OCTOBER 2004 ARCHIVE

25th - 31st October '04

A POWERFUL ALLY IS THE FISH?

Brant Raven took this in a restaurant near where he was staying. The place is called Rockfish, a nice little seafood chain in the USA. Staff had snappy fish related slogans on their t-shirts....and this one caught his eye. If you see any Star Wars linked images, logos, sign, etc grab a snap of one and email it to our News Team.

26th October 2004, Brant Raven

THE BATTLE IS OVER

Wow, what a huge response we have had to our Star Wars Battlefront October Contests. Over 100+ entries each week. The Final Week is now closed and the question did have a unique twist to it. So, just how many PHOTON Torpedoes does an X-wing release in each salvo? The simple answer was None. Yes, none. Not 1 or 2 or even 4 but zero.

The trick being that Photon Torpedoes are used in Star Trek whilst in the Star Wars Universe they use Proton Torpedoes for their fighter craft. Receiving only 10 correct answered resulted in the final copy Star Wars Battlefront (PC) being won by the Ben Robins. Stay tuned for a our next big competition in November.

30th October 2004, MSE-6

AUSTRALIAN BUST-UPS BREAKOUT 

Case Fresh & Gentle Giant introduces Star Wars Bust-Ups to Australia. Mini bust model kits with each piece standing 2-3 inches tall and come in several plastic pieces that snap together much like the Japanese model kits which inspired them. Bust-Ups come blind boxed that means characters are packed in a mystery type box with case ratios weighted.

In Stock now is Bust-Ups Wave #1 - Heroes of the Rebellion. This wave contains Luke Skywalker, Chewbacca, Han Solo, C-3PO, Princess Leia, & Yoda. Don't forget to place your preorders Wave 2 - Villains of the Darkside, due December containing Darth Vader, Darth Maul, Darth Sidious, Count Dooku, Stormtrooper, and the Emperor's Royal Guard. 

29h October 2004, MSE-6

ATTACK OF THE GENTLE GIANTS 

Luke Skywalker in X-wing Pilot Gear Mini Bust. The farm boy who became a hero. Guided by the Force, destroys the Death Star and saved the lives of millions throughout the universe. His future is not that of an ordinary pilot, however, as he is destined to train in the ways of the Jedi and once again, rise to defeat the Dark Side.

Deluxe Stormtrooper Mini Bust. Unswervingly loyal to the Emperor. These Imperial shock troopers serve as the most visible extension of the Empire’s might. Their single function is to obey their officer’s orders in whatever effort is needed to maintain order throughout the galaxy. Bust features interchangeable arms and accessories.

Asajj Ventress Maquette. The new face of the Sith. Trained by a Jedi who died before imparting the most crucial tenets of the Force, this rebellious warrior turned to the Dark Side with an impassioned hate for all Jedi. Though she is not truly a Sith Lord, her power, ability, and mercilessness rival any in history.

Available now at Case Fresh, the place for Gentle Giant products in Australia.

28h October 2004, MSE-6

PREPARE TO MAKE THE JUMP TO LIGHTSPEED

Think you can make the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs? Find out this week when the first expansion to Star Wars Galaxies ships. Hands down the most talked about new feature in Jump to Lightspeed is the ability to build and own starships for space exploration and combat. Expand your Star Wars Galaxy with Jump to Lightspeed.

Order Jump to Lightspeed today to get access to 10 vast and distinct space sectors, more than 100 new missions and four new space-specific professions. Available to order from EB Games (USA)  US$30 including a bonus 'special vehicle', or locally at  Games Warehouse (AUST) AU$66 including postage, from November 3rd. Head over to the forums area at the Aussie site, StarWarsGalaxies.com.au to catch up with local characters.

28th October 2004, MSE-6

IS THAT A RANCOR ... OR ARE YOU JUST HAPPY TO SEE ME???

Mutineers have taken hostages and are planning to turn over a fleet of Republic warships to the enemy. Saesee Tiin believes that destroying the fleet is the only hope of saving the Republic. Meanwhile, trapped on a derelict ship carrying dangerous species of animals from around the galaxy, Obi-Wan must face Asajj Ventress! In Republic #70.

