New fans of Star Wars will agree with me when I say that the entirety of the saga can get overwhelming. The lore is massive, and sometimes you just have to ask yourself, “Where do I start?”
After you’re done with the movies and the animated series, you can jump in with the comics. Unlike books, comics will guide you through the story with the visuals and familiarize you with the new settings and characters.
Whether it’s part of legends or canon, the titles below are guaranteed to be some of the best comic book series in the Star Wars arsenal.
Quick Navigation
- Top 3 Star Wars Comics
- Best Star Wars Comics
- 1. Star Wars: Darth Vader (Canon)
- 2. Star Wars: Doctor Aphra (Canon)
- 3. Star Wars – 2015 (Canon)
- 4. Star Wars: Legacy (Legends)
- 5. Star Wars: Poe Dameron (Canon)
- 6. Star Wars: Kanan (Canon)
- 7. Star Wars: Princess Leia (Canon)
- 8. Star Wars: Lando (Canon)
- 9. Star Wars: Obi-Wan & Anakin (Canon)
- 10. Star Wars: Jedi of the Republic – Mace Windu (Canon)
- 11. Star Wars Infinities (Epic Collection) (Legends)
- 12. Star Wars: Chewbacca – 2015 (Canon)
- 13. Star Wars: Dark Empire Trilogy (Legends)
- 14. Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy – 2018 (Canon)
- 15. Star Wars: Han Solo Collection (Canon)
- 16. Star Wars Omnibus: X-Wing Rogue Squadron (Legends)
- 17. Star Wars: Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Shattered Empire (Canon)
- 18. Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi – The Golden Age of the Sith (Legends)
- 19. Star Wars Tales (Legends)
- 20. Star Wars: Jedi – Aayla Secura – Issue 3 (Legends)
- Final thoughts…
Top 3 Star Wars Comics
Best Star Wars Comics
All comic books below tell great stories whether it’s canon or legends.
1. Star Wars: Darth Vader (Canon)
Written by Kieron Gillen; illustrated by Salvador Larocca
This comic series is relatively new as it was first published by Marvel in 2015. The last publication was made in 2016, with a total of 25 issues.
While, in the comic world, this isn’t an impressive number, they have undoubtedly made up for it with the astounding story-telling and terrific illustrations.
Darth Vader needs no introduction, his character has become an icon for many years. His popularity hasn’t died down since 1977, so it’s no surprise that this comic book series is loved.
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2. Star Wars: Doctor Aphra (Canon)
Written by Kieron Gillen and Simon Spurrier; illustrated by Kev Walker
Again, this fantastic comic is published by Marvel, so it’s considered canon. To clarify the timeline, this story is set in between A New Hope and Empire Strikes Back.
While we’re familiar with what’s going on in these movies, the protagonist is unfamiliar and exciting.
The comic covers the adventures of Doctor Chelli Lona Aphra, a rogue archaeologist, and of course, her two droid sidekicks.
The comic ended with the 40th issue, but because of its popularity, a relaunch is said to be in the works.
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3. Star Wars – 2015 (Canon)
Written by Jason Aaron; illustrated by John Cassaday
The writer, Jason Aaron, is an award-winning comic book writer. When you read this comic series, you’ll understand why he’s deserving of an award.
Lately, Marvel has been publishing hit after hit, and it truly reflects in their sales and customer feedback.
Old and new Star Wars fans enjoy this comic series because of how accurate the characters are.
On top of that, nostalgia hits in when you open the comic book and see the familiar opening text.
While familiarity is key, they also introduce new aspects and parts of the universe without making it feel forced.
Last November 2019, the comic concluded with its 75th issue. A relaunch was released last January 1, 2020, and it’s ongoing.
While the top two are said to be the best, I recommend that you grab this comic first!
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4. Star Wars: Legacy (Legends)
Written by John Ostrander; illustrated by Jan Duursema
Back in 2006, the first issues of Legacy were published and released by Dark Horse Comics. In 2010, it was completed with the 50th issue.
As an adult fan, I find myself turning more toward legends because it better suits my taste. If you’re like me, Legacy is going to be an enjoyable read.
