What were some of everyone’s personal or favorite theories about the Last Jedi and how the new trilogy would lead to before episode 8 was released. I’m just wondering as I remember that me and a few friends had thought they were pulling from KOTOR like later seasons of Rebels seemed to be pulling from Force Unleashed.

In my mind, I imagine it as political intrigue in the Old Republic

Prediction based on trends....
A young protagonist from an arid planet, will meet a droid on a secret mission to find someone to help with a great struggle, (this droid will most likely be accompanied by an 'out of their depth" character.... like another droid, deserting soldier on a redemption arc..maybe an amphibious biped..) ... once the young protagonist meets the old hero character, they rush to join the conflict and maybe rescue someone along the way.. probably from a massive super weapon..which they must return to later to destroy..

the second movie will involve a great battle and all will seem lost as the conflict doesn't go well... and our protagonist receives troubling news that shakes them to their core.

third movie is the culmination to the the story arc, destinies fulfilled, another superweapon, and returning villain.

I'd have REALLY loved it, if the new trilogy, took the Zahn novels, and put them on the big screen..