Star Wars Galaxies, the beloved Star Wars MMO that closed its doors in 2011, is experiencing a resurgence thanks to a dedicated fan-made revival project. The latest update, Star Wars Galaxies Restoration 1.1, introduces “planetary control mechanics” that promise to add new depth and complexity to the Galactic Civil War. Planetary Control Mechanics: A New Layer of Strategy The new planetary control system allows players to assign themselves regions of a planet, from where they can capture objectives and defend against enemy attacks. Successfully completing missions will enable players to rank up, with higher ranks conferring special abilities like air strikes and reinforcements, as well as exclusive armor and weapon skins and factional vendors. Commanders control local planetary regions and bases, Colonels control planets or the space above them, and Generals are in charge of entire systems. However, as Admiral Ozzel taught us, with glory comes responsibility. If you lose…
Author: Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen
Star Wars Outlaws: A Nostalgic Journey Back to the Original Trilogy
In the ever-expanding universe of Star Wars games, the upcoming “Star Wars Outlaws” is generating significant buzz. The game’s creative director has recently confirmed that the developers are consciously striving to recreate the vibe and style of the original Star Wars film trilogy, adding to the anticipation among fans. The Story of Kay Vess Unveiled last month, “Star Wars Outlaws” chronicles the adventures of the scoundrel Kay Vess, set in the timeline between “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi. In a recent interview with Edge Magazine, Creative Director Julian Gerighty revealed that the studio is committed to emulating the feel of the first three movies. Retro Aesthetics and Design To achieve this nostalgic atmosphere, the developers have incorporated subtle elements such as vignetting, film grain, lens breathing, the curvature of a thicker lens, and slight lens flares. These features are reminiscent of the 1970s camera aesthetics, enhancing…
Justin Simien Uncertain About the Future of ‘Star Wars’ Lando Calrissian Disney+ Series
Justin Simien, the acclaimed director of ‘Haunted Mansion’ and writer of the Lando Calrissian series for Disney+, has recently expressed uncertainty about the future of the Star Wars universe show, nearly three years after its initial announcement. The series, based on the character Lando Calrissian, who was portrayed by Donald Glover in ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’, was first announced during Disney Investor Day in December 2020 by Lucasfilm boss Kathleen Kennedy. However, since then, there has been little information about the series, with Kennedy only acknowledging earlier this year that the series was “still happening.” In a recent interview with The Direct, Simien revealed that he has not received any updates since Kennedy’s statement. “I certainly poured my heart and spent a lot of time working with them to put together a really great show,” Simien said. “It feels like everybody loves it. And, you know, I was told…
Star Wars: The Old Republic Announces New PvP Season “Reign of Glory”
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) is set to launch its new Player versus Player (PvP) season, “Reign of Glory,” on July 18th. The upcoming season will introduce new rewards and significant changes to the points players receive on several PvP Maps, including all Huttball Maps. The requirements for Arena Objectives and PvP Arena Weekly Missions have also been adjusted. Changes to PvP Maps The new season will see changes in the points system across several PvP maps, including Novare Coast, Voidstar, and Yavin Ruins. The adjustments are designed to balance the gameplay and enhance the player experience. For instance, on the Novare Coast map, defenders will now receive 700 defender points when guarding a bunker, up from the previous 500 points. Similarly, attackers who actively capture the objective will receive 2000 attacker points. The points received on all Huttball maps have also been adjusted. When a ball is scored,…
Unlocking Ahsoka’s Past: Ashley Eckstein Urges Fans to Watch ‘Star Wars’ Animated Series
Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano in ‘The Clone Wars’, ‘Rebels’, and ‘Tales of the Jedi’, has recently urged fans to watch the animated series before the release of ‘Ahsoka’ on Disney Plus. In an interview with CinemaBlend, Eckstein emphasized the importance of understanding the backstory provided by the animated series to fully appreciate the upcoming live-action show. Eckstein, who is also the founder of Her Universe, a fangirl fashion company and lifestyle brand, will be hosting a fashion show at the San Diego Comic Con on July 20. She has been a consistent presence at Lucasfilm events, including Star Wars Celebration and visits to the parks, since taking on the voice acting role of Ahsoka Tano. Although Eckstein did not secure the role of Ahsoka Tano in live-action, her relationship with Star Wars remains stronger than ever. She continues to champion the upcoming series and animated content. Eckstein…
