Are these allowed for Regional events? Some players are asking if they HAVE to have the map components to play in the regional. Is there an official response from FFG about this?

You *MUST* have all components. Printed maps are not legal at sanctioned events.

It specifically say you must have all official components in the tournament rules.

This goes for Store Champs too, not just regionals.

That being said, it's pretty much up to the organizer.

I don't think anyone would complain (except maybe FFG themselves at their own venue). Allowing printed maps would bring more people into the tournament scene.

It's also possible to share components a bit as long as it doesn't hold up games etc... Again TO could allow one or two people without the Hoth expansion to play knowing that there would be enough kits floating around.

The rule does have to be there though, because you can't have everyone show up without the map tiles.

As for printed maps specifically... they could be worried about proper sizing/scaling so that line of sight still works properly and each square is 1x1in

Also, as much as I don't like it.... it does sell boxes. They can't flat out allow printed maps because that could hurt their sales.

They could print their own playmats though.... $30 per playmat for each tournament season. Maybe online only to save distribution and shelf space costs. Hardcore players would eventually buy them all over time. Casual player could just buy the one or 2 maps they are missing so they can join in on official events.

I hope FFG read these forums =)

$30 per season? At that price, you might as well buy extra sets of tiles.