Simple question this time. Can my PCs use the characters they have already to play the beginner game?

And also, do you need to have the PCs read the entire space combat section? because how do you explain all the maneuvers and the likes?

If they're starting characters or near enough I don't think you'd have a problem using them for the beginner game. If they're more advanced you might have to adjust some of the encounters to keep it challenging. I found the beginner game to provide a very good grounding in the system and explanation of the mechanics - it's obviously designed with new players in mind and it's very good at that.

Regarding space combat, I don't ask them to read it, but I've got a cheat sheet printed off with the possible manoeuvres and actions along with other concerns like how many range bands their speed gets them. I keep that with me and pull it out when a ship-based encounter occurs in case it needs referencing. I also keep p. 237 of the EotE core rulebook bookmarked for the table of additional starship and vehicle actions in case they need ideas.

I'd post a link to the sheet but it was that long ago and I don't have it to hand. I think I found it through these forums though.

Edit: I just had a quick look through the Compiled Resource List thread and couldn't find the one I'm thinking of, did find this under reference sheets from Gribble though: http://dl.dropboxuse...t-Reference.pdf

Well, with enough reworking, any game could be used with any level of player. I did a modified version of the AoR beginner game well into our campaign and had no issues with it (and in fact, with just dialing up the stats of the bad guys, it was quite tough in places). So if you were willing to do a little bit of leg work, I don't see why you couldn't.