JUNE 2004 ARCHIVE

21st - 30th June '04

ONE BAD ASS JEDI...

Mace Windu has decided that it’s time for the Jedi to  demonstrate to the Bounty Hunters’ Guild the folly of attacking Jedi. It’s going to be a hard lesson—and one the Guild won’t soon forget. Meanwhile, Count Dooku sends renegade Jedi Quinlan Vos to teach a similar lesson to the person who originated the bounties, in Republic #66.

One shocker of a cover and check out the stories. The first features Jar Jar Binks's father—George R. Binks! The second, the underdeveloped leadership skills of Senate Representative Jar Jar Binks! Then, the exploits of Melvin Fett as he tries to assassinate a Jar Jar sippy cup! plus more...  Oh what have DH unleashed in SW: Tales #21. 

Leia has sought the help of an old boyfriend in finding a new location for the Rebel base. He’s willing but only if Leia will give up the Rebellion and join him his quest. But when a speeder crash strands them on a jungle moon, their need for each other in their struggle for survival leads to a unforeseen conclusion ... in Empire #21.

30th June 2004, MSE-6

CLONE TROOPER SUPPLY PACK DISPATCHED

Clones...they're all the same. Well, actually they are not. One lucky clone trooper by the name of  Michael Fisicaro of Victoria, has just won himself the Clone Trooper Supply pack containing 5 packs of Animated Clone Wars Trading Cards and a Silver Clone Trooper. We have dispatched a gunship so expect the package drop early next week.

29th June 2004, MSE-6

ORIGINAL TRILOGY CASES REVEALED

Like to have a bit of consistency in your DVD collection, well this news will cheer you up. "The cover art to each Episode in the upcoming DVD box set features the same photographic art style found on the Episode I and II DVDs, unifying the saga as a whole. The art printed on the disc features poster art from the original theatrical release. 

The bonus disc features a new image of Darth Vader, with his eyes serving as a window to the wealth of behind-the-scenes material found on disc four. With disc art fittingly features a very early poster concept by Ralph McQuarrie. 

For those who like their DVD shelves tidy and uniform, the boxed set can be displayed in different ways. The inner box that slides out of the slip case can be placed so that box art faces outwards, or that the individual DVD spines face outward, to properly show the numerical indices of each Episode. Also, care has been taken that all the spines assembled work as a whole, so that your complete library of Episodes I-VI (including Episode III) will have a cohesive design, with prequel and original trilogy delineated by color."

All we can say is... Sweeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet.

26th June 2004, MSE-6

STAR WARS INSIDER AVAILABLE IN OZ/NZ

Has your Star Wars insider subscription lapsed and you can't renew due to Lucas Online international restrictions? Well, we have found the next best thing... Local Australian Comic shop, Kings Comics, is able to take standing orders for all your star wars needs. From the Insider magazines to the latest in trade paperbacks and comics.

Based in Sydney, but able to ship all over Australia and New Zealand, Kings have been a corner stone of the comic culture since 1986. To place a standing order simply call Kings on (02) 9267-5615 or email them with your request. Remember if you are calling from New Zealand replace the area code with (612), and welcome back to the Star Wars Insider Club.

25th June 2004, MSE-6

ORIGINAL TRILOGY OZ ONLINE PRE-ORDER

Don't believe the Blockbuster Hype ...there will be more than enough to go around. But if like us you prefer to lock you orders in early then head to EzyDVD and preorder the Star Wars Trilogy 4 DVD box set for an UNBELIEVABLE $69.95! Incase you have been hiding under a rock for the past 6 months, here is the low down on the discs. 

The silver box set contains Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope, Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back and Episode VI: Return Of The Jedi. Plus there's a bonus disc filled with all-new special features - including the most comprehensive feature-length documentary ever produced about the Star Wars saga and never-before-seen footage from the making of all three films! All 3 films have been digitally restored and re-mastered by THX for superior sound and picture quality.

NOTE: The GOLD FULLSCREEN Star Wars Trilogy 4 disc box set is NOT being release locally so head over to Amazon to pre-order your additional copy. 

24th June 2004, Sithlord

CLONE WARS CONTEST CLOSING

Still haven't got that carded Silver clone trooper for your collection? Or maybe you would like an extra one to open? Either way you only have until this coming Monday, 28th June to get your entry in to win our Clone Trooper Supply Pack. The prize pack consists of 5 packs of Animated Clone Wars Topps Cards and a carded Silver Clone Trooper.

So click on the right side contest image to be transported to our contest page, and be sure to follow all  the rules to go in the running for this great prize.

