Star Wars: The Old Republic

{{short description|2011 video game}} {{distinguish|Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic{{!}}''Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic''}} {{about|the Star Wars MMORPG|the fictional polity|Old Republic (Star Wars)|the comic book|Star Wars: The Old Republic (comics){{!}}''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' (comics)|the novel series|Star Wars: The Old Republic (novel series){{!}}''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' (novel series)}} {{Use mdy dates|date=January 2016}} {{Infobox video game | title = Star Wars: The Old Republic | image = Star Wars- The Old Republic cover.jpg | developer = BioWare (2011–2023) Broadsword Online Games (2023–present) | publisher = Electronic Arts | director = James Ohlen | producer = Dallas Dickinson | designer = Damien Schubert<br/>Georg Zoeller | programmer = Thomas Boyd<br/>Ken Shuck | artist = Jeff Dobson | writer =Drew Karpyshyn<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2015-09-21-decorated-writer-drew-karpyshyn-returns-to-bioware|title=Decorated writer Drew Karpyshyn returns to BioWare|date=September 21, 2015|website=eurogamer.net|access-date=January 18, 2017|archive-date=May 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501230108/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2015-09-21-decorated-writer-drew-karpyshyn-returns-to-bioware|url-status=live}}</ref><br/>Daniel Erickson | composer = Mark Griskey<br/>Gordy Haab | series = ''Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic'' | engine = HeroEngine<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/937/937190p1.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081214025329/http://pc.ign.com/articles/937/937190p1.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 14, 2008|title=BioWare Using Simutronics' HeroEngine for Star Wars: The Old Republic|date=December 10, 2008|work=IGN|first=Jimmy|last=Thang|access-date=December 10, 2008}}</ref> | platforms = {{unbulleted list|Microsoft Windows|macOS<ref>{{Cite web |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic {{!}} News, Updates, Developer Blogs |url=https://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20240924 |access-date=2024-12-20 |website=www.swtor.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-12-17 |title=Welcome to the Mac Launcher Open Beta Test! |url=https://forums.swtor.com/topic/938305-welcome-to-the-mac-launcher-open-beta-test/ |access-date=2024-12-20 |website=SWTOR {{!}} Forums |language=en-US}}</ref>}} | released = {{vgrelease|NA/EU|December 20, 2011|AUS|March 1, 2012}} | genre = Massively multiplayer online role-playing game | modes = Multiplayer }}

'''''Star Wars: The Old Republic''''' is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) based in the ''Star Wars'' fictional universe.<ref name="Official">{{cite press release |url=http://www.swtor.com/news/article/press-release-001 |title=LucasArts and Bioware Reveal Star Wars: The Old Republic |access-date=October 22, 2008 |date=October 21, 2008 |publisher=LucasArts and BioWare |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081023122250/http://www.swtor.com/news/article/press-release-001 |archive-date=October 23, 2008 |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200810/N08.1021.1638.00291.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090609091718/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200810/N08.1021.1638.00291.htm |archive-date=June 9, 2009 |title=BioWare, Lucasarts Unveil Star Wars: The Old Republic |access-date=November 13, 2011 |date=October 21, 2008 |url-status=dead |magazine=Game Informer}}</ref> Developed by BioWare Austin and a supplemental team at BioWare Edmonton, the game was announced on October 21, 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3170784 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120527015304/http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3170784 |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 27, 2012 |title=Star Wars KOTOR MMO Announcement Liveblog |work=1UP.com |access-date=October 21, 2008 |date=October 21, 2008 |first=Thierry |last=Nguyen}}</ref> The video game was released for the Microsoft Windows platform on December 20, 2011 in North America and part of Europe.<ref name="release20dec">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20110924|title=Launch Date for Star Wars: The Old Republic Announced|publisher=Electronic Arts|date=September 24, 2011|access-date=October 16, 2011|archive-date=September 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915105655/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20110924|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/video-games/8788713/Star-Wars-The-Old-Republic-announced-at-Eurogamer-Expo.html|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic announced at Eurogamer Expo|date=September 26, 2011|work=Daily Telegraph|access-date=September 27, 2011|location=London|first=Ben|last=Infield|archive-date=September 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927002421/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/video-games/8788713/Star-Wars-The-Old-Republic-announced-at-Eurogamer-Expo.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="swtor1">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111014-1|title=Global Launch for The Old Republic|publisher=BioWare|date=October 14, 2011|access-date=October 14, 2011|archive-date=March 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326144101/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111014-1|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="swtor2">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/news/press-release/20111213|title=Star Wars The Old Republic Approaches Hyperspace Launch|publisher=BioWare|date=December 7, 2011|access-date=December 14, 2011|archive-date=March 28, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328114934/http://www.swtor.com/news/press-release/20111213|url-status=live}}</ref> It was released in Oceania and Asia on March 1, 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-02-13 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Lands in Australia and New Zealand |url=https://www.ea.com/en-au/news/swtor-lands-in-anz |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230222171556/https://www.ea.com/en-au/news/swtor-lands-in-anz |archive-date=February 22, 2023 |access-date=2022-01-28 |website=Electronic Arts Inc. |language=en}}</ref>

