Page 79 - Star Wars Insider #195

NOUGHTS & CROSSES

ROUND 3
Value for Money

Second-hand stores or brand-new stock?

Rebel and Resistance pilots alike Engineers and scientists are also
put much faith in pre-loved goods, constantly making advancements
such as when Luke Skywalker and implementing new TIE designs
refused to replace R2-D2 with a to keep their forces one step ahead
newer astromech prior to the Battle of the opposition, resulting in a
of Yavin. Similarly, both forces wide variety of TIE types being used
obtain their craft second-hand, by both the Empire and the First
demonstrating the X-wing fi ghter’s Order. Yet however far each new
durability and longevity—provided iteration strays from the earlier
it doesn’t get shot down, of course. models, the twin ion engine’s
As Resistance fi ghters engage signature roar remains, striking fear
the First Order in their fi nal battle into the hearts of their enemies, and

above Exegol they have a scant granting TIE fighters a psychological
number of X-wings in active service, edge over their adversaries. It’s said
maintained using parts scavenged that many recruits cite this awe-
from numerous fi ghters downed inspiring sound as their motivation
during the conflict—a testament to for signing up.

the X-wing’s sturdy construction. Maintaining an effective military
The ship is even waterproof, which force is an expensive business, and
might come in handy were you to that might explain why Imperial
crash on a swamp planet or need TIEs are not equipped with shield
to hide your fighter in an ocean emitters or hyperdrives. However,

inlet. Built to last, purchased on the with so many ships being built, the
cheap, and easy to maintain, an economies of scale involved surely
X-wing is worth every credit spent. make manufacturing TIEs extremely
So what about TIEs? Serving an cost-effective.
all-powerful Emperor or Supreme For reasons as divergent as the
Leader has its advantages, including two sides that fly them, there’s little

a seemingly endless supply of to distinguish between the value of

factory-fresh TIE fighters and an each ship to their respective causes,
equally neverending stream of so we have no option but to call this
ideologically driven raw recruits. round a draw.

AND THE WINNER IS…
X-wings and TIE fighters are iconic craft that look fantastic and fuel our

imaginations. By weighing their pros and cons, we can decisively conclude...
that we simply cannot choose between them. In other words, it’s a TIE!