Author: gingetattoo

Book Review: The High Republic: A Test of Courage by Justina Ireland

Book Review: The High Republic: A Test of Courage by Justina Ireland

Disclaimer: This book review is for anyone who’s ever found themselves rooting for Jedi in every corner of the galaxy, appreciated droids that double as unlikely heroes, or simply love a good dose of perilous adventure with a sprinkle of lightsaber action. If you fit the bill (or just appreciate great storytelling), grab your hyperspace maps, because we’re diving in! Setting the Stage: What’s The High Republic Era Anyway? Before we hop into hyperspace, let’s lay down some context. The High Republic is a multi-platform Star Wars initiative that takes place approximately 200 years before the events of The Phantom Menace. Think of it as the “golden age” of the Jedi, a time when they weren’t just fighting Sith every Tuesday afternoon. Instead, they were actually acting like peacekeepers and intergalactic problem-solvers. But hey, even in times of relative peace, trouble always finds a way. Overview of the Plot (No…

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The Legendary “Coke Nail” of Carrie Fisher: A Look at Hollywood’s Edgy Past

The Legendary “Coke Nail” of Carrie Fisher: A Look at Hollywood’s Edgy Past

Carrie Fisher was known for many things: her wit, her fierce intelligence, and, of course, her iconic role as Princess Leia in Star Wars. But in addition to her star power and unforgettable legacy, there’s one topic that fans still talk about with a grin—her so-called “coke nail.” Yes, we’re diving into the amusing, eyebrow-raising story behind this piece of Hollywood legend that may be a little, well, on the nose Table of Contents Who Was Carrie Fisher? More Than Just Princess Leia For anyone living under a rock, Carrie Fisher wasn’t just Princess Leia—she was a pop culture icon, beloved author, mental health advocate, and witty Hollywood rebel. Her life was filled with ups and downs, but she brought a unique humor and honesty to everything she did. Born to Hollywood royalty (her mom was Debbie Reynolds and her dad was singer Eddie Fisher), Carrie grew up in a…

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Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron – Celebrating 15 Years of Galactic Mayhem

Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron

Released fifteen years ago, Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron by Rebellion Developments and LucasArts might not be the first game fans mention when they discuss Star Wars video games, but it certainly brought something unique to the Battlefront series. Whether you played it on your PSP or DS (throwback to those pocket-sized wonders), this game has earned its place in the Star Wars gaming hall of fame. So, let’s jump in our virtual starships, switch on the nostalgia boosters, and look back on what made Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron memorable. A Quick Overview of Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron Released in November 2009, Elite Squadron was a unique entry in the Battlefront series, exclusively made for handheld devices (the PlayStation Portable and Nintendo DS). Unlike its predecessors that focused primarily on ground combat, Elite Squadron offered players the ability to engage in battles across land, space, and everything in…

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The High Republic: Into the Dark by Claudia Gray – A Fresh Chapter in Star Wars Lit

Star Wars: The High Republic: Into the Dark

Have you ever wondered what happens when a book about Jedi, hyperspace anomalies, and long-forgotten evil finds itself in the hands of Claudia Gray? Well, buckle up, folks – we’re diving into the enigmatic world of The High Republic: Into the Dark. Table of Contents Overview of The High Republic: Into the Dark Set in a galaxy long before the events of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia, Into the Dark takes readers on a journey to the heart of the High Republic era. This was the golden age of the Jedi – where instead of conflict, we’re blessed with peace, hope, and plenty of young, idealistic Jedi who’ve never seen the galaxy at its worst. This novel is part of The High Republic publishing initiative, which kicks off with new, original stories that lay out the origins of the Jedi and explore what they were like during their…

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SWG Legends: Galactic Homeshow October 2024: Dive into the Winner’s Abandoned Mine!

SWG Legends: Galactic Homeshow October 2024: Dive into the Winner’s Abandoned Mine!

Hello, Legends! The spirits have spoken, and they’ve chosen a chilling champion for the October 2024 Galactic Homeshow. This year’s Galactic Moon Festival brought out the best in haunting decor, but one entry in particular claimed the title with a spine-tingling twist. Let’s dive into what made Amagon’s “Abandoned Mine” so terrifyingly terrific! And if you dare, you can visit it in-game for the full, fear-inducing experience! The October 2024 Galactic Homeshow: Spooky Creations Galore! As the Galactic Moon Festival rolls on, Star Wars enthusiasts have a special time to look forward to each October: the Galactic Homeshow! Players of Star Wars Galaxies Legends gather to showcase their unique decorating skills with entries that embrace the season’s spirit (and spirits!). This year’s submissions were nothing short of petrifying, and after plenty of bone-chilling deliberation, the SWG Legends Team awarded the top prize to Amagon for their unforgettable Abandoned Mine. What…

