Star Wars - Shadows of the Empire (スター・ウォーズシャドウオブザエンパイア) is a Nintendo 64 action-adventure game released in 1996. It is set between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, and follows the story of Dash Rendar, a mercenary hired by Princess Leia to help the Rebel Alliance in their fight against the Empire. The game features a mix of action, shooting and vehicular levels, as well as puzzles. The player takes control of Dash, who is armed with a blaster and can use a variety of vehicles including a snowspeeder, a speeder bike, an X-Wing and a landspeeder. The game also features a unique 'Blastech' system that allows Dash to upgrade his weapons and gadgets to gain access to previously inaccessible areas. The game features a number of boss battles, including encounters with Boba Fett and Darth Vader. The game also features a number of cameo appearances from characters from the original Star Wars trilogy, including Luke Skywalker and Han Solo. Star Wars - Shadows of the Empire was well-received by critics, and has since become a cult classic. It is remembered for its engaging storyline and action-packed gameplay, and is considered one of the best Star Wars games ever made.