Its a mixed bag for me. I definitely miss the mid 90s period of Star Wars for me, one filled with expectations not soured by the prequels or some of the excessive darkness of the EU.

However one of the things I've grown to accept is that I can't expect a franchise to remain just perfect for me. Star Wars means a lot of things to a lot of people. Yeah I'm grateful that I grew up in a period of watching the OT, but if some kids today get a kick out of the prequel films and the Clone Wars TV show, good on them. One of the beauties about this franchise is that you'll always find something you'll like.

I mean yeah, those young fans from 84 to 91 didn't have the prequels or special editions to muddle up their love of the series, but they also didn't have the writing of the Thrawn Trilogy, some of character exploration of the X-Wing books, a unique experience of KOTOR, whimsical fun of Lego Star Wars, or the creative efforts of fan films/edits. When you look at everything, I don't think its that bad of a trade.

In spite of Lucas' best efforts the original films will survive in some form long after he's gone. Hell in 10, 20 years we might see some energetic and motivated people make their own version of the prequels. Readers will be able to enjoy the EU long after Karen Traviss will have laid down the pen. I think fans will still enjoy this franchise many decades from now, and that's something to be happy about.