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Remembering Greg Hildebrandt: Celebrating the Legacy of a Legendary Artist

Remembering Greg Hildebrandt: Celebrating the Legacy of a Legendary Artist

Greg Hildebrandt, the beloved and influential artist known for his work on Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, and Magic: The Gathering, passed away on October 31, 2023, at the age of 85. His passing marks the end of a significant era in the world of fantasy and sci-fi art, leaving behind a legacy that shaped and inspired fans and creators alike. In this tribute, we’ll explore Hildebrandt’s life, his impact on some of pop culture’s most iconic franchises, and why his work resonates so deeply with fans around the world. The Life and Legacy of Greg Hildebrandt A Lifetime of Creativity Greg Hildebrandt, alongside his twin brother Tim, became an artistic force known as “The Brothers Hildebrandt.” Over several decades, Greg crafted vibrant and imaginative worlds that became synonymous with the epic stories they represented. Whether illustrating the sprawling landscapes of Middle-earth or the fantastical realms of Star…

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The Most Collectible Star Wars Legends Books: Editions, Values, and Where to Find Them

The Most Collectible Star Wars Legends Books: Editions, Values, and Where to Find Them

If you’re on a quest to build a legendary Star Wars book collection, then you’ve just hit hyperspace. Star Wars Legends books, the expansive “non-canon” universe we all still love, are a treasure trove of adventure, intrigue, and – let’s be honest – some serious collector’s items. From first editions to rare signed copies, there’s a whole galaxy of Legends just waiting to be explored (and displayed proudly on your shelf). So, let’s grab our lightsabers (or reading glasses), and dive into the world of the most collectible Star Wars Legends books! What Makes a Star Wars Legends Book Collectible? Not all Star Wars books are created equal – especially when it comes to Legends. The Legends universe was the core of Star Wars lore for decades, housing stories that expanded on the lives of our favorite characters. Collectors often look for specific factors that add to the rarity and…

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Book Review: The High Republic: Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule

Book Review: The High Republic: Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule

The Star Wars universe has expanded once again with The High Republic: Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule, a novel that marks the beginning of an ambitious new series set in an entirely fresh era: the High Republic. Fans of Jedi lore, buckle up! In Light of the Jedi, we’re not dealing with the same galaxy far, far away that we’re used to. There are no Sith Lords or Skywalkers in sight, just an Order of peacekeeping Jedi and a rising storm that threatens the Republic’s stability. If you’ve been longing for a deeper dive into Jedi history, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a die-hard Star Wars fan or someone just dipping their toes into this expansive universe, this novel offers a balanced mix of epic action, suspense, and moral dilemmas that make the galaxy feel bigger and more mysterious than ever. Grab your lightsaber, and let’s…

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Neel Is Confirmed Not to Be the Same Species as Max Rebo in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

Neel Is Confirmed Not to Be the Same Species as Max Rebo in Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

A new character is officially confirmed to be unique within the Star Wars universe. Contrary to previous fan speculation, Neel, a character from the upcoming Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, is not of the same species as Max Rebo, the iconic blue musician from Return of the Jedi. This revelation has sparked excitement and curiosity among Star Wars enthusiasts, especially as Skeleton Crew promises to add fresh adventures and unique character stories set in the New Republic era. Get ready for an exciting dive into Skeleton Crew, its characters, and why Neel’s new species is creating a buzz. Spoiler alert: there might even be a dash of humor along the way! Skeleton Crew – A Galaxy of New Characters and Nostalgia Inspired by Classic Adventures with a New Galactic Twist The creative minds behind Skeleton Crew—Jon Watts and Chris Ford—took inspiration from the beloved kid-centered adventures of the 1980s, like The…

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Comparing Star Wars Legends vs. Canon Books: Key Differences and Must-Read Legends

Comparing Star Wars Legends vs. Canon Books: Key Differences and Must-Read Legends

Welcome to a galaxy of possibilities! If you’re diving into Star Wars books and feel a bit overwhelmed by the split between Legends and Canon, you’re not alone. This division can seem confusing, but understanding the differences can open up whole new worlds within the Star Wars universe. Here, we’ll go over why and how the split happened, what each version offers, and which Legends books you should definitely add to your reading list. So grab a cup of blue milk, and let’s dive in! Table of Contents What’s the Deal with Star Wars Legends vs. Canon? In 2014, Lucasfilm announced that Star Wars books and comics released before then would be classified as Star Wars Legends. This meant they weren’t “officially” part of the Star Wars universe moving forward. Only the movies, TV shows, and the stories published from 2014 onward would be considered Canon. The purpose? To give…

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19 Years of Star Wars Battlefront II: A Galaxy Far, Far Away… On Your Console!

