Talk:StarViper Expansion Pack/@comment-94.36.220.12-20170823071825/@comment-454133-20170823142639

If you want to sample before you buy, you can get one of the tabletop simulator games that support X-Wing (e.g. Vassal, which is free). Play a few games to learn how it works, and then try out a StarViper. It's a bit more awkward and less satisfying than playing in person, but it can give you a good feel for a ship's playstyle before you sink money into it.

I've used it once, and it's not terribly bad but it is rough around the edges. Vassal is highly manual and could use some more bells and whistles, but since it's so manual, you can play a ship's new upgrade cards (e.g. titles etc) before they come out (as soon as the spoilers are revealed). Some people at the gamestore mentioned trying out the new starviper, and they sounded very encouraged!

Also I should mention... Despite low PS, Guri is a fantastic pilot who used to rock the table even without a buff, and the new options coming out in Guns For Hire will make her even better. Thweek can match the PS of any foe (with initiative bid, it guarantees he goes last for optimal positioning), or he can copy a pilot ability if the opponent fields something exciting (like Biggs).

Also the K-Fighter, another overpriced but otherwise cool ship, is getting fantastic upgrades too. Guns for Hire is a dream come true for Scum players. ^_^

I should mention that if you're fine with proxying cards (e.g. you don't need to play the starviper in tournaments), then you could just buy the starviper that's out now and be good to go. Besides gorgeous paint jobs, the new expansion just includes new pilots and upgrades to help both ships. I'm all for helping players cut back on expenses, since this game can mug your wallet and violate your bank account.