Star Wars: The Old Republic Discussion

[Raktael]

Okay, so in the STO topic I promised i'd start a decent SW: TOR thread with all the information and what not and then people can discuss what they are looking forward to in this game and if they feel it could be a game to rival WoW and so on. Now we all know this game is by Bioware who are truly one of the gods of role playing games and I am very excited about the entering the MMO world and building on their Old Republic franchise where I absolutely loved the two off line games.

So, today I am going to start, for those who maybe don't stay as tuned in :) please remember a lot of this comes from the official website and I am posting here for you're convenience.

Game Info: Setting

The Galactic Republic stood for generations as a bastion of peace in a galaxy of warring star systems. Protected by its stalwart Jedi guardians, the Republic held the greatest hope for the progress of civilization and galactic unity.

Deep in unknown space, however, a mighty Sith Empire was forged, led by dark Sith Lords who dreamt of galactic domination and vengeance against their ancient Jedi enemies. After centuries of preparation, the time came for the Sith to make their return.

With a massive fleet and an awe-inspiring army of fearless troops, the Sith Emperor launched a surprise assault, quickly capturing dozens of worlds in the Outer Rim, and sparking a war unlike any other in the galaxy?s history.

From the frozen wastes of Ilum to the desert plains of Dathomir, violent battles killed untold millions. Despite its avowed neutrality, surface structures on the water-covered world of Manaan were completely destroyed, forcing the Selkath to retreat to their ocean underworld. Other star systems fared worse?some destroyed, others left uninhabitable. The carnage concluded with the Sith Empire sacking the Republic's capital planet of Coruscant and forcing the Republic Senate into the controversial Treaty of Coruscant.

In the years since the treaty, fear and uncertainty have gripped the galaxy, enabling the Sith Emperor to pursue his own mysterious purposes while the Republic has made efforts to rebuild its infrastructure and adjust military priorities to the new galactic landscape.

Now, tensions between the Republic and the Empire are running high, and a series of border skirmishes and proxy wars have broken out, even on planets as historically peaceful as Alderaan. The uneasy truce established by the Treaty of Coruscant is quickly tearing apart at the seams, and a return to all-out war has begun in all but official terms.

A new generation of heroes, both light and dark, emerges to face the difficulties of these chaotic times, and fight for the fate of the galaxy in this most desperate age.

Classes - The Republic

The Trooper

Deployed to the hairiest battlefields in the galaxy, Republic Troopers generally travel in small, specialized squads. It is not uncommon, however, to see a Trooper engaging enemies on his or her own. Whether operating solo or in groups, members of the Republic Special Forces have become intimidating opponents to their enemies

The Republic?s experiments with a new generation of heavy blaster rifles have proven successful, sparking a galaxy-wide trend towards larger, more powerful and more versatile armaments. It takes a great deal of strength and training, however, to wield these war machines, so they?re rarely used outside the military. Republic engineers have also worked overtime fashioning new defensive gear for the Republic?s most elite soldiers, armor suits that provide maximum protection and flexibility in multiple environments.

Whether fighting as part of a small strike squad or at the forefront of a larger force, the Trooper can unleash unrivaled firepower against his enemies. A Trooper?s rifle is his best friend, and the military is constantly challenged to design faster, more powerful and more reliable blaster rifles every year. Wielding such rifles and wearing protective battle armor designed by the Republic?s top engineers, the Trooper will not hesitate to step right into the crossfire. Whether storming a base or a battlefield, the Trooper charges into the fight, blaster-rifle blazing, to clear a path for freedom and justice.

The Smuggler

As smart and stealthy as Smugglers might be, surveillance recording from various spaceports and secured warehouses has captured them in the act. These images highlight their ability to adapt to almost any situation. They?re careful and cunning when sneaking into enemy territory, but when caught in the open, whether bluffing or gambling, they appear comfortable staging a courageous stand.

They don?t wear fancy armor or carry high-powered blaster rifles, but Smugglers are outfitted for action nonetheless. Wearing comfortable, flexible clothing with some custom modifications, Smugglers are able to stay light on their feet and quick on the draw. Usually carrying a fast-firing blaster or two, Smugglers have everything they need to shoot their way out of trouble. Though style is rarely their intent, it seems to come naturally to Smugglers, and their dashing duds generally complement their roguish charm.

The Smuggler?s approach to fighting is guileful and improvisational. Preferring to tip the odds in their favor from the start, Smugglers often rely on the element of surprise, using stealth and trickery to catch opponents off guard. Despite the sly tactics, they are more than capable of holding their own in a fair fight. Fast on the draw and a crack shot with a blaster, Smugglers tend to shoot first and be the last ones standing.

