This week’s discussion is being transferred to you over the HoloNet while I continue traversing the Galaxy. I’ve been leveling like a crazy person, and I’ve been having the time of my life. While some people may have been playing since launch, I unfortunately have had to wait while my computer was being repaired. Now I’m playing catch-up in order to join my guild in Raiding (Operations). In a week I’ve gone from level 24 to level 45, and I have a few interesting observations I’d like to share with you about the experience.

Sometimes it's hard being on top of the world looking down on everyone.

Do Your Dailies

One thing that has definitely helped me in my quest to smuggle various goods across the galaxy is carrying out the daily space combat missions. You get a ton of XP, and you don’t even have to move your feet. Upgrading your ship at spaceports or on the fleet is also a big help. The rule of thumb on space missions is basically shoot down everything you can. There are hidden bonus missions for almost every engagement in addition to the ones stated in the quest log.

Pick the Right Companion

While certainly some companions are more appealing than others, as a Sharpshooter Smuggler, your best bet is to stick with Bowdaar. I’m not trying to hate on Corso, but Bowdaar’s motto in life seems to coincide with my own: Let’s go kill stuff. Or as he likes to say, “Rrrrrraa-ghghghgh.” However, if you prefer to speak basic with your companion, take Corso with you, he’s like a good shot of Southern Comfort.

Wampas, the bigger they are, the harder they fall.

Multi-Stage Bonus Missions and Rewards

While questing, try and complete any multi-stage bonus or area missions that you come across. These missions provide XP for every stage completed, plus a big payout at the end. Speaking about payouts, while questing, I like to pick companion armor or commendations as my quest rewards. I have not come across one dropbox that has ever yielded me anything that I could use. However, with commendations, I can choose which mods or slotted items I wish to purchase that I can then cater to my Class and Role. Life may be like a box of chocolates, but I don’t want my quest rewards to be.

Tip of the Week

This week’s tip has to do with interrupting enemy abilities. Especially when leveling on your own without a healer, it is important to interrupt the abilities of strong and elite foes. You can see the casting bar above your target’s head, and also above the target window. Casted abilities that move left to right are abilities that need to charge up before being used, and abilities that move right to left are abilities that are actively cast. As a Smuggler, Distraction is your primary interrupt, but don’t forget that you have other abilities in your arsenal such as Flash Grenade and Dirty Kick, which stun and effectively interrupt your target.

Until next time friends, keep your hands on your credit chips and don’t talk to Jawas!