The Ethics of Gambling in Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR)
The inclusion of gambling-like mechanics in Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games (MMORPGs) such as Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) has sparked a significant debate about the ethical implications of such practices. This article aims to explore the ethical dimensions of these mechanics, focusing on issues of responsibility, potential exploitation, and the broader moral implications. Responsibility and Accountability One of the primary ethical concerns surrounding gambling in SWTOR is the question of responsibility. Game developers have a duty to ensure their games are enjoyable and safe for players. When gambling-like mechanics are introduced, there is a risk of players developing unhealthy gaming habits or even gambling addictions. Developers must consider the potential harm and implement safeguards to prevent exploitation, such as setting limits on gambling activities or providing warnings about the risks involved. Potential for Exploitation The potential for exploitation is another significant ethical concern. In SWTOR, players can spend…
Genevieve O’Reilly: The Evolution of Mon Mothma in Star Wars Universe
Genevieve O’Reilly, the actress who has brought the character of Mon Mothma to life in the Star Wars universe, has been captivating audiences with her performances across multiple Star Wars productions. From her initial appearance in 2005’s “Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith” to her recent portrayal in “Andor”, O’Reilly’s embodiment of the character has been nothing short of impressive. Mon Mothma, the Imperial senator turned Rebellion leader, was first introduced by O’Reilly in “Revenge of the Sith. However, most of her scenes were unfortunately cut. The character was later reprised by O’Reilly in “Star Wars Rebels”, where she lent her voice to the animated series. It was in “Andor”, though, that O’Reilly truly got the chance to delve into the character’s depth, portraying her struggle against the Empire while dealing with familial conflicts. In an interview with Discussing Film, O’Reilly expressed her delight at the opportunity to revisit the…
SWTOR: Galactic Seasons 4: “A Passage of Peace” – A Comprehensive Overview
The fourth season of the Galactic Seasons in Star Wars: The Old Republic, titled “A Passage of Peace,” is well underway. This season, which began last month, will conclude on August 15th, marking the end of 20 weeks of thrilling gameplay. Players are encouraged to make the most of the remaining time to level up in the season. Season Highlights The season features a variety of daily and weekly challenges that players can participate in to earn points and rewards. These challenges range from earning Personal Conquest Points across your Legacy to defeating enemies across the Galaxy with Amity as your active Companion. One of the highlights of the season is the Aratech Advanced Weapon Set. This set includes the Aratech Advanced Blaster, Aratech Advanced Blaster Rifle, Aratech Advanced Blaster Assault, Aratech Advanced Sniper Rifle, Aratech Advanced Lightsaber, and Aratech Advanced Dualsaber. Weekly Challenges Each week presents a unique set…
The Impact of Gambling Mechanics on SWTOR Players: A Closer Look at the Experiences of Cartel Pack Enthusiasts
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) has gained immense popularity among gamers, offering a rich and immersive online experience. However, the inclusion of gambling mechanics, particularly in the form of Cartel Packs, has sparked discussions about their impact on players. This article delves into the experiences of players who have spent substantial amounts of money on Cartel Packs, shedding light on the effects of these gambling elements within SWTOR. The Allure of Cartel Packs: Cartel Packs within the game’s Cartel Market offer players a chance to obtain rare and desirable items. For some players, the excitement of opening these packs and the prospect of acquiring exclusive rewards can be irresistible. However, the allure of Cartel Packs can evolve into a compulsive behavior, prompting players to spend significant amounts of real money in pursuit of virtual treasures. The Financial Toll: To better understand the impact of Cartel Packs, we spoke with…
The Future of Elstree Studios: A £150m Investment Needed