This story takes place in the ''Star Wars'' universe shortly after the establishment of a tenuous peace between the re-emergent Sith Empire and the Galactic Republic. The game features eight different classes. Each of the eight classes has a three act storyline that progresses as the character levels up. Players join either the Republic or the Sith Empire, but players may possess a morality at any point along the light/dark spectrum. Different classes favor different styles of gameplay, and the game features extensive customization options, fully voiced dialogue, companion characters, and dialogue options similar to BioWare's other role-playing games.

Although not officially disclosed, based on estimates, it is one of the most developmentally expensive games ever made. The game had one million subscribers within three days of its launch, making it the world's "fastest-growing MMO ever"; however, in the following months the game lost a fair share of its subscriptions, but has remained profitable.<ref name=shortref1>{{cite web |url=http://investor.ea.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=635238 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Jumps to Light Speed (NASDAQ:EA) |publisher=Investor.ea.com |date=December 23, 2011 |access-date=April 11, 2012 |archive-date=August 30, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180830041409/http://investor.ea.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=635238 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=shortref2>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/12/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-sales-record_n_1171028.html|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Is 'Fastest-Growing MMO Ever' With 1m Users|publisher=Huffington Post|first=Michael|last=Rundle|date=December 27, 2011|access-date=January 30, 2012|archive-date=February 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213183431/http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2011/12/27/star-wars-the-old-republic-sales-record_n_1171028.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=shortref3>{{cite web |last=Ray |first=Alexa |url=http://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/7/31/3207521/star-wars-the-old-republic-subscribers-fall-to-under-one-million |title='Star Wars: The Old Republic' subscribers fall to under one million |publisher=Polygon |date=July 31, 2012 |access-date=December 11, 2012 |archive-date=March 22, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130322050606/http://www.polygon.com/gaming/2012/7/31/3207521/star-wars-the-old-republic-subscribers-fall-to-under-one-million |url-status=live }}</ref> The game has since adopted the hybrid free-to-play business model with remaining subscription option.<ref name="Yahoo! Finance">{{cite web|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ea-expands-award-winning-mmo-190900648.html|title=EA Expands Award-Winning MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic with Free-to-Play Option This Fall|publisher=Yahoo! Finance|date=July 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808054507/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ea-expands-award-winning-mmo-190900648.html|archive-date=August 8, 2012}}</ref> The game was met with positive reception upon release and has received several updates and expansion packs. Several books and comics based on the game have been released. It is estimated that the game made $139 million in additional revenues on top of the subscription income in 2013. In an earnings call to investors in October 2019, Electronic Arts announced that ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' was closing in on a billion dollars in lifetime revenue, making it a financial success based on the reported $200 million development budget.<ref>{{cite web |last=Makuch |first=Eddie |title=Huge MMO Star Wars: The Old Republic Has Made Close to $1 Billion In Revenue |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/huge-mmo-star-wars-the-old-republic-has-made-close/1100-6471011/ |website=GameSpot |access-date=6 January 2020 |archive-date=December 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191228002831/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/huge-mmo-star-wars-the-old-republic-has-made-close/1100-6471011/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Plot== This story takes place in the ''Star Wars'' fictional universe shortly after the establishment of a tenuous peace between the re-emergent Sith Empire and the Galactic Republic,<ref name="gamespotvideo"/> 300 years after the events of the ''Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic'' games, and more than 3,600<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeboxMqdXdE | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211107/KeboxMqdXdE| archive-date=2021-11-07 | url-status=live|title=Star Wars The Old Republic: Galactic Timeline Records 1-12 |publisher=YouTube |date=2011-08-06 |access-date=2016-12-19}}{{cbignore}}</ref> years before the events in the ''Star Wars'' films.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/info/story/setting |title=The Setting&nbsp;— FAQ |quote=Star Wars: The Old Republic takes place more than 3,500-3,600 years before the rise of Darth Vader. |publisher=LucasArts and BioWare |access-date=October 21, 2008 |archive-date=February 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214005130/http://www.swtor.com/info/story/setting |url-status=live }}</ref>

The Jedi are held responsible for the success of the Sith during the devastating 28-year-long Great Galactic War (which led to the Treaty of Coruscant prior to the "cold war"), and thus choose to relocate from Coruscant to Tython, where the Jedi Order had initially been founded, to seek guidance from the Force.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/info/story/tython |publisher=LucasArts and BioWare |work=Star Wars: The Old Republic |title=Tython |access-date=December 16, 2008 |archive-date=May 18, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090518201849/http://www.swtor.com/info/story/tython |url-status=live }}</ref> The Sith control Korriban, where they have re-established a Sith Academy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/info/story/korriban |publisher=Lucasfilm Games and BioWare |work=Star Wars: The Old Republic |title=Korriban |access-date=December 16, 2008 |archive-date=May 4, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090504063844/http://www.swtor.com/info/story/korriban |url-status=live }}</ref> The game's "Return" cinematic trailer depicts the events where Korriban is re-conquered by the Sith.

