Bounty Hunters Preview 6

Defel Spy and Bib Fortuna

By Gary M. Sarli and Sterling Hershey

Defel Spy

Defels are a humanoid species from Af'El, a world whose skies are bathed in ultraviolet illumination. The fur of Defels completely absorbs visible light, making them appear to be little more than walking shadows with mysterious, glowing red eyes. As such, Defels are very difficult to see under most conditions; they're clearly visible in brightly lit areas, and virtually invisible in shadows. Because of this, many Defels find employment as spies, assassins, shipjackers, bodyguards, or other jobs where this sort of natural stealth is an asset. However, because Defels eyes are adapted to see only in the ultraviolet spectrum, those who live away from Af'El must wear special visors to see in normal light.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the Defel Spy is a multitalented "first strike" character best employed at the beginning of the round. However, he has a good chance of making it through to the next round. On one of your first activations, you might move a Defel Spy away from his allies to ensure that he gets the benefit of his Loner ability. That also allows him to keep his distance from enemies and find cover so that his Stealth will protect him from counterattacks later in the round.

After that, the Defel Spy could attack an enemy who hasn't yet activated, gaining the advantage of Cunning Attack. If both Loner and Cunning Attack are in play at the same time, the Defel Spy will have Attack +14 and will deal 20 damage -- impressive for a character that costs only 14 points.

More important, the Defel Spy is hard to attack if carefully maneuvered to stay far from enemies and in cover. Even those with Accurate Shot who ignore the problems of Stealth still have to contend with Evasion, effectively halving their efficiency.

A cornered Defel Spy, on the other hand, is quite vulnerable. Adjacent enemies won't be affected by either Stealth or Evasion, and the Defel Spy has neither the Defense nor the Hit Points to survive much of a beating.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Fringe
Cost: 14
Hit Points: 30
Defense: 14
Attack: +6
Damage: 10
Special Abilities: Cunning Attack, Evade, Loner, Stealth
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Defel Spy: Male Defel* scoundrel 3; Init +0 (+0 Dex); Def 14 (+0 Dex, +3 class, +1 size); Spd 6 m; VP/WP 16/13; Atk +3 melee (1d2, punch) or +6 ranged (3d8–2, personalized* heavy blaster pistol); SQ blindness, illicit barter, invisibility, lucky (1/day), precise attack +1; SV Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +3; SZ S; FP 0; Rep +1; Str 10, Dex 11, Con 13, Int 14, Wis 14, Cha 10. Challenge Code C.

Equipment: Heavy blaster pistol (personalized: +2 attack, –2 damage), visor (allows normal sight in visible spectrum).

Skills: Balance +6, Computer Use +8, Disable Device +8, Hide +12, Listen +8, Move Silently +8, Read/Write Basic, Read/Write Defel, Search +8, Sense Motive +5, Speak Basic, Speak Bothese, Speak Defel, Speak Huttese, Spot +8, Tumble +6.

Feats: Stealthy, Weapon Focus (heavy blaster pistol), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, simple weapons).

* See Ultimate Alien Anthology, page 44.

** See Arms & Equipment Guide, page 5.

Bib Fortuna

Bib Fortuna was Jabba the Hutt's scheming major-domo, a manipulative advisor with grand plans to take over the Hutt's criminal empire. Fortuna started out as a ryll smuggler on his homeworld of Ryloth. He was arrested, but he escaped to Tatooine where he and his associate Bidlo Kwerve ran spice runs for Jabba. However, Fortuna had bigger plans, which he put in motion by becoming a slaver for the Hutt. Jabba was impressed enough to make him an advisor.

Fortuna quickly did away with his rivals within the criminal organization, becoming major-domo and caretaker of day-to-day operations. Unfortunately for the Twi'lek, his plans to eliminate Jabba and take full control fell apart, ironically enough, because of Jabba's death. The B'omarr monks that had agreed to help Fortuna captured him instead. He was doomed to become a disembodied brain among the B'omarr until an ally named Firth Olan provided Fortuna with a replacement body.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, Bib Fortuna is one of the lowest-cost Unique characters available. When used with Jabba the Hutt, he costs the same as the Twi'lek Scoundrel. While Bib Fortuna has a lower Defense and Attack score than the Scoundrel, his Poison +20 ability makes him much more dangerous to living targets.

If used with Cunning Attack, Fortuna has a chance to inflict 40 points of damage in a single strike, which no other character can achieve at this low point cost (without help or a critical hit). However, Fortuna won't be slugging it out in the trenches. True to the character, he needs to stay out of the line of fire and strike from protected locations, due to his low Defense and few Hit Points.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Fringe
Cost: 8
Hit Points: 20
Defense: 12
Attack: +4
Damage: 10
Special Abilities: Unique, Melee, Cunning Attack, Poison +20 (+20 damage to living enemy; save 11), Rapport (Jabba the Hutt)
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Bib Fortuna: Male Twi'lek diplomat 2/scoundrel 3; Init +0; Defense 13 (+3 class); Spd 10 m; VP/WP 20/12; Atk +4 melee (1d4+1, dagger) or +3 ranged; SQ illicit barter, low light vision, lucky 1/day, precise attack +1; SV Fort +3, Ref +3, Will +6; SZ M; FP 0; DSP 6; Rep +2; Str 12, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 14, Wis 14, Cha 14. Challenge Code D.