Elstree Studios, the historic film complex that served as the filming location for iconic productions such as Star Wars and The Crown, is in dire need of at least £150m for necessary renovations, according to a council report. The report, issued by Hertsmere Borough Council, the owner of the studios, highlighted the urgent need for funds to replace “life-expired buildings” and address safety issues, including the presence of asbestos. The council report revealed that some of the studio’s infrastructure is “at least 100 years old and past its useful life. It also noted that some walls were not expected to last more than 10 to 15 years. During asbestos remediation efforts, contractors discovered that the roofs over stages seven, eight, and nine were in a “dangerous state”. Despite the evident need for investment, the council stated that it could not “afford to continually invest” in the Borehamwood film complex. This…
Relaxation in a Galaxy Far, Far Away: How Star Wars Fans Use CBD for Stress Relief
In a galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars universe unfolds with thrilling lightsaber duels, epic space battles, and intense character dramas. While these elements make for captivating storytelling, they can also generate a fair amount of stress for the series’ most passionate fans. Enter CBD, a natural compound that has been garnering attention for its potential stress-relieving properties. This article explores how Star Wars fans are turning to CBD as a way to manage stress, enhance their viewing experience, and maintain their calm even when faced with the most shocking plot twists. Chapter I: Understanding CBD What is CBD? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, another compound found in the same plant, CBD does not produce a “high” and is celebrated for its potential therapeutic benefits. CBD and Stress Relief CBD has been studied for its potential to help manage stress…
Harnessing the Force: How CBD Can Improve Your Star Wars Gaming Experience
In the vast universe of gaming, where epic battles are fought and galaxies are saved, concentration and mental agility are the keys to success. While practice and skill certainly play a part, have you ever wondered if there’s a secret weapon that could give you the edge? Enter CBD, a potential game-changer that might just have the power to level up your Star Wars gaming experience. Much like the mystical Force in the Star Wars saga, CBD has been creating waves in various sectors, from health and wellness to, yes, even gaming. So buckle up, fellow gamers, and prepare for lightspeed as we journey into the world of CBD and gaming. Chapter I: A New Hope – Understanding CBD What is CBD? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its sibling, THC, CBD won’t leave you feeling “high.” Instead, it’s been making headlines…
CBD and the Jedi Mind Trick: Exploring the Science of Cannabidiol and Its Impact on Focus and Mindfulness
In a galaxy not so far away, where the hustle and bustle of modern life can feel as chaotic as a podrace on Tatooine, many of us are seeking ways to find balance and tranquility. Enter CBD, a substance that’s as mysterious and potent as the Force itself. Much like the Jedi mind trick, this intriguing compound has the power to influence our focus and mindfulness. But is there truth behind these claims or is it simply a tall tale from a galaxy far, far away? In this article, we’re going to embark on an epic journey, much like Luke Skywalker’s in “Star Wars,” to unravel the science behind CBD and its potential impact on our minds. Let’s begin our adventure, shall we? Chapter I: CBD – The Chosen One? What is CBD? CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its more…
“The Mandalorian”: Din Djarin Wasn’t Destined to Be Star Wars ‘Aragorn’, Says Jon Favreau
Jon Favreau, the showrunner of the popular Star Wars spinoff series, “The Mandalorian”, has recently shed light on a pivotal narrative decision made in the show’s third season: the introduction of Bo-Katan Kryze as the new leader of Mandalore. According to Favreau, the transition of leadership wasn’t initially what fans expected, but it was a narrative direction that made sense for the development of the series’ main character arcs. A New Leader for Mandalore The latest season of “The Mandalorian”, which can be explored in more depth in “Disney Gallery: The Making of The Mandalorian Season 3″ now available on Disney+, brought forth a shift in the series’ dynamic. The character of Din Djarin, played by Pedro Pascal, deviated from his expected trajectory, causing a stir among fans. Many had envisioned Djarin’s character transforming from a nomadic bounty hunter to a leader much like Aragorn from the “Lord of the…
X-Wing vs Modern Fighter Jets: A Price Comparison