The Jedi Knight

The Jedi Knight?s graceful movements are awesome to behold. Freezing a moment in this display captures the deep commitment underlying the Jedi?s dazzling abilities. Though a Jedi Knight?s life is filled with battle and adventure, the Knight?s heart is dedicated to peace and service. An ironic observation to some, but greater wisdom suggests it is the Jedi Knights? humble devotion which makes them so likely to become such famous heroes.

The galaxy has been plagued by war for decades, and despite the Treaty of Coruscant, the Jedi have no delusions about the constant danger. Though traditional Jedi robes range from light cloth to thick leathers, many Jedi Knights also wear parts or entire suits of heavy armor when going into battle.

Whether defending allies by deflecting a barrage of blaster-fire or charging in to challenge a Sith Lord, the Knight?s role is crucial in any conflict. The Jedi Knight enjoys the benefit of ancient teachings that have been passed down through hundreds of generations. Combining these time-tested maneuvers with the natural guidance of the Force, the Knight is capable of achieving extraordinary feats.

The Jedi Consular

In a more peaceful age, Jedi Consulars may have humbly dedicated their lives to service as keepers of Jedi lore or as ambassadors in service to the Republic?tasks for which Consulars are uniquely qualified. However, as the shadow of the Empire has spread further across the galaxy, Consulars have stepped up to face the darkness on the front lines of battle as often as they?ve faced it when exploring the mysteries of the Force.

Preferring to stay as nimble on the battlefield as they are in negotiations, Jedi Consulars avoid the heavy battle armor worn by many Jedi Knights, Dense polymers and Cortosis armors would weigh them down; light cloaks and ornamented robes suit their strengths better, and the efforts they most often find themselves engaged in. No matter where they go, however, Consulars are never without the Lightsaber that marks their initiation into the Jedi Order.

The Consular?s powers go far beyond meditation and mediation, and nothing illustrates this as vividly as their graceful movements in battle. Whether beset by an army of assassin droids or caught in the middle of soured negotiations, the Jedi Consular fights with an open conduit for the Force; manipulating massive forces to disable or even destroy their enemies.

Classes - The Sith Empire

The Bounty Hunter

Bounty Hunters come and go as they wish across the galaxy, some working alone, others in groups. Though not uncommon for them to pursue targets in the core worlds, the majority of any Bounty Hunter?s work takes place in the Outer Rim where wary and elusive targets often seek places where they can ?drop off the radar?.

Preparation is the Bounty Hunter?s best defense, and cutting-edge protective gear is standard equipment for most Bounty Hunters. Artisans spend months and even years hand-crafting the Bounty Hunters? heavy armor to ensure it offers superior resistance to all manner of weaponry, and that each suit will still allow maximum flexibility and versatility. Offense is just as critical as defense, however, and powerful weaponry is necessary for any Bounty Hunter who might have to shoot his way out of a messy situation. It?s not unheard of for a Bounty Hunter to spend as many credits on an advanced blaster as others might spend to purchase an entire starship.

Whether working for credits or principle, the Bounty Hunter pursues his targets with dogged determination and methodical precision. Bounty Hunters are renowned for their versatility on the battlefield and their ability to go toe-to-toe with force-users. Their legendary abilities in this arena have earned them the nickname ?Jedi Killers?. Whoever they must face, however, the Bounty Hunter comes armed with the most-advanced weaponry on the black market, packing heavy firepower but always keeping a variety of tricks and gadgets ready to go.

The Imperial Agent

Reconnaissance images of Imperial Agents are rare; between their varied disguises and stealth enhanced battle-gear, they can be hard to spot. If there is anything remarkable about their habits, patterns, and appearances it?s that they can change at any time. Many of the tasks set before the Imperial Agent call for a high degree of subversion and infiltration into hostile organizations, so it?s a safe bet that if they aren?t with their friends, they?re probably with their enemies.

The Empire risks everything on the Imperial Agent?s performance and spares no expense to make sure Agents? gear is as smart as they are. State-of-the-art attire with high-grade armor mesh provides protection and ease-of-movement. Many of the Agent?s outfits are augmented with advanced communications technology and attachments to facilitate interfacing with varied computer networks and security systems.

Relying on range, surprise, and an arsenal of state-of-the-art gadgets and weaponry, the Imperial Agent enters battle with a confident strategy. Though striking from a distance or from the shadows plays to the Agent?s strengths, a well-equipped operative is more than capable of evading his enemies when necessary or moving in close to quietly slide a blade between an opponent?s ribs. Whether on a solo mission or working in conjunction with a strike team, this operative keeps a finger on the right button for almost any situation.

