Ever wondered what it feels like to live in the Star Wars universe? To wield a lightsaber, pilot a starfighter, or simply own a pet Bantha? Well, for a glorious period, Star Wars Galaxies (SWG) gave fans exactly that. But like the Death Star, it had a fatal flaw. Ready to dive into the rise and fall of one of the best MMOs ever made? Buckle up, because this ride has more twists than a podrace on Tatooine. The Galactic Dream: What Made Star Wars Galaxies Special What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “Star Wars MMO”? Epic space battles? Jedi and Sith duels? Or maybe the chance to run your own cantina? Star Wars Galaxies had it all. Released in 2003, it was a sandbox MMO that offered unparalleled freedom and immersion. Players could choose from a plethora of professions, build their own homes, and…
Author: Soeren Kamper
Dive Into Adventure: SWTOR Game Update 7.5.1 “The Greatest Bounty”
Excited about the latest updates to “Star Wars: The Old Republic”? Game Update 7.5.1, titled “The Greatest Bounty,” brings a plethora of new content and improvements that will enhance your gameplay experience. Here’s a recap of what you can expect! Twitch Drops and Exclusive Rewards Players can now link their Twitch accounts to their SWTOR accounts to unlock exclusive rewards. Watch streams to earn the Orlean Voidstream Mount, available for 30 days following the update’s launch. This mount is yours after accruing 4 hours of watch time. How to Link Your SWTOR and Twitch Accounts Login to your SWTOR Account: Go to SWTOR.com, click “Account,” and log in. Access Account Page: Click on “Twitch Account” in the overview page. Link Accounts: Follow the prompt to link your Twitch account. Authorize Access: Confirm the authorization on Twitch. Confirmation: You’ll see a notification confirming the successful link. Galactic Seasons 7: The Greatest…
Boba Fett Finally Playable in Star Wars: Bounty Hunter
Did you ever dream of playing as Boba Fett in “Star Wars: Bounty Hunter”? Well, your wish has finally been granted! Aspyr, the team behind the game, has officially made Boba Fett a playable character, fulfilling a 24-year-old easter egg that had Star Wars fans buzzing for decades. This nostalgic twist brings new life to the 2002 classic, and here’s everything you need to know about it. The Easter Egg Finally Unveiled What’s the Big Deal? For those who might not be familiar, “Star Wars: Bounty Hunter” was released in 2002 and followed the story of Jango Fett, Boba Fett’s father. There were always rumors and hints about Boba Fett being unlockable, but players could never quite crack the code. Now, 24 years later, Aspyr has delivered on those whispers by officially making Boba Fett a playable character in the game. How Do You Unlock Boba Fett? Unlocking Boba Fett…
How “The Acolyte” Stayed True to Star Wars Canon
If you’ve been following the latest Star Wars series, “The Acolyte,” you might have heard the buzz about potential canon-breaking storylines. Set in the High Republic Era, about 100 years before the prequel trilogy, “The Acolyte” had fans worried about massive retcons. Now that the series has concluded, we can dive into how it managed to stay true to the established Star Wars canon while introducing new elements and characters. Setting the Stage: The High Republic Era A Golden Age “The Acolyte” takes place during the High Republic Era, a period considered the golden age of the Jedi and the Republic. This setting is approximately 100 years before the events of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.” Given its placement in the timeline, there were concerns that the show might introduce elements that would disrupt or retcon established lore. Canon Concerns Before the series aired, fans expressed concerns…
The All-New EA Forums for Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes
EA has just unveiled their all-new forums, providing a fresh space for players to discuss their favorite games, share tips, and connect with other fans. The new EA Forums are now live, offering an updated user experience and better engagement opportunities. Let’s explore what’s new and how you can join the conversation. New Forum Features Improved User Experience The new forums are designed with a user-friendly interface, making navigation and participation easier than ever. Whether you’re a veteran player or new to the game, you’ll find the layout intuitive and engaging. Expanded Categories The forums include dedicated sections for popular games like The Sims, Command & Conquer, STAR WARS™: Galaxy Of Heroes, and The Simpsons: Tapped Out. More game boards and languages are in the works, promising a comprehensive platform for all EA game enthusiasts. Getting Started Access and Login You can access the new forums using the same EA…
Celebrating Dave Filoni at 50: A Pioneer in Modern Storytelling