Star Wars: Battlefront II - Celebrating 18 Years of Galactic Warfare

Nineteen years ago today, Star Wars Battlefront II dropped into our lives like an Imperial Star Destroyer. On October 31, 2005, the world met a game that did the unimaginable: it captured the epic scope of Star Wars in a way that left fans cheering, controllers clattering, and possibly a few friendships at risk (who doesn’t remember competing for Jedi Hero status?). It wasn’t just a game; it was a landmark in Star Wars gaming history, setting the stage for what fans wanted in immersive, large-scale battle experiences. Let’s take a light-speed jump back to 2005 to celebrate what made Star Wars Battlefront II a legendary game. From space battles to galactic domination, here’s why we still love this game nearly two decades later. The Evolution: Battlefront II Takes Star Wars Gaming to a New Level If you remember the original Battlefront from 2004, you’ll recall it was pretty epic…

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Book Review: Star Wars: Master & Apprentice by Claudia Gray

Book Review: Star Wars: Master & Apprentice by Claudia Gray

Claudia Gray’s Master & Apprentice sweeps readers back to the good ol’ days of Jedi mind tricks, intergalactic lightsaber battles, and…tax negotiations? That’s right! We’re diving deep into the prequels, so brace yourself for more politics than you bargained for—but hey, that’s the magic of Star Wars! Set before The Phantom Menace, this novel is for anyone who’s ever wondered, “What was Qui-Gon Jinn’s deal, and how did Obi-Wan survive his mentorship?” Let’s dig into the force-filled pages of Gray’s work in a way that’ll leave you ready to either devour or debate the next chapter in Jedi lore. Plot Synopsis: What’s the Book About? Before there was the headstrong Jedi master we know from The Phantom Menace, there was the ever-patient, somewhat rebellious Qui-Gon Jinn and his young, rule-following apprentice Obi-Wan Kenobi. This book focuses on the early mentorship days, where both Jedi are figuring out what it really…

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Twelve Years Since the Deal: How Disney’s $4 Billion Purchase of Lucasfilm Changed Star Wars Forever

Twelve Years Since the Deal: How Disney's  Billion Purchase of Lucasfilm Changed Star Wars Forever

In the galaxy of blockbuster deals, few are as legendary as Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, and by extension, Star Wars. Twelve years ago today, George Lucas handed over his empire—lightsabers, Sith Lords, Ewoks, and all—to the Mouse House for a staggering $4.05 billion. It was the end of an era and the beginning of a… new one, to say the least. Since then, fans have been on a ride that’s seen both a rise of new hope and the inevitable revenge of the critiques. So, let’s hop in our Millennium Falcon of memory and take a hyper-speed journey through what that $4.05 billion brought into our universe. Ready? Punch it! The Deal That Shook the Galaxy (And Hollywood) On October 30, 2012, news hit the internet faster than Han Solo could make the Kessel Run: Disney had bought Lucasfilm. The deal included everything from the beloved Star Wars franchise to…

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The Ultimate Guide to Star Wars Legends Books: Chronological Reading Order and Timeline

The Ultimate Guide to Star Wars Legends Books: Chronological Reading Order and Timeline

Welcome to the galaxy far, far away—but not quite the one you see on Disney+. This is the realm of Star Wars Legends, an expanded universe filled with stories that venture beyond the movies. In the Legends timeline, we find a rich galaxy spanning tens of thousands of years. If you’re a newcomer, this guide will help you get a handle on where to start, and if you’re a longtime fan, think of this as a refresher to brush up on all that chaotic, Force-powered history. Our mission? To walk you through the chronological reading order of Star Wars Legends books. So, buckle up, charge your blasters, and get ready for an epic journey through hyperspace (with as few spoilers as possible). Table of Contents What Is Star Wars Legends? Star Wars Legends encompasses all the books, comics, video games, and other stories released before 2014, which were once considered…

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Star Wars: The Clone Wars Game Released on This Day in 2002 – A Blast from the Console Past!

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Game Released on This Day in 2002 – A Blast from the Console Past!

