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Yuzzem

The Empire enslaved Yuzzem in much the same way it did Wookiees (leading to many slave revolts when the Yuzzen and Wookiees joined forces); Yuzzem are often found as slaves in Imperial labor camps, employed to handle such heavy physical activity as mining. And as with Wookiees, Yuzzem adhere to strict codes of honor and debt-fulfillment.

With their strong similarities to Wookiees, it makes good sense that a Yuzzem would appear in Revenge of the Sith (which also brings more of Chewbacca's species to the game). However, while the expansion's Wookiees are aligned with the Republic, this Yuzzem is a neutral Fringer.

As far as abilities go, the Yuzzem is actually more similar to another figure: Rebel Storm's dangerous Wampa, with its double attacks and Rend ability – as well as with its size. Revenge of the Sith's Yuzzem is the game's first Large-sized common figure.

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Muun Guard

One of the galaxy's wealthiest worlds, Muunilinist came to be unofficial known as MoneyLand, home of the Banking Clan. The Muuns transformed their world into a center of commerce, its cities dominated by gleaming marble edifices, columns, and entablatures. These classical structures would become marred by occasional warfare, particular when Muunilinist became a battleground during the Clone Wars.

We've already seen San Hill, Chairman of the InterGalactic Banking Clan; however, he's not the only Muun to appear in Star Wars Minis Revenge of the Sith – San's backed by his Muun Guard, a low-cost uncommon who fights on the side of the Separatists. Or, more accurately, fights for Muunilinist.

Super Battle Droid

Super Battle Droids are more threatening, heavily armored units in the Trade Federation's battle droid line. For economy, their design makes use of standard battle droid internal components; however, these components are packaged within much stronger armor.

Acertron armor protects the Super Battle Droid's primary power unit, located in their chests, while tough overall armoring and reinforced joints sacrifice mobility for improved protection. Broad areas are heavily armored, with excess heat radiated through their calf vanes. Far superior to their skeletal-looking counterparts in almost every regard, even the Super Battle Droids' looming frames and dehumanized silhouettes help increase their intimidation.

Super Battle Droids are designed to operate independently, rather than in groups; compared to standard battle droids, they are stronger, more efficient models of technological weaponry.

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San Hill

As Chairman of the Banking Clan, San Hill provides financial backing to Count Dooku's separatist Confederacy of Independent Systems… though has only committed to a non-exclusive arrangement. He's also led the defense of Muunilinst from his command tower war room, against attacks by the Republic.

During the Clone Wars, Republic forces, led by General Kenobi, had sought to disrupt the Banking Clan's funding of the Dooku's separatists. Against a fierce defense, composed of battle droids under the command of the bounty hunter Durge, the Republic forces prevailed. General Kenobi was able to defeat Durge and subsequently capture San Hill.

San Hill represents an inexpensive commander, who carries both a potential windfall and drawback. Ever cautious, San Hill's Commander Effect limits your activations. At the same time, he's enlisted additional Separatist Reserves waiting to join the battle -- should the roll for Initiative come up a certain way.

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Agen Kolar, Jedi Master

Along with Eeth Koth and Darth Maul, Agen Kolar is a Zabrak, a species with vestigial horns and iron willpower, able to withstand extreme physical pain and suffering. The Zabrak are known as warriors and explorers without peer, who possess a great deal of confidence and believe there is nothing they can't accomplish.

The Zabrak's instincts were largely forged by the harshness of their original homeworld, Iridonia. There, strong winds can reach over 200 kilometers per hour, and seas of acidic liquid swirl up and splash down onto highland villages and fields perched atop sea cliffs. Worse still are the gigantic predators that occasionally emerge from these acid seas to swallow ships whole or destroy settlements.

As with Mace Windu, Agen Kolar's Revenge of the Sith stats are similar to his Clone Strike version. The difference lies with his Force Powers. Clone Strike's Agen Kolar presented a more defensive nature with such abilities as Lightsaber Block, Deflect and Recovery 20. Agen Kolar, Jedi Master expresses his offensive side—far more offensive.

Darth Vader, Dark Jedi uses the dark side to fuel his Force Grip, causing 10 damage to any character within line of sight. Agen Kolar, Jedi Master has the chance to cause 20 damage, so long as his opponent is within closer reach. Plus, Force Burst allows Agen Kolar to inflict damage to not just one character, but every character within 6 squares (even Emperor Palpatine's Force Storm is limited to adjacent characters).

Next time: an opportunistic financier!

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/rotspreview3

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R2-D2, Astromech Droid

Assigned to Queen Amidala's Royal Starship, when the vessel was damaged by enemy fire, Artoo valiantly repaired the damaged deflector shield generator. Soon after, he found himself on Tatooine, where he met C-3PO, his future counterpart. While the protocol droid considers the little blue astromech a bit too self-reliant, Artoo understands that most of Threepio's objections are out of concern for his friend.