During these events, a smuggler named Nico Okarr is led to his prison cell in a jail orbiting Korriban by a Jedi, Satele Shan, and her master, Kao Cen Darach. Suddenly, a Sith named Darth Malgus, and his master Vindican, along with several Sith troops, attack the base. Satele, a trooper named Jace Malcom, and Okarr escape the attack, but Darach is cut down by Malgus. Malgus then kills Vindican, who was wounded by Darach.

Ten years later, new conflicts have arisen.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> In the "Hope" cinematic trailer, Satele and some troops destroy a Sith party that includes Malgus. Malcom, who has become the troop's commander, states that, despite the losses, there is still hope amongst even "a single spark of courage". Later in the "Deceived" cinematic trailer, however, Malgus, having appeared to survive the earlier attack albeit with a mask covering his nose and mouth, leads an army of Sith into the Jedi Temple on Coruscant, killing many Jedi including the Jedi Master Ven Zallow.

Master Satele Shan is named the new Jedi Grand Master. The game itself is set in the cold-war soon after these events, with the Jedi Order and Galactic Republic struggling to maintain their control of the core worlds while the Sith plot their downfall and the expansion of the Sith Empire. The conflict opens on many fronts and across many planets, while native factions are engaged in political struggles or civil war.

BioWare stated, prior to release, that the game would have a significant focus on the storyline. Each of the eight classes has a three act storyline that progresses as the character levels up. A collaborative effort between BioWare, Lucasfilm Games, EA, and Dark Horse Comics has resulted in webcomics entitled ''Star Wars: The Old Republic&nbsp;&ndash; Threat of Peace'' and ''Star Wars: The Old Republic&nbsp;&ndash; Blood of the Empire'', the purpose of which is to establish the backstory as the game opens and closes.

==Gameplay== Players join as members of either of the two main factions&nbsp;– the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire. Although each faction is led by a benevolent or malevolent leader, it is emphasized that an individual member may possess a morality at any point along the light/dark spectrum. The project's key focus is to differentiate between the player's faction and morality.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> For instance, a member with ties to the Sith Empire following the lightside while attempting to achieve their own ends, which may be misaligned or different from a sith's vision.

Player advancement occurs by a combination of mission completion, exploration, and defeating enemies. New skills are now learned automatically. Heroic missions exist that require the cooperation of multiple players to complete objectives, and can be repeated normally on a daily basis.

While each class in ''The Old Republic'' favors a certain play style (ranged/melee damage, healing or support skills, or tanking), customization combined with companion characters allow for a class to be able to tackle many different situations, with or without the support of other player characters, and without requiring specific other classes in order to move forward.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://darthhater.com/2009/12/03/jake-neri-interview-part-two/ |title=Jake Neri Interview, Part 2 |access-date=December 29, 2009 |publisher=Darth Hater |archive-date=January 27, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100127132625/http://darthhater.com/2009/12/03/jake-neri-interview-part-two/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

thumb|A view of the conversation wheel with a Darkside response highlighted

Players' choices permanently open or close storylines and affect players' non-player character (NPC) companions.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> It is intended that the game should provide more context for characters' missions than any previous MMORPG. Every character in the game, including the player character, features full voice dialog to enhance gameplay, and interactions feature a dialogue system similar to that used in the ''Mass Effect'' series.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> Players are able to choose from a variety of NPCs, although spending time with a single companion will help more in developing story and content than dividing time among several,<ref name="ignpreviewpg3">{{cite web |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/922/922115p3.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081024141925/http://pc.ign.com/articles/922/922115p3.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 24, 2008 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Preview |work=IGN |access-date=October 22, 2008 |first=Steve |last=Butts |date=October 21, 2008 |page=3}}</ref> and may even develop a love interest.<ref name=loveinterest>{{cite web| url=http://www.incgamers.com/News/17883/swtor-character-romance-possible?gr_i_ni| title=SW:TOR Character Romance Possible| access-date=August 10, 2009| first=Bill| last=Vaughan| date=August 10, 2009| page=1| archive-date=October 6, 2011| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006071955/http://www.incgamers.com/News/17883/swtor-character-romance-possible?gr_i_ni| url-status=live}}</ref> It is possible for players to "blow it big time" if they fail to meet NPCs' expectations.<ref name="ignpreviewpg3"/> Players also have access to several planets,<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> including Korriban, Ord Mantell, Nal Hutta, Tython,<ref name=gametrailers1>{{cite web| url=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/48839.html| title=Developer Dispatch: Diverse Worlds| access-date=May 3, 2009| publisher=GameTrailers| archive-date=May 4, 2009| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090504053303/http://www.gametrailers.com/player/48839.html| url-status=live}}</ref> Coruscant, Balmorra, Alderaan, Tatooine, Dromund Kaas, Taris, Belsavis, Voss, Hoth, Corellia, Ilum, and Quesh, and the moon Nar Shaddaa. The planet Makeb was added in Patch 2.0, along with the ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' expansion pack.<ref name="dhe3">{{cite web|url=http://www.darthhater.com/articles/swtor-news/20583-bioware-unveils-new-content|title=BioWare Unveils New Content|publisher=darthhater.com|date=June 5, 2012|access-date=June 5, 2012|archive-date=June 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120608034858/http://www.darthhater.com/articles/swtor-news/20583-bioware-unveils-new-content|url-status=live}}</ref>

