So, you’ve hit the mid-season lull in Star Wars: The Old Republic’s Galactic Season 7. It feels like that awkward moment in a road trip when you’re halfway there, the snacks are gone, and your favorite playlist has played three times. Welcome to the mid-season doldrums, a time when enthusiasm tends to dip, and players start questioning their choices. But don’t worry! There are ways to stay entertained and engaged during this downtime without succumbing to boredom. What Exactly Are the Mid-Season Doldrums? The mid-season doldrums refer to that period in SWTOR’s Galactic Season when most of the shiny new content has been explored, but the end-of-season rewards and events feel like they’re still lightyears away. Players start to feel like they’re treading water, completing objectives just for the sake of it rather than out of excitement. This isn’t a new phenomenon in MMOs. The excitement of fresh updates, objectives,…
Author: Matt "ObiWaN" Hansen
The Role of Nostalgia in the Disney Era of Star Wars
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, Disney took over one of the most beloved franchises in cinematic history. When the House of Mouse acquired Star Wars in 2012, fans were both excited and nervous. Would Disney honor George Lucas’s original vision, or would they turn it into another cog in their commercial machine? Spoiler alert: it was a bit of both. But one thing became abundantly clear: nostalgia was going to play a massive role in Disney’s approach to Star Wars. From reviving beloved characters to recreating iconic scenes, nostalgia became the Force driving the franchise. Let’s dive into how Disney harnessed the power of nostalgia in Star Wars, both in terms of storytelling and marketing, and what it means for the future of this ever-expanding galaxy. Reviving Iconic Characters: The Return of the Legends If there’s one thing that got Star Wars fans buzzing when…
Star Wars Outlaws: “Wild Card” DLC and Free Update Coming in November 2024
Exciting news for Star Wars Outlaws fans! Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment are set to release new downloadable content (DLC) for the game, with the highly anticipated “Wild Card” DLC launching on November 21, 2024. This expansion will focus on the charming, smooth-talking gambler Lando Calrissian, giving players a fresh narrative to explore. Alongside the DLC, a free update will also be released, bringing new Contract missions to the game. As if that wasn’t enough, Ubisoft has already teased a second DLC, titled “A Pirate’s Fortune,” scheduled for release in spring 2025. Here’s what you need to know about these upcoming expansions and updates. What is Star Wars Outlaws? Released in August 2024, Star Wars Outlaws allows players to step into the shoes of Kay Vess, a rising scoundrel navigating the criminal underworld of the Outer Rim. Set between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi,…
R2-D2’s Surprising Kill Count: The Galaxy’s Deadliest Little Droid
When we think of astromech droids in Star Wars, most of us imagine R2-D2 rolling along, beeping away, fixing hyperdrives, and being a loyal sidekick. But this unassuming little droid has a more lethal side. In fact, R2-D2 has racked up quite an impressive kill count across various Star Wars media, from the Clone Wars to the Galactic Civil War. Though R2-D2’s primary function was always support—repairing ships, hacking into computer systems, and saving the day in countless ways—he’s also been responsible for directly taking down enemies. Whether through electrocution, sabotage, or just plain resourcefulness, R2-D2 has proven that you don’t need to be a Sith Lord to rack up a massive body count. So, buckle up for a humorous, engaging, and surprisingly brutal look at R2-D2’s kill count! R2-D2’s Victims Across The Clone Wars Season One: A Droid with a Plan R2-D2 wasted no time showing his lethal capabilities…
SWTOR Opens MacOS Technical Test Sign-Ups for Players with Apple Silicon Macs
SWTOR Opens MacOS Technical Test Sign-Ups for Players with Apple Silicon Macs Exciting news for Star Wars: The Old Republic fans—Blizzard has officially opened up sign-ups for a MacOS Technical Test of the SWTOR launcher! This comes shortly after the Q3 Producer letter from Keith Kanneg, where internal Mac testing was mentioned. Now, players with Apple Silicon Macs—like those powered by M1 and M2 chipsets—are invited to participate and help test how SWTOR performs on MacOS 14 Sonoma or newer. Who is Eligible? This technical test is targeted at players who: To check if your Mac is eligible, simply: This is an exciting opportunity for Mac users who’ve been waiting for native support for SWTOR, especially since the technical test will use the live game environment. This means players will be able to fully explore the game while testing out the new launcher. What Can Players Expect? Although this is…
