Darklighter, Part 1: Empire 8 represents the eighth installment of the Star Wars: Empire comic book series. Dark Horse Comics released it to the public on May 21, 2003.
Most people recall the moment in A New Hope when Biggs Darklighter makes the ultimate sacrifice while attacking the Death Star with valor. However, a lesser-known fact is that Luke and Biggs were close companions since childhood, prior to that critical engagement. Actually, Luke aspired to accompany Biggs to the Imperial Academy. Nevertheless, Biggs' experiences with the Empire motivate him to evolve into a pioneering champion of the Rebellion.
Paul Chadwick (Concrete), an Eisner and Harvey award recipient, is the writer, while Doug Wheatley (Superman: Last Son of Krypton) and Chris Chuckry, the colorist, contribute the impressive illustrations.