Equipment: Twi'lek dagger, poisons*, desert robes, credit chip, datapad.

Skills: Appraise +4, Bluff +10, Diplomacy +12, Gather Information +10, Hide +3, Knowledge (streetwise) +8, Knowledge (Jabba's organization) +8, Knowledge (Ryloth) +6, Listen +8, Read/Write Basic, Read/Write Huttese, Read/Write Ryl, Sense Motive +8, Speak Basic, Speak Huttese, Speak Lekku, Speak Ryl.

Feats: Skill Emphasis (Bluff), Skill Emphasis (Gather Information), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, simple weapons).

* See the Star Wars Roleplaying GameRevised Core Rulebook, page 289.

Bounty Hunters Preview 4

Mandalore the Indomitable and Mandalorian Warrior

By Sterling Hershey and Gary M. Sarli

Mandalore the Indomitable

The Mandalorians are renowned for their excellent combat abilities. Their loyalties, motives, and signature armor might vary, but they are always a force to be respected and feared. Early Mandalorians were probably Taung, but the Mandalorian tradition was not restricted to any one species. Traditionally, the Mandalorian leader carried the title of Mandalore, though others often added descriptive terms to differentiate between them.

Such is the case with Mandalore the Indomitable. Four thousand years before the fall of the Republic, this early Mandalore was driven to conquer and prove the strength and skill of the Mandalorians. He went so far as to challenge the rogue Jedi Ulic Qel-Droma to single combat at the beginning of the Great Sith War. Ulic quickly defeated Mandalore and called upon him and the Mandalorians to join the Sith cause. Mandalore proved a worthy ally, later helping Exar Kun to rescue Ulic after a risky strike on Coruscant.

However, the Republic soon gained the upper hand in the Great Sith War, stripping Ulic of his Jedi abilities and defeating Exar Kun on Yavin 4. Mandalore himself fell to the savage beasts of Dxun, where he had fled with his remaining forces after a failed attack on Onderon. In keeping with Mandalorian tradition, one of his soldiers found his mask, donning it to become the next Mandalore.

For more information on the Mandalorians, see "The History of the Mandalorians" in Star Wars Insider #80. For more on Mandalore the Indomitable and the story of the Sith War, see Tales of the Jedi: The Sith War, from Dark Horse Comics.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, Mandalore the Indomitable is a powerful leader of the Mandalorian faction. He has a high point cost of 68, but he has several decent abilities, a very good Attack score, and a commander effect that can boost the damage of his Mandalorian allies. Most Mandalorians already have good Attack and Damage scores, so the extra +4 Attack and +10 Damage from Momentum makes them a very dangerous faction. Obviously, this character works best with fellow Mandalorians in the squad.

Mandalore the Indomitable has fewer Hit Points and lower Defense and Attack scores than other Unique characters in this cost range. Of course, most of his peers are powerful Jedi or other Force-users. Fortunately, Mandalore's Evade ability should enable him to avoid some damage and keep him in the game that much longer. He also dishes out more Damage with each hit than some characters in his cost range.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Mandalorian
Cost: 68
Hit Points: 120
Defense: 19
Attack: + 13
Damage: 30
Special Abilities: Unique, Deadly Attack (scores a critical hit on an attack roll of natural 19 or 20), Double Attack, Evade, Momentum
Commander Effect: Mandalorian allies gain Momentum
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Mandalore the Indomitable: Male Mandalorian soldier 6/elite trooper 5; Init +6; Defense 19 (+7 class, +2 Dex); Spd 6 m; DR 11, VP/WP 104/16; Atk +13/+8 melee (2d8, force pike) or +14/+9 melee (2d10/19–20, Mythosaur axe) or +12/+7 ranged (3d6, blaster pistol); SQ uncanny dodge (Dex bonus), SV Fort +12, Ref +6, Will +6; SZ M; FP 2; DSP 5; Rep +4; Str 16, Dex 15, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 12. Challenge Code E.

Equipment: Mandalore's Crusader armor (see below), mythosaur axe (see below), Force pike, blaster pistol, comlink, basilisk war droid.

Skills: Astrogate +3, Computer Use +6, Demolitions +6, Hide +5 , Intimidate +7, Listen +6, Move Silently +3, Pilot +9, Search +3, Spot +6, Repair +2, Tumble +1.