Ah, October 28, 2002 – a day that lives in Star Wars history! On this day, the galaxy far, far away made its way into the hands of fans everywhere with the release of Star Wars: The Clone Wars video game on GameCube, PlayStation 2, and Xbox. This wasn’t just any Star Wars game; it was an epic vehicle-based shooter that plunged players right into the thick of the Clone Wars. From piloting Republic Gunships to taking down droid armies, it offered fans a chance to live out their Jedi hero fantasies. So, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and revisit what made Star Wars: The Clone Wars such an iconic game. Buckle up, and get ready to deploy to Geonosis – this is going to be one wild ride! Enter the Battle: The Game That Brought the Clone Wars to Life Back in 2002, Star Wars was everywhere….

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Star Wars: Bloodline by Claudia Gray – A Deep Dive into Leia Organa’s Galactic Political Struggles

Bloodline by Claudia Gray

Hey, Star Wars enthusiasts! Today, we’re jumping into the political thriller of the galaxy with Star Wars: Bloodline by Claudia Gray. It’s got all the drama, intrigue, and Senate scandals you’d expect from a Leia Organa-centered story, minus the lightsabers and starfighter chases. We’re diving into the book that unpacks the family secrets, personal struggles, and political upheaval that set the stage for The Force Awakens. If you’re curious to grab a copy, you can find Bloodline on Amazon. Setting the Stage – Leia Organa in the Post-Empire Galaxy The story picks up about six years before The Force Awakens, in a galaxy that’s trying (and sometimes failing) to find its footing post-Empire. Leia, now a seasoned Senator in the New Republic, is navigating a highly polarized government. The two major factions, the Populists and Centrists, are basically in a never-ending debate about how the galaxy should be run—sound familiar?…

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Star Wars Clears Up Skeleton Crew Timeline Confusion—Where Does It Fit?

Star Wars Skeleton Crew: Blending the Old with the New in a Galaxy Far, Far Away

The galaxy far, far away just got a bit more organized! After fan curiosity skyrocketed, Star Wars has officially clarified when Skeleton Crew takes place within the Mandoverse timeline, and it’s got fans buzzing about potential crossovers and cameos. When Exactly Is Skeleton Crew Set? Thanks to a scoop from Empire Magazine, we now know that Skeleton Crew will unfold alongside the events of The Mandalorian Season 3 and Ahsoka. Initially, there was some confusion, with rumors placing the series somewhere during The Mandalorian’s first season. But setting it parallel to the current seasons makes way more sense, especially if Skeleton Crew will intersect with other Mandoverse events. So, Who Might Show Up in Skeleton Crew? With Skeleton Crew confirmed to share a timeline with The Mandalorian and Ahsoka, fans are hoping for some big cameos. Possible appearances from characters like Din Djarin, Grogu, or even Ahsoka herself aren’t out…

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Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’s Connection to Ahsoka – What’s Really Going On?

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew's Connection to Ahsoka – What's Really Going On?

If you’re already counting down to the release of Skeleton Crew on Disney+, you’re not alone. And if you’re wondering how this series ties into the recent happenings of Ahsoka, well, you’re definitely in the right place. Let’s dig into what the latest sneak peek has revealed, why it’s stirring up the Force, and what it could mean for the ever-expanding Star Wars universe. A New Look at Skeleton Crew – What’s the Buzz? First up, let’s set the scene: Skeleton Crew, the latest Star Wars series, is just around the corner, arriving on December 4. And thanks to Empire magazine, we’ve gotten a new look that has fans buzzing. In this sneak peek, we see Jude Law’s character, Jod Na Nawood, in a cave, examining some mysterious writing inscribed on the wall. It’s giving off those “Indiana Jones meets the Jedi Temple” vibes, and we’re here for it. But…

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The Cancelled Star Wars Game That Almost Was: Inside the Saga of Project Viking

The Cancelled Star Wars Game That Almost Was: Inside the Saga of Project Viking

Alright, fellow Star Wars enthusiasts, buckle up for a tale of a Star Wars game that almost made the jump to hyperspace—until it was suddenly scrapped. We’re talking about Project Viking, a Star Wars Battlefront spin-off that was in development at EA Vancouver and Criterion Games. This game promised open-world adventures, deep storytelling, and a next-gen experience—but it was canceled before it could see the light of a twin sunset. So, what happened with Viking? Let’s dive into the details of this lost chapter in the Star Wars gaming universe! A New Hope for Star Wars Gamers: The Concept Behind Project Viking First off, let’s talk about what Project Viking was supposed to be. After the well-documented demise of Project Ragtag, the single-player Star Wars game from Visceral Games and Amy Hennig (yeah, the one behind Uncharted), EA needed a new plan. Enter Project Viking. It wasn’t going to be…

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Star Wars: Empire at War Gets a Surprise Boost—18 Years Later!

