Small skirmishes and an old adversary highlight the new 'Rogue One' trailer

After the first trailer of the Star Wars spin-off, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, we got an idea on the tone and the film's primary characters, all while getting everyone excited about a new tale in the Star Wars Galaxy. But we all knew that there would be another preview would be coming. And that preview came on Thursday during the Olympics. In case you didn't watch the preview between the gymnastics and the swimming events, here is the trailer for the Star Wars war film.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story takes place prior to the events of the original Star Wars, chronicling the Rebel effort to steal the plans that will allow them to eventually destroy the moon-sized battle station of the Galactic Empire.

This time around, we get a more in-depth look at the Rebel team tasked with the suicide mission of going against the Empire, led by Felicity Jones' Jyn Erso. Characters that every fan wanted to see included Donnie Yen's spiritual, Force-faithful warrior, Chirrut Imwe, Diego Luna's Rebel Alliance Intelligence Officer Cassian Andor, and Alan Tudyk's reprogrammed Imperial droid, K-2SO.

We also see how big the shadow of the Galactic Empire has cast over the galaxy. From the shot of a large Star Destroyer over a desert settlement or one creeping from the shadows while the Death Star is built in the background, you get a sense of dread and evil by seeing the Empire establish its claim in the galaxy.

As the familiar sound of past Star Wars plays, we're treated to small scenes of action. Familiar devices of war such as the AT-AT, X-Wing, and Imperial TIE fighters make appearances. We also catch a shot of the beach battle that everyone wants to see from this movie. But there is one shot at the end that die-hard Star Wars fans breathing heavy, including me. Speaking of, there was a familiar sound at the end that still gives fans chills.

James Earl Jones is returning as the voice of Vader, who will loom large as the Emperor's Right Hand - a position that other figures in the Empire would love to take, among them Director Krennic (Ben Mendelsohn), the head of the Death Star project. From previous articles, this will be a primary conflict to show the Empire is not a big family. No word yet on how big of a role the Sith lord will play but you know that it'll have an effect either way.

I hope everyone goes out to see this. I know I will be there on opening night. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story comes out of hyperspace and into theaters on December 16.