Star Wars Dark Empire 5A Dark Horse Comics Rebirth Emperor Palpatine Darth Sidious

Delve into a pivotal moment of the Star Wars saga with Star Wars Dark Empire 5A Rebirth: Emperor Palpatine, Darth Sidious, and the enigmatic Jedi Holocron. This 1st printing edition brings to life a high-stakes chapter where Leia discovers that the Emperor holds hostage a powerful, intelligent artifact—the Jedi Holocron—while he tightens his grip on Luke Skywalker. With both the Holocron and Luke under his influence, the galaxy faces a threat unlike any before.

Why this edition stands out

• First printing status ensures this is a sought-after piece for serious collectors and fans of the era.
• Iconic creative lineup features Tom Veitch’s storytelling with Cam Kennedy’s painted artwork and a painted cover by Dave Dorman, delivering a distinctive, painterly look that set this run apart from contemporaries.
• Core Dark Empire moment centers on Leia’s confrontation with Palpatine and the discovery of the Jedi Holocron—an artifact whose intelligence and power drive the plot and reshape loyalties across the galaxy.
• Jedi Holocron concept introduces a sentient, knowledge-driven relic that amplifies Palpatine’s influence and raises the stakes for Luke, Leia, and the broader Star Wars narrative.
• Compact, yet impactful at 32 pages in full color (FC) with an original cover price of $2.95, this issue packs a dramatic arc into a single, collectible chapter.

What the story delivers

As Leia confronts the Emperor, she uncovers a weapon beyond a blaster or fleet—an artifact capable of bending minds and bending the future. Palpatine’s machinations threaten not only the Rebel cause but the very fabric of Luke’s journey, forcing him to confront the darkness within and around him. The combination of the Holocron’s intelligence and Palpatine’s manipulation creates tension, revelation, and a turning point that fans of the Dark Empire saga won’t want to miss.

Artistry that elevates the experience

Cam Kennedy’s painted interior art brings a moody, cinematic sensibility to every page, while Dave Dorman’s painted cover captures the looming menace and iconic characters in striking, collectible form. The result is a visually immersive entry in the Star Wars canon that rewards close reading and careful preservation.

Who should consider adding this to their collection

• Star Wars enthusiasts building a comprehensive Dark Empire collection, especially those chasing 1st printing editions.
• Collectors who value painted artwork and distinctive cover art as part of their display sleeves and grading potential.
• Readers who want a clear, consequential chapter in the Palpatine era—where control over Luke and Leia pivots the storyline.
• Gift buyers seeking a vintage Star Wars piece with notable creators and a standout plot twist.

Practical notes for fans and collectors

Original format is a 32-page, full-color issue with a classic print run showing early Dark Empire storytelling at its peak. To preserve its condition, store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and consider a protective sleeve with a backing board. Handling with clean hands helps maintain the integrity of the painted artwork and the cover.

In the broader Star Wars timeline

This edition marks a crucial intersection of Imperial power and Jedi mystery, expanding on how artifacts like the Jedi Holocron influence the balance of power. For readers revisiting the Dark Empire saga or newcomers tracing Palpatine’s long shadow, this issue provides a compact, high-impact experience that deepens the lore and foreshadows the empire’s ambitions.