The Star Wars Topps trading cards debuted in 1977, coinciding with the release of Star Wars: A New Hope. Topps, already a well-established name in the trading card industry, produced a series of collectible cards featuring images from the film, behind-the-scenes shots, and character profiles. The first set, distinguished by its blue border, consisted of 66 cards and 11 stickers, quickly becoming a hit among fans. Due to their success, Topps released five additional series between 1977 and 1978, each with distinct border colors and new images. These cards became some of the most iconic and sought-after collectibles of the era, helping to cement Star Wars as not just a blockbuster film but a cultural phenomenon.
Following the original trilogy, Topps continued producing trading card sets for The Empire Strikes Back (1980) and Return of the Jedi (1983), each receiving multiple series. Throughout the decades, Topps has expanded its Star Warsofferings to include prequel trilogy sets, animated series collections (The Clone Wars, Rebels), and modern sequel trilogy releases. They have also introduced premium lines such as Star Wars Galaxy, Masterwork, and autographed cards featuring actors from across the saga. With the continued popularity of Star Wars, Topps trading cards remain a cherished collectible, evolving with new films and TV series while retaining their nostalgic appeal for original fans.
Carly King unboxes and assembles the Arcade1Up Star Wars arcade cab.
The Star Wars arcade game released in 1983 is like stepping into a time machine that teleports you directly into the cockpit of an X-wing—but with graphics that look like they were designed on an Etch A Sketch. It’s a classic relic from a galaxy not so far away, where the cutting-edge technology of the day meant wireframe graphics and joystick controls that required the reflexes of a Jedi and the patience of Yoda.
When you first approached the machine, it was like encountering a giant, glowing monolith that practically dared you to put in your quarters. The cabinet was decked out in artwork that made you feel like you were about to go on an intergalactic adventure. Once you sat down, though, you quickly realized that the “adventure” consisted of staring at a screen filled with green lines, which somehow represented TIE fighters, turbolasers, and the Death Star.
The controls? Oh, the controls. The joystick was this chunky, plastic thing that felt like it could withstand the force of a Wookiee temper tantrum. It didn’t just move; it clunked into place as you tried to aim your blasters at tiny, geometrical ships that looked like they were drawn by a very ambitious kindergartener.
But once you got into the groove, the game had you hooked. The famous lines from the movie echoed in your ears—”Use the Force, Luke!”—as you navigated the trench run on the Death Star, which was essentially a series of rectangles and trapezoids flying toward you at warp speed. The sound effects were top-notch for the time, with digitized blaster shots and that familiar “pew pew” that made you feel like you were really in the heat of battle.
Surviving long enough to blow up the Death Star was a badge of honor. You’d walk away from the machine with a sense of accomplishment, as well as a slightly sore wrist from manhandling that joystick. And if you really nailed it, you’d get to hear Obi-Wan Kenobi tell you, “The Force will be with you, always,” which was basically the arcade equivalent of a mic drop.
In short, the *Star Wars* arcade game of 1983 was a glorious, low-res homage to the greatest space opera of all time. It was the ultimate test of skill, endurance, and the ability to pretend that a bunch of green lines were actually spaceships. And for those who mastered it, it wasn’t just a game—it was a way of life.
Star Wars Outlaws is like that moment when Han Solo realizes he owes Jabba the Hutt way too many credits—but stretched out into an entire video game. Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, it introduces us to Kay Vess, who is basically the galaxy’s coolest new smuggler since, well, the original smuggler. She’s got a knack for getting into trouble, but luckily, she’s got a loyal companion, Nix—a little creature that’s part dog, part ferret, and all adorable. Think of Nix as the Chewbacca to Kay’s Han, only furrier and with fewer growls.
The game lets you explore the underbelly of the Star Wars universe like never before. You’ll be flying around in your own ship, pulling off heists, and making morally questionable decisions—because what’s a good outlaw without a little ethical flexibility? Imagine all the stuff Luke, Leia, and the rest were too busy with the whole “saving the galaxy” thing to do, and that’s what Kay’s up to. It’s like they took the Mos Eisley cantina and made it a lifestyle.