Today, June 7, marks the 50th birthday of Dave Filoni, a visionary storyteller and creative force in the entertainment industry. Known for his remarkable contributions to the Star Wars franchise and his work in animation, Filoni has captivated audiences with his deep understanding of storytelling and his ability to breathe new life into beloved characters and universes. This article delves into the life, career, and impact of Dave Filoni, celebrating his journey and accomplishments on this special milestone. Early Life and Inspirations Dave Filoni was born on June 7, 1974, in Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania. From a young age, Filoni was captivated by the magic of storytelling. His childhood was filled with comic books, classic animated series, and a fascination with the rich narratives found in the Star Wars saga. This early exposure ignited his passion for animation and set him on a path that would lead to an illustrious career…
Racism and Sexism in the Star Wars Fandom: The Backlash Against ‘The Acolyte’
The Star Wars franchise, renowned for its epic storytelling and beloved characters, has not been immune to controversy, particularly regarding its efforts to diversify its cast and incorporate progressive themes. This tension is vividly illustrated by the backlash against “Star Wars: The Acolyte,” a new series set in the Star Wars universe. The Controversy Surrounding ‘The Acolyte’ “Star Wars: The Acolyte” has been a hot topic within the Star Wars community, generating a mix of excitement and controversy. Set in the High Republic era, “The Acolyte” promises to explore a lesser-known period of Star Wars history, focusing on the dark side of the Force. However, much of the discussion around the show has centered not on its plot or setting, but on its casting choices and the broader themes it intends to tackle. Diverse Casting and Progressive Themes “The Acolyte” is notable for its diverse cast, including actors of various…
Mastering Fleet Arena in Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes
Fleet Arena is a crucial aspect of Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes (SWGOH), offering valuable rewards and enhancing your overall game experience. This comprehensive guide will help you master Fleet Arena by covering the top fleets and compositions, the best ships to focus on and how to obtain them, and strategies for dominating Fleet Arena battles. Top Fleets and Compositions for Fleet Arena Building a powerful fleet is essential for success in Fleet Arena. Here are some of the top fleet compositions and their respective strategies. 1. Rebel Fleet Key Ships: Capital Ship: Home One (Admiral Ackbar) Core Ships: Millennium Falcon, Biggs Darklighter’s X-wing, Bistan’s U-wing Reinforcements: Cassian’s U-wing, Ghost, Phantom II, Wedge Antilles’s X-wing Strategy: The Rebel fleet excels in offensive capabilities and synergy. Admiral Ackbar’s Home One provides assists and healing, enhancing survivability and damage output. Millennium Falcon’s ability to call assists and evade attacks makes it a…
Beginner’s Guide to Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes
Welcome to the thrilling universe of Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, a mobile game that lets you build and battle with a team of iconic characters from the Star Wars franchise. Whether you’re a fan of the movies or a newcomer to the Star Wars universe, this guide will help you understand the basics and set you on the path to becoming a formidable player. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deep into the game mechanics, provide strategies for starting your journey effectively, recommend the best beginner characters to focus on, and explain how to make the most of daily activities. Overview of Game Mechanics Gameplay Structure: Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes (SWGOH) is a turn-based RPG where players collect characters, form squads, and engage in various battles across the galaxy. The game features multiple modes including Light Side Battles, Dark Side Battles, Cantina Battles, Galactic War, Fleet Battles,…
George Lucas at 80: A Journey Through the Galaxy of His Life and Movies
As George Lucas celebrates his 80th birthday, it’s the perfect time to take a closer look at the man who forever changed the landscape of cinema. The visionary behind some of the most beloved and groundbreaking films, Lucas’s influence spans generations and genres. From the sandy dunes of Tatooine to the high-speed chases of Modesto, his storytelling prowess has left an indelible mark on popular culture. So, let’s dive into the life and legacy of George Lucas, exploring his journey through the galaxy of his life and movies. Early Years: From Modesto to Movie Making George Lucas was born on May 14, 1944, in Modesto, California, a place that would later serve as inspiration for his nostalgic look at youth culture in the 1960s. Growing up, Lucas was fascinated by cars and speed, a passion that was nearly cut short by a near-fatal car accident in his teens. This brush…
