Star Wars initially came to the public's attention as a series of movies. The comics came later as adaptations or expansions of the movie universe. So, it wasn't a comic first.
Well, the 'Star Wars First Novel' is important because it was a way to keep the Star Wars fever going between movie releases. It gave fans something new to consume and discuss. It could have been the starting point for many fan theories and speculations. Moreover, it might have inspired new fans who were more into reading to get into the Star Wars universe, thus expanding the fan base in a different demographic.
The 'First Star Wars Story' is likely important as it might introduce key characters or groups in a more primitive form. It can give insights into the early politics and power dynamics of the galaxy. It could also establish the visual style and the feel of the Star Wars universe, from the design of the spaceships to the architecture of the planets, which would then be developed further in subsequent stories.
The very first Star Wars novel was 'Splinter of the Mind's Eye' by Alan Dean Foster. This book delved deeper into the Star Wars universe and provided fans with additional adventures and storylines.
The very first Star Wars comic was 'Star Wars: A New Hope'. This comic laid the foundation for many subsequent comic adaptations and expansions of the Star Wars lore. It captured the excitement and imagination of fans, bringing the beloved characters and settings to life in a new medium.
Definitely a movie first. Star Wars became a cultural phenomenon with its initial cinematic release, and only later were there comic versions that expanded the universe and told additional stories.