Every player receives their own starship, which was announced at Electronic Entertainment Expo 2010.<ref name="Starship">{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20100618_002 |title=The Old Republic @ E3 2010 |access-date=November 12, 2011 |publisher=BioWare |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101025050/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20100618_002 |archive-date=November 1, 2011 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Footage of space combat was released at Gamescom. The short clip provided by BioWare revealed that space combat would be a "tunnel shooter".<ref name="Space Combat in Star Wars: The Old Republic">{{cite web |url=http://www.toruniverse.com/2010/08/18/space-combat-in-star-wars-the-old-republic/ |archive-url=https://archive.today/20100822160453/http://www.toruniverse.com/2010/08/18/space-combat-in-star-wars-the-old-republic/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=August 22, 2010 |title=Space Combat in Star Wars: The Old Republic |publisher=Toruniverse.com |access-date=April 11, 2012 }}</ref> A tunnel shooter, otherwise known as a scrolling shooter or rail shooter, is a flying game where the player is on a predetermined track. Game play includes moving right and left on the X axis and up and down on the Y axis; however, players do not have control of the speed of their space craft. Jake Neri, LucasArts Producer, told PC Gamer in their October 2010 issue that their goal was to "capture the most cinematic moments that we can create. We want players to get in and feel like they're in the movies. It's about highly cinematic, controlled combat moments ... very heroic, action-packed, exciting, visceral and dangerous encounters that'll make you pee your pants." With the December 2013 release of the free expansion, Galactic Starfighter (GSF), players now have a free flight PVP space combat experience, with multiple ships and roles independent of other aspects of the game.

Like many other MMORPGs, the game features dungeons and raids in the form of Flashpoints and Operations respectively.

===Species=== A range of playable species are available for the player to choose from, some limited to their factions. Both sides can play Human, Cyborg (human-based), Twi'lek or Zabrak (whose appearances are initially different depending on which side the character is from). The Republic-only races are the Miraluka and Mirialan, while the Empire-only races are the Chiss, Rattataki and Sith Pureblood. Humans, Cyborgs and Zabrak can pick any class available, while the other species are restricted to limited choices of classes by default.

More playable species are said to be available in the future through major updates and the Legacy system with the ability to use other classes' abilities through this system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/blog/community-qa-feb-10th-2012|title=Community Q&A: Feb 10th 2012|publisher=BioWare|date=February 10, 2012|access-date=February 11, 2012|archive-date=February 14, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120214035619/http://www.swtor.com/blog/community-qa-feb-10th-2012|url-status=live}}</ref> The Cathar were added to the game during Patch 2.1, and is available to all players who unlock the species through the Cartel Market.<ref name="dhe3"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/blog/community-qa-april-27th-2012|title=Community Q&A: April 27th, 2012|publisher=BioWare|date=April 27, 2012|access-date=April 28, 2012|archive-date=April 30, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430045541/http://www.swtor.com/blog/community-qa-april-27th-2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/info/news/news-article/20130426|title=Cathar Preview Video|publisher=BioWare|date=April 26, 2013|access-date=April 30, 2013|archive-date=May 5, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130505155403/http://www.swtor.com/info/news/news-article/20130426|url-status=live}}</ref> The Togruta race was announced in January 2015 as a new playable race and released in the same year with patch 3.3. The Nautolan species was then added with the Onslaught expansion in late 2019.

