Star Wars: Agent of the Empire: Hard Targets #5B (Dark Horse Comics 2013)

Star Wars: Agent of the Empire: Hard Targets #5B (Dark Horse Comics, 2013) plunges you into a high-stakes pursuit across the stars. Everyone—from seasoned hunters to infamous bounty hunters—has their eye on a young Count Dooku, turning a tense rescue mission into a galaxy-spanning chase. As Cross and the Count’s loyal security guard fight to get the boy to safety, they are surrounded by enemies, with the formidable Boba Fett among those who want him stopped.

Creative team: John Ostrander writes a tight, character-driven thriller while Davide Fabbri and Christian Dalla Vecchia deliver kinetic, immersive artwork that captures the grit of Imperial intrigue and the danger of a hunter’s world. This issue features a special variant cover by Wes Dziboa and Stéphane Roux, making it a standout addition for collectors.

• What makes this issue unique: A rare glimpse into the Shadow Empire era, focusing on Cross’s evolution from a man with the Empire’s backing to a streetwise survivor relying on grit and skill rather than authority.
• Rich storytelling for Star Wars fans: Beyond action, this installment deepens the lore around Agent of the Empire, Count Dooku’s early life, and the dangerous lattice of loyalties that define the universe’s underworld.
• Artistic integrity you can feel: Fabbri’s linework paired with Dalla Vecchia’s color work brings the chase to visceral life, from tense standoffs to dynamic battle sequences.
• Collectible appeal: A 2013 Dark Horse release with a sought-after variant cover, perfect for fans who value both storytelling depth and premium presentation.
• Edition details: Issue is Hard Targets #5B, with a cover price of $2.99.

This is a must-read for devoted Star Wars readers who crave character-driven missions set against the empire’s shadowy operations, as well as collectors aiming to complete the Hard Targets arc. If you’re building a Star Wars comics library, this issue stands out for its blend of tense narrative, era-specific atmosphere, and standout artwork.