Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine: Galactic Getaways

Life got you down? Ever wish you could get away? There’s no place better than a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. From great camping on Endor to the divine skiing of Rhen Var, Galactic Getaways has the perfect solution.

Rugged Geonosis

All the way at the Outer Rim lies Geonosis, with scenery so amazing you’d think only a computer could generate it. Majestic red-hued mesas and buttes decorate the topography, while long stretches of parched desert hardpan appear in just the right places so as not to spoil you with continuous eye candy. Recent developments suggest a remarkably healthy local economy due to increased industrial activity. Be sure to pack bug spray, in case you run into the natives. We heartily suggest chartering a Republic attack gunship for this area.

Heavenly Cloud City

Ever feel like your head is in the clouds? Well, it should be! Baron Administrator Lando Calrissian humbly invites you to Cloud City, a wondrous colony floating above the gas giant Bespin. Gaze into the beautifully colored heavens or take on the galaxy’s best sabacc players in a first-class casino. And for those of you looking to keep a, shall we say, “low profile,” rest assured that Mr. Calrissian has just made a deal that will keep the Empire out of here forever. Also, pay no mind to the sculpture shaped like a man trapped in carbonite.

Lush Endor

Tucked away in the galaxy’s uncharted territory, the forest moon of Endor provides the ideal escape for your inner outdoorsman. Humongous trees tower hundreds of meters above you, and wildlife abounds in the verdant environment. Barring a climactic battle between the Galactic Empire and the Rebellion, you’ll learn soon enough why Endor is also known as the Sanctuary Moon. Do beware of traps set by primitive savages known as Ewoks, however. If one should approach, simply shoot the animal in the head and enjoy the rest of your stay.

Sunny Tatooine

Every planet has its awesome sunrises. But only Tatooine has two per day as its twin suns dispel the cool, crisp desert night. Some might not like the sand, since it’s coarse, rough, irritating, and gets everywhere—but only the more detestable folks of the galaxy feel this way. Good people such as yourself want to see as much sand as you can, from Beggar’s Canyon to the Jundland Wastes. Be sure to brush up on your Huttese; you never know whom you might run into (if you run into “native” Tusken raiders, you’re certainly allowed to take a shot).

Aquatic Kamino

Deep-sea fishermen will find no more desirable location than Kamino, a planet whose stilt-mounted cities were constructed atop its completely aquatic surface. When you’re not on the water, enjoy your stay in hospitable Tipoca City. Thanks to its galactically renowned cloning facility, jetpack-using travelers who accidentally fall into the water and die can come right back in an instant. But please, don’t forget to pack a good umbrella, for rain has been known to fall from time to time. A little Dramamine wouldn’t hurt, either.

Adventurous Hoth

Landscapes of constant snow and ice may sound like turnoffs to normal people, but we know you’re so much more than a normal person, aren’t you? Besides, where else can you go tauntaun-back riding? (Lessons unavailable at this time.) You might even see other indigenous wildlife, like the wampa ice creature—just make sure you keep your distance, especially during breeding season. And we must insist that you make it inside before sundown. We wouldn’t want a good customer like you to die on us.

Historic Yavin 4

Originally settled by Sith Lord Naga Sadow and his followers, the generations to follow would evolve into the Massassi race. No one knows what happened to the legendary warriors, but their impressively huge temples remain scattered throughout the jungle-ridden moon to this day. An absolute must-see, the Great Temple sits at the crest of a prodigious hill; the structure’s size and location make it the perfect base for any type of army in need, especially a rebellious one. The lush foliage is also conducive to exciting speeder bike races.

Sacred Rhen Var

Some have referred to Rhen Var as a “frozen wasteland.” Blasphemers. If an atmospheric cataclysm hadn’t permanently disrupted the planet’s ecosystem thousands of years ago, we’d still be able to see the ancient Jedi monuments that once permeated a fertile paradise. Now, the planet lies in the midst of an ice age, but devout followers of the Force such as yourself will have no trouble seeing the allure of icy plains, brutal tundra, and glacier-carved mountains. This clean scenery is also good for calming trots in your AT-ST.

Scenic Naboo

Rolling plains, green hills, picturesque waterfalls, and distinct architecture compose Naboo, truly one of the galaxy’s most wondrous planets. We recommend staying in Theed, the capital city, known for its remarkable royal palace and sublime canals. You could even hop aboard a historic Trade Federation armored assault tank for an armed tour of the city. In your spare time, you might choose to take a bongo underwater to see the bubblelike settlements of the Gungans. Don’t get too close, though. They’sa no like visitors.

Top-Secret Location

Our tour guide, LucasArts, has another possible destination in store for you—one that it won’t even tell us about at this time (though we did notice a LucasArts employee checking out a history disc entitled Knights of the Old Republic). But we’re certain that this top-secret escape location is absolutely fabulous—after all, as a destination from Galactic Getaways, there’s no way it can’t be. Watch for future brochures; we may even reveal LucasArts’ other battlefield—er, we mean pleasurable vacation spot.