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light, medium, heavy), Dodge, Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Mythosaur axe), Improved Critical (Mythosaur Axe), Improved Initiative, Infamy, Martial Arts, Point Blank Shot, Starship Operation (capital ship), Two-Weapon Fighting, Weapon Focus (Mythosaur axe), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, heavy weapons, simple weapons, vibro weapons), Zero-G Training.

Crusader Armor
Around the time of the Sith War, most Mandalorians wore highly customized Crusader armor. Each suit had a similar organic look with armored plates, spikes, studs, and straps modified to the wearer's specifications. Crusader armor is much simpler than later Mandalorian armor, as it does not feature built-in weaponry. Some versions also include early rocket packs. Crusader armor can be completely sealed for use in hard vacuum.
Armor Type: Heavy Armor; Proficiency Group: Heavy; Cost: 10,000 (standard) or using Mandalorian Iron: 42,000 (soldiers), 84,000 (officers) or 336,000 (Mandalore); Damage Reduction: 6 (standard) or using Mandalorian Iron: 8 (soldiers), 9 (officers) or 11 (Mandalore); Maximum Dex Bonus: +2; Armor Check Penalty: –5; Speed: 6m/2m; Weight: 45 kg; Availability: Military

Mythosaur Axe
The mythosaur axe is a traditional Mandalorian weapon, used during the Sith War. The double-bit axe features telescopic blades that fan out from a central shaft. For portability, the blades are extended only when in combat. Traditionally, the blades are made from mythosaur bone, but as those ancient creatures are rare (if not extinct), later versions use modern materials.
Weapon Type: Melee weapon; Proficiency Group: Exotic (mythosaur axe); Cost: 5,000; Damage: 2d10; Critical: 20; Weight: 4 kg; Type: Slashing; Size: Large; Hardness: 10; WP: 10; Break DC: 20; Availability: Military

Mandalorian Warrior

In the years after the defeat of Exar Kun (four millennia before the Battle of Yavin), Mandalore the Ultimate unleashed his Neo-Crusaders on the galaxy in what became known as the Mandalorian Wars. These Mandalorian warriors wore more sleek and uniform armor than their Crusader predecessors, and they ravaged countless worlds as war itself was revered as an aspect of the divine. Ultimately, the Mandalorian Neo-Crusaders were defeated by the Jedi Revan and Malak (who later became Dark Lords of the Sith), and their ranks were dispersed as they became little more than mercenaries scattered throughout the galaxy.

In an ironic twist, Revan would play a pivotal role in helping Canderous Ordo to restore the honor of the Mandalorian traditions. As the new Mandalore, Canderous Ordo employed a more advanced version of armor than that of the Neo-Crusaders. Ordo's reformed Neo-Crusaders adopted a similar style of armor in the following years in honor of the new Mandalore.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the Mandalorian Warrior provides a commanding melee presence for a reasonable price. He's not quite low enough to work as "filler" for the last few points of a squad, but certainly attractive to add a little muscle to a melee-oriented group. Solid damage combined with Mighty Swing gives him a decent punch. Combined with Cleave, he can slice through two enemies with up to 30 Hit Points each in a single turn.

More important, he has a little extra versatility on the offensive because of Melee Reach 2; he can engage slightly more distant opponents without having to move, further capitalizing on Mighty Swing. Place him in a critical location or intersection, and you can make your opponent think twice before drawing an attack of opportunity or leaving his characters within reach.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Mandalorian
Cost: 14
Hit Points: 40
Defense: 16
Attack: + 9
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Cleave, Melee Attack, Melee Reach 2, Mighty Swing
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Mandalorian Warrior: Male Human soldier 4; Init +2 (+2 Dex); Def 16 (+2 Dex, +4 Class); DR 5; Spd 8 m; VP/WP 30/13; Atk +6 ranged (by weapon) or +9 melee (3d8+4, great force pike); SV Fort +5, Ref +3, Will +2; SZ M; FP 1; DSP 1; Rep +1; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 10. Challenge Code ?

Equipment: Padded battle armor (Mandalorian iron*), great force pike** (reach: 4 meters)

Skills: Intimidate +7, Listen +4, Pilot +7, Read/Write Basic, Speak Basic, Spot +4, Treat Injury +5

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light, medium), Cleave, Combat Reflexes, Great Cleave, Power Attack, Weapon Focus (great force pike), Weapons Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, heavy weapons, simple weapons, vibro weapons).

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=starwars/article/BHPreview4

Bounty Hunters Preview 3

IG-88 and Dark Hellion Swoop Gang Member

By Gary M. Sarli and Sterling Hershey

IG-88, Bounty Hunter

Only seconds after being built and activated at Holowan Laboratories, IG-88 achieved self-awareness and killed his creators. Shortly afterward, he downloaded his consciousness into three other prototypes of the same design, and IG-88A, B, C, and D set forth on a plan of galactic domination.