Loot Boxes in SWTOR and Their Ethical Implications
Loot boxes, particularly in Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR), have become a significant part of modern gaming culture. In SWTOR, these loot boxes—referred to as cartel packs—contain random items of varying rarity and value. While they offer players the chance to acquire exclusive mounts, armor sets, and other valuable in-game items, they also raise ethical concerns due to their similarities with gambling. This essay examines the ethical implications of loot boxes in SWTOR by exploring the psychology behind their design, the financial impact they can have on players, especially younger ones, and the growing legal controversies surrounding loot boxes in the gaming industry. By comparing how different regions regulate loot boxes, we will better understand how SWTOR’s system fits into this global debate. The Psychology of Loot Boxes: A Dopamine-Inducing Gamble At the core of loot boxes in SWTOR is their psychological appeal. Players are drawn to cartel packs…
Bring the B1 Battle Droid to Manhunt with This Star Wars Mod
Are you ready to take your Manhunt experience to a galaxy far, far away? Well, hold onto your helmets, because the B1 Battle Droid Mod lets you play as one of the iconic battle droids from Star Wars Battlefront (2004) in the dark, gritty world of Manhunt. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia or just the absurdity of running around as a droid, this mod adds a whole new layer of fun to Rockstar’s classic stealth game. What’s in the Mod? The B1 Battle Droid Mod for Manhunt brings the clumsy yet endearing droid straight out of Star Wars Battlefront (2004). This mod replaces your standard character with the B1 Battle Droid, and though it doesn’t change the gameplay mechanics, the sheer novelty of hunting enemies while playing as a droid will make your playthrough feel fresh. Plus, it’s not just a static skin—the mod includes detailed textures and model…
The Role of Gambling in SWTOR’s In-Game Economy
When it comes to the world of Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR), players might initially think of lightsabers, blasters, and iconic galactic battles. However, beneath the vibrant stories and flashy combat mechanics lies a different, more subtle aspect of the game: its in-game economy. And at the heart of this economy? Gambling. No, we’re not talking about illegal backroom Sabacc games (though Nar Shaddaa would have plenty of those too). We’re talking about the game’s formalized gambling mechanics — from randomized loot boxes like cartel packs to slot machines and event-based gambling activities like the infamous Nar Shaddaa Nightlife event. In this essay, we’ll dive deep into how these gambling systems influence SWTOR’s economy, the ripple effects they create, and how they compare to other MMOs. By the end, we’ll answer the question: Is SWTOR’s system just a harmless game of chance, or is it teetering on the edge…
“Star Wars: The New Jedi Order” on Hold at Lucasfilm: What It Means for the Franchise
Lucasfilm’s upcoming Star Wars project, tentatively titled The New Jedi Order, has reportedly been put on hold, sparking uncertainty about its future. Initially expected to focus on Rey (played by Daisy Ridley) and her efforts to rebuild the Jedi Order, the project has faced delays due to script challenges and creative concerns. Reports suggest multiple drafts have been written, with significant involvement from Kathleen Kennedy, head of Lucasfilm, but the script has yet to reach completion. What is The New Jedi Order About? The proposed film was to center around Rey’s post-sequel journey, where she would take on the role of a mentor, training new Jedi at an academy and working to establish a new Jedi Order. However, plot details have remained largely speculative, with little concrete information released to the public. This film was part of an effort to move the Star Wars storyline beyond the Skywalker saga, focusing…
Starfield Gets a Little Artistic with Custom Star Wars Paintings Mod ( NSFW )
