucial time.
The Cast
Shadows of the Empire introduced a host of memorable characters and organizations that have left a lasting impact on the Star Wars mythos.
Dash Rendar, a charismatic and resourceful smuggler, quickly became a fan favorite. Prince Xizor, the enigmatic and cunning leader of the criminal organization Black Sun, added depth to the Star Wars underworld.
Making It Canon Again
Reintegrating these characters and organizations into the canon would not only please long-time fans but also provide fresh storytelling opportunities, allowing for their continued development and exploration in various forms of media.
Shadows of the Empire holds a special place in the hearts of fans who were captivated by its multimedia approach during its initial release.
Reintroducing this project into the Star Wars canon would tap into the nostalgia of those fans, igniting excitement and anticipation.
Long-time enthusiasts would eagerly embrace the return of Dash Rendar, Prince Xizor, and the intricate web of the criminal underworld.
This excitement could serve as a catalyst for engagement, drawing fans back into the Star Wars universe and keeping their passion alive.
While Shadows of the Empire would reintroduce familiar elements, it also presents an opportunity to expand and enrich the Star Wars universe with new stories.
Canonized versions of the novel, comics, and video game could explore untold adventures, character arcs, and plot developments that enhance the overall narrative tapestry.
Shadows of the Empire could also answer long-standing questions and provide new insights into pivotal moments in the Star Wars saga, such as the rescue of Han Solo.
By revisiting and expanding upon the project’s storyline, Lucasfilm can deepen the canon and provide fans with a more comprehensive understanding of the characters and events that shape the galaxy far, far away.
Reintroducing the Expanded Universe Shadows of the Empire into the Star Wars canon is an opportunity to rekindle the magic of a multimedia masterpiece that has left a lasting legacy.
By embracing this project, Lucasfilm can not only tap into the nostalgia of long-time fans but also attract new ones, creating excitement and engagement within the fan base.
Moreover, it allows for the seamless integration of an intriguing narrative gap and offers a chance to delve deeper into the captivating characters and organizations introduced in the original project.
Read the novel on Kindle.
Read the comic as part of a Comixology subscription.
Play the video game on Nintendo 64.
Republic Commando series
This Expanded Universe series takes a unique approach, focusing on a squad of elite clone troopers known as Delta Squad and delving into their experiences during the tumultuous era of the Clone Wars.
The Backstory
Beyond the pulse-pounding action, the Republic Commando series tackles profound themes of loyalty, identity, and the moral complexities that arise in the crucible of war.
Reestablishing this series as canon within the Star Wars universe opens the door to exciting opportunities for cross-media integration, offering the potential to reference or incorporate Republic Commando elements into other Star Wars projects, from films and TV shows to books and comics.
The Republic Commando series distinguishes itself by zooming in on the lives of clone troopers, particularly the members of Delta Squad.
Clone Empathy
Unlike the larger battles and epic narratives of the main saga, this series offers an intimate and personal perspective on the Clone Wars.
By focusing on the experiences of these elite soldiers, the series humanizes the clones, emphasizing their individuality, camaraderie, and struggles in the face of a galaxy-consuming conflict.
Beneath the action-packed surface, the Republic Commando series explores profound themes that resonate with fans on a deep level.
Questions of loyalty—both to one’s comrades and to a cause—form a central theme, as do issues of identity and self-discovery in a world of clones.
The moral complexities of war are examined through the lens of Delta Squad’s experiences, challenging traditional notions of good and evil.
Making It Canon Again
Reincorporating this series into the canon allows for a continued exploration of these themes, offering thought-provoking storytelling for both existing and new fans.
One of the greatest strengths of the Star Wars franchise is its ability to tell stories across various forms of media.
Reestablishing the Republic Commando series as canon would enable seamless cross-media integration. Elements from the series could be referenced or incorporated into other Star Wars projects, creating a more interconnected and immersive universe.
For example, characters or events from Republic Commando could appear in films, TV shows, books, or comics, offering fans a deeper and more cohesive narrative experience.
The reintroduction of the Republic Commando series opens up exciting opportunities for expanded storytelling within the Star Wars universe.
New novels, comics, and video games could be developed, either continuing the adventures of Delta Squad or exploring other aspects of the Clone Wars era. The series could also serve as a source of inspiration for creators, leading to the exploration of fresh narratives and characters that enrich the canon.
The Republic Commando series has left an indelible mark on the Star Wars franchise, offering a unique and intimate perspective on the Clone Wars and the lives of clone troopers.
By reestablishing this series as canon, Lucasfilm can tap into the potential for cross-media integration, allowing elements from Republic Commando to weave seamlessly into other Star Wars projects.
Play on PlayStation.
Play on Xbox.
Read.
Tales of the Jedi
In the vast and storied tapestry of the Star Wars universe, the Tales of the Jedi comic book series stands as a mesmerizing exploration of the ancient history that predates the events of the films by thousands of years.
Yes, there is currently an animated series titled Tales of the Jedi, but it’s completely different from the comics.
The Backstory
This series delves deep into the primordial epochs of the galaxy, uncovering the ancient conflicts that shaped the foundations of the Jedi Order and the Sith.
It introduces readers to epic battles, iconic characters like Nomi Sunrider and Ulic Qel-Droma, and narratives that provide vital context to the Star Wars mythos.
The events chronicled in Tales of the Jedi serve as a critical bridge between the distant past and the familiar events of the films, offering fans a comprehensive understanding of the rich history that underpins the Star Wars galaxy.
Deeper into the Force
This Expanded Universe series provides a captivating glimpse into a time long before the rise of the Skywalker saga.
It immerses readers in the uncharted territories of the Force, exploring the earliest days of the Jedi Order and the nascent Sith.