While IG-88A took over the massive droid factories on Mechis III and began planting "accomplices" on countless planets, IG-88B began working as a bounty hunter to draw attention away from the larger plot. By the time IG-88B answered Vader's call for hunters to track down the Millennium Falcon, he had already killed over 150 beings and was subject to a "dismantle on sight" order in 40 different star systems.

Over the next year, IG-88's reign came to an end. First, IG-88B confronted Boba Fett on Cloud City in an attempt to get the Han Solo bounty for himself, but Fett destroyed him and left his wreckage to the Ugnaughts in the city's smelting chambers. Later, IG-88C confronted Fett in orbit over Tatooine, but Fett's Slave I managed to destroy IG-88C's starship, IG-2000. IG-88D was reportedly destroyed by Dash Rendar on Ord Mantell. And IG-88A, who had downloaded his corrupt programming into the computer core that was installed on the second Death Star, was destroyed along with the battle station at the Battle of Endor.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the new IG-88, Bounty Hunter figure is a significant step up in power over the original IG-88 from Rebel Storm.

Bounty Hunters Preview 2

Basilisk War Droid and Quarren Bounty Hunter

By Gary M. Sarli and Sterling Hershey

Basilisk War Droid

During the Sith War, four millennia before the rise of the Empire, Mandalorian warriors rode into battle on the backs of Basilisk war droids. Massive mobile weapons platforms, the Basilisks served as loyal allies and faithful mounts for the Mandalorian riders. In fact, Basilisks were attuned to their masters' emotions so that they served almost as an extension of their riders' bodies.

The war droids could operate both in atmosphere and deep space, lifting their rear wings to expose a set of high-boost engines. The droids also featured a pair of laser cannons, a pair of shatter-missile launchers, and set of shockwave generator rods whose plasma burst could rupture a starship's hull. In addition to this formidable weaponry, their heavy forward claws were used to smash through obstacles as well as enemy infantry.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the Basilisk War Droid is one of the most mobile Huge figures. It can move across the battle map very quickly to take advantage of an opponent's maneuvers. Even better, it does more than just move -- its Huge size and impressive damage allow its Strafe Attack to cut a swath through enemies as it goes. In fact, given its speed, the Basilisk can potentially attack up to 60 enemies in a single turn!

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Mandalorian
Cost: 51
Hit Points: 100
Defense: 18
Attack: +10
Damage: 30
Special Abilities: Flight, Mounted Weapon, Speed 10, Strafe Attack
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Basilisk War Droid: Huge flying war droid soldier 5; Init –1 (–1 Dex); Defense 18 (–2 size, –1 Dex, +5 class, +6 natural); DR 5; Spd 8 m, fly 20 m (average); VP/WP 57/42; Atk +12/+12 melee (1d8+12, 2 claws), +10 ranged (3d10 x 2, fire-linked laser cannons); SQ space flight (maximum speed in space: 6 squares), shatter missiles (+10 quality, 3d10 x 2 damage), shockwave generator rods (breach hull in DR/10 rounds); SV Fort +10, Ref +0, Will +1; SZ H; Face/Reach 6 m x 6 m/4 m; Rep +1; Str 30, Dex 9, Con 21, Int 4, Wis 10, Cha 9. Challenge Code E.

Equipment: Heuristic processor, 2 claw appendages, 5 weapon mounts, external seat for one rider, empathic link (+10 bonus to Sense Motive checks to anticipate rider's commands).

Skills: Sense Motive +7 (+17 to anticipate rider's commands).

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light), Multiattack, Power Attack, Skill Emphasis (Sense Motive), Weapon Focus (claws), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, simple weapons, vibro weapons), Weapon Specialization (claws).

Quarren Bounty Hunter

Quarren are another species native to Mon Calamari (not surprisingly, the other is the Mon Calamari themselves). Strife between the idealistic Mon Calamari and the pragmatic Quarren is well known, and a major reason some Quarren prefer to live elsewhere in the galaxy. Many of the outsiders end up in organizations of dubious morals.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the Quarren Bounty Hunter embodies a typical low-level criminal operative. He has some skill of his own, but he works best when augmented with equipment and a command structure provided by his criminal organization -- in this case, Black Sun. Between the Universe and the Bounty Hunters sets, Black Sun is almost its own mini-faction within the Fringe, thereby providing needed support for characters such as this.