Star Wars: Empire at War Gets a Surprise Boost—18 Years Later!

Star Wars: Empire at War just turned back the clock in the best way possible. After 18 years, Petroglyph Studios has rolled out a new update that gives this classic RTS game a serious performance boost. Whether you’re a veteran commander or just looking to relive some epic battles in a galaxy far, far away, this update has something for you. So, what’s new, and why is a game that’s almost 19 years old still drawing attention? Let’s dive into the details. The Game That Refuses to Fade Away Star Wars: Empire at War is one of those rare games that never seems to lose its charm. Released in 2006, this real-time strategy (RTS) title lets players command massive space fleets, ground troops, and even heroes like Darth Vader or Han Solo. Despite its age, it continues to attract a dedicated fanbase. Petroglyph Studios, the original developers, seem to have…

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Star Wars Fans Light Up Times Square to #SaveTheAcolyte with Birthday Billboard for Amandla Stenberg

Star Wars Fans Light Up Times Square to #SaveTheAcolyte with Birthday Billboard for Amandla Stenberg

If you’ve been following the journey of The Acolyte fans, you know they don’t give up without a fight! This time, they’ve taken their passion and determination straight to the heart of New York City—Times Square. That’s right, Star Wars fans are pulling out all the stops to ensure their beloved series gets the recognition (and renewal) it deserves. And what better way to get some attention than a bright, bold billboard? Acolyte Fans Launch Times Square Billboard Campaign A few days ago, the Acolyte fandom took things up a notch with a new campaign aimed at raising awareness about the series and their desire for its renewal. Led by devoted fans like Martha B, the movement has launched a GoFundMe campaign, which has already led to their first major achievement: a billboard in Times Square celebrating Amandla Stenberg’s birthday, the star of The Acolyte. Why a billboard, you ask?…

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Book Review: Star Wars: The High Republic: Tears of the Nameless

Book Review: Star Wars: The High Republic: Tears of the Nameless

Star Wars: The High Republic: Tears of the Nameless, written by George Mann, continues the epic narrative of The High Republic series. Part of the third phase, “Trials of the Jedi,” this young adult novel offers a blend of suspense, galactic adventure, and deep emotional struggles, all while adding crucial new layers to the ongoing story. If you’ve been following the journey of the Jedi through these challenging times, this installment is a must-read. And here’s some great news—you can grab the book on Amazon with a 11% discount, making it only $16.99 here. Plot Overview: What Lies Beyond the Shadows Set roughly a year after the fall of the Starlight Beacon—a tragedy that shook the galaxy and left the Jedi scattered—Tears of the Nameless focuses on Jedi Knight Reath Silas. As a newly appointed Knight, Reath is tasked with unraveling the mystery of the Nameless, terrifying creatures that have…

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Star Wars Outlaws: Coming to Steam on November 21st – What You Need to Know

Star Wars: Outlaws - The Upcoming Open-World Adventure by Ubisoft

Hold on to your blasters, Star Wars fans—things are about to get a whole lot more interesting in the galaxy far, far away. On November 21st, Star Wars Outlaws is set to make its grand entrance on Steam. That’s right, the highly-anticipated open-world game from Ubisoft is heading to the PC platform, giving players yet another reason to dive back into the sprawling Star Wars universe. But what’s all the hype about, and why should you care? Let’s break it down in true scoundrel style. What Is Star Wars Outlaws All About? If you’ve been living under a rock on Tatooine, here’s the scoop: Star Wars Outlaws is Ubisoft’s ambitious new addition to the Star Wars gaming lineup. Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, this game focuses on a part of the Star Wars universe we don’t often see: the underworld. Think smugglers, crime syndicates,…

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Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Brings Back Teek—A Blast from Endor’s Past!

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Brings Back Teek—A Blast from Endor’s Past!

It’s not every day that Star Wars reaches deep into its extensive archive of characters, but here we are. If you’ve ever found yourself reminiscing about those obscure Star Wars spin-offs from the ’80s, you’re in luck. Disney+’s new series, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, is diving into the nostalgia pool and bringing back a character you probably didn’t expect: Teek, the lightning-fast, mischievous little creature from Ewok: Battle for Endor. Yes, the very same Teek who stole scenes back in the day with his jittery charm. So, why is this little furball coming back? What does this mean for Skeleton Crew? And how does this play into the larger Star Wars universe? Let’s break it down. A New Era, A Familiar Face Star Wars: Skeleton Crew is one of the latest additions to the ever-expanding Star Wars TV universe on Disney+. Set during the New Republic era, it aims to…

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