Ever felt like the walls of your spaceship or outpost in Starfield could use a little more personality? Well, this mod has you covered—literally. Introducing a mod that brings custom paintings into your game. Whether you’re more of a Sith or a Rebel at heart, this mod lets you choose between three different image packs to suit your galactic tastes. The Mod Breakdown This is not just a simple art gallery for your space exploration; it’s a custom painting mod where you get to decide which style best fits your cosmic adventures. You have three different packs to choose from, each bringing a unique twist to your ship’s walls. No matter which pack you choose, this mod is designed to let you customize your environment with ease, adding that personal touch to your space-faring life. Installation: The Easy and Not-So-Easy Options Installing the mod is pretty straightforward, depending on how…
SWTOR’s Game Update 7.6: Galactic Threads and Native Mac Launcher Teased for 2024
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) continues to evolve in exciting ways as 2024 progresses. Following the success of Game Update 7.5.1 earlier this year, developers are now gearing up for the much-anticipated Game Update 7.6, titled Galactic Threads. This update promises to bring new content, exciting rewards, and technical advancements like a native Mac launcher. Here’s a detailed look at everything coming up for SWTOR players. Recap: Game Update 7.5.1 – The Greatest Bounty Before diving into 7.6, it’s worth looking back at Game Update 7.5.1, which launched on August 20, 2024. This update, titled The Greatest Bounty, introduced Galactic Season 7 (GS7), offering players a unique Bounty Hunter-themed experience. GS7 encouraged players to take part in the Bounty Contract in-game event, which also featured the return of the Dark vs. Light world bosses, a fan-favorite addition. In addition to Galactic Seasons, 7.5.1 introduced two new weekly Date Night…
Transform Tekken 7 with the Devil’s Pit – Star Wars Galaxy Mod
For Tekken 7 players who are also Star Wars fans, there’s an exciting new way to merge your love for both universes. The TEKKEN 7 Devil’s Pit – Star Wars Galaxy Mod is here to take your gameplay experience to a galaxy far, far away! Created by modders GODLIKE99KINGZ and TheReaper, this mod gives the game’s Devil’s Pit stage a complete Star Wars makeover, creating an epic new arena for your Tekken battles. Available on Nexus Mods, the Devil’s Pit – Star Wars Galaxy Mod is more than just a cosmetic change—it’s an immersive experience that combines stunning visuals with a Star Wars soundtrack, making your fights feel like they’re happening in the midst of intergalactic conflict. You can download the mod here. What Does the Mod Include? This mod transforms the familiar Devil’s Pit stage into a breathtaking Star Wars battleground. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect…
Star Wars: Skeleton Crew — First Look at Jaleel White’s Space Pirate and What We Can Expect
The Star Wars galaxy is vast, constantly expanding with stories of Jedi, Sith, bounty hunters, and of course, pirates. Enter Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, the highly anticipated Disney+ series set to premiere on December 3, 2024. With the promise of a fun, coming-of-age adventure in space, Skeleton Crew has been creating quite the buzz, especially after revealing that Jaleel White, beloved for his iconic role as Steve Urkel, will be joining the pirate crew. And yes, you read that right: Jaleel White is now a space pirate! Let’s dive into what we know about Skeleton Crew, White’s role, and the overall tone of this new Star Wars journey. The Galaxy Welcomes Jaleel White as Gunter First things first: Jaleel White, aka Steve Urkel from Family Matters, has traded in his suspenders for a high-tech, cyborg pirate look. White plays Gunter, a pirate with a striking resemblance to Star Wars fan-favorite…
How Did Kanan Jarrus Die?
Kanan Jarrus, one of the central characters in Star Wars Rebels, was a former Jedi Knight who survived the tragic events of Order 66. His journey throughout the series captivated fans as he mentored Ezra Bridger and fought against the growing power of the Galactic Empire. But how did Kanan Jarrus die? In this article, we’ll explore the emotional and heroic end of Kanan, his role in the rebellion, and the lasting impact of his sacrifice on the Star Wars universe. Who Was Kanan Jarrus? Before discussing how Kanan Jarrus died, it’s important to understand who he was and why his death resonated so deeply with fans. Kanan, originally known as Caleb Dume, was a Jedi Padawan during the Clone Wars. Like many Jedi, his life was forever altered by Order 66, the command issued by Emperor Palpatine that led to the mass execution of the Jedi across the galaxy….
