[1] Information, background and game statistics are provided for all of the characters, alien races, droids and starships mentioned in Zahn's book.

[3] In Issue 68 of Challenge, Steve Maggi lauded this book, commenting, "There is finally solid information for a running a Star Wars campaign beyond the events in Return of the Jedi."

"[4] In the November 1993 edition of Dragon (Issue #199), Rick Swan liked the production values of the softcover version, calling it "handsome", and thought the opening chapter provided "an excellent overview of the Republic."

However, Swan wished that the book had removed information on planets and aliens and instead "used the pages for an adventure or campaign material [...] I would have preferred a collection of original scenarios or more tips on how to design them myself.

He concluded by giving this book an above average rating of 4 out of 5, saying, "Heir to the Empire should be considered a core component of the New Republic line.