By reestablishing this series within the official canon, Star Wars enthusiasts gain access to an intriguing and unexplored chapter of the galaxy’s history, enhancing their understanding of the mythology that surrounds the Force and its practitioners.
Within the pages of Tales of the Jedi, epic conflicts unfold that rival the grandeur of the films.
Battles between Jedi and Sith, fueled by the raw power of the Force, captivate readers with their intensity and complexity.
The series introduces unforgettable characters like Nomi Sunrider and Ulic Qel-Droma, whose destinies are intricately woven into the fabric of the Star Wars lore.
Making It Canon Again
Reincorporating these characters and their stories into the canon not only honors their legacy but also provides a wealth of storytelling potential for future Star Wars projects.
The Tales of the Jedi series serves as a repository of knowledge for the origins and early history of the Jedi Order and the Sith.
It sheds light on the emergence of Jedi philosophy, the first lightsabers, and the formation of the Sith as a dark and formidable adversary.
These pivotal moments are instrumental in shaping the ideologies, beliefs, and practices of both the Jedi and the Sith throughout the millennia.
By making Tales of the Jedi canon, the Star Wars universe gains a more comprehensive foundation, allowing fans to appreciate the profound evolution of these iconic factions.
Incorporating Tales of the Jedi into the official canon provides fans with a deeper understanding of the Star Wars mythos.
It connects the dots between the ancient past and the present, offering insights into the enduring struggles of the Force, the cycles of light and dark, and the indomitable spirit of the Jedi.
This expansion of the canon enriches the storytelling potential of the Star Wars universe, opening avenues for new narratives and characters while maintaining fidelity to the core lore.
Tales of the Jedi is a treasure trove of ancient history within the Star Wars galaxy, offering readers an unparalleled journey into the past of the Jedi Order and the Sith.
Reincorporating this Expanded Universe series into the official canon not only honors its significance but also enriches the Star Wars mythos with epic conflicts, iconic characters, and the origins of the Force’s most influential practitioners.
Exploring this Expanded Universe era in the canon is an opportunity to deepen the understanding of the Star Wars universe, bridging the gap between the ancient past and the iconic events of the films while inviting fans to embark on new adventures in a galaxy far, far away.
Darth Bane trilogy by Drew Karpyshyn
The legacy of Darth Bane, one of the most enigmatic and compelling figures in the Star Wars Expanded Universe, unfolds across the pages of three books: Path of Destruction, Rule of Two, and Dynasty of Evil.
The Backstory
Bane’s journey from a humble miner named Dessel to the Sith Lord who established the Rule of Two is a narrative masterpiece within Star Wars literature.
At its core, the Rule of Two dictates that there can only be two Sith at any given time: a master and an apprentice.
This concept has been subtly referenced in canon material, most notably in Episode I: The Phantom Menace.
Bane’s transformation, driven by an insatiable thirst for power and knowledge, offers a unique perspective on the dark side of the Force.
By reintroducing these books into Star Wars canon, we have the opportunity to delve into the complex and morally ambiguous nature of the Sith, enriching our understanding of their origins and motivations.
Darth Bane’s journey, as depicted in the trilogy of novels, is a captivating exploration of the transformation from a downtrodden miner to a Sith Lord of immense power and influence.
His path is marked by trials, betrayals, and the relentless pursuit of mastery over the dark side of the Force.
The depth and complexity of Bane’s character arc resonate deeply with readers, making his story one of the most intriguing in Star Wars literature.
Reestablishing these books as canon allows fans to once again immerse themselves in the narrative brilliance of Darth Bane’s saga.
The Rule of Two
At the heart of Darth Bane’s legacy is the Rule of Two, a doctrine that has profound implications for the Sith Order and the balance of power in the galaxy.
This philosophy dictates that there can only be two Sith at any given time: a master to embody the power of the dark side and an apprentice to crave it.
Bane’s conviction that this approach would strengthen the Sith by preventing infighting and dilution of power forms the foundation of the Rule of Two.
While subtly alluded to in canon material, the trilogy of books offers a more detailed and nuanced exploration of this doctrine.
Making It Canon Again
Reincorporating these novels into canon would solidify the Rule of Two’s significance within the Star Wars narrative.
Darth Bane’s story provides a unique perspective on the complex and morally ambiguous nature of the Sith.
It challenges conventional notions of good and evil, shedding light on the motivations and inner conflicts that drive individuals down the path of darkness.
Bane’s unquenchable thirst for power and knowledge, as well as his ruthlessness, invites readers to question the boundaries of the Force and the cost of wielding its dark side.
By bringing these Expanded Universe books back into canon, Star Wars can explore the multifaceted aspects of the Sith, offering a deeper and more nuanced understanding of their origins and motivations.
The reintroduction of the Darth Bane trilogy into Star Wars canon enriches our understanding of the galaxy far, far away.
It allows fans to delve into the intricate web of Sith lore, philosophy, and ambition, while also providing a platform for creators to further explore the Rule of Two’s impact on the Sith and the greater Star Wars narrative.
Ultimately, this expansion of the canon offers an opportunity to dive into the complex, morally gray world of the Sith, adding depth and dimension to the Star Wars universe and reigniting the fascination with one of its most iconic and enigmatic figures, Darth Bane.
Conclusion
The Expanded Universe holds a special place in the hearts of many Star Wars fans.
Reimagining these stories within the current canon would not only honor the rich history of Star Wars storytelling but also provide fresh avenues for exploration and satisfy the cravings of die-hard fans.
As the Star Wars galaxy continues to expand, embracing the Expanded Universe’s legacy could bring about a wave of excitement and nostalgia that spans generations.