The X-wing starfighter from the Star Wars universe is one of the most iconic spacecraft in science fiction. Known for its versatility, speed, and firepower, it’s been the ship of choice for many of the Rebellion’s and later the Resistance’s best pilots. But how does it stack up against the modern fighter jets of our world? While a head-to-head match-up in combat might be impossible due to the constraints of reality and fiction, a price comparison could provide a fascinating perspective. Let’s dive in! The Cost of X-Wings In the Star Wars universe, starfighters like the X-wing are typically priced in Imperial credits. The X-wing series comprises several models, each with its own specifications and costs: The Price of Modern Fighter Jets In stark contrast, our world’s fighter jets are priced in currencies like the US dollar. Here’s a list of a few top-of-the-line models and their estimated costs: Comparing…
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Patch 6: An Essential Fix for Game-Breaking Bugs
Game developers are continuously working on patches to enhance gameplay and fix bugs that may disrupt a player’s experience. The latest to join the line is Respawn’s ‘Star Wars Jedi: Survivor’ which has just launched Patch 6 that targets some of the game’s most significant issues. What Does The Patch Address? The Patch 6 update brings with it a slew of bug fixes, many of which are centered around a specific quest chain known for being both the most tedious and the most rewarding in the game. This quest chain, infamous for its difficulty, hides one of the game’s best cutscenes. With the new update, players can look forward to an enhanced experience where the thrill of the game isn’t hindered by frustrating glitches. The patch, now live across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X and S, includes the usual crash fixes and bug fixes that one would expect from…
Deal of the Day: Star Wars “How Not to Get Eaten by Ewoks and Other Galactic Survival Skills”
ourneying through the galaxy far, far away can be a rough gig. Between the ruthless bounty hunters, ferocious beasts, and treacherous landscapes, one might think twice about boarding that Millennium Falcon. But fear not, dear adventurer! With the guidebook “How Not to Get Eaten by Ewoks and Other Galactic Survival Skills,” you’ll be navigating the Star Wars universe like a pro in no time! Your Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy… Star Wars Style In the grand tradition of survival manuals, this book provides a tongue-in-cheek guide to staying alive in the Star Wars galaxy. But it’s not your run-of-the-mill guidebook. Oh no, it’s so much more! What’s in a Book? Sure, you might be thinking, “What can a book do for me in a galaxy riddled with blaster fire and Dark Side temptations?” Well, let me tell you, this little gem is packed to the gills with wisdom that’ll keep…
Star Wars and AI: The Galactic Impact on our Earthly Imaginations
In a galaxy far, far away, it’s the droids who often steal the show. From the endearing chirps of R2-D2 to the golden eloquence of C-3PO, Star Wars has given us some of the most memorable and influential representations of artificial intelligence (AI) in popular culture. But beyond being mere characters, these droids have greatly shaped our perceptions and expectations of AI. So, let’s dive into the Star Wars universe and see how it’s impacted our views on AI right here on our humble planet Earth. The Droids We’re Looking For: Star Wars and AI The Star Wars franchise has given us a vivid array of AI characters, each with their own personalities and quirks. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, emotionless machines. They’re characters with heart (well, metaphorically speaking, of course). They can be funny, they can be serious, and, most importantly, they can be relatable. Changing Our Expectations: AI in…
James Mangold’s Star Wars Film: A Journey into the Ancient Past of the Galaxy
Director James Mangold, known for his work on “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” is taking Star Wars fans on a journey back in time, thousands of years before the Skywalker Saga, with his latest project for Lucasfilm1. The film, which was announced at Star Wars Celebration 2023, promises to explore an untouched period in the Star Wars timeline, offering intriguing possibilities for the franchise’s rich lore. While further information on the project is still under wraps, Mangold has shared some insight into the genesis of the film and why he chose to set it so far back in the Star Wars timeline. The director expressed his long-standing interest in Lucasfilm’s work, mentioning his previous collaborations and his connections with others involved in Star Wars projects. However, Mangold realized that many ongoing projects were advancing the saga’s storyline, prompting him to take a different approach. Rather than moving forward,…
Kyle Katarn: A Blast from the Past in Star Wars: Outlaws?