The Sith Warrior

Still images of Sith Warriors capture their passion and vigor in war. Bold lightsaber tactics and surprising bursts of Force power force their foes to stay on the defensive until they are weakened and summarily destroyed. Though their saber tactics are always aggressive, some Sith Warriors choose to dual-wield or adopt other non-traditional fighting styles to accentuate their combat prowess.

Despite their reliance on their strength in the Force, Warriors have no compunction about donning heavy and intimidating suits and armors. Unthreatened by the use of technology for biological augmentation, Warriors? vestments often make use of dangerous and experimental components which imbue the wearer with immense strength and fortitude.

A Sith Warrior?s skills with a lightsaber are unrivaled. Driving at their enemies with strong, crushing blows, the Warrior quickly beats his foes into submission or death. Though the lightsaber is the Warrior?s primary method of attack, he also uses his dark command of the Force to paralyze, terrify, and kill. Protected by heavy armor and his powers of intimidation, the Warrior wades into the thick of the fight and unleashes pure hatred and fury to eliminate all who would stand against him.

The Sith Inquisitor

The destruction Sith Inquisitors leave in their wake rarely allows for the survival of any recorded images. In the cases where the Inquisitors fury has been caught on holo, however, the daunting presence and the awe-inspiring power at the Inquisitors? disposal present a striking picture. Whether the Inquisitor wields a Lightsaber with lightning-sharp attacks, or just Force Lightning itself, it?s always a dazzling display of deadly energy.

Asserting power and authority is one of the highest priorities for the Sith Inquisitors. Their choice of attire reflects this strategy, as they often prefer dark, high-contrast robes to express their sophisticated tastes and ambitions for political control. Nonetheless, despite regal appearances, great attention is given to ensure all their attire allows the flexibility for stunning acrobatics in Lightsaber combat. Of course, some Inquisitor outfits take expression to the highest extreme?designed to inspire sheer terror in those the Inquisitor comes into contact with.

Whether facing a traitorous fellow Sith or a crowd of Republic soldiers, the Inquisitor fights with unlimited fury to create a storm of destruction. Expertise in conducting Force energies further allows Inquisitors to draw upon the life essence of themselves and others. This energy can be channeled to bolster their powers, harm their foes, and even to reinvigorate their allies. An Inquisitor?s skills with a Lightsaber are equally impressive. Often wielding a double-bladed Lightsaber, Inquisitors use quick, guileful, and lethal maneuvers to strike their enemies down with astonishing speed.

Just to re-iterate the above, all content is property of Bioware and Lucasarts and is here so people can read and discuss.

As soon as I heard of SW: TOR I was captured by it, and I have decided this time to dabble in the dark side and I will probably lean towards the Sith as my choice of faction as I have a tendency to play the 'good guys' in games I felt this would be a good difference and I do enjoy the whole Sith background story and hope I can have a fun time playing with, and against my friends who make the same or different choices in the game :)

I think this could cause a dent in WoW, I am definately not saying this is a WoW killer at all before some fan boys jump on the wagon, I played WoW from it's release until about 6/7 months ago when I simply found WoW was boring and I hear it's getting even worse, and extremely easy to gear up and raid, so my hardcore raiding days were definately over.

What do other people hope to get from this game and what are you looking forward to most importantly? :)

Edited December 15, 2009 by Raktael

[Sethos]

Pst, thread could do with a few pictures :p

[Raktael]

Give me a chance, I have been staying tuned to STO pre-order news this evening too :) I'll get some up asap!

[greatestfall]

I watched a preview of this game on G4 the other day.

looks like balls, like really balls.

i hope they improve it.

[Raktael]

I remember the initial screenshots and everyone was a bit like 'hmm' as the lightsabers were just stupidly chunky, but from the looks of things they have scaled those back a bit and they now look much much better which is pleasing, but the videos for it are amazing, as the Sith assault the Jedi it's just like :o ooooooo

[SMELTN]

I can't wait for this game. I have been keeping track of it since its first discussion, and my entire WOW guild is ready to pick it up and we start a guild in it.

[Raktael]

I can't wait for this game. I have been keeping track of it since its first discussion, and my entire WOW guild is ready to pick it up and we start a guild in it.

Are you guys all agreed on what side of the force you will be playing as? :)

[SMELTN]

of course....

The dark side

[Raktael]

Nice one :) more people join the dark side!!

[+SOOPRcow MVC]

Jedi Consular for life!

[McCordRm]

The Dark Side is sure to get the most people... so I'll be going Light to increase my pool of victims.