The story takes place 150 years after A New Hope. The lead protagonist is Cade Skywalker, a bounty hunter and ex-Padawan.
The term Legacy is a straightforward reference to his Skywalker name. With this name, he grapples with good and bad.
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5. Star Wars: Poe Dameron (Canon)
Written by Charles Soule; illustrated by Phil Noto
Among my favorite comics are the ones dedicated to characters. I wasn’t too interested in Poe’s character at first but this graphic novel changed that.
There’s a negative connotation that’s attached to the final three movies. However, if you’re willing to tuck that prejudice away, this comic book is a good read.
I’m not going to comment on the sequel trilogy but let’s just say that this comic book has given more insight about The Force Awakens.
Follow the resistance, Poe Dameron, and the X-Wing squadron through 31 action-packed issues.
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6. Star Wars: Kanan (Canon)
Written by Greg Weisman; illustrated by Pepe Larraz
The Star Wars universe is rich with numerous interesting characters. For instance, Kanan Jarrus, the hero of this comic was not featured in the films.
However, he was in The Clone Wars, Rebels, video games, and books. The cherry on top would be this graphic novel dedicated to him.
Through 12 issues, you’ll know more about Kanan’s adventures as a Padawan, how he became a Jedi, his escape during Order 66, and his battle with General Grievous.
This is unmistakably one of the best comic books that flesh out a beloved character to a T.
It also links events between Clone Wars and Rebels. So if you’re a fan of those animated shows, you’ll be delighted with this graphic novel!
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7. Star Wars: Princess Leia (Canon)
Written by Mark Waid; illustrated by Terry Dodson
Now that Star Wars is part of Disney, I have the pleasure to say that Princess Leia is my favorite Disney princess. To be honest, she’s my favorite character in the whole Star Wars franchise.
So you can guess how much I’m going to rave about this graphic novel. If you adore the Alderaan princess just as I do, you won’t need much convincing to read this comic.
The story gives her character more dimension. It allows the reader to get into her headspace, especially with the grief of the loss of her home planet and everyone in it.
In the movies, we don’t see much of this since it was fast-paced. However, in this comic book, you’ll be able to see more about her true feelings and character.
Marvel Comics published this 5-issue series. It’ll be a breeze to read, so it’s perfect for anyone who wants to read casually.
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8. Star Wars: Lando (Canon)
Written by Charles Soule; illustrated by Alex Maleev
Just like the Princess Leia comic, this is also a 5-issue miniseries published by Marvel Comics. As a well-known and cherished character, I understand the demand of releasing more material about Lando.
This series covers his adventures before he was a leader in Cloud City. It’s a thrilling action-adventure about his plans to steal ships, and getting away from trackers!
Whatever it is, we know that Lando’s debonair character can make any story entertaining.
However, even with such a suave protagonist, you’ll be glad to know that it’s the storyline that stood out the most. It’s solid writing and also introduces side-stories to keep things more exciting!
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9. Star Wars: Obi-Wan & Anakin (Canon)
Written by Charles Soule; illustrated by Marco Checchetto
You may have noticed that Charles Soule is consistent in writing well-received stories such as Poe Dameron and Lando.
This miniseries is also published under Marvel Comics. Again, there are 5 issues but it’s the quality that counts.
Speaking of quality, the story for this one is “most impressive,” as one Star Wars fan pointed out.
The setting is between Episode 1 and 2, and the story is about Obi-Wan and Anakin’s mission on Carnelion IV.
I’m sure there’s immense pressure in writing about such an iconic duo like Obi-Wan and Anakin.
Their complicated and dynamic relationship and its contribution to the mission makes for a fascinating read.
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10. Star Wars: Jedi of the Republic – Mace Windu (Canon)
Written by Matt Owens; illustrated by Danys Cowan
This 5-issue miniseries published by Marvel Comics is all about Mace Windu. This Jedi master is one of the strongest Jedi.
His purple lightsaber has caused him to be a recognizable character in the movies. Of course, being played by Samuel L. Jackson helps, too.
This graphic novel is set after Episode II, and it’s centered on Mace Windu. This comic gave him more background and enriched his character further.
Again, these character-driven comic books are doing us a favor when it comes to making our beloved characters more believable and human.