A loyal Stormtrooper tracking down a Rebel saboteur on board the Death Star. Darth Vader, surviving the explosion of the Death Star, crash lands on a primitive world. A young Imperial lieutenant learns all service comes at a price. 
Collecting Empire issues #13-#14 & #16-#19,  Empire Vol.3 shows the loyalty, honor, and sacrifice of the bad guys.

27th October 2004, MSE-6

BURIED IN BOOKS

Not all clones are created equal. Meet the clone commandos, elite troopers that operate in small squads, taking on the toughest of assignments, and ensuring victory for the Republic in the grueling Clone Wars. These stone-cold soldiers go where no one else would, to do what no one else could in Republic Commando: Hard Contact.

The New Essential Guide to Weapons and Technology is the fully updated and greatly expanded reference resource that organizes and explains every key class, make, and model of Star Wars munitions. Covering all 5 current episodes, and expanded universe including the New Jedi Order. See what makes the Vong weapons tick.

Because of a shortage of available Jedi, the inexperienced Anakin Skywalker and the Nejaa Halcyon along with a small fleet and army of clone warriors are sent to Praesitlyn. Praesitlyn is under attack by the Separatist. Under this pressure will Anakin's dark thoughts betray his mission and his friends? Find out in Star Wars: Jedi Trial.

Remember, if your specialty Sci-Fi book store does not stock these great titles plus other novels, CD's, DVD's and reference books then head over to the Media Supply Department here at Mousedroid.

27th October 2004, MSE-6

2005 WAVE ARRIVES EARLY 

When it rains ... it pours. The Hasbro Shuttle has dropped off a bundle this week and somehow the 2005 wave has snuck in early than predicted. Continuing the black card style but themed as Coruscant/Naboo collections your can now order 2005 wave 1 consisting of Pablo-Jill (Jedi), Yarua (Wookie Senator), Sly Moore, Rabe, or Queen Amidala. 

Consolidate $80 of in stock October items for immediate dispatch and you will also receive FREE SHIPPING shipping within Australia. Only at Case Fresh.

26th October 2004, MSE-6

FINAL OTC WAVE ARRIVES 

The final waves of Original Trilogy Collection have arrived in Australia. Consisting of Darth Vader (Hoth), Darth Vader (Bespin), General Madine, Lando Calrissian, Lando Skiff Guard, Gamorrean Guard, Bib Fortuna, Slave Leia, Han Solo AT-ST Driver, Imperial Scanning Technician and of course #39 in the line is the new Holographic Emperor.

26th October 2004, MSE-6

SCUM OF THE GALAXY FOR YOUR KIDS

The 3rd wave of Galactic Heroes has just landed at the docking bay of our Sponsor. This time the scum of the scum of the galaxy has arrived to play with your kids. Choose from Boba Fett + Dengar, Bossk +4-LOM or IG-88 + Zuckass. Plus a bonus arrival to booster your Imperial Playskool army the Stormtrooper Twin Pack. Spoil the child within Here.

25th October 2004, MSE-6

KOTOBUKIYA HAN SOLO 

Feeling lucky but don't want to know the odds? You must be Corellian and the most Famous Corellian has now be transformed into the latest figurine, Han Solo Kotobukiya 1/7th scale Vinyl Model. Captured in a classic pose that embodies the scruffiest pilot this side of Dagobah, this items is sure to be a hit with the Han Solo fans in Oz.

Plus if you are a fan of Yoda or Chewbacca then get your pre-orders in now as these Kotobukiya Statues will be arriving in December/ February respectively.

25th October 2004, MSE-6

18th - 24th October '04

NABOO FINAL COMBAT 

Reenact the incredible finale from the The Phantom Menace with the Naboo Final Combat 4-pack! It contains four action figures; Battle Droid, Gungan Soldier, Naboo Palace Guard, Captain Tarpals, a kaadu mount for Captain Tarpals and accessories! Finally, more Gungans the glorious Trade Federation Forces to stomp into the ground.

Another Australian first ,spanking new from the case to your door from the folks at Case Fresh. 