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor PS4 vs. PS5 Graphics Comparison
EA and Respawn Entertainment’s Star Wars Jedi: Survivor has now made its way to the PS4, offering an alternative to the already existing PS5 version. Unsurprisingly, the PS4 and PS4 Pro versions feature noticeable graphical downgrades compared to the PS5, especially in areas like textures, lighting, shadows, and foliage density. The PS4 version runs at a dynamic 720p, while the PS4 Pro bumps it up to 900p. The PS5, on the other hand, delivers higher image quality with a dynamic 1080p in Quality mode and 792p in Performance mode. Visual and Performance Differences One of the key differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor lies in their resolutions and frame rates. The PS4 version typically runs at a resolution of 720p, while the PS4 Pro pushes it slightly higher to 900p. However, the PS5 version takes things further, offering dynamic 1080p in Quality mode, and…
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor Update 9 Fails to Fix Stuttering Issues
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor has been a fan favorite since its release, but it hasn’t been without its technical problems. Players, especially those on PC, have faced ongoing performance issues, with stuttering being one of the most reported problems. Despite multiple patches aimed at improving gameplay stability, the latest Update 9 has left many fans disappointed as it didn’t fully resolve the stuttering issues. Let’s take a look at why this performance problem persists and what fans can expect next from the game’s developers. What Happened with Update 9? When Respawn Entertainment, the developers behind Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, released Update 9, many players hoped that the long-standing stuttering issues, particularly on PC, would finally be resolved. The patch notes outlined various performance improvements, including stability fixes and optimizations meant to reduce frame drops during intense gameplay sequences. However, post-update feedback has revealed that the stuttering persists for many users….
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Was Released 16 Years Ago Today!
It’s been 16 years since Star Wars: The Force Unleashed first blasted onto our consoles, and wow, what a ride it was! Released on September 16, 2008, by LucasArts, this game didn’t just immerse players in the Star Wars universe—it threw them headfirst into a whirlwind of Force powers, epic lightsaber battles, and one of the most fascinating original stories in Star Wars video game history. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore why The Force Unleashed remains one of the most iconic games in the Star Wars franchise. A New Perspective on the Dark Side One of the biggest draws of The Force Unleashed was its unique narrative. Unlike many other Star Wars games where you play a Jedi or join the Rebellion, The Force Unleashed lets you dive into the mind of Starkiller—Darth Vader’s secret apprentice. Yes, that’s right! You’re not just another Jedi Knight; you’re…
Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Last Call Released 3 Years Ago Today!
Three years ago today, on September 15, 2021, Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Last Call hit VR headsets, bringing an epic conclusion to the Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge experience. Developed by ILMxLAB, the studio responsible for other Star Wars VR projects like Vader Immortal, Last Call was the highly anticipated second part of the Galaxy’s Edge VR series, exclusive to the Oculus Quest platform. So, what made Last Call special? Why did it captivate Star Wars fans and VR enthusiasts alike? Let’s dive into everything that made this game stand out, from new storylines to enhanced gameplay mechanics. The Journey to Last Call To truly appreciate Last Call, we first need to revisit its predecessor. Released in late 2020, Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge introduced players to the planet Batuu, a setting first brought to life in the Star Wars theme parks. Players assumed…
Comparing Star Wars: Outlaws’ Kay Vess to Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire’s Dash Rendar
The Star Wars universe is filled with a vast array of rogues, bounty hunters, and anti-heroes, each with their own unique approach to survival in a galaxy ruled by the Empire. Two standout characters from this colorful roster are Kay Vess from Star Wars: Outlaws and Dash Rendar from Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire. While both characters embody the classic scoundrel archetype, they offer very different takes on life in the underworld of the Star Wars galaxy. Interestingly, Dash Rendar is even mentioned in Star Wars: Outlaws, subtly acknowledging his influence on this type of character. But what sets these two apart? How do their stories, motivations, and roles within the greater Star Wars lore compare? Let’s dive into a light-hearted yet insightful comparison of Kay Vess and Dash Rendar. Kay Vess: The Clever Scoundrel With a Heart Kay Vess is the protagonist of Star Wars: Outlaws, a game…
