Or is the only way to get the new deck and templates buying the "blue" starter box?

Original has not been updated as far as I know.

I belive the new stuff is just in the new Core set, but I do not know for sure.

Since both sets of damage decks and both sets of asteroids are distinct and legal tournament options, presumably they will always remain as separate products.

It is still the original damage deck. Since both decks are viable, I hope they keep the old deck in print with the original core set.

Since both sets of damage decks and both sets of asteroids are distinct and legal tournament options, presumably they will always remain as separate products.

i thought tournaments used the new damage deck exclusively?

Since both sets of damage decks and both sets of asteroids are distinct and legal tournament options, presumably they will always remain as separate products.

i thought tournaments used the new damage deck exclusively?

No, they reversed that policy because some players cried they didn't like it. Which is also why now the old box won't get updated.

i'd be surprised if they replace the damage deck in the old one.

There are actually viable reasons to run the old one. Not many but there are reasons.

i'd be surprised if they replace the damage deck in the old one.

There are actually viable reasons to run the old one. Not many but there are reasons.

such as?

i'd be surprised if they replace the damage deck in the old one.

There are actually viable reasons to run the old one. Not many but there are reasons.

such as?

You're flying a TIE swarm? The old deck contained a few cards that either completely screw you or have no effect at all, like Munitions Failure (only matters if you have a secondary weapon) and Injured Pilot (only matters if you have an Elite upgrade and/or a pilot ability).