Marvel Comics Celebrates Pride Month with Star Wars Pride Variant Covers
Marvel Comics is set to honor Pride Month with an exciting release of Star Wars Pride Variant Covers this June. These special editions aim to celebrate and spotlight the diversity within the Star Wars universe, crafted by talented LGBTQIA+ comic book artists. Featured Artists and Characters The 2024 collection of Pride Variant Covers features the artistic talents of Phil Jimenez, Javier Garrón, Paulina Ganucheau, and Rachael Stott. Each artist brings their unique style to depict some of the most intriguing characters from the Star Wars galaxy: Artist Insights Javier Garrón expressed his enthusiasm for being part of this initiative, highlighting the importance of diversity in storytelling. He is particularly excited about his contribution to Sinjir Rath Velus’s cover, aiming to capture the character’s defiant spirit and layered personality. Paulina Ganucheau also shared her joy in participating, noting her delight in illustrating Cair San Tekka and Xylan Graf. Her work focuses…
Star Wars Skeleton Crew: Blending the Old with the New in a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Hold onto your hats, Star Wars fans! The galaxy isn’t just expanding; it’s doing so with a nostalgic twist that’s as refreshing as a cold drink on Tatooine. “Star Wars Skeleton Crew” is set to hit our screens with a mix of old-school magic and new-school technology. With the original trilogy’s legendary VFX artist Phil Tippett back at the helm, this show promises to blend the beloved traditional effects with cutting-edge innovations. But what makes this mix so exciting for both old fans and new? Back to the Roots: The Magic of Practical Effects Remember the awe when you first saw the AT-ATs in “The Empire Strikes Back”? There’s something about practical effects that CGI just can’t touch. “Star Wars Skeleton Crew” is bringing back these classic techniques, dusting off the old tools in the shed to bring a tactile authenticity that many modern films tend to skip. Phil Tippett’s…
iPhone 15 and Star Wars Collaboration: A Mandalorian’s Urban Adventure
In an exciting collaboration between Apple and Lucasfilm, the iPhone 15 takes center stage in a new commercial that cleverly integrates the Star Wars universe with cutting-edge technology. Directed by Kim Gehrig and launched in celebration of Star Wars Day, the ad highlights the new “Precision Finding for Find My Friends” feature, which is adeptly demonstrated through a heartwarming narrative involving a Mandalorian on a quest to reunite with his clan. A Day in the Life of a Mandalorian The commercial tells the story of Owen, a real-life Star Wars fan and Mandalorian cosplayer, as he prepares for a day at a local convention. His morning routine is humorously themed around his fandom, including feeding his cat Leia and making sure he has his essentials: “Keys, phone, thermal detonator.” The blend of everyday life with elements from the Star Wars saga sets a relatable yet fantastical tone for the narrative….
Celebrate Star Wars Day with a Free Trial of Star Wars Jedi: Survivor on Xbox Game Pass
As Star Wars Day approaches, excitement is building not just for the festivities but also for unique gaming opportunities. This year, Microsoft is offering Xbox Game Pass subscribers a thrilling gift: a five-hour free trial of “Star Wars Jedi: Survivor,” the much-anticipated sequel to 2019’s “Jedi: Fallen Order.” This special promotion was announced on the Xbox Wire blog on May 2 and is set to run until the night of May 5. Trial Details and Availability From now until 11:59 p.m. PT on May 5, all Xbox Game Pass subscribers can enjoy early access to “Jedi: Survivor.” This trial is available to subscribers of all tiers, ensuring that anyone with a Game Pass can partake in the action. Although the trial is limited to five hours, it offers a generous glimpse into the game’s expansive universe, allowing players to immerse themselves in the continuing adventures of Cal Kestis as he…
The Evolution of LGBTQ+ Representation in Star Wars: The Old Republic