The release of the expanded "Legacy" system in April 2012 allows for species to be able to play all classes (both Empire and Republic) by unlocking that species with an infusion of in-game money or by levelling a character of that race to level 50. Under this system, for example, a player may choose Chiss, which by default can only choose the non-Sith classes on the Empire side, as a new Sith character. Likewise, a Sith Pureblood, which by default can only choose the Force-powered classes, could choose to be a non-Force class. Along the same vein, both species, which are restricted to the Empire, could even choose the option of fighting for the Republic, including training as a Jedi. By the same method, unlocking the Zabrak species allows users to play both appearances regardless from which side the character is from.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/info/legacy|title=Legacy|publisher=BioWare|date=April 12, 2012|access-date=May 31, 2012|archive-date=May 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120531063212/http://www.swtor.com/info/legacy|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Classes=== Each faction contains different classes, each with a distinct backstory and a branching storyline affected by players' moral choices.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> Classes are exclusive to one faction or the other. However, the classes of one faction mirror the classes of the other (for example, Jedi Knight and Sith Warrior).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://swtor.com/news/bwblog/20090403_001 |title=Developer Blog: Creating the Bounty Hunter |access-date=April 3, 2009 |publisher=BioWare |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090406105213/http://www.swtor.com/news/bwblog/20090403_001 |archive-date=April 6, 2009 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Eight classes exist: the ''Jedi Knight'', ''Jedi Consular'', ''Trooper'', and ''Smuggler'' for the Galactic Republic; and the ''Sith Warrior'', ''Sith Inquisitor'', ''Bounty Hunter'', and ''Imperial Agent'' for the Sith Empire. Although each class has a distinct storyline, they are integrated with the game's overall arc.<ref name="ignpreviewpg2"/>

Each class may also choose from two advanced classes, resulting in a total of 8 advanced classes per faction. Advanced classes share the same storyline as their base class. Lightsaber and blaster colors are not faction or class restricted, but some are restricted based on level and/or Lightside or Darkside alignment. For example, some lightsabers can only be bought if Light or Darkside aligned.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://www.betacake.net/2011/11/25/star-wars-the-old-republic-24112011-patch-notes/|title=Star Wars : The Old Republic : 24/11/2011 Patch Notes|access-date=November 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111128001126/http://www.betacake.net/2011/11/25/star-wars-the-old-republic-24112011-patch-notes/|archive-date=November 28, 2011|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

As of the Legacy of the Sith expansion, players are now allowed to separate their Class Story from their Advanced Classes, which are now called "Combat Styles". Players can now select any force-based combat style when playing force-based class stories, or any tech-based combat style when playing tech-based class stories.

===Ships=== thumb|A view of the ship inventory tab while inside the cockpit of the D-5 Mantis

Each class has their own starship, which serves as the player's base of operations. Bounty Hunters have the D5-Mantis patrol craft. Sith Warriors and Sith Inquistors have the Fury. Imperial Agents have the X-70B Phantom. Smugglers have the XS Freighter. Troopers have the BT-7 Thunderclap. Jedi Knights and Jedi Consulars have the Defender. Certain pieces of these ships can be upgraded, allowing them to perform better in space combat missions.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://uk.ign.com/wikis/star-wars-the-old-republic/Ship_Upgrades |title=Ship Upgrades - SWTOR Wiki Guide - IGN |publisher=Uk.ign.com |date=December 20, 2011 |access-date=February 9, 2012 |archive-date=January 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120110200546/http://uk.ign.com/wikis/star-wars-the-old-republic/Ship_Upgrades |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Companions=== The game features a passive form of crafting, known as Crew Skills, in which a player's companions carry out gathering and crafting tasks asynchronously to the player's adventures out in the world. Each class gets five companions via their storyline. The player can assign up to five companions to perform up to 3 various skills. Crafting skills allow the player's companions to create items, and the player can reverse engineer many items to possibly learn to make a better version. The item is destroyed in the process, but the player gets some of the materials back. Gathering skills allow the player or their companions to gather resources out in the world. Mission skills allow the player's companions to perform acts on the player's behalf, gaining the player Light or Dark Side influence and other rewards, such as medical items or companion gifts.<ref name="dhwintershowcase">{{cite web |url=http://darthhater.com/2010/11/05/swtor-pvp-warzones-crafting-revealed/page/2/ |title=Details on SWTOR Warzones and Crafting Revealed - Crafting |publisher=Darth Hater |access-date=December 28, 2010 |archive-date=November 8, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101108112522/http://darthhater.com/2010/11/05/swtor-pvp-warzones-crafting-revealed/page/2 |url-status=live }}</ref>

During E3 2011, a video was shown with gameplay footage of the Bounty Hunter, along with a Jawa companion named Blizz. The developers stated during the chat that only the Bounty Hunter would be able to get Blizz and that other classes would have unique companions as well, including some companions that are force users. It was also shown that companions would have a similar character screen as the players and can have gear just like a player character.

