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New Star Wars MMO Announced:  "The Old Republic"

October 31, 2008

By Jennifer Hull

LucasArts and BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts, have announced the development of “Star Wars: The Old Republic,” a new massively multiplayer online (MMO) game. The game represents an innovative approach to interactive entertainment and features immersive storytelling, dynamic combat, and intelligent companion characters. The release date has not been announced.

“Star Wars: The Old Republic” Explores an Age Long Before Darth Vader

In “Star Wars: The Old Republic,” players will explore an age thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader when the war between the Old Republic and the Sith Empire divides the galaxy. Players can choose to play as Jedi, Sith, or a variety of other classic Star Wars roles, defining their personal story and determining their path down the light or dark side of the Force. Along the way, players will befriend courageous companions who will fight at their side or possibly betray them, based on the players’ actions. Players can also choose to team up with friends to battle enemies and overcome incredible challenges using dynamic Star Wars combat.

LucasArts “The Old Republic” Set in Dynamic Period in the Star Wars Universe

“Traditionally, massively multiplayer online games have been about three basic gameplay pillars — combat, exploration, and character progression,” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, co-founder and general manager/CEO of BioWare and general manager/vice president of Electronic Arts. “In ‘Star Wars: The Old Republic’ we’re fusing BioWare’s heritage of critically-acclaimed storytelling with the amazing pedigree of Lucasfilm and LucasArts, and adding a brand-new fourth pillar to the equation — story. At the same time, we will still deliver all the fun features and activities that fans have come to expect in a triple-A massively multiplayer online game. To top it all off, ‘Star Wars: The Old Republic’ is set in a very exciting, dynamic period in the Star Wars universe.”

Dr. Greg Zeschuk, co-founder and vice president of development operations for BioWare and vice president at Electronic Arts, added “’Star Wars: The Old Republic’ is set roughly 300 years after the events of ‘Knights of the Old Republic,’ a timeframe that is completely unexplored in the lore. BioWare has been able to add to the Star Wars history in developing the game’s story and has created an overarching narrative that players can enjoy, regardless of their playing style. Our goal is to offer players an emotionally rewarding experience that combines the traditional elements of MMO gameplay with innovations in story and character development.”