BioWare’s Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) launched in December 2011, riding high on expectations from fans eager for another immersive experience from a developer renowned for detailed storytelling and character development. However, the game initially faced criticism for its lack of LGBTQ+ representation—a glaring omission in a franchise celebrated for its diverse and inclusive narratives. Early Days and Initial Discontent SWTOR began with only heterosexual romance options, leaving LGBTQ+ players without representation. The game’s first bisexual character, Kaliyo Djannis, was only romanceable by male Imperial Agents, further highlighting the limitations in the game’s approach to inclusive storytelling. This was a significant oversight, given BioWare’s reputation for creating engaging, romantically diverse characters in other titles like Dragon Age and Mass Effect. Turning Point with Rise of the Hutt Cartel The release of the Rise of the Hutt Cartel expansion in April 2013 marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ representation in…
Galactic Bargain Bin: The Delightful Cheese of ‘The Humanoid’
Welcome aboard the SS Nostalgia, destined for the lesser-known corners of the cinematic universe, where “The Humanoid” drifts in a low orbit around the planet of Campy Classics. Directed by the one-and-only George Lewis—who clearly went shopping for his film’s budget in a dollar store—”The Humanoid” serves up a hearty meal of cheese, topped with a generous sprinkle of clichés. Critics might call it a “Star Wars Rip-Off,” but let’s be real: it’s more like if “Star Wars” went on a bender, woke up in a back alley without its wallet, and had to borrow clothes from a 1970s sci-fi series to make its way home. With its earnest attempt at grandeur on the budget of a high school play, “The Humanoid” is the kind of movie you watch with your friends to revel in its glorious shortcomings, not to explore the outer reaches of philosophical thought. So, why dive…
Star Wars Wins 3 Webby Awards
In a significant recognition of digital excellence, Star Wars has clinched three Webby Awards in the 2024 ceremony. Known as the “Internet’s highest honor” by The New York Times, the Webby Awards celebrate outstanding achievements on the internet, including websites, video, advertising, media, and apps. This year, Star Wars projects stood out in multiple categories, showcasing their ongoing commitment to innovative storytelling and fan engagement. Categories of Achievement Star Wars’ success at the Webby Awards highlights its impact across various digital platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the categories in which Star Wars projects excelled: Best Website – Movie & Film Star Wars’ official website was honored for its exceptional design and user experience, providing an engaging portal for fans to explore the universe of Star Wars. The website features a comprehensive archive of Star Wars media, detailed character bios, latest news updates, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content, making it a go-to…
Iconic Star Wars Game Characters Lord Starkiller and Darth Revan Set to Become Hot Toys Figures
The universe of Star Wars video games has been home to some of the most compelling characters in the extended lore. Recognizing their popularity, Hot Toys is set to release collectible figures of two of the most iconic characters: Lord Starkiller from Star Wars: The Force Unleashed and Darth Revan from Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. These figures will join the ranks of Hot Toys’ highly detailed collectibles, which are celebrated for their accuracy and craftsmanship. New Additions to the Hot Toys Lineup Hot Toys is expanding its Star Wars collection with figures that bring these beloved video game characters to life. Each figure is crafted with attention to detail, aiming to capture the essence of Lord Starkiller and Darth Revan’s appearances and their significant roles within the Star Wars saga. Lord Starkiller – Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Darth Revan – Star Wars: Knights of the Old…
Disney+ Moves Closer to Cable with New Bundle Offerings
As streaming services evolve, Disney+ appears to be taking a strategic step that mirrors traditional cable TV models. The platform is introducing a new range of bundle packages that provide subscribers with more tailored viewing options. This move suggests a shift in the streaming industry, as Disney+ aims to offer a comprehensive media solution reminiscent of the cable services of yesteryear. Disney+’s New Strategy Disney+ is enhancing its service by bundling various channels and content types into distinct packages. These bundles are designed to cater to different interests and demographics, allowing subscribers to customize their viewing experience more granularly than the typical all-in-one streaming service. Bundle Details Why Disney+ is Adopting a Cable-like Model The introduction of these bundle packages represents Disney+’s response to several market forces: Potential Benefits for Subscribers These new bundles could offer several advantages over traditional streaming and cable models: Challenges and Considerations While the shift…
“Star Wars: The Acolyte” – A New Dawn for Lightsaber Duels