Bring ND-5 from Star Wars to Starfield with This Mod
Are you ready to combine two of your favorite universes? The ND-5 Droid Mod for Starfield is here to bring a touch of Star Wars to Bethesda’s latest space adventure. This mod lets you replace Vasco, your friendly robot companion, with ND-5, a battle-hardened BX-series droid commando that played a key role during the Clone Wars. If that’s not enough, you can even craft your own ND-5-inspired spacesuit and head out into the galaxy as a lethal droid yourself! Whether you’re a die-hard Star Wars fan or simply want a change in the aesthetic of your crew, this mod offers a fun and customizable addition to your Starfield experience. What’s Included in the ND-5 Droid Mod? The ND-5 Droid Mod brings several awesome features to the table, making Vasco a far more battle-ready and stylish companion. Here’s what you get with this mod: Whether you’re looking for an aesthetic upgrade…
Star Wars Outlaws’ First Major Patch is Out Now: What You Need to Know
Star Wars Outlaws has just received its first major patch, bringing a host of improvements, fixes, and exciting new features to enhance gameplay. Title update 1.1.2 has been released across all platforms, with the patch weighing in at 1.92GB on PlayStation 5, 2.25GB on Xbox Series X and S, and 1.89GB on PC. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the patch, from performance fixes and new features to the adjustments Ubisoft has made to some of the game’s more “challenging” moments. Ubisoft Thanks the Fans The patch notes, published on Ubisoft’s official website, open with a warm message of gratitude to the Star Wars Outlaws community:“Thank you for the amazing positivity and support following the launch of Star Wars Outlaws! Your passion, love for Kay, Nix, our open world, and all your amazing creations through our Photo Mode has been a real inspiration for…
How Did Mace Windu Die?
Mace Windu, one of the most powerful and respected Jedi in the Star Wars saga, was instrumental in the fight against the dark side of the Force. His death was a turning point in the fall of the Jedi Order, marking the rise of Emperor Palpatine and the beginning of Anakin Skywalker’s transformation into Darth Vader. But how did Mace Windu die? Let’s explore the events leading up to his death, his pivotal final moments, and the lasting impact of his demise on the galaxy. Who Was Mace Windu? Before diving into how Mace Windu died, it’s essential to understand who he was. Mace Windu was a Jedi Master and one of the leading members of the Jedi High Council. His wisdom, combat skills, and deep connection to the Force made him a significant figure within the Jedi Order. What made Windu particularly unique was his mastery of Form VII…
How to Fix the “Cannot Save While in Combat” Bug in Star Wars Outlaws
There’s no denying that Star Wars Outlaws has captivated many with its open-world exploration and action-packed gameplay. However, like many modern games, it’s not without its share of bugs and glitches. From stuttering to crashes, some players have encountered issues that can really impact the experience. One particularly frustrating glitch is the “cannot save while in combat” bug, which has caused players to lose significant progress. If you’re struggling with this issue, fear not! We’ll break down exactly how to fix it and get back to adventuring in the galaxy far, far away. What Is the “Cannot Save While in Combat” Bug? In Star Wars Outlaws, there’s a built-in feature that prevents players from saving while they’re engaged in combat. This makes sense during battles, as you wouldn’t want to save in the middle of a firefight. However, the bug occurs when the game incorrectly registers you as “in combat”…
SWG Animus: Release Today, September 8, 2024 – Your Galactic Adventure Begins!
If you’re a fan of Star Wars and have always wanted to step into the universe, interact with iconic locations, and make choices that impact an entire galaxy, then SWG Animus is something you’ll want to know about. Launched today, September 8, 2024, this community-driven online game offers a rich sandbox experience set during the height of the Galactic Civil War. But what exactly is SWG Animus? Let’s break it down for newcomers, whether you’re a die-hard Star Wars fan or just someone curious about the game. What is SWG Animus? SWG Animus is a community-run server based on Star Wars Galaxies (SWG), a beloved MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) from the early 2000s. While the original Star Wars Galaxies officially shut down years ago, fans have kept its spirit alive by developing private servers, and SWG Animus is one of the newest, most immersive servers yet. This game…