In 1996, Kenner boldly launched a new galactic adventure. Their daring toy line thrust fans into the shadowy space between two iconic Star Wars films - The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. Based on Steve Perry's novel Shadows of the Empire, this was an epic tale just waiting to be told through plastic and imagination. 

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Kenner unleashed a fleet of vehicles and a legion of detailed action figures, bringing characters like Dash Rendar and Prince Xizor off the pages and into the hands of fans. Kids could now continue the saga on their own terms, creating new missions for the heroes and villains. No longer confined to the movies, they took control of the Star Wars galaxy.

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This was a landmark moment for Star Wars lore. Kenner's Shadows of the Empire line opened up new frontiers for storytelling and play. The toys were more than just merchandise - they were the spark for adventures limited only by the power of imagination. Even today, these classic designs and characters from Shadows of the Empire still capture the thrill of expanding the saga into new and uncharted territory.