23rd October 2004, MSE-6

REBEL SCUM....STAR WARS BATTLEFRONT.

Week #3 is finalized and the question did stump some of people that entered but thankfully no one thought a Blue Battle Droid was a cook. Instead the correct answer of a Pilot Battle Droid and the winning entry went to Paul Jenkins. Look for your copy of Star Wars Battlefront (PC) courtesy of EA Games Australia, in next weeks Auspost.

Last week of this great contest is now open and the question appears to be very easy. Entry is open to all Australian plus New Zealand Residents with a valid email address.

Hurry, Week #4 is now open ..... Click to Enter, Red Leader!!!!

22nd October 2004, MSE-6

BEGINNINGS OF A NEW EMPIRE

The Beast and the Beauty join forces when Chewbacca teams up with smuggler Sheel Odala to free Han Solo from the clutches of a crime lord in the employ of the Empire. But there are some trust issues as she's the one who betrayed Han to the Empire in the first place... Oh, and Vader was on his way? Find out more in Empire #25 <preview>

This is it-the beginning of a new direction for Star Wars Tales! Stepping away from the shorter, sillier Star Wars stories, with this issue Tales goes full-tilt toward a more exciting and sophisticated storytelling style. Rob Williams and Brandon Badeaux team up to bring you the story of Darca Nyl-a Jedi wandering the galaxy's Outer Rim hunting for revenge and hiding a deadly secret. Shane McCarthy presents a rag-tag group of convicts and cutthroats flying for the Empire's glory in the feared TIE Fighter squadron called "Black Eight." And Kyle Katarn, star of the hit video game Jedi Outcast, goes toe-to-toe with the vile Yuuzhan Vong, all of this in the new format Star Wars Tales #21. <preview>

Both these new Dark Horse title are now available to your local comic shop.

21st October 2004, MSE-6

POSTERS PICTURES 

With the Star Wars Episode III Tease Trailer due for release in early November, we thought it would also be a good time to see what other teasers are around the corner. Over the past  month we have received various images of 'proposed' EPIII Teaser Posters. See which one of  the following three you prefer; Darth Anakin, Darth Lava, or Darth Battle.

20th October 2004, MSE-6

HOLO-EMPEROR EXCLUSIVE IN OZ

INCOMING TRANSMISSION: The Emperor requests your presence at Case Fresh. The last exclusive figure for 2004 will be arriving next week and we are pleased to finally announce that you will not have to "jump thru hoops', buy a minimum amount or be forced to pay 1 cent above normal figure price to obtain this OTC Carded character.

Case Fresh has answered the local Collector by releasing Australian Hasbro stock of the Holographic Emperor for only $13.50. Stock is limited so you best hurry before this great deal disappears before your eyes. Remember if your monthly order is over $80 you will also receive free shipping within Australia. 

19th October 2004, MSE-6

11th - 17th October '04

MOUSEDROID MEDIA SUPPLY

Looking to keep up with the latest Star Wars titles in novels, reference books, DVD's or CD's. Then look no further than the MOUSEDROID MEDIA SUPPLY page. We have compiled a list of links to the new and soon to be released products available to purchase from Amazon.com. Be sure to note down the already lengthy list of  Episode III Books for 2005.

Plus, available to purchase now are the 2005 Calendars. You have three to choose from; a) Star Wars Evolutions: Vehicles, b) Star Wars Evolutions: Characters or c) Star Wars: A Year of Galactic Trivia. 

15th October 2004, MSE-6

ACTIVATE THE BATTLE DROIDS....STAR WARS BATTLEFRONT.

Week #2 is now closed but  we are please to say that all entries received selected the correct answer of a Green Clone Trooper holding the rank of Sergeant. Our random matrix droid selected entry #78, Andrew Rae as the winner of a copy of Star Wars Battlefront (PC) courtesy of EA Games Australia. 

Remember you must enter each week to be in the draw, and entry is open to all Australian plus New Zealand Residents with a valid email address.

Hurry, Week #3 is now open ..... Click to Enter, Roger Roger!!!!