Anyway, the story is about how Mace Windu, along with his fellow Jedi go on a mission. In between the main story, we see snippets of Mace Windu as a Padawan, too.
Overall, it’s about Mace Windu and that’s probably the only convincing you’ll need.
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11. Star Wars Infinities (Epic Collection) (Legends)
Written by Chris Warner, David Land, Adam Gallardo, and J.W. Rinzler
Illustrated by Nick Runge, Drew Johnson, Al Rio, Davidé Fabbri, and others
The Epic Collection is a compilation of all the 21 issues under Star Wars Infinities. Marvel Comics published this comic but it’s considered to be part of legends rather than canon.
I think Epic Collections are great options for new readers as it provides you with the complete series. You won’t have to scour the internet or your local bookstores to find the next issues!
This graphic novel delves into the various possibilities of the original Star Wars trilogy. Perhaps in another dimension where our favorite heroes weren’t able to execute their plans as well as they did in canon.
Playing on these alternate possibilities shows us a different perspective on what could have happened to the entire galaxy.
The collection includes the following issues:
- Star Wars Infinities: A New Hope (1-4)
- Star Wars Infinities: The Empire Strikes Back (1-4)
- Star Wars Infinities: Return of the Jedi (1-4)
- The Star Wars (0-8)
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12. Star Wars: Chewbacca – 2015 (Canon)
Written by Gerry Duggan; illustrated by Phil Noto
Everyone’s favorite Wookie warrior has his miniseries! To be honest, I don’t think there’s any fan out there who doesn’t like Chewie.
With 5 issues, you can get more of Chewbacca’s adventures. He’s not just a co-pilot in this comic, he’s the central protagonist!
The story revolves around him crashing on an Imperial planet. He ends up trying to help a young girl while he tries to return to the rebellion.
In comparison to the serious backdrop of the rest of the Star Wars story, this comic is a little more casual but still very enjoyable!
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13. Star Wars: Dark Empire Trilogy (Legends)
Written by Tom Veitch; illustrated by Jim Baikie and Cam Kennedy
Another recommendation from legends would be the Dark Empire Trilogy collection. There are 14 issues in total, and a handbook included in this compilation.
This story is set 6 years after the Return of the Jedi. If you remember, the Empire was supposed to have fallen by that time.
However, it seems that a new leader has come forth and Leia and Han have to deal with the situation. On the other hand, Luke struggles with the temptations of the dark side.
This is a great story that permeates with the common Star Wars themes that we’re all familiar with.
However, what sets it apart would be the unique art style. The darkness of the illustrations intensifies the grimness of the situation.
Most readers have given this quite a high rating. Without a doubt, this is a great comic that can pull you in.
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14. Star Wars: The Thrawn Trilogy – 2018 (Canon)
Adapted by Jody Houser; illustrated by Luke Ross
The Thrawn trilogy is number one in our list for best Star Wars books. It’s even number one on many other websites.
Not all of us are fans of novels, and there’s nothing wrong with that! Different media exist for different tastes.
If you want to enjoy Thrawn’s story but you’re not a fan of reading novels, then I highly recommend picking up this novel.
This centers on Grand Admiral Thrawn’s story. Although he’s on the side of the Empire, you’ll find yourself on his side as the story moves along.
I like how they give the enemy a more complex characterization. They also do so in a way that’s engaging and not just internal.
One drawback is that new fans who might not be familiar with Thrawn might have a difficult time following the story.
However, if you’re already familiar, this story is fascinating, gripping, and an excellently illustrated comic is a great read for fans.
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15. Star Wars: Han Solo Collection (Canon)
Written by Marjorie Liu and Jason Aaron; illustrated by Mark Brooks
You can’t make a mini-series for Chewie and forget Han Solo, right? We all know Marvel wouldn’t forget this unforgettable scoundrel.
This collection has 5 issues and it covers Han’s mission as a rebel. As exciting as this sounds, throw in a starship race to the mix!
If this hasn’t piqued your interest, they even added a mysterious female character from his past.
If you’re curious, I urge you to read this comic. The story and art are both fantastic.