Like all astromechs, Artoo has a wide range of built-in tools, which he uses to repair vehicles and other machinery. Artoo's domed head contains infrared receptors, electromagnetic-field sensors, a register read-out and logic dispenser, dedicated energy receptors, a radar eye, heat and motion detectors, and a holographic recorder and projector. His cylindrical body hides numerous devices, including a storage/retrieval jack for computer link-up, auditory receivers, flame-retardant foam dispenser, electric shock prod, high-powered spotlight, grasping claw, laser welder, circular saw, and a cybot acoustic signaler.

Revenge of the Sith's R2-D2, Astromech Droid costs a point higher than his Rebel Storm version. For that point, you sacrifice the Repair ability for a unit able to take the offensive against his fellow droids. This Artoo, in essence, put away his repair tools in favor of his electric shock prod. Not only that, but he's broken out his boosters as well, giving him Flight—and also his tow cable, so he's able to help adjacent allies escape the battlefield.

The little Astromech demonstrates, once again, his complete utility.

Next time: a Jedi Master!

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/rotspreview2

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Mace Windu, Jedi Master

Master Windu is known within the Jedi order for his unusual fighting style, one he developed after studying the dueling styles of various lightsaber masters. His Vaapad-style technique is named after the multi-armed, radial symmetric animal from the volcanic world of Sarapin (which provides energy for a large part of the Galactic Republic). In the history of the Jedi order, only two opponents have ever overcome Master Windu in battle. One was Master Yoda himself, whom some say is the Jedi order's true master of lightsaber combat. (The other was Master Dooku.) Nevertheless, Master Windu is recognized throughout the order as master of combat tactics, and legion are the battles he has won.

How does Revenge of the Sith's Mace Windu, Jedi Master compare with his Clone Strike version? He's still an expensive figure (the single most expensive figure in the set, just above Yoda, Jedi Master) -- but for that price he's a warrior worthy enough to build a squad around.

Though with similar stats and rarity, Mace Windu, Jedi Master has different abilities than his Clone Strike version, including Shockwave and Whirlwind Attack. Think Lightsaber Sweep is effective against adjacent opponents? For the same amount of Force, Whirlwind Attack proves twice as devastating.

Next time: an astromech takes to the air!

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/rotspreview1

Clone Strike Wallpaper

Art from the Star Wars Minis Clone Strike expansion is now available as desktop wallpaper. With a bit of computer magic, you can bring the forces of the Clone Troopers, Jedi, or Sith to your machine.

Download it now at Wizards.com!

Who Shoots First?

Setup takes place using the Mos Eisley map, with the Rebel and Imperial players setting up their squads on opposite corners of the map.

Holiday Tiles

We're proud to offer the following downloadable tiles, featuring the Tatooine desert and awe-inspiring Sarlacc.

Tiles will hold up better if you print them on cardstock rather than paper. If you don't have blank cardstock at home, you can have them printed at your local quick-print shop. Otherwise, print the tiles on paper and then glue them to a piece of card or even an extra terrain tile from a starter set. For best results, glue them down with spray adhesive or rubber cement and trim them to size afterward.

These tiles were created for specific, short adventures using Star Wars Minis (look for the Sarlacc's online scenario in January '05 -- as well as further downloadable tiles). They have not been approved as legal for tournament play.

Have a great holiday, and we'll see you next year!

Enlisted Elite 2

The original Enlisted Elite article challenged you to create squads using core characters from the Rebel Storm set for the Star Wars Miniatures game. Now, our latest update lets you match wits using your favorite miniatures from the new Clone Strike expansion set. Bring on the droidekas, Gungans, mercenaries, and Geonosians!

For more info and rules visit Wizards.com or click right here!

Clone Strike Final Preview: Nikto Soldier

Mutations triggered by the planet's radioactive atmosphere have bred five different subspecies, each one adapted to a specific environmental niche. The Red Nikto are the most common Nikto subspecies. They have crimson skin, and are at home in scorching deserts. Red Nikto can survive for a week without water.

The Nikto Soldier is fully prepared for an extended tour of duty, his suit festooned with various pieces of equipment and additional armor. The most important piece of gear, however, is likely the rifle he's brandishing overhead.

A ranged combatant, the Nikto Soldier brings a new ability, Sniper, to the game. Against him, other characters do not provide cover against his attack.

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview10

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Clone Strike Prerelease Tournament

December 4th, 2004, celebrate the second Star Wars Miniatures release with the DCI and participate in the Clone Strike prerelease tournament. Whether you’re a Rebel, an Imperial, or a Fringer, join us at select locations for a day of "Kill Them All" skirmishes and prizes. Assemble your 100-point squad from sealed packs available at each venue. Participant receives special event materials, and the top players also receive prizes. Space is limited, so grab your friends and sign up today.

