Closer Look: Star Wars PocketModel Trading Card Game

Get ready to battle in 3-D with the Star Wars PocketModel Trading Card Game from WizKids Inc., a subsidiary of Topps. The new game hits stores June 2007, but fans will get plenty of chances to play at Celebration IV.

The Star Wars PocketModel Trading Card Game combines the best features of a classic trading card game with those of constructible strategy games (CSGs). Unlike tradition 2-D trading card games, Star Wars PocketModels are 3-D styrene ships that players can use to battle each other using the ship stats found on their game pieces. This TCG innovation allows players to use characters and action scenes from the films on their cards to help control their fleets of PocketModel ships as they attempt to destroy each other's objectives. This fun, easy-to-learn game derives its content from all six Star Wars movies, making it possible for fans of all generations to enjoy battling for control of the galaxy.

"Star Wars PocketModels are more evocative of the Star Wars galaxy than a 2-D trading card could ever be," WizKids Senior Brand Manager Justin Ziran says. "Additionally, the building aspect of the game -- using different vehicles parts to build an original ship, often called 'uglies' -- gives players a sense of connection with the game and, more importantly, the Star Wars galaxy itself."

"The game is designed to be easy to learn but difficult to master," Ziran adds. "Simply put, we built a game a 10-year-old can learn but engaging enough for an adult play. The more skilled a player becomes, the more sophisticated the gameplay strategies become. The Star Wars PocketModel TCG is the perfect family activity, where parents can share their love of Star Wars in an entertaining and engaging way with their kids."

Each Game Pack contains four to eight styrene constructible vehicle models, six game cards, two micro dice, assembly instructions and complete rules. No starter kit is required for game play.

"The first set is focused on close quarter fighters from all six movies," Ziran says. "You'll find a wide selection of X-wings, TIE fighters, Jedi interceptors, V-wings, TIE interceptors and Geonosian fighters. We've also sprinkled in some of the larger ships like the Millennium Falcon, Imperial Star Destroyer and Corellian Corvette, just to name a few."

Fans attending Celebration IV will get an exclusive sneak preview and a free X-wing/TIE fighter sample pack that contains one X-wing, two TIE fighters PocketModels and two Game Cards.

"Celebration will the first place customers, retailers and collectors will be able to get their hands on the Star Wars PocketModel TCG, three weeks in advance of the street date," Ziran says. "We'll be selling Game Packs and a Celebration exclusive collector tin with five Game Packs and exclusive version of the Millennium Falcon (as seen in Episode III). The tins will only be available at the 2007 Star Wars Celebration in US and Europe."

"During Celebration IV, we'll have fun activities for fans too including game demos at booth #110 in the Exhibitors' Hall during show hours every day, all day," Ziran says. "Kids and parents can sit down with one of our WizKids envoys and get familiar with the game and dive into the action for free. We'll also be holding special 'kit bashing' events where participants can put their creativity to the test by assembling the biggest, baddest, Star Wars vehicle using parts from all 81 models."

"We'll also be running a special event in the Celebration IV Fanfare Hall where consumers can play a quick game using oversized versions of the PocketModels," Ziran continues. "When I say oversized, I mean oversized! The Shuttle Tydirium sitting on my desk is about 3 feet tall and will be one of many oversized models we are bringing to the event. There's an ongoing fight within the office on who gets to keep the models after Celebration IV."

The Star Wars PocketModel TCG will be making its way to local hobby game retailers and national chains like Target, Wal-Mart and Toys 'R Us, this June.

For additional information on the Star Wars PocketModel Trading Card Game from WizKids, click here.