Nightdive Studios remastered the classic Star Wars Dark Forces game for modern consoles and PC, upgrading the graphics & music as well as including a bunch of developer behind the scenes content. Can they improve on one of the best Star Wars games ever made? Check out my review!
More info: https://www.nightdivestudios.com
“Star Wars: Dark Forces” stands as a seminal milestone in the realm of video game adaptations of the beloved science fiction franchise. Released in 1995 by LucasArts, this first-person shooter immersed players in the expansive Star Wars universe, offering a gripping narrative set within the Galactic Empire’s oppressive regime. Players assumed the role of Kyle Katarn, a skilled mercenary tasked with thwarting the sinister plans of the Empire, including the development of the dreaded Death Star. Through a combination of intense action sequences, intricate level design, and a richly crafted storyline, “Dark Forces” captivated audiences, earning widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay mechanics and faithful adherence to the Star Wars mythos.
With its groundbreaking features, “Star Wars: Dark Forces” left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, influencing subsequent titles in the genre and cementing its status as a classic. The game introduced players to an array of iconic Star Wars locales, from the industrial depths of Imperial bases to the sprawling expanses of alien worlds. Furthermore, its dynamic blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense combat offered a multifaceted gaming experience that resonated with audiences of all ages. Even decades after its release, “Dark Forces” continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers, serving as a testament to the enduring power and cultural significance of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.
Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection is coming to Xbox, Playstation, Switch and PC.
The appeal of the first two Star Wars Battlefront games lies in their immersive and action-packed gameplay set within the beloved Star Wars universe. Developed by Pandemic Studios and published by LucasArts, these games allowed players to engage in epic battles across iconic locations from the Star Wars films. Whether fighting on the forest moon of Endor, storming the beaches of Kashyyyk, or engaging in dogfights above the Death Star, the games captured the essence of the Star Wars saga and allowed fans to experience the thrill of being a part of the galactic conflict firsthand. The seamless integration of ground and space combat, along with the ability to play as various iconic characters and vehicles from the franchise, offered players a diverse and dynamic gameplay experience that kept them coming back for more.
Moreover, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games excelled in their attention to detail and faithful recreation of the Star Wars universe. From the authentic sound effects of blaster fire and lightsabers to the visually stunning landscapes and meticulously designed character models, the games immersed players in a galaxy far, far away like never before. The inclusion of single-player campaigns, multiplayer modes, and cooperative gameplay options ensured that there was something for every type of player, whether they wanted to embark on solo missions as a hero of the Rebellion or team up with friends to conquer the galaxy together. With its combination of thrilling gameplay, faithful representation of the source material, and ample content for fans to enjoy, the first two Star Wars Battlefront games remain beloved classics in the realm of Star Wars gaming.
There are thousands of issues of Star Wars comics out there! How do you know where to start? Here are a couple of suggestions to get you started on you Star Wars comic reading journey!
The history of Star Wars comics is as expansive and rich as the galaxy far, far away itself. The comics have been a crucial part of Star Wars storytelling since the late 1970s, expanding the universe beyond the movies and providing fans with additional adventures, character development, and world-building.
Marvel Comics (1977-1986): Star Wars comics debuted in 1977, the same year as the original film, with Marvel Comics obtaining the license. Marvel published a series that expanded the stories of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia between the events of the original trilogy films. This series introduced new characters and explored various aspects of the Star Wars universe.
Dark Horse Comics (1991-2014): After Marvel’s run ended, Dark Horse Comics acquired the Star Wars license in 1991. They produced a wide range of comics, including standalone stories, limited series, and ongoing titles. Dark Horse delved into different eras, exploring the Old Republic, Clone Wars, and post-Return of the Jedi periods. Notable series like “Knights of the Old Republic,” “Legacy,” and “Dark Empire” expanded the lore and introduced compelling characters.
Return to Marvel (2015-present): In 2015, Marvel reacquired the Star Wars comics license. The new Marvel series picked up after the events of Episode IV: A New Hope and introduced fresh storylines, filling gaps between the original trilogy films. Marvel also explored new aspects of the Star Wars mythos, such as the backstory of Darth Vader and the early days of the Rebellion.