The stats and abilities of 11-point-cost characters are fairly widespread. Compared to other units at this level, the Quarren Bounty Hunter has more abilities, but a lower Defense and only 20 Hit Points. With a 14 Defense, the Quarren Bounty Hunter will need to stay under cover. His Attack score is also low, but thanks to his Careful Shot and Bounty Hunter +2 abilities, he can still threaten high Defense, Unique targets, under the right conditions. The Quarren Bounty Hunter benefits greatly in squads with a Black Sun Vigo or Xizor. Not only does this activate his Black Sun ability (giving him Grenades 10), he also typically receives the Vigo's commander effect, which further increases his usefulness at a low point cost.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Fringe
Cost: 11
Hit Points: 20
Defense: 14
Attack: +5
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Black Sun (gains Grenades 10 in squads with a Xizor or Vigo), Bounty Hunter +2 (Unique enemies), Careful Shot
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Quarren: Male Quarren soldier 3; Init +1; Defense 14 (+3 class, +1 Dex); Spd 10 m; VP/WP 20/10; Atk +4 melee (2d6, vibroblade) or +5 ranged (3d8, blaster rifle); SQ Breathe Underwater; SV Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +1; SZ M; FP 1; DSP 2; Rep +1; Str 14, Dex 13, Con 10, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 8. Challenge Code B.

Equipment: Blaster rifle, 2 frag grenades (4d6+1), vibroblade, comlink, credit chip, datapad.

Skills: Computer Use +5, Gather Information +2, Intimidate +4, Jump +6, Repair +5, Search +3, Read/Write Basic, Read/Write Quarrenese, Speak Basic, Speak Quarrenese, Spot +4, Swim +6.

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light), Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Track, Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, heavy weapons, simple weapons, vibro weapons).

Bounty Hunters Preview 1

From: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=starwars/article/BHPreview1

Bossk and the Mistryl Shadow Guard

By Sterling Hershey and Gary M. Sarli

Bossk, Bounty Hunter

In almost every Star Wars movie, bounty hunters play significant and sometimes pivotal roles in the fate of the galaxy. Their very presence -- and how different they all look -- hints at the depth and variety of the universe.

The reptilian Bossk first appeared on screen in The Empire Strikes Back as one of the elite bounty hunters personally invited by Darth Vader to pursue the Millennium Falcon. He didn't manage to capture the Falcon, or steal the frozen Han Solo from Boba Fett. But Bossk maintained a long rivalry with Chewbacca before and after the incident. Bossk is a Trandoshan, which is one of the native species of the Kashyyyk system and a longtime enemy of the Wookiees.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, Bossk, Bounty Hunter is an upgraded version of the Bossk miniature originally issued in the Rebel Storm set. For a cost increase of only 8 points, Bossk, Bounty Hunter has many more special abilities, plus slightly increased Hit Points and Attack scores. Some of his new abilities are typical Trandoshan traits, such as Regeneration and Rend. However, his offensive abilities get a substantial boost from Flamethrower and Momentum, as well.

Bossk, Bounty Hunter is highly effective in close-range combat, with powerful claw attacks and his dangerous, crowd-thinning Flamethrower. His Regeneration ability allows him to regain 10 hit points in any round he doesn't move. This power should help him stay in the fight longer when battling adjacent, non-moving enemies for consecutive rounds.

Opponents with few hit points will find Bossk, Bounty Hunter a formidable foe. They won't last long in adjacent fighting, and they can't survive even a single hit from his Flamethrower.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Fringe
Cost: 25
Hit Points: 60
Defense: 17
Attack: +8
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Unique, Bounty Hunter +4, Double Claw Attack, Flamethrower 20, Momentum, Regeneration 10, Rend +10
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Bossk: Male Trandoshan scout 4/soldier 3/bounty hunter 1; Init +3 (+3 Dex); Defense 22 (+1 natural, + 8 class, +3 Dex); Spd 10 m; VP/WP 66/16; Atk +10/+5, melee (1d3+3, unarmed) or +10/+5 ranged (3d8/19–20, blaster rifle) or +10/+5 ranged (3d6/1d6 stun grenade) or +10/+5 ranged (2d6, flamethrower); SQ darkvision 20 m, trailblazing, heart +1, uncanny dodge, target bonus +1; SV Fort +9, Ref +7, Will +5; SZ M; FP 2; DSP 8; Rep +3; Str 16, Dex 17, Con 16, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13. Challenge Code D.

Equipment: Blaster rifle, grenade launcher*, flamethrower*, binders, modified freighter (Hound's Tooth).
* See "Equipment of Jango and Boba Fett," page 316 of the Star Wars Roleplaying Game Revised Core Rulebook.

Skills: Appraise +3, Astrogate +5, Computer Use +2, Disable Device +5, Gather Information +6, Hide +8, Intimidate +6, Knowledge (alien species) +2, Knowledge (streetwise) +3, Knowledge (systems) +3, Listen +2, Move Silently +8, Pilot +10, Repair +5, Read/Write Dosh, Search +3, Speak Basic, Speak Dosh, Spot +3, Survival +6, Swim +5.

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light), Dodge, Mobility, Point Blank Shot, Rapid Shot, Starship Operation (Space Transports), Track, Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, heavy weapons, simple weapons, vibro weapons).