"And all the Jedi say, 'He's pretty sneaky for a Light guy.'"

[stephen_0002]

i signed up for the best, still haven't been chosen yet ..... I guess I'm not the chosen one LOL

[Vortex566]

Are we going to see this in 2010?

[Raktael]

November is the current time frame they have for ETA

[SMELTN]

I was told that Feb. is when the beta should start.

[Sethos]

Just remembered I forgot to sign up for the Beta. Well, didn't forget but back when the sign-up form was released, it was broken beyond this world so it slipped out of my mind slowly - So I just did that today. Any word on when we know whether we're in or out?

[Cold Blood]

Just remembered I forgot to sign up for the Beta. Well, didn't forget but back when the sign-up form was released, it was broken beyond this world so it slipped out of my mind slowly - So I just did that today. Any word on when we know whether we're in or out?

I don't even think they started to select the beta testers. It's a bit too early for that. Hopefully they will have a working beta by early next year.

[Sethos]

That's why I asked when, I know they haven't started yet :p They could easily have released some information, specifying a time-line for the start and end of the Beta :)

[Raktael]

I am hoping to make the beta for this, but who knows, I need to get my new laptop first (which no one replied to in the hardware area, sniff) which is going to cost about ?850 from Dell and I aim to have that by STO comes out :whistle: but I don't think they have even started sending out the congrats emails yet lol.

I'll try and add some more info on planets and stuff when I can, but MW2 keeps distracting me from my MMO read ups and work bans access to games site (national gas and electric company, im not saying who in the event people abuse me :p)

[SMELTN]

So... I got this in an email this morning.

Shacknews reports some MMO news from the Electronic Arts Q2 Earnings conference call. The quote below is reportedly from EA CEO John Riccitiello in regards to a "major MMO" launch for 2011.

"One key driver is going to be the launch date of our major MMO. As it stands today, the game is making great progress towards a Spring 2011 launch. But given the volatility of this particular sector and the fact that we haven't yet provided a specific launch date, at least for now, we're excluding the revenue, or will be excluding the revenue, from our FY11 plans."

Though no name is given, we can only speculate that Star Wars: The Old Republic is the front runner in the above comment. Please stay tuned for more details on this announcement.

This wouldn't be the first time Riccitiello had a case of loose lips with regards to The Old Republic, as he unintentionally pre-empted BioWare's E3 announcement of the game early last year.

So.. IF this is true and we are really looking at a Spring 11 launch, do you think they will still do well? With Cataclysm releasing in Nov of this year, is that the best choice they could have done was not release SWTOR against WOW:C and instead launch it 3-6 months AFTER?

At first I was honestly ****ed and still am really because I was really wanting this to be a this year game, but now I may end up getting Star Trek Online just to give me something to play for the next year, but I was more ****ed because I wanted it to come out just before Cataclysm and take some of those WOW people away, but honestly Spring 11 seems like a good choice too because that will give those wow people 3-6 months to play Cataclysm and get bored, then come on over.

[pwnz0r3d]

So... I got this in an email this morning.

If it's the case, the release of the new Warcraft expansion this year might have something to do with it also. As with the earlier expansions from Blizzard, we'll probably see a massive amount of people reactivating their accounts on release. Even if SWTOR may be the first real contender to the behemoth that is WoW, it would be safe to let the storm calm down a little after Cataclysm.

[Osiris]

I was pretty ticked off when I heard the rumour and then the confirmation the following day but as long as the time is used to get the game right and even more refined, great I guess (like I have a choice). Maybe this will give them time to develop more of the MMO aspects of it...from everything we've seen so far looks like a pretty good SP game.

[deletedxyz]

O_O I just found out that the release date is in 2011!

[Raktael]

I for one, am not ticked off, and I will tell you why, I am disappointed but at the same time I think this is great news. Cataclysm is going to suck big balls anyway so I don't give a second thought to it or WoW, and STO is going to take up my time in between along with several other games. What this does mean however is they have another 4 months to clean it up and stick some big fat content in there and they aren't pressured like a certain IP is pressuring for the release of an MMO next week which I think could do with several more months of work, no matter how much I want to play it and love it, lol.

So I understand why some of you are annoyed but look at the positives of it too, it means more development time and you're not getting a rushed out game. I've also heard they are testing in waves, and it will be different testers per wave so they can get a much broader tester influx going, but whether this is actually true, I cannot confirm nor deny at this point.

[Osiris]

I still dont get how this is an mmo but it all sounds good:

http://games.on.net/article/9390/BioWare_The_Old_Republics_single_player_campaign_is_our_biggest_yet