15th October 2004, MSE-6

UCS Y-WING 

Battle the forces of the Empire with the new UCS Y-wing starfighter from LEGO Shop@Home! Named for its unusual shape, the classic fighter-bomber of the Rebel Alliance played a key role in the defeat of both Death Stars and the downfall of the Galactic Empire. This set includes over 1400+pieces, a display stand & collector's statistic card.

Exploding with incredible details, the Ultimate Collector Series Y-wing starfighter carries a pair of nose-mounted lasers, an ion cannon turret and an astromech droid for swift escapes into hyperspace. The UCS Y-wing is a fantastic addition to your ultimate Star Wars collection! Of note is that the Shop@Lego site states this item to be an exclusive?!?! We are confirming with Lego Australia and will let you know if you will see this item in retail.

15th October 2004, MSE-6

REVENGE OF THE OTIS

FAN BASED SPOILER !!! Well, not really as it is a fans 'guess' comic at the final showdown between Obi-wan and Anakin in Episode III, but the art works is still very very nice. So, head over to OtisFrampton.com and have a look at the Final Duel, his independent comic 'Oddly Normal', plus his latest piece of work, Smilin' Kitt Fisto. 

13th October 2004, MSE-6

1st - 10th October '04

TATOOINE PUB CRAWL 

Mos Eisley Cantina. A hot spot of entertainment, seedy characters, bounty hunters and their prey. Recreate the atmosphere of Tatooine Chalmun's Cantina with the release of Mos Eisley Scene 2. Containing The mean spirited Aualish, Ponda Baba, Snivvian Bounty Hunter, Zutton (AKA Snaggletooth) and Jedi Knight, Obi-wan Kenobi.

Available to order online for immediate dispatch to your door from our friends at Case Fresh, the heart of Australian Star Wars Collecting. Oh, and don't forget to check their complete range of Star Wars products for excellent prices on preorder items. Maybe a Jawa Holiday Pack for Xmas?

8th October 2004, MSE-6

THE BATTLE CONTINUES....STAR WARS BATTLEFRONT.

Did you enter last weeks Star Wars Battlefront Competition? and did you follow the rules?  Well for those 35 people that didn't follow the rules their chances dropped to zero. But William Packwood is one happy person that did follow the rules, answered that very easy question and had his entry drawn to win the week #1 prize.

So, read the rules and answer the slightly more difficult question for your chance to win the second PC version copy of Star Wars Battlefront, courtesy of the great folk over at EA Games Australia. Remember, if it's in the movie...it's in the game. (Run you little Ewoks...run !!!!)

Hurry, Week #2 is now open ..... so move out, Trooper!!!!

8th October 2004, MSE-6

LEIA REPLICA BLASTER 

Got that slinky white Princess outfit ready for Halloween? Yes?!? But do you have the authentic sporting blaster to go with it. Well, don't worry because Case Fresh have you covered with the recently released Master Replica Official reproduction of Princess Leia’s DDC Defender Sporting Blaster from Star Wars: A New Hope. 

Modeled on a Soviet .22 caliber target pistol the replica is constructed of metal with ABS parts and detailing, comes with a custom display case, numbered plaque, plaque stand, and certificate of authenticity. With a Limited Edition run of only  2,500 CLICK HERE to grab yours today. And for all those Storm troopers out there...you best get your pre-order in for the highly popular BlasTech E-11 Blaster Rifle before they are pre-sold-out

7th October 2004, MSE-6

TRILOGY DVD WINNER

Over the past 6 weeks we have been flooded with entries into the Star Wars Trilogy DVD Box Set Competition. But, unfortunately only one person could win and Mike Sarantos can thank the Force that his name was drawn as the winner of this awesome prize. A extra special thanks to all the great people at 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment for the info, images and support that enabled us to run this Star Wars competition.

6th October 2004, MSE-6

SPRING INTO MELBOURNE SKYFORCE

Melbourne Skyforce Meeting is on again this weekend. Get along for discussions of the DVD box set release, a great slide show trip through the Star Wars Archives at Skywalker Ranch. They will be having their renowned Fan Auction, as well as the raffle draw for the Carrie Fisher autograph plus dealers by the truck load. (say hi to Dax)

Behind door number 2, you can purchase tickets to the Sci-fi Disco, the Christmas Party, and the Convention. Also, people will have a chance to play Star Wars: Battlefront, (shoot some Ewoks or Gungans).