As you prepare for battle, here are a few tips to speed you along:

• Use the venue table below to find a tournament near you.
• Contact the tournament organizer and register for the event.
• Ask the tournament organizer about the entrance fee and sealed packs.
• Read the rules governing sanctioned miniatures tournament play.
• Build a squad and crush the opposition!

Participation in this event requires a DCI membership. If you are not a DCI member, don’t worry; membership is free and you can become a member at the tournament. To learn more the DCI click on the logo and open up to a new world of play.

Warband Construction

The details for constructing your squad are covered in the DCI Miniatures Floor Rules and the Star Wars Miniatures Handbook. Here are some basics to start you on your path.

• The point total of your squad must not exceed 100 points
• In Sealed format you may combine models from any faction in your squad.
• At no time can a squad exceed twelve creatures, regardless of point cost (except as specified by special abilities such as Minions).

"Kill Them All" Format

A player wins when he or she eliminates all the opposition's squad members or when his or her opponent concedes.

Tiebreakers

If time expires before either player meets the "Kill Them All" victory conditions, apply the tiebreakers listed below in order until one player meets a victory condition. For example, total the point cost for units each player defeated. If one player eliminated more points then his or her opponent, that player is the winner; ignore the two remaining tiebreakers. If both players defeated the same point total, move on to the next tiebreaker.

1. Highest point total killed.
2. Player with a squad member closest to the center of the play map.
3. Player with the highest-point-cost squad member closest to the center of the play map.

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikeprerelease

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Clone Strike: Luminara Unduli

The Mirialan believe that each action an individual takes contributes to her destiny—a rough translation of the Jedi theory that every action affects events in the future and was itself affected by events in the past. For the Mirialan, none of these actions is trivial.

So that everyone might know every other's importance to future events, the Mirialan tattoo themselves with patterns on their faces and hands, and sometimes, on their arms, legs, feet, and shoulders. The specific patterns tell every Mirialan what tests other Mirialan have undertaken successfully, and therefore what general part they will take in the future of Mirial.

Luminara Unduli represents just one of Clone Strike's Jedi. As a rare character, Luminara brings her tattoos and Jedi powers to the Republic faction. Her skills with a lightsaber (constructed, of course, by her own hand) provide Luminara with Double Attack and Lightsaber Sweep—making her a vicious opponent against anyone daring venture near.

Even more devastating may be her speed. With Melee Attack, Luminara needs to close the distance to strike down her enemies. This is where her Master Speed ability comes into play. Normally, characters can spend available Force points to take two extra spaces as part of their move. Luminara, however, can take six.

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview9

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Be sure to check out Stealing the Shuttle Scenario Click here!

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Clone Strike: Ishi Tib Scout

The Ishi Tib Scouts, as members of the Fringe, can sell their services to any squad. They don’t come as cheaply as the Gran Raiders, though. However, you're paying for scouts agile enough to not only make a Double Attack but also to Evade.

Evade is a new ability coming to the Star Wars Minis: Clone Strike expansion, that helps characters against ranged attacks. When hit by an attack from a nonadjacent enemy, a character with Evade can make a save against the damage.

Clone Strike: Gran Raider

(From Ultimate Alien Anthology): The Gran originated on the world of Kinyen, located in the star system of the same name. They have been part of the galactic society for ages and have established colonies on countless worlds. Episode VI introduced the Gran known as Ree-Yees, a drunken spicer who hung around Jabba's court. Ree-Yees rarely shied away from a fight, even with the odds against him—he was known to brazenly confront aliens larger than himself. Clone Strike's Gran Raider looks to continue this fighting tradition. With his vibroblade drawn and fist pulled back, this is one mini clearly ready for melee action. The Gran Raider can help complete a squad of Jabba's henchmen or take part in swarm tactics. As a common mini, he's cheap to hire: a 100-point squad can afford plenty of these 3-eyed raiders. The Gran Raider also has abilities that grant him some good versatility—he can move and hide with the best, should the odds stack against him just a little too high. SOURCE:http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview7 ------------------------------------------------------------         ------------------------------------------------------------ CMG GAME NIGHTS: Sunday evenings @ 5:00 PM GMI Games 8300 Limonite Ave, Suite F Riverside, CA (951) 681-8270 (or you can PM forum member skeevo666me for directions/info) Casual gaming for now, tournaments in the future . . . ------------------------------------------------------------ Bill's Toys and Games has confirmed our orders for the new Clone Strike Miniatures and will open pre-orders on 10/24/04 with them shipping out to customers on 11/05 ------------------------------------------------------------

Clone Strike: Captain Typho

Who better to lead the Naboo Soldiers into action than Captain Typho?