Mistryl Shadow Guard

The Mistryl Shadow Guards are an organization of assassins, bodyguards, and mercenaries famed for their reliability and skill, but little else is known about them in the galaxy at large. All Mistryl Shadow Guards are Human women who have received extensive training in many types of martial arts, and they accept contracts to perform almost any task appropriate to their abilities. They will serve nearly any employer, with one significant exception -- the Shadow Guards very rarely work for the Empire and its agents.

The goals of the organization are mysterious. It has been observed that individual Shadow Guards keep only a small portion of their earnings for subsistence and send the rest back to their homeworld of Emberlene, a once-prosperous planet devastated in the aftermath of the Clone Wars.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, the Mistryl Shadow Guard is one of the better non-Unique melee characters. On the defensive side, she has several distinct advantages. First, her Stealth special ability restricts her from being a legal target as long as she stays in cover and keeps her distance. Second, Evade makes her difficult to hurt, even for characters with Accurate Shot. And third, her naturally high Defense is even harder to hit for all but the best opponents.

On offense, she may be limited by Melee Attack, but Melee Reach 2 gives her a bit more flexibility. Further, although she loses the benefits of Stealth and Evade against very close targets, the Paralysis ability granted by her shock whip gives her a good chance of keeping a close opponent from being able to activate at all.

Finally, the Mistryl Shadow Guard is a flexible character. Loner allows her to operate efficiently by herself, and Bodyguard lets her protect vulnerable allies. And with her high number of Hit Points, she can survive for awhile in either role.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Fringe
Cost: 24
Hit Points: 60
Defense: 18
Attack: +12
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Bodyguard, Evade, Loner, Melee Attack, Melee Reach 2, Paralysis, Stealth
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Mistryl Shadow Guard: Female Human scoundrel 4/scout 4/Mistryl Shadow Guard* 3/bodyguard** 1; Init +4 (+4 Dex); Defense 21 (+7 class, +4 Dex); Spd 10 m; VP/WP 54/10; Atk +13/+8 melee (2d6+2, shock whip); SQ camouflage prematch, dash, harm's way, heart, illicit barter, lucky (1/day), precise attack +1, teamwork, trailblazing, uncanny dodge; SV Fort +7, Ref +14, Will +5; SZ M; FP 3; DSP 5; Rep +3; Str 14, Dex 18, Con 10, Int 13, Wis 12, Cha 8. Challenge Code D.

Equipment: Shock whip*.

Skills: Balance +14, Bluff +9, Climb +11, Disable Device +8, Disguise +9, Gather Information +7, Hide +19, Intimidate +7, Listen +10, Move Silently +16, Search +10, Spot +13, Survival +5, Tumble +14.

Feats: Combat Expertise, Combat Reflexes, Endurance, Exotic Weapon Proficiency (shock whip), Heart of Vengeance*, Improved Martial Arts, Martial Arts, Improved Trip, Skill Emphasis (Hide), Weapon Finesse (shock whip), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, simple weapons, vibro weapons).

* See Hero's Guide.

** See Ultimate Alien Anthology.

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=starwars/article/BHPreview1

___________________

Champions of the Force Preview 5

Republic Commando Sev and Darth Malak

By Gary M. Sarli and Sterling Hershey

Source: http://www.wizards.com/default.asp?x=starwars/article/CotFPreview5
 

Republic Commando Sev

Republic Commandos were designed to find the middle ground between rank-and-file clone troopers and the much more elite ARC Troopers. Raised from birth in four-man "pods," these clones are trained to work together so that their individual strengths combine to make a team greater than the sum of its parts.

The clone designated RC-1207 was a member of one such four-man team, Delta Squad. Delta Oh-Seven, or "Sev" to his squad mates, is a little too eager to get into a fight. While not actually psychotic (or, more accurately, probably not), he definitely finds joy in wading headlong into battle. Still, his grim sense of humor doesn't get in the way of his cold, ruthless efficiency, and even his overwhelming application of force has a pragmatic side: "Rule 17: Always make sure they're dead."

Republic Commando Sev is one of four members of Delta Squad found in Champions of the Force, and they work together quite well as a team or deployed individually. Although they don't have many Hit Points, their Stealth gives them the ability to avoid being attacked more often than not, and they are good shots with a decent punch. Sev gives the Deltas an improved ability to pick off distant targets with cover (Accurate Shot) or to pack a little extra punch against a target using his preferred sniper rifle at the expense of mobility (Deadeye).

