While Star Wars: Episode VII won't have a presence at Comic-Con 2014, LucasFilm is instead bringing their next animated series to the San Diego convention center. And on the eve of its anticipated Thursday panel in Room 6BCF at 6:00 pm, an extended trailer for Disney XD's Star Wars Rebels has debuted, announcing the arrival of the Empire. Watch as Obi Wan Kenobi sends a special transmission across the galaxy, warning that the Jedi Order and the Republic have fallen. It's the birth of the Rebellion as a small group of Freedom Fighters gather to fight back Darth Vader and his Imperial Forces. Check out this all-new footage, which introduces a galaxy of new characters both good and bad.

Star Wars Rebels continues the epic tradition of the legendary Star Wars saga with all-new exciting, action-packed adventures. It is a dark time in the galaxy, as the evil Galactic Empire tightens its grip of power from world to world. As the series begins, Imperial forces have occupied a remote planet, ruling with an iron fist and ruining the lives of its people. The clever and motley crew of the starship Ghost is amongst a select few who are brave enough to stand against the Empire. Together, this ragtag group will face threatening new villains, encounter colorful adversaries, embark on thrilling adventures and become heroes with the power to ignite a rebellion.

Star Wars Rebels will premiere in the fall as a one-hour special telecast on Disney Channel. That debut will be followed by a series on Disney XD channels around the world.