Throughout the years, Star Wars comics have been a platform for storytelling beyond the movies, showcasing beloved characters, introducing new ones, and expanding the lore of the Star Wars galaxy. The comics continue to be a vital part of the franchise, weaving narratives that complement and enrich the larger Star Wars saga.
Get your first look at the remaster of the classic 1995 Star Wars first-person shooter Dark Forces, which is being developed by Nightdive Studios, the same team responsible for the recent remasters of Quake 2 and System Shock. Star Wars: Dark Forces Remastered is in development for all major platforms (PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch).
“Star Wars: Dark Forces” is a classic first-person shooter video game released in 1995, and it holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers and Star Wars fans. The game’s appeal can be attributed to several key factors:
1. **Immersive Star Wars Universe:** The game is set in the beloved Star Wars universe, allowing players to experience its iconic characters, locations, and technology in a new interactive way. This immersion taps into the nostalgia and excitement that fans have for the franchise.
2. **Engaging Storyline:** “Dark Forces” introduced a compelling original storyline that expanded on the Star Wars narrative. Players assume the role of Kyle Katarn, a former Imperial soldier turned Rebel agent, as he battles against the sinister plans of the Galactic Empire, including the development of the feared Dark Trooper project.
3. **Gameplay Innovation:** At the time of its release, “Dark Forces” was innovative in its blending of first-person shooting action with puzzle-solving elements. Players had to navigate complex levels, find key items, and solve environmental puzzles, offering a diverse gameplay experience beyond just shooting enemies.
4. **Varied Environments:** The game featured a wide range of environments, from Imperial bases to starships, desert planets to space stations. This diversity kept gameplay fresh and provided a sense of exploration and adventure.
5. **Iconic Weapons:** The game introduced a variety of weapons, including the Bryar Pistol and the classic E-11 Blaster, as well as more powerful weapons like the Thermal Detonator and the iconic Lightsaber, which was available in later levels. These weapons added to the player’s sense of empowerment and choice in how to approach challenges.
6. **Technical Achievement:** “Dark Forces” was a pioneer in the realm of 3D graphics and sound design for its time. It showcased advanced graphics technology and atmospheric audio that enhanced the overall immersive experience.
7. **Modding and Community:** The game’s active modding community allowed players to create and share custom levels, modifications, and total conversions. This extended the game’s longevity and creativity, enabling players to continue enjoying new content long after completing the base game.
8. **Legacy and Influence:** “Dark Forces” laid the foundation for subsequent Star Wars video games, especially in the first-person shooter genre. It influenced titles like the “Jedi Knight” series, which expanded on the adventures of Kyle Katarn and introduced lightsaber combat and Force powers.
In summary, the appeal of “Star Wars: Dark Forces” lies in its ability to transport players into the Star Wars universe while offering engaging gameplay, a compelling storyline, and technical achievements that were impressive for its time. The game’s legacy continues to resonate with fans and stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Star Wars franchise in the realm of interactive entertainment.
I review the new AT-ST & Chewbacca vehicle set. This is a part of The Vintage Collection line of toys, and the 40th anniversary set for Return of the Jedi. The Star Wars AT-ST (All Terrain Scout Transport) vehicle is a bipedal, heavily armed and armored military vehicle used by the Galactic Empire in the Star Wars universe. It is similar in design to the larger AT-AT (All Terrain Armored Transport) vehicle, but is smaller and more agile, making it ideal for scouting and patrol duties. The AT-ST is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a chin-mounted laser cannon, concussion grenade launchers, and a blaster cannon mounted on the top of its head. It first appeared in the 1983 film “Return of the Jedi” and has since become an iconic vehicle in the Star Wars franchise, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and other media.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed was a big deal when it originally came out on Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii and now we are getting a Nintendo Switch version! But does it hold up all these years later?! Is one of the best reviewed Star Wars game still worth playing in 2022? Full Review from Nintendo Life.
The day is finally here, TFTC has been released into the wild! Its been a long road and we know many of you have waited patiently but the wait is now over. Enjoy this full trailer and go grab the mod! #tiefighter#tftc#starwars