BioWare announced same-sex romance options with companions or other NPCs before release.<ref name="samesex">{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor-life.com/game-mechanics/same-gender-romance-options-to-be-included-in-swtor-post-launch/3691/ |title=Same-sex romance options will be added post-launch |date=September 13, 2011 |publisher=SWTOR-Life |access-date=September 13, 2011 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308063752/http://www.swtor-life.com/game-mechanics/same-gender-romance-options-to-be-included-in-swtor-post-launch/3691/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The options were implemented for some non-companions in ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'', and expanded with ''Shadow of Revan''. Options for some new companions were implemented in ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'', and expanded for some new and original companions with ''Knights of the Eternal Empire'' up to marriage.

During patch 1.5, HK-51 was added for all classes on both Empire and Republic factions. He was the first companion added to every classes, and can be obtained through a questline. He is an assassin droid based on the popular HK-47 from the original ''Knights of the Old Republic'' series.

A female Ewok companion, Treek, was implemented in patch 2.3 and is available to all classes. This companion requires either a purchase from the Cartel Market or a 1 million credit fee along with a Legacy Level of 40.

Lana Beniko, a soft-spoken Sith Lord known as "The Dark Advisor" who is seemingly serene and thoughtful in temperament, is a notable companion who first appears as part of Update 2.7 in April 2014 for ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' alongside the addition of Theron Shan.<ref name="Beniko">{{cite web |last=Cross |first=Katherine |date=January 9, 2017 |title=Opinion: Lana Beniko, The Old Republic's best Immoral Woman |url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/288825/Opinion_Lana_Beniko_The_Old_Republics_best_Immoral_Woman.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201129122806/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/288825/Opinion_Lana_Beniko_The_Old_Republics_best_Immoral_Woman.php |archive-date=November 29, 2020 |access-date=November 21, 2020 |publisher=Gamasutra}}</ref><ref name="Update">{{cite web |last=Farokhmanesh |first=Megan |date=April 8, 2014 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic update introduces new warzone, 'major' characters |url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/4/8/5594286/star-wars-the-old-republic-update-introduces-new-warzone-major |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027131848/https://www.polygon.com/2014/4/8/5594286/star-wars-the-old-republic-update-introduces-new-warzone-major |archive-date=October 27, 2021 |access-date=November 21, 2020 |publisher=Polygon}}</ref> Her role in the overarching narrative of ''The Old Republic'' is expanded in subsequent expansion packs, starting with ''Shadow of Revan''.<ref name="Press">{{cite web|url=https://ir.ea.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2014/The-Saga-Continues-in-Stars-Wars-the-Old-Republic-with-Shadow-of-Revan-an-All-New-Digital-Expansion/default.aspx|title=The Saga Continues in Stars Wars: the Old Republic with Shadow of Revan, an All-New Digital Expansion|work=Electronic Arts|date=October 6, 2014|access-date=November 21, 2020|archive-date=May 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220522140618/https://ir.ea.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2014/The-Saga-Continues-in-Stars-Wars-the-Old-Republic-with-Shadow-of-Revan-an-All-New-Digital-Expansion/default.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref>

