A tribute to Ralph McQuarrie

SWTOR is part of the expanded universe of Star Wars and although it has a distinct look that is identifiable as early on in the timeline of the Star Wars universe, there's also a continuity with the visuals from the original movie trilogy. The look of those first three films owes a great debt to Ralph McQuarrie, who passed away on Saturday.

Star Wars was one of the first films to spiral into a phenomenon, offering fans clothing, figurines, cereal, stationary, and other oddities, and also beautiful publications of pre-production artwork from McQuarrie.

George Lucas has commented:
"Ralph McQuarrie was the first person I hired to help me envision 'Star Wars,'" Lucas said in a statement. "His genial contribution, in the form of unequaled production paintings, propelled and inspired all of the cast and crew of the original 'Star Wars' trilogy. "When words could not convey my ideas, I could always point to one of Ralph's fabulous illustrations and say, 'Do it like this.'" - Source

Whilst George Lucas imagined the characters, the plot, the setting and the players in the story, Ralph McQuarrie visualized it. Spend a moment looking at his outstanding pieces and you'll appreciate how far his legacy has reached.

The Old Republic Toys for Christmas

So we know all you geeks have got a Collector's Edition or the Digital Deluxe, so what does that leave Santa to get you for Christmas? Me, being the lucky guy I am, married a Star Wars fan and my legendary wife found this Star Wars geek the perfect gift for the Old Republic fan that has everything ...

My very own Bastilla Shan figure! Now I will have Battle Meditation with me all the time!

For those of you who don't know, Bastilla Shan was in The Knights of the Old Republic and is the perfect gift for any Star Wars fan who is into the expanded universe. I had no idea that this figure was available until my wife pointed her out and although she let me take photos of it for this post, Bastilla Shan is now giving Batle Meditation to all of our Christmas decorations.

While we're on the topic of Christmas, I know that it's really exciting to spend a lot of time in your new found home in the Galactic Republic, but don't forget about those other people in your life over this festive time. Put reality first for a Merry Christmas!