23rd June 2004, MSE-6

ROGUES AND SCOUNDRELS TCG

The bounty hunters are some of the most popular characters in the Star Wars universe. In the exciting, new Rogues and Scoundrels expansion, they join a mercenary army of neutral cards every player will want to pick up. This 105-card set introduces the all-new Bounty and Upkeep mechanics.

Fill your play deck full of scum and villainy today. The new expansion deck are available right now at Case Fresh in single packs, 10 packs, or a box of 36.

22nd June 2004, MSE-6

ULTIMATE ADVERSARIES SOURCE BOOK

You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy than inside the new Star Wars RPG Ultimate Adversaries source book. Inside you’ll find a fully illustrated menagerie of foes to pit against your heroes. Discover fearsome creatures, lethal droids, and diabolical organizations, any of which could become a true nemesis in your campaign.

Over 30 pregenerated villains (including Bossk & C-3PX), More than 75 alien creatures, New creature templates (including Yuuzhan Vong & Sithspawned creatures), 11 types of droids (including droids from Episode II), plus more. 

This new SWRPG Source Book is out now at all good book and game retailers, or to be ahead of the game, order your books in advance from your Local Dymocks books store. (note: Hurstville, NSW is our preferred outlet)

21st June 2004, MSE-6

14th - 20th June '04

EXCLUSIVE BATTLEFRONT FIGURE IN OZ

What a difference a day can make. No less than 24 hours after announcing that EA Games Australia will not be distributing Star Wars Battlefront with the free Scout Trooper figure, than we receive word that Australia will not be missing out on this awesome carded Imperial soldier. 

Our spy holonet has picked up data that, unlike the 'Not-For-Resale' version (seen here) that will ship with the Battlefront game in the USA , the Australia Clean Version (seen here) will be available to purchase from a yet to be named exclusive retailer. Stay tuned for more information as it comes in ....

19th June 2004, MSE-6

DARTH DANGEROUS STRIKES AGAIN 

Our story in March broke the news that Hasbro Australia had released a nation wide product recall on the Darth Vader: Throne Room Duel saga figure. Well, this same Darth Vader is scheduled to be figure number 10 in the forthcoming Original Trilogy Collection. Alas this product will NOT make it to Australian stores due to its dangerous throwing action.

The Australian Government Product Recall site has the all the info on the dangerous nature of the Saga edition Darth Vader. Local collectors will just have to ask a favor of their US contacts or hit eBay to pick up an OTC version.

18th June 2004, MSE-6

CASE FRESH PRICES SLASHED

June is the month of end of financial year sales here in Australia so why would it be any different for collectible shopping. Head over to our Sponsor, Case Fresh, for their Stock Take Clearance. With basic figures from $5, 12" figures from $15, trading cards from $2 per pack, vehicles from $25..plus heaps more. Don't blink or you will miss out.

A-wings @ $25 are now SOLD OUT with Tie Fighters in low quantities. Added to the sale items are some of Case Fresh other products lines.  i.e. Huge savings across the entire Transformers Energon line.

18th June 2004, MSE-6

AUSTRALIA TO MISS THE BATTLEFRONT?

What do you get when you combine 'The blaster rifle form IG-88, a Scout Trooper figure, encase them in KEWL custom packaging then bundle them with the best multiplayer Star Wars Game this side of Endor? Why that would be the Star Wars Battlefront game plus bonus carded Scout Trooper figure, due out around the time of the Trilogy DVDs.

Unfortunately, our sources tell us they have yet to confirm if the bonus figure will be available here in Australia. But we do have our fingers crossed. Still this is going to be one hell of an excellent game...figure or no figure.

Just received confirmation from EA Sports Australia. The Australian version of Star Wars Battlefront will NOT be shipping locally with the exclusive Scout Trooper action figure.

18th June 2004, MSE-6

GREEN WITH ENVY

Have you been searching for the elusive green-striped Deluxe Clone Trooper Sergeant Gentle Giants mini bust. This piece features all modular arms included with the original Trooper, Captain, and Commander versions but unlike previous clone the Sergeants amour has a heavy battle worn and green wash look. 

Limited to a total production run of 2500 pieces, this item was available in France thru Attakus, in Japan thru Tomy Direct, in America thru ShopStarWars, and now in Australia thru Case Fresh. Stock is already flying off the shelf so you best hurry before missing out on another great deal. Plus you can pre-order your Bossk, Luke X-wing, Stormtrooper or Gamorrean Guard Gentle Giant 2004 mini busts to avoid disappointment.