The Star Wars franchise is known for its intricate and richly woven narrative tapestry, and the gaming world is abuzz with speculation that a familiar character from the 90s Star Wars games might be making a return in Massive Entertainment’s “Star Wars: Outlaws”. As avid fans will attest, part of the charm of the Star Wars universe lies in the unexpected appearances of characters from various timelines and story arcs, which offer additional depth and context to the unfolding narratives. An Unexpected Encounter In the newly released cinematic trailer for “Star Wars: Outlaws”, fans believe they have spotted a character bearing a striking resemblance to Kyle Katarn, the protagonist of the “Star Wars: Dark Forces” and “Star Wars: Jedi Knight” games from the 90s. This character, sitting in the cockpit of the ship belonging to Kay Vess, the protagonist of “Star Wars: Outlaws”, offers her “a way out”, seemingly playing…
Star Wars: The Old Republic Transitions to Broadsword Online Games – A New Era for the MMO
In recent news, it has been reported that the ongoing development of the highly popular MMORPG, Star Wars: The Old Republic, will be transitioning from BioWare to the third-party studio Broadsword Online Games. The decision follows BioWare’s intent to refocus its resources on single-player RPGs, including forthcoming titles like Dragon Age 4 and Mass Effect 5. Star Wars: The Old Republic was initially launched in December of 2011 as a subscription game, receiving a 9/10 rating from IGN in its review at the time. However, it was converted to a free-to-play model within the first year following a significant drop-off in subscriptions. Despite this change, the game has continued to enjoy steady success, with numerous expansions and regular updates over the last decade. As of 2019, it had achieved nearly $1 billion in lifetime revenue. The game remains one of the top MMORPGs today, keeping an extensive fanbase that supports…
Star Wars: The Old Republic to Transition from BioWare to Broadsword Online Games
In a significant shake-up within the gaming world, BioWare’s Star Wars: The Old Republic is reportedly being handed over to third-party studio Broadsword Online Games. This shift comes as BioWare, acclaimed for its single-player RPGs such as Dragon Age and Mass Effect, refocuses its resources on these flagship franchises. EA is said to be on the brink of finalizing an agreement with Broadsword Online Games, a studio known for its expertise in online, community-driven experiences and currently managing legacy MMORPGs like Ultima Online and Dark Age of Camelot. Under the agreement, the development and operation of Star Wars: The Old Republic would transition from BioWare to Broadsword. The Old Republic’s core development team, currently consisting of 70 to 80 individuals, is expected to undergo significant changes. More than half of the team will reportedly move to Broadsword, while the remaining members will have the opportunity to seek other roles within…
Pasaana: The Desert Jewel of the Outer Rim in Star Wars
Buckle up, Star Wars enthusiasts! We’re about to embark on a journey to a world that’s seldom discussed but brimming with charm and intrigue. It’s time we put the spotlight on Pasaana, a desert planet that’s a testament to the tenacity of life in the most demanding environments. Despite its arid surroundings, Pasaana teems with life and culture, making it a captivating locale in the vast Star Wars universe. So, are you ready to set your hyperdrive and explore this hidden gem? Unveiling the Charm of Pasaana At first glance, you might dismiss Pasaana as just another desert planet, a common trope in the Star Wars franchise. Yet, there’s more to Pasaana than meets the eye. It’s a world that exemplifies the saying “life finds a way.” Amidst its towering buttes of granite and sandstone, long stretches of sun-bleached dunes, and sparse shrubland, life thrives. The shadows cast by these…
Ahsoka TV Series to Feature an Inquisitor, New Image Teases
The upcoming Disney+ series “Ahsoka” has unveiled a surprise for Star Wars fans: an Inquisitor is set to appear in the show, according to a new image released by Empire Magazine. This reveal has stirred up speculation, given that the Inquisitors, primarily featured in “Star Wars: Rebels” and known for their role as Jedi hunters for Darth Vader and the Empire, were thought to have largely disappeared by the timeline of this series. The image itself reveals a masked Inquisitor dressed in black and wielding a double-bladed lightsaber. The presence of this character in the “Ahsoka” series, which takes place around the same timeline as “The Mandalorian”, is particularly intriguing due to the Inquisitors supposedly being extinct at this point in the Star Wars chronology. Dave Filoni, who co-created the character of Ahsoka Tano with George Lucas, has indicated that the show will serve as a continuation of “Star Wars…