The audio drama Dark Empire II presented a complete cast adaptation for audio of the Star Wars: Dark Empire II comic book series from Dark Horse Comics. John Whitman adapted it from the original work of Tom Veitch. Arthur G. Insana served as the director, and the production incorporated selections from John Williams's well-known score, enhanced by authentic stereo sound effects. Time Warner AudioBooks initially put out the adaptation on two cassettes back in 1995. HighBridge Audio later re-released it in August of 1997, and subsequently as a two-disc compact disc set on May 5 of 2005.
The Rebel Alliance battled and triumphed over the Empire's forces in Star Wars: Dark Empire, or so it seemed.
Now, Luke Skywalker is on a quest across the galaxy, seeking knowledge of the Jedi's past, while Han and Leia guide the Rebel Alliance against a frightening new menace. A group of "Dark Jedi" are executing the Emperor's final directive: Operation Shadow Hand, a catastrophic scheme orchestrated by the most dangerous dark side intellect.
- The dialogue is generally more expansive.
- Shug Ninx, Mako Spince, R2-D2, C3PO, and Lando are absent.
- Before Luke redeems Kam from the dark side, Kam Solusar and Luke Skywalker engage in a duel.
- A new scene depicts Wedge ensuring the X-1 Viper Automadon droids are transported safely.
- The sequence set in the Duros sector is omitted; instead, the Millennium Falcon proceeds directly to Salla's repair shop.
- Luke uses his lightsaber, rather than a blaster, to destroy the probe droid on Ossus.
- Rayf Ysanna doesn't become a Jedi alongside Luke.
- ISBN 9781570423093 ; 1995 ; Time Warner Audio Publishing; Cassette [3]
- ISBN 9781565112018 ; August , 1997 ; HighBridge Audio ; Compact disc [4]
- ISBN 9781565119727 ; May 5 , 2005 ; HighBridge Audio; Compact disc [1]