Are the ships/ factions in the new core set new factions, or are they imperial/rebel? Just curious, as I'm just starting out, and got two of the "old" starter sets, plus a few assorted rebel and imperial ships. Thanks!

In essence, X-Wing remains the same.

The Force Awakens Core Set does not reboot the game or replace the classic Core Set from 2012; it stands alongside it as another entry point into the game, one set within a different era of the Star Wars universe.

As a result, the new Core Rulebook presents the option of keeping consistent with the events of the films and building a squad of ships and pilot from the same era, or choosing to customize your squad by mixing with ships from the game's other eras and factions.

You can pair your Resistance starships and pilots with those of the Rebel Alliance.

You can command your First Order pilots and starfighters into battle alongside the ships and pilots of the Galactic Empire.

The Scum faction stands alone, relying upon its notorious blend of mercenaries, pirates, and bounty hunters.

When you build a squad, you affiliate it with one of these groups, and you can utilize any of the ships, ship cards, and upgrades appropriate to it. For example, you could fly Poe Dameron alongside Wedge Antilles , and you could even add R2-D2 to Poe’s ship.

I'm glad someone posted that question. I was uncertain whether the new Force Awakens starter was replacing the original.

Eventually, I believe the new damage deck will be required for premier level tournament play, but at this point, you can still choose which one to use.

in essence ffg wants to milk this fat cow and makes a good buck with refurbishing old to new.

that being said i would sell the dental plates from my granny if i needed the money to buy myself any new wave.

addictive

and no you do not need the new set to play

But get it nonetheless, as it's the only way currently to get Poe in his T-70 and BB-8.