“Star Wars: The Acolyte” heralds a thrilling era in the galaxy far, far away, as it delves deep into a period previously unexplored in the cinematic universe. The series promises to unravel the mysteries just before the era of the Star Wars prequels, focusing on the shadowy emergence of dark forces. Set against a backdrop where the Sith are believed to be a forgotten menace, this narrative choice not only enriches the lore but also sets the stage for unprecedented lightsaber action. A Leap in Lightsaber Choreography The buzz around “Star Wars: The Acolyte” isn’t just about new characters and dark plots; it’s also bringing with it the promise of some of the most breathtaking lightsaber duels the franchise has seen. Sources close to the production hint that these sequences are designed to top any previous engagements we’ve witnessed in earlier installments. Imagine duels that are not only technically impressive…
Exploring Star Wars Outlaws: The Ultimate Blend of Adventure and Gambling
Picture this: you’re zooming through the outer rim of the galaxy, surrounded by a motley crew of rogues and renegades. Your mission? To outwit, outplay, and outlast in a universe where the stakes are as vast as space itself. Welcome to “Star Wars Outlaws”, a game that’s about to take you on an unprecedented ride through the Star Wars universe, blending the thrill of exploration with the heart-pounding excitement of gambling. In this introductory piece, we’ll give you a first look at the game’s rich setting, its intriguing characters, and the innovative way it plans to integrate gambling into its core gameplay mechanics. So, buckle up and prepare to embark on a journey to the edge of the galaxy! The Setting: A Galaxy Far, Far Away Star Wars Outlaws” drops players into the less explored corners of the Star Wars galaxy, focusing on the outer rim territories where the rule…
Intel Teams Up with Star Wars Outlaws for an Exclusive CPU Launch Bundle
Intel is gearing up to bring gamers and Star Wars enthusiasts an offer that’s as enticing as a trip through hyperspace. In a groundbreaking partnership, Intel has been announced as the exclusive CPU launch partner for the eagerly anticipated “Star Wars Outlaws”, setting the stage for a promotion that’s bound to excite the tech and gaming communities alike. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, as Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment herald “Star Wars Outlaws” as the “first-ever open-world Star Wars game,” a title that has already set the gaming world abuzz with anticipation. A Galactic Bundle for the Ages Starting Tuesday and continuing until July 31, 2024, Intel is offering a promotion that seems almost too good to be true. Partners of the tech giant have begun to bundle 14th Gen processor-equipped laptops with promotional codes for a complimentary digital copy of “Star Wars Outlaws”. But the good news doesn’t stop…
Star Wars Outlaws: A New Kind of Adventure Awaits in the Galaxy
The Star Wars universe is set to expand in exciting new directions with the upcoming release of Ubisoft Massive’s “Star Wars Outlaws” on August 30, 2024. The latest story trailer not only pins down the release date but also shines a spotlight on Kay Vess, affectionately dubbed “Hannah Solo” by fans. As a fledgling outlaw on the lam, Kay’s escapades across the galaxy promise a fresh take on the Star Wars saga, one that intriguingly sidelines the franchise’s traditional focus on the Force, Jedi, and Sith. Kay Vess: A Scoundrel in the Making Kay’s journey from an up-and-coming crook to a full-blown space outlaw is at the heart of “Star Wars Outlaws”. Fleeing from her criminal overlord, Kay finds herself entangled with various crime syndicates across multiple planets. The game consciously keeps iconic Star Wars elements at arm’s length, opting instead to explore the underworld of the galaxy. While the…
Ewan McGregor: Between the Jedi and the Aristocrat
Ewan McGregor, renowned for his portrayal of the iconic Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, remains hopeful about reprising his role in the Star Wars universe, despite no current plans for another series. In a recent interview with LADbible, while discussing his new series “A Gentleman in Moscow,” McGregor shared insights into his Star Wars journey and his latest venture into Russian aristocracy. The Jedi’s Return: A Hopeful Future McGregor’s association with Obi-Wan Kenobi is a defining aspect of his career, a role that has left an indelible mark on his life and the hearts of Star Wars fans worldwide. Despite the conclusion of the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” limited series, McGregor is “pretty sure” the Force will call him back to the galaxy far, far away. He emphasizes his readiness to explore more stories within the timeline, noting the age gap between himself and Sir Alec Guinness’s portrayal of Kenobi in “A New…