17th June 2004, MSE-6

BLOCK CITY IN THE CLOUDS

Recreate your favorite moments from The Empire Strikes Back, with the new Lego Cloud City Play Set. Featuring 7 mini-figures (Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Boba Fett, Stormtrooper and the all-new Lando Calrissian) with three separate play areas plus a Landing Platform for the Twin Pod Cloud Car (sold separately).

Available now online at ShopLego, plus we have seen several reports of these showing up at a larger retail store, so again keep your eyes open.

16th June 2004, MSE-6

MORE DEEP FRIED CALAMARI

Matt G of SWNZ has posted part 2 of his interview with Gerald Home. The Second Installment continues the stories about the filming of 'Return of the Jedi', based on discussions with Gerald Home and analysis of the 'Revenge of the Jedi' call sheets , starting with the action aboard the Rebel Headquarters Frigate (Home One).

15th June 2004, Matt G

7th - 13th June '04

HOME OF THE STAR WARS TRILOGY

First with Free Shipping Offers. First with Imperial Shuttles. First with Jorg Saculs. First with Silver Boba Fetts.  And now Case Fresh is first with the release of the full range of Australian pre-orders in the Star Wars Trilogy Line for 2004. From the super articulated vintage figures to 38 black carded trilogy line. They have it online for pre-order...NOW!!!

It is a huge list of pre-orders. Far too much to list here, but here is a quick rundown of the major lines on offer:  38 Original Trilogy Collection (OTC) figures (Dagobah, Cloud City and beyond), twelve Vintage super articulated figures, new 3 3/4 Vehicles including the Millennium Falcon, three new 12" Vintage, new line of Gentle Giant Bust-ups and Mini-Busts (including the Green Clonetrooper- in stock now), Unleashed series 5 (with our favorite Blue Twi'lek), Master Replica Weapons (Blasters and FX Sabers), Playskool Galactic Heroes figures and vehicles, Kotobukiya Boba Fett, Clone War Maquette Statues...

Best of all there is a new LOW PRICE of $13.50 for basic figures.

The list is gigantic...Coupled with the other collectible lines that Case Fresh now  support (Transformers, MOTU, Buffy, LOTR, etc), you will be busy shopping online for hours. With such a comprehensive list you can happily pre-order all your Star Wars needs and balance you collecting budget for the next 4 months. Check back regularly for updates as products get released.

11th June 2004, MSE-6

LEGO MILLENNIUM FALCON Mk-II

The most popular LEGO Star Wars models is back with a whole new look! This Lego Millennium Falcon includes more features, new Mini-figures and much more. Open the triangular plates to see inside, starboard hatch lid and lower the boarding ramp, pilot's seat to control the moveable gun turret and you're ready to take off. If Imperial ships close in, just open the port hatch and use the special escape pod. No LEGO Star Wars collection is complete without this awesome model! Includes Chewbacca, C-3PO, Snowtrooper, and new Hoth Han Solo and Princess Leia Mini-figures.

Available now online at ShopLego, plus we have received several reports of these showing up in the larger retail stores, so keep your eyes open.

10th June 2004, MSE-6

SOUTH AUSTRALIA MEGA TOY SWAP MEET

Looking to swap/trade or sell some of your Star Wars collection? Well if you are in South Austrlia then head to the Mega Toy Swap Meet held this weekend at the Royal Adelaide Showgrounds. They have everything from old collectible toys to models, kits, dolls, trains or even matchbox cars.

Date:                    Saturday 12th June to Sunday 13th June, 2004
Time:                   10am to 5pm
Location:             Royal Adelaide Showgrounds - Rose Terrace Gates
Entrance Fees:   $4 Adults, $3.5 Concessions, $1 Kids 12-16, under 12 free.

10th June 2004, MSE-6

DARKSIDE OF MELBOURNE

Starwalking, the Star Wars Appreciation Society of Australia, is having social outing of their SKYFORCE - Melbourne group. It's the annual Dark Zone 3 - Midnight to Dawn session. A night of laser tag in a four story maze with a distinctly Star Wars theme. Limited to 60 people it is best to reserve your place ASAP.

Date:                    Midnight Saturday June 19th to 7.00am Sunday June 20th.
Time:                   Please be at Dark Zone by 11.30pm
Location:             Dark Zone, 
                              942 to 946 Whitehorse Road Box Hill, VIC

For bookings e-mail Peter at skyforce@starwalking.net no later than Friday 11th June. Note: Consent forms will be available on the night for anyone under 18, they must be signed by Parent/Guardian.

9th June 2004, MSE-6

LIGHT & DARK SIDES OF THE FORCE

Which is stronger, Light or Dark? Find out when Aayla Secura battles  Aurra Sing, and Quinlan Vos crosses swords with a true master of the dark, Count Dooku. Set against the backdrop of the Clone Wars, this novel-length adventure is filled with espionage, betrayal, and amazing lightsaber battles.