Date:                    Saturday October 9th, 2004
Time:                    1pm to 5pm
Location:             'The Mervyn Himbury Theological Studies Centre, 
                              50 The Avenue, Parkville (Melway Ref: 43 F1 )
Entrance Fees:   $5.00 Members, $7.00 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 :)

6th October 2004, MSE-6

RETURN OF THE EMPIRE

Our favorite movie magazine, EMPIRE will have fans rushing their local newsagents this month. The November issue (out this week) contains a Special Star Wars Trilogy feature. You can choose from 3 different covers (one of each movie poster), plus a FREE Star Wars book! Exclusive to Empire, & signed off by the man himself, George Lucas.

This book contains everything you need to know about the original Star Wars trilogy! But maybe you should get all 3 versions this edition since each one  contains its own 16-page Classic photo gallery from the corresponding film Available from newsagents form 6th October or online at iSubscribe. Better still, take out a 12 month subscription to EMPIRE, save 32% the newsagent stand price plus get all 3 Star Wars Editions free.

4th October 2004, MSE-6

STAR WARS MINIATURES ARE BIG

More news to hand on the hottest new Star Wars Line for 2004, Star Wars Miniatures. First piece of news is that the new miniature Rebel Storm Boosters are getting brought up at an alarming rate. Our set of 5 were quickly opened for the nice surprise of 3 Very Rare figure, the Wampa being our favorites and Duros Assassin one of the best sculpts.

Last week it was announced on BeJedi.com that the DeAgostini UK would be releasing a magazine based around the miniatures. Well, first the good news. BeJedi obtained a preview copy of Star Wars Battle Games Issue #1 and have a review online. The bad news, although stated in the UK Mag that backorders 'will be' available to Australia/NZ, Bissett Magazine Australia had this to say regarding a release of the magazine; "Unfortunately, we have no details on this series being launched in Australia at this stage". Likewise the comment from DeAgostini UK was "no subscriptions from outside of the UK or Ireland".

So, it appears that the Miniature Starter Sets and Boosters will be the best way for Australians to get into this brilliant war game/collectible set, at least until mid 2005.

3rd October 2004, MSE-6

WIN THE BATTLE....STAR WARS BATTLEFRONT.

So September was a great month. You finally got to watch the Original Trilogy on DVD. You got to watch those great battles on Hoth and Endor. You pulled out the DVD's for Episode 1 and 2 and watched the battles of Naboo and Geonosis. Stop watching and start living those Star Wars epic Battles in Star Wars Battlefront.

The great folk over at EA Games Australia have given us some copies of SW: Battlefront to give away. So weekly for October we will be running a little quiz. Each week simple go to the Contest Page and correctly answer the question to be in the running to score yourself a copy of SW: Battlefront. 

Hurry, Week #1 is now open ..... so lock & load in your entry, Trooper!!!!

1st October 2004, MSE-6

$100 VADER @ TRU

Just when you thought it was safe to go retail shopping... Toys R Us have launched their new October Catalog and a surprise announcement of yet another silver figure can be found inside. When you buy $100 worth of Hasbro Star Wars vehicles, figures or toys you will receive a Limited Edition Silver Darth Vader Figure.

That means there is only one more exclusive figure left for 2004...... ???

1st October 2004, MSE-6

M*A*S*H - THE CLONE WAR YEARS

A new enemy offensive begins but even with superior reinforcements, and the Republic forces are no match. As the wounded start to pile up, surgeons Jos and Divini know that time is running out. Even Barriss Offee is stretched to the limit. Ahead lies a test for Barriss that could lead to her and that of countless others death?

Find out more in this M*A*S*H meets the Clone Wars novel, Medstar II: Jedi Healer. Now available at all good book stores, such as our friends Dymocks Hurstville or online.

1st October 2004, MSE-6