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16. Star Wars Omnibus: X-Wing Rogue Squadron (Legends)
Written by Michael A. Stackpole, Darko Macan, Jan Strnad, Scott Tolson, Mike W. Barr
Illustrated by Haden Blackman
This comic is volume 1 of the X-Wing Rogue Squadron. It’s a collection of several issues in the comic series.
Wedge Antilles was only briefly featured in the movies. However, he was also in the TV series Rebels and a few novels.
I’ve always been curious about his character since characters aren’t just shown in films for no reason. I thought, there must be an awesome story behind this pilot.
Well, this comic is exactly what I was looking for. Wedge is the primary hero of this series. He leads The Rogue Squadron, his team of starfighters who defend the New Republic!
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17. Star Wars: Journey to Star Wars: The Force Awakens – Shattered Empire (Canon)
Written by Greg Rucka; illustrated by Marco Checchetto
This is also another collection of the comic series Star Wars: Shattered Empire, Princess Leia, and the first issue of Marvel Star Wars comics from 1977.
The story is set after Star Wars Episode VI Return of the Jedi, right at the end of the Battle of Endor.
Even after the destruction of the second Death Star, traces of the Empire still exist. Join our favorite heroes as they wipe out the remaining pieces of the Empire.
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18. Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi – The Golden Age of the Sith (Legends)
Written by Kevin J. Anderson; illustrated by Christian Gossett
While I love the resistance, I’m more interested in the Jedi. Their past glory, history, power, and philosophies are mysterious and intriguing.
If you’re new to Star Wars legends, I think that this is a good series to start with. To be specific, this starts 5,000 years before Luke was born.
This story is about how the Koros system was united by Empress Teta. Of course, that isn’t the only plot.
It’s also the story of 2 young explorers, and a Jedi called Odan-Urr. Their paths cross and lead to misadventures and a fight between the Massassi warriors and Sith Lords.
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19. Star Wars Tales (Legends)
Written by various authors and illustrated by various artists
There are 6 volumes for the Star Wars Tales. All in all, there are 24 issues to read.
If you’re looking for a lengthier story, you should start reading this collection.
The characters are all familiar so there’s no fear of feeling lost about characters and their roles.
From the title itself, you can guess that it’s a collection of various stories featuring our favorite original Star Wars characters.
This comic is great for casual readers, too. I also like how different artists and authors present their views and their approaches to the art, and the story.
Here are all the volumes below:
- Star Wars Tales Volume 1
- Star Wars Tales Volume 2
- Star Wars Tales Volume 3
- Star Wars Tales Volume 4
- Star Wars Tales Volume 5
- Star Wars Tales Volume 6
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20. Star Wars: Jedi – Aayla Secura – Issue 3 (Legends)
Written by John Ostrander; illustrated by Jan Duuresema
Finally, we have the comic Star Wars: Jedi – Aayla Secura. This is, in fact, just one issue, and the whole series Star Wars: Jedi has 5 issues in total.
I included this third issue, “Aayla Secura” as the final comic book in this list because I don’t think she hasn’t gotten the limelight she deserved.
Other issues featured known Jedi such as Count Dooku, Yoda, and Shaak Ti. This gorgeous blue-skinned Jedi Master’s character is just as striking as her design.
In this comic, she fights against Aurra Sing, a Jedi Killer. Get ready to be blown away by Aayla’s skill as a fighter and a Jedi Master!
Other titles in the Star Wars: Jedi series:
- Star Wars: Jedi - Mace Windu (2003) (Star Wars: Jedi (2003-2004))
- Star Wars: Jedi - Shaak Ti (2003) (Star Wars: Jedi (2003-2004))
- Star Wars: Jedi - Count Dooku (2003) (Star Wars: Jedi (2003-2004))
- Star Wars: Jedi - Yoda (2004) (Star Wars: Jedi (2003-2004))
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Final thoughts…
Remember when Obi-Wan said to Anakin, “Only the Sith deal in absolutes”? Just like any story, our preferences for the “best” will all depend on various factors.
Whether it’s art styles, storytelling, or characters, we all have our tastes.
Still, with so many possibilities and plots in Star Wars, it’s a good idea to keep an open mind when picking up any comic book.
Take your pick, you might be surprised!
Last update on 2020-07-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.