====Vette==== {{vanchor|Vette}} is a Twi'lek starting companion for the Sith Warrior, and is voiced by Catherine Taber. A 2012 fan poll by ''IGN'' placed Vette as the fourth favourite companion.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2012/04/11/top-10-swtor-companions |title=Top 10 SWTOR Companions |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=April 11, 2012 |publisher=IGN |access-date=March 23, 2016}}</ref> According to BioWare, Vette along with Lana Beniko were the most recruited companions as of July 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Matt Porter |date=July 19, 2016 |title=Next Star Wars: The Old Republic Expansion Revealed |url=https://sea.ign.com/star-wars-the-old-republic/106452/news/next-star-wars-the-old-republic-expansion-revealed |access-date=October 1, 2020 |publisher=IGN}}</ref> Larry Everett from ''Massively Overpowered'' claimed that Vette is "almost universally liked" by players, singling out her quirky personality, sense of adventure, and the quality of Taber's performance for praise. He also suggested that Vette's popularity may be connected to nostalgia, as Taber's earlier character from ''Knights of the Old Republic'' Mission Vao was another fan favorite.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://massivelyop.com/2016/04/20/hyperspace-beacon-why-swtor-gamers-are-so-stoked-for-the-return-of-vette/|title=Hyperspace Beacon: Why SWTOR gamers are so stoked for the return of Vette|author=Larry Everett|date=April 20, 2016|publisher=Massively Overpowered|access-date=October 1, 2020|archive-date=April 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421090116/https://massivelyop.com/2016/04/20/hyperspace-beacon-why-swtor-gamers-are-so-stoked-for-the-return-of-vette/|url-status=live}}</ref> The dynamic nature of Vette's character arc is cited by Robin Burks of ''Tech Times'' as a demonstration that romance subplots are not mere distractions from the overarching story, but are integrated into the main narrative and help shape who and what the player character becomes by the end of the game.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.techtimes.com/articles/131110/20160212/how-bioware-elevated-the-video-game-romance.htm|title=How BioWare Elevated The Video Game Romance|author=Robin Burks|date=February 12, 2016|publisher=Tech Times|access-date=October 1, 2020|archive-date=August 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190813124021/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/131110/20160212/how-bioware-elevated-the-video-game-romance.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> Rolando Gutierrez from ''Gamers Decide'' assessed Vette to be overall the best companion and romance option for the Sith Warrior based on multiple criteria, including her personality, gameplay utility, and the quality of her romance subplot.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/swtor-best-romance |title=SWTOR Best Romance for Each Class |author=Rolando Gutierrez |date=December 6, 2019 |publisher=Gamers Decide |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=March 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210308194247/https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/swtor-best-romance |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/swtor-best-companions|title=SWTOR Best Companions for Every Class|author=Rolando Gutierrez|date=December 6, 2019|publisher=Gamers Decide|access-date=October 1, 2020|archive-date=May 22, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220522020130/https://www.gamersdecide.com/articles/swtor-best-companions|url-status=live}}</ref> ''GameZone's'' Andrew Clouther used Vette as an example of how a dark side oriented character arc not only "tempts you with evil, but tests your ability to DO evil", and praised the game for its ability to affect players and challenge their consciences.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamezone.com/originals/star-wars-the-old-republic-challenging-consciences |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic challenging consciences |last=Clouther |first=Andrew |date=January 5, 2012 |publisher=GameZone |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304082109/http://www.gamezone.com/originals/star-wars-the-old-republic-challenging-consciences |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Kotaku's'' Phil Owen drew attention to one scene where the player may have sex with a woman and forbid Vette to leave. While this act is "messed up", allowing players to act evil is a big reason why he holds the game in high regard.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/6-pretty-messed-up-things-you-can-do-in-star-wars-the-1451367687 |title=6 Pretty Messed Up Things You Can Do In ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' |last=Owen |first=Phil |date=October 24, 2013 |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=March 24, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324160621/http://kotaku.com/6-pretty-messed-up-things-you-can-do-in-star-wars-the-1451367687 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''The Mary Sue'' contributor Becky Chambers felt that in theory Vette's character concept was fine, and that within a gender equitable ''Star Wars'' universe created by BioWare her gender could be "entirely incidental". However, Chambers was unconvinced that very few players could play without involving their "personal context" and considered it a problem in the context of the wider gaming community. She expressed discomfort about all available options in dealing with Vette, and criticized BioWare for inadvertently encouraging misogynistic behaviour.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.themarysue.com/so-maybe-including-a-shock-collar-wearing-female-slave-in-the-old-republic-wasnt-the-best-idea/ |title=So Maybe Including A Shock-Collar-Wearing Female Slave In ''The Old Republic'' Wasn't The Best Idea? |last=Chambers |first=Becky |date=January 6, 2012 |publisher=The Mary Sue |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=August 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160816074658/http://www.themarysue.com/so-maybe-including-a-shock-collar-wearing-female-slave-in-the-old-republic-wasnt-the-best-idea/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Writing for ''Kotaku'', Mike Fahey, after playing the game, recalled players boasting of their torturing of Vette and her low affection rating for them.