Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program: Everything You Need to Know

The Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program is an essential initiative for anyone passionate about the Star Wars Unlimited Trading Card Game (TCG) who wants to play a pivotal role in organized play events. Judges ensure fair play, uphold tournament rules, and create an enjoyable environment for both competitive and casual players. Whether you’re looking to judge local store events or aspire to work at high-level tournaments, this guide covers everything you need to know about joining the program, training, and advancing through the ranks.

What Is the Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program?

The Judge Program is designed to train and certify individuals who can oversee Star Wars Unlimited tournaments. Judges are responsible for interpreting rules, resolving disputes, and supporting tournament organizers (TOs). Managed by Cascade Games, the program provides structured lessons, resources, and certification levels to help judges grow and succeed.

Why Become a Star Wars Unlimited Judge?

Becoming a judge is more than just enforcing rules—it’s about building community and enhancing the player experience. Some key benefits include:

• Community Leadership: Become a trusted leader in the Star Wars Unlimited player base.
• Professional Growth: Gain valuable communication, conflict resolution, and event management skills.
• Exclusive Opportunities: Judges are often given access to premier events, exclusive judge promos, and opportunities to network with other TCG professionals.
• Contribution to Organized Play: Help create smooth and fair tournaments, from local game store events to large-scale championships.

How to Get Started as a Star Wars Unlimited Judge

1. Create a Nexus Account

The first step in the journey is signing up for a Nexus account, which is the official hub for all judge resources, training, and event assignments.
Sign up at Nexus – Cascade Games.

2. Explore the Judge Levels

The program has tiered levels, allowing judges to progress as they gain experience and knowledge. Each level comes with different responsibilities and expectations. You can read about the judge levels here:
Judge Levels on Nexus.

3. Complete Online Lessons

Cascade Games offers a variety of online lessons to help judges understand tournament structures, rules enforcement, and advanced gameplay knowledge. These lessons are designed to prepare you for both written and practical exams.
Explore available lessons here:
Judge Lessons on Nexus.

4. Attend Local Events

After completing the initial lessons, you’ll gain experience by working at local events. This hands-on experience is crucial for learning real-world tournament scenarios, handling disputes, and understanding how to manage time and logistics.

Judge Levels Explained

The Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program has a clear progression path:

• Level 0 (Apprentice): New judges who are learning the basics and shadowing experienced judges.
• Level 1 (Certified Judge): Able to judge local events, handle rules inquiries, and ensure fair play.
• Level 2 (Advanced Judge): Experienced judges who can lead larger events, mentor new judges, and handle complex tournament rulings.
• Level 3 (Premier Judge): The highest level, reserved for judges who manage large-scale events and provide leadership at regional and national tournaments.

For a detailed breakdown, check the official judge levels page.

Important Judge Responsibilities

Judges are more than rule enforcers—they are ambassadors of the Star Wars Unlimited community. Their responsibilities include:

• Answering rules and card interaction questions during events.
• Issuing penalties and warnings when needed.
• Keeping events on schedule and managing time limits.
• Collaborating with tournament organizers and event staff.
• Encouraging a positive play environment.

Judge Program Resources

The Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program provides a wealth of resources to support judges at every level:

• Cascade Games Judge Hub:
  https://cascadegames.com/star-wars-unlimited/
• Nexus Account (Judge Portal):
  https://nexus.cascadegames.com/
• Judge Levels and Requirements:
  https://nexus.cascadegames.com/levels/
• Judge Lessons and Training Modules:
  https://nexus.cascadegames.com/lessons/

Tips for Aspiring Judges

1. Study the Comprehensive Rules: Make sure you have a strong understanding of Star Wars Unlimited’s rules and mechanics.
2. Practice Communication: Judges often mediate disputes—clear and respectful communication is key.
3. Volunteer: Start by assisting local game stores with events to build experience.
4. Stay Updated: Star Wars Unlimited frequently updates card rulings and tournament policies. Stay informed through official channels.
5. Network with Other Judges: Join online forums or social media groups for judges to learn from others’ experiences.

Final Thoughts

The Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program is an excellent pathway for dedicated fans who want to contribute to the growth and fairness of the game. With the resources provided by Cascade Games and the structured training available through Nexus, anyone with passion and commitment can become a certified judge.

Ready to take the first step?
Start your journey today with the Star Wars Unlimited Judge Program.