Nephew of Captain Panaka, Typho lost an eye during Star Wars: Episode I's Battle of Naboo. Typho's miniature not only showcases his distinctive eye patch, but also his skills at protecting Queen Padmé Amidala—or any other character in your squad. Naturally, Captain Typho has the Bodyguard ability (able to take damage that would otherwise wound an adjacent character). It's his dedicated profession, after all. Even better, although costing a few more points, he boasts higher Hit Points and Defense than the Twi'lek Bodyguard, making him the stronger protector.

As head of security, Captain Typho also possesses a unique Commander Effect. With Typho on the battle grid, all Naboo Soldiers will find themselves better able to protect your squad. Just keep them close at hand.

Clone Strike: Rodian Mercenary

Rodian adventurers leave their homeworld (Rodia, choked with heavy rainforests teeming with dangerous lifeforms) to improve their skills, hoping to one day return and claim the title of Hunt Master.

We've already met the bloodthirsty Weequay. This week, we look at the second mercenary that will be released this December as part of Star Wars MiniaturesClone Strike expansion.

Of course, the Rodian is no less aggressive than his Weequay counterpart -- neither of them will even move if there's combat they can join instead. However, while the common Weequay focuses on melee combat, the uncommon Rodian uses his blasters for ranged attacks.

The Rodian Mercenary can also make a second attack with that extra blaster of his -- helping to provide backup for his fellow Rodian, Rebel Storm's Greedo. And Greedo could use the assistance, after all. As mentioned, some Rodians find great success in the field. Others only find the working end of a Corellian smuggler's heavy blaster pistol.

Clone Strike: Dwarf Spider Droid

The disturbing appearance of the dwarf spider droid is no coincidence. The Commerce Guild uses the threat of a seemingly endless supply of these eerie-looking droids as a form of psychological warfare against tribute violators and business rivals. The few upstarts not immediately intimidated by these automated soldiers quickly learned the error of their ways.

If there's one thing the Separatists bring to the battle grid, it's a steady supply of droids. Included among them is the Dwarf Spider Droid, a large-sized mini that will be released this December as part of the Clone Strike expansion for the Star Wars Miniatures game. Creeping inexorably along on its digging claws and magnetic feet, this droid will need to squeeze through any tight spaces its opponents try to hide behind.

Naturally, this mini carries all the properties of a droid: it's immune to critical hits, but also to commander effects. And it's susceptible to ion guns, which means Rebel Storm's low-cost Jawas remain some of the best anti-droid fighters in the game. (If only the Republic had recruited them for the Battle of Geonosis...)

SOURCE: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview4

Clone Strike: Weequay Mercenary

Male Weequay grow a new braid each year they're away from their homeworld (Sriluur, a semi-arid world on the periphery of Hutt Space in the Outer Rim) and shave it off when they return, if only briefly.

Clone Strike's Weequay Mercenary has been away from his homeworld for several years, judging from the numerous braids sweeping around from the back of his leathery head.

A true mercenary and member of the Fringe, the Weequay Mercenary holds no loyalties and can be added to any squad. In Episode VI, Jabba the Hutt even employed a few to defend his sail barge—and with Jabba's Fringe Reinforcements ability, he can still afford several of these low-cost Weequays. They make excellent melee fighters, as made evident by this one's ready vibroblade.

In fact, the Weequay Mercenary is ready to honor Quay to the point of his obsession. One of his abilities prevents his movement if there's melee combat to be found—a bloodthirstiness shared with his fellow Fringe mercenary (to be previewed on 10/08).

SOURCE: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview3

Clone Strike: Naboo Soldier

The Naboo Royal Security Forces include the Naboo planetary militia, the defensive space fighter fleet, and the monarch's personal bodyguards.

Last week's preview introduced one of the new factions coming to the Star Wars Miniatures: Clone Strike expansion—the Separatists. Today, we introduce the second new faction—the Republic.

The Republic's Naboo Soldiers represent the frontline of a small but dedicated security force. Armed with standard issue blaster vests and S-5 heavy blaster pistols (according to Secrets of Naboo, able to fire lethal plasma and stun charges, anesthetic micro-darts, and even streams of liquid polymer that form climbing cables), they're more than prepared for the Separatists—or any other faction they're up against.

As low-cost units (comparable to the Fringe's Bespin Guards), Naboo Soldiers can help supplement a Republic squad. And as crack shots, their enemies will have a harder time taking cover against them. All they'll need is an able commander to lead them into skirmishes… perhaps a certain head of security, sporting a distinctive eye patch.

SOURCE: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=swminis/article/clonestrikepreview2