Tournaments coming up, and I want to try something different. I've been an almost exclusively rebel player during my time in our beloved game, but I want to try out an imperial build. My favorite rebel ship is super arc dodger extraordinaire Jake Farrell, so naturally I lean towards Soontir and Vader. With that said, here's my build-

Fel-

Push the Limit

Title

Autothrusters

Targeting Computer

Vader-

Veteran Instincts

Engine Upgrade

Title

Advanced Targeting Computer

Old Guy Carrier-

Fire Control System

Palpatine

So my meta has a lot of firesprays, a couple swarms, a bunch of rebel regen, a lot of scum shenanigans, and only two consistently turreted guys. That's why I went with the computer over the stealth device on Fel; I feel like I can consistently dodge arcs, and the extra bit of firepower when I can get it will be nice.

My biggest question is on Vader- VI or predator/outmaneuver? I'd like to have VI for the PS10 Poe and Boba match ups and the couple other Fels and Vaders that are around, but I like having my two aces move at the same time and I'd like Vader's two dice to be a bit more threatening.

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Drop the FCS for an initiative bid. The shuttle doesn't get to shoot much anyway.

VI Vader is the 'safer' bet because at PS11 its hard to 'outfly' him. With Palp around, his damage output remains decent, because if he rolls a blank, you can turn it into a crit.

Honestly, I don't think having the same pilot skill matters much in this list, since you shouldn't be flying your ships that close together anyway. They want some freedom to move around and keep their BR/boost options as open as possible without getting in each other's way.

Personally, I like Predator on Vader to get a re-roll mechanic because he "can't" spent his Target Lock. Then you can use your Palp shenanigans on defense.

I agree with Darth Chuck. Predator on Vader works out better and more often than VI, and in this build, Lone Wolf is a bit more difficult to use too. Your meta might be different though.

Also, for the points, Sensor Jammer on the Shuttle is wondrous. Lots of people will target the Shuttle first, and if you can get them to do that, you've won the game there. The Sensor Jammer helps keep the shuttle alive that much longer. It is 2 points more than the FCS, so you'll have to balance something else out (which is hard with this list as there are so many necessary cards), but it is really great.

Thanks guys for your input. I think I will stick with VI, as I really believe PS10 will be popular this season.