Sev also appears in the Star Wars Republic Commando computer game and video game.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Republic
Cost: 16
Hit Points: 30
Defense: 17
Attack: +9
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Order 66, Accurate Shot, Deadeye, Stealth
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Delta Oh-Seven ("Sev"): Male Human thug 5/soldier 3; Init +1 (+1 Dex); Defense 17 (+6 class, +1 Dex); DR 5; Spd 8 m; VP/WP 24/12; Atk +9/+4 melee (2d6+1, wrist-mounted vibroblade) or +9 ranged (3d8/18–20, DC-17m Sniper) or +9/+4 ranged (3d8+3/19–20, DC-17m Blaster) or +7/+7/+2 ranged (3d8+3/19–20, DC-17m Blaster with Rapid Shot) or +3/+3/+3/–2 ranged (3d8+3/19–20, DC-17m Blaster with Rapid Shot and multifire) or +1/+1/+1/+1/–4 ranged (3d8+3/19–20, DC-17m Blaster with Rapid Shot and autofire); SQ energy resistance 5, low-light vision; SV Fort +8, Ref +3, Will +2; SZ M; FP 1; DSP 0; Rep +2; Str 12, Dex 13, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8. Challenge Code D.

Equipment: Katarn-class armor, DC-17m interchangeable weapon system, DC-15s blaster pistol, wrist-mounted vibroblade, power packs (5), sniper power packs (4), grenades (4), medpacs (2).

Skills: Demolitions +3, Disable Device +1, Hide +5, Listen +2, Move Silently +5, Read/Write Basic, Speak Basic, Spot +11.

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light, medium, powered), Far Shot, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Rapid Shot, Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, blaster rifles, heavy weapons, simple weapons, slug throwers, vibro weapons).

Katarn-class armor:

Cost not available for sale (100,000 credits black market value); DR 5; Max Dex Bonus +2; Armor Check Penalty –2; Speed 8 m; Weight 20 kg; Availability Rare, illegal.
Special: Provides +2 equipment bonus to Hide checks, Listen checks, Move Silently checks, Search checks, Spot checks, and Fortitude saves made to resist hostile environments. The HUD's starlight mode provides the wearer with low-light vision. The integrated shield unit provides energy resistance 5, allowing the wearer to ignore the first 5 points of energy damage each round. Once the shields have absorbed 25 points of damage, they shut down. The shields reset after the wearer takes no energy damage for 1 minute (10 rounds).

DC-17m Interchangeable Weapon System:

Cost not available for sale (20,000 credits black market value); Availability Rare, illegal.
Special: You can switch between the repeating blaster, sniper, and anti-armor attachments as a full-round action.

Repeating blaster attachment: Damage 3d8+3; Critical 19–20; Range Increment 20 m; Weight 5.5 kg; Stun DC --; Type Energy; Multifire/Autofire M/A; Size Medium; Group Blaster rifles. Special: This weapon can make 60 shots on a single power pack.

Sniper attachment: Damage 3d8; Critical 19–20; Range Increment 50 m; Weight 6.5 kg; Stun DC --; Type Energy; Multifire/Autofire M/A; Size Large; Group Blaster rifles. Special: If you make a single attack as a full-round action, the threat range increases to 18–20. This weapon can make 5 shots on a single specialized power pack (cost 100 credits, weight 0.5 kg).

Anti-armor attachment: Damage 6d8; Critical 20; Range Increment 10 m (2 m); Weight 7.5 kg; Stun DC --; Type Bludgeoning; Multifire/Autofire M/A; Size Medium; Group Heavy weapons. Special: This weapon inflicts half damage in its 2-meter burst radius. It holds a single round of ammunition (cost 300 credits, weight 1 kg), and it requires a full-round action to reload the chamber.

Darth Malak

Four thousand years before the creation of the Empire, the Republic faced many enemies and endured many wars. When the Mandalorians attacked the Republic, the Jedi were split -- join the fighting or stay out of it?

Ultimately, two Jedi ignored the will of the Jedi Council and plunged into battle. Revan and Malak led the Republic forces; the former provided clever tactics, and the latter was relentless and reckless in combat. The two pursued their enemies into the Unknown Regions. They returned as Sith Lords backed by a huge military force from an unknown source.

Darth Malak started as an apprentice but soon became the master. With the Sith forces at his command, he tore through the Republic, razing entire planets. His success was short lived, however, and he fell to an unexpected enemy.

In the Star Wars Miniatures Game, Darth Malak is a straightforward lightsaber combatant. True to his character, his abilities and powers focus on attacking his enemies head on. His high Defense and Attack scores enable him take on strong opponents, and he can increase his damage through Sith Rage when desired (as limited by his Force 4 ability).

Darth Malak is the only Sith faction character with a Commander Effect that applies to most available followers. As such, he is most effective when fielded with Sith and Fringe followers able to combine fire, taking full advantage of his Commander Effect.

Darth Malak also appears in the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic computer game.

Star Wars Miniatures Stat Card Preview

Faction: Sith
Cost: 52
Hit Points: 120
Defense: 20
Attack: +15
Damage: 20
Special Abilities: Unique, Melee Attack, Double Attack, Lightsaber Duelist
Force Powers: Force 4, Force Stun, Lightsaber Throw, Sith Rage
Commander Effect: Followers who combine fire grant +6 Attack instead of +4.
 