A story that is sure to have Star Wars fans talking—and wondering whether the fate of the Jedi lies in the light, or the dark...Find out in Star Wars Clone Wars Vol.4 (This volume collects Star Wars: Republic issues 54 and 63, Star Wars: Jedi—Aayla Secura, and Star Wars: Jedi—Dooku) or click for a <Preview>

9th June 2004, MSE-6

GIRL TALK ... STAR WARS STYLE

So you missed out on the Q&A session with Nalini Krishan and Eliana Dona this year at the Sydney Supanova. Well, you best not miss their appearance at Gamescape 2004 this weekend. To give you a little info on the girls, they were kind enough to answer some questions we put to them last month. Just click on thru to our June Feature interview.

With Nalini leaving our fair shores later in the month, this could be you last opportunity to get her signature on your Barriss Offee carded figure.

8th June 2004, MSE-6

DARTH MAUL IN LORD OF THE RINGS 

Have you been watching the 'OTHER' great trilogy on DVD while awaiting September 21? Yes, the final chapter of the Lord of the Rings: Return of the King is out on DVD and video. But, 'How does this relate to Star Wars?' I hear you ask. Well click on the image to the left to see proof that Darth Maul serves two evil masters  ... :-)

7th June 2004, MSE-6

PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT 

It's a long weekend approaching, so what do you have planned? How about hanging out with some of the local Star Wars Talent and playing a few hands of Star Wars TCG. So, if this sound like just your game then you best grab your playing cards and head straight to Gamescape 2004 for the best long weekend of gaming this side of Mos Espa.

Guests appearing include Jay Laga'aia (Capt Typho), Nalini Krishan (Barriss Offee) and Eliana Dona (Kell Borean). You can play the most popular in Trading Card Games (TCGs) and miniature wargames in all level of Tournaments,  Championships and even World Qualifying Events. 

Gamescape 2004 is on at Counterpoint Convention Centre, 100 Market Street, Sydney from  Friday 11th June to  Monday 14th June. Just check the website for the best time for your preferred event and star autographs. 

7th June 2004, MSE-6

1st - 6th June '04

ARTISTIC SIDE OF THE FORCE 

Covering powerful images such as, Samurai Vader to Force Touch Yoda, Tsuneo Sanda is our favourite Star Wars artist here at Mousedroid. If you haven't heard of him, you are sure to have at least seen his work. (Yoda Claus being made into a Hasbro Xmas Exclusive last year). Like to see more Lucas inspired work head over to www.Sandaworld.com. Enjoy!

5th June 2004, MSE-6

A SHOW OF FORCE

In the aftermath of a Clone War battle, a new threat arises: someone has placed a bounty on Jedi—the deader, the better. Rather than be targets on and off the battlefield, Mace Windu assembles a team of the toughest Jedi available. Their mission? Explain to the Bounty Hunters Guild, in no uncertain terms, that attacking Jedi is a very, very bad idea. See what happens to those that try to profit from the death of a Jedi in the latest Dark Horse issue of Star Wars: Republic #65, Show of Force <Preview>

4th June 2004, MSE-6

SYDNEY WINTER SKYFORCE MEETING

Starwalking, the Star Wars Appreciation Society of Australia, is having their June SKYFORCE - Sydney meeting this weekend. Catch up on the latest Australian Toy Talk, fan movies, EP3 discussions, plus all the usual fun to be had, including the premium Australian Internet Star Wars retailer, Case Fresh and their table of collectibles.

Date:                    Sunday June 6th, 2004
Time:                    12pm to 5pm
Location:             Lidcombe Catholic Workers Club, 
                              24 John Street, Lidcombe (opposite Railway Station)
Entrance Fees:   $8 Members, $10 Non-members

If you are not part of Skywalking, why not join the club, in what is going to be a huge lead-up year to Episode III in 2005. Come on, get active in your hobby :)

3rd June 2004, MSE-6

WIN A SILVER CLONE TROOPER PACK

Looking to grab the latest 'exclusive' item in Australia? Well our friends over at Case Fresh have once again come thru with the goods. Win a carded Silver Clonetrooper plus 5 packs of Clone Wars Trading cards in our Clonetrooper Supply Pack contest. Once again, this is open to all Australian and New Zealand residents with valid emails.

Simply click <here> or on the image in our RHS menu to be transported to the Contest page. One email is all it takes to enter. Contest closes June 28th. As usual, a bonus surprise item will also be sent to the lucky winner.

1st June 2004, MSE-6