Star Wars Imperial Assault Heart of the Empire Expansion - Epic

In this review of the Heart of the Empire expansion for Imperial Assault, the bottom line is clear: this is an ideal purchase for players who already enjoy the core game and want a sprawling, replayable campaign on Coruscant. The expansion earns that recommendation by adding a globe-spanning set of missions, substantial miniatures, and mechanics that make both campaign and skirmish play feel fresh. The review focuses on campaign depth, new figures, and tactical battlefield changes so prospective buyers know what to expect before committing.

Key Features

• Globe-spanning campaign: A sixteen-mission campaign set across Coruscant delivers a long, narrative-driven experience for groups that enjoy multi-session play.
• New heroes and force user: Three additional heroes plus the Force user Ahsoka Tano expand party composition and open new tactical and narrative options.
• Expanded miniatures: Thirteen finely sculpted figures including an imposing AT-DP and baton-wielding riot troopers increase tactical variety on the board.
• Battlefield tokens: New energy shield and rubble tokens modify movement and cover, forcing players to rethink positioning and engagement choices.
• Card and token depth: Over 130 new cards plus new power tokens enhance customization and replayability for both campaign and skirmish modes.

Who It's For

This expansion is for veteran Imperial Assault groups and solo players who own the core box and want a larger, story-driven campaign set in the capital world. Players who value quality miniatures and mission variety will get the most out of the set, as the AT-DP and sentry droids add new threats and tactical considerations.

It is less suitable for someone who has not played the base game, since the expansion assumes familiarity with core rules and systems. Purchasers looking for a quick one-off board game session should look elsewhere; the expansion shines in extended campaigns and multiple play sessions.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Substantial campaign content gives long-term replay value and a compelling narrative thread.
• High-quality miniatures and sculpting improve immersion in both campaign and skirmish games.
• New tokens and cards meaningfully change tactics and add customization options.

Cons

• Requires the Imperial Assault core game to play and assumes familiarity with base mechanics.
• Assembly can be time-consuming for those concerned about miniature preparation.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Heart of the Empire is a strong expansion for groups who already enjoy Imperial Assault and want extended campaign depth, fresh tactical elements, and excellent miniatures. It is good value for players seeking more missions and variety, though it is best purchased by those who own and understand the base game.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the base game to play?
Yes, this is an expansion that requires the Imperial Assault core game to play.

How many new figures are included?
The expansion includes thirteen additional figures, highlighted by an AT-DP, riot troopers, and sentry droids.

Is the campaign replayable?
Yes, the sixteen-mission Coruscant campaign and the added cards and tokens increase replayability for campaign and skirmish modes.