Star Wars Roleplaying Game Statistics

Darth Malak: Male Human Jedi guardian 11/Sith Lord 9: Init +2 (+2 Dex); Defense 26 (+2 Dex, +14 class); DR 5; Spd 10 m; VP/WP 158/16; Atk +26/+21/+16/+11 melee (7d8 +5/19–20, lightsaber) or +26/+21/+16/+11 melee (2d6 +9/19–20, ancient mastercraft Sith sword), +22/+17/+12/+7 ranged; SQ Block, deflect (defense +4, attack –1), exceptional minions*, Jedi Knight, resource access*; SV Fort +16, Ref +15, Will +13; SZ M; FP 11; DSP 30; Rep +6; Str 20, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 15, Wis 15, Cha 20. Challenge Code H.

Equipment: Lightsaber**, ancient mastercraft Sith sword (attack +1, damage +4), Darth Malak's Armor, vast resources of mysterious origin.
**Darth Malak has constructed his own lightsaber.

Darth Malak's Armor: Cost: Not available for sale.; DR 5; Max Dex Bonus +4; Armor Check Penalty –3; Speed 10 m; Weight 5 kg; Availability: Unique.

Darth Malak's unique armor provides better protection than the average light armor, thanks to ancient Rakata technology.

Skills: Balance +7, Computer Use +9, Intimidate +19, Jump +11, Knowledge (Sith lore) +14, Pilot +11, Read/Write Basic, Read/Write Sith*, Speak Basic, Speak Sith*.

Force Skills: Alchemy* +12, Affect Mind +9, Battlemind +17, Control Mind* +14, Enhance Ability +15, Fear +20, Force Defense +15, Force Grip +18, Force Lightning +24,Force Strike +11, Move Object +15, Telepathy +13.

Feats: Armor Proficiency (light), Combat Reflexes, Exotic Weapon Proficiency (lightsaber), Exotic Weapon Proficiency (Sith sword)*, Force-Sensitive, Power Attack, Skill Emphasis (Knowledge [Sith Lore]), Weapon Group Proficiency (blaster pistols, simple weapons, vibro weapons).

Force Feats: Alter, Burst of Speed, Control, Drain Force*, Force Mind, Force Whirlwind, Knight Defense, Lightsaber Defense, Malevolent, Master Defense, Mettle, Rage*, Sense, Sith Sorcery*.

* described in The Dark Side Sourcebook.

About the Authors

Gary M. Sarli is a freelance writer and editor whose credits include Ultimate Adversaries (Star Wars), Monster Manual III, Races of the Wild, and Heroes of Battle (Dungeons & Dragons). He also moderates on the Wizards.COMmunity message boards as WizO the Hutt, cheerfully feeding Code of Conduct violators to the Sarlacc. Gary still works as a staff member for SWRPGNetwork, three-time ENnie Award winner in the Best Fan Website category and host of the Star Wars RPG Frequently Asked Questions.

Sterling Hershey has been a full-time architect and freelance game designer for over 10 years. He authored and contributed to many of West End Games' Star Wars: The Roleplaying Game products and later contributed to Star Wars Gamer Magazine. These days, he writes regular Star Wars Miniatures scenarios for the Wizards of the Coast website, and he also wrote the Scenario Book for the recently released Attack on Endor Scenario Pack. Gaming in a galaxy far, far away is the focus of his starwars.com blog, Delusions of Grandeur. Sterling lives in the Midwest with his wife, Mary.

Champions of the Force Release Event

Tournament Fact Sheet

Event Date

June 10th, 2006

Event Locations

Twenty-five venues across the United States and Canada. (Scroll down for a complete list.)

Tournament Structure

The Swiss system will be used to determine the winner.

Tournament Format

Kill-them-all. This means the person who eliminates all of his or her opposition is the winner.

Each player will put together a 100-point Constructed squad and use rules located in a Starter Game box.

The tournament will be run according to the 2004 DCI Universal Tournament Rules and DCI Penalty Guidelines.

Rounds will be a maximum length of 60 minutes.

Prize Schedule

One Champions of the Force Booster Pack will be awarded as a door prize at the tournament. In addition, tournament winners will receive Booster Packs as follows:

• The 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th place winners each receive one Champions of the Force Booster Pack!
• The 3rd and 4th place winners each receive three Champions of the Force Booster Packs!
• The 2nd place winner receives five Champions of the Force Booster Packs!
• The 1st place winner receives eight Champions of the Force Booster Packs!

For More Information

If you have general questions about the Star Wars Miniatures Game, Wizards of the Coast, Inc., or the DCI player’s organization, please call Wizards of the Coast at 1-800-324-6496 or use Wizards’ Knowledge Base.