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/its-not-star-wars-without-slavery-torture-and-forced-5872687 |title=It's Not ''Star Wars ''Without Slavery, Torture, and Forced Voyeurism? |last=Fahey |first=Mike |date=January 3, 2012 |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=April 9, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160409082255/http://kotaku.com/5872687/its-not-star-wars-without-slavery-torture-and-forced-voyeurism |url-status=live }}</ref> The ''Daily Mail'' cited Fahey's article as a source and published a story the following day alleging that the option to treat Vette decently was not popular or encouraged; the paper was criticized for its lack of evidence for its statements and its selective information. ''MCV'' writer Ben Parfitt and James Stephanie Sterling from ''Destructoid'' both criticized the ''Daily Mail'' for the lack of evidence behind its sensationalist assertions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/daily-mail-exposes-old-republic-female-slave-torture-scandal/089379 |title=Daily Mail exposes Old Republic female slave torture scandal! |last=Parfitt |first=Ben |date=January 5, 2012 |website=MCV |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=May 7, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120507122653/http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/daily-mail-exposes-old-republic-female-slave-torture-scandal/089379 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Destructoid">{{cite web |url=https://www.destructoid.com/daily-mail-swtor-players-are-torturing-abusing-slaves-219099.phtml |title=Daily Mail: SWTOR players are torturing & abusing slaves |last=Sterling |first=Jim |date=January 5, 2012 |website=Destructoid |access-date=October 1, 2020 |archive-date=October 8, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151008163750/http://www.destructoid.com/daily-mail-swtor-players-are-torturing-abusing-slaves-219099.phtml |url-status=live }}</ref> Andy Robinson of ''Computer and Video Games'' echoed the criticism of their lack of evidence, as well as noting their omission that female player characters are equally able to shock Vette and a hypocrisy displayed by the paper's other sexually oriented articles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/331256/daily-mail-exposes-old-republics-sick-female-sex-slaves-also-danielle-linekers-sideboob-tattoo/ |title=Daily Mail exposes Old Republic's sick 'female sex slaves'. Also, Danielle Lineker's sideboob tattoo! |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=January 5, 2012 |website=Computer and Video Games |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141229071423/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/331256/daily-mail-exposes-old-republics-sick-female-sex-slaves-also-danielle-linekers-sideboob-tattoo/ |archive-date=December 29, 2014}}</ref> ''Religion Dispatches'' published a case study in response to the controversy, which analyses their findings from a survey of 369 players which asked how they chose to interact with Vette through roleplaying their player characters.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://religiondispatches.org/a-star-wars-videogame-invites-players-to-the-dark-side/ |title=A Moral Galaxy: War and Suffering in 'Star Wars: The Old Republic' |last1=Geraci |first1=Robert |last2=Recine |first2=Nat |date=December 15, 2015 |publisher=Religion Dispatches |access-date=March 23, 2016 |archive-date=April 16, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416115353/http://religiondispatches.org/a-star-wars-videogame-invites-players-to-the-dark-side/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Development== ''The Old Republic'' is BioWare's first entry into the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) market,<ref name="gamespotvideo">{{cite video |date=October 21, 2008 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Revealed |url=http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/starwarstheoldrepublic/video/6199708/star-wars-the-old-republic-revealed?hd=1&tag=topslot;watchlink;1 |medium=Trailer |publisher=GameSpot |access-date=October 21, 2008 |archive-date=December 19, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081219214351/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/starwarstheoldrepublic/video/6199708/star-wars-the-old-republic-revealed?hd=1&tag=topslot;watchlink;1 |url-status=live }}</ref> and is the second ''Star Wars'' MMORPG after ''Star Wars Galaxies'', which was shut down in December 2011,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/06/25/star-wars-galaxies-shutting-down-in-december.aspx|title=Star Wars Galaxies Shutting Down In December|publisher=Game Informer|first=Phil|last=Kollar|date=June 25, 2011|access-date=January 31, 2012|archive-date=January 16, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120116010812/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/06/25/star-wars-galaxies-shutting-down-in-december.aspx|url-status=live}}</ref> the same month SWTOR was released and ''Clone Wars Adventures'', which was shut down in March 2014. The development saw the entirety of BioWare Austin working on the game.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/austin/print-edition/2011/12/09/6-years-100m-1-star-wars-game.html |title=6 years + $100M = 1 Star Wars game |first=Christopher |last=Canlan |date=December 9, 2011 |website=The Business Journals |access-date=October 20, 2018 |archive-date=January 16, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120116233414/http://www.bizjournals.com/austin/print-edition/2011/12/09/6-years-100m-1-star-wars-game.html |url-status=live }}</ref> BioWare had long been interested in working on a MMORPG, but waited until they had "the right partners, the right team, and the right I.P."<ref name="gamespotarticle1">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/starwarstheoldrepublic/news.html?sid=6199726&mode=news |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic revealed |work=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive |location=San Francisco |access-date=October 22, 2008 |date=October 21, 2008 |first=Tor |last=Thorsen |archive-date=December 20, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220031903/http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/starwarstheoldrepublic/news.html?sid=6199726&mode=news |url-status=live }}</ref> A major focus in the game is on developing characters' individual stories<ref name="gamespotvideo"/> and, in October 2008, BioWare considered this game to have more story content than all of their other games combined.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> The writing team worked on the project longer than any of the game's other development teams.<ref name="ignpreviewpg2">{{cite web |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/922/922115p2.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081024141920/http://pc.ign.com/articles/922/922115p2.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 24, 2008 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Preview |work=IGN |access-date=October 22, 2008 |first=Steve |last=Butts |date=October 21, 2008 |page=2}}</ref> An October 2008 preview noted some of the 12 full-time writers had been working on ''The Old Republic'' for more than two years at that point.<ref name="gamespotarticle1"/> Although BioWare has not disclosed development costs, industry leaders and financial analysts have estimated it to be between $150 million and $200 million or more, making it, at the time, the most expensive video game made,<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/arts/video-games/star-wars-the-old-republic-vs-world-of-warcraft-online.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 | work=The New York Times | first=Seth | last=Schiesel | title=Star Wars: The Old Republic vs. World of Warcraft Online | date=December 18, 2011 | access-date=February 28, 2017 | archive-date=December 27, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227165059/https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/arts/video-games/star-wars-the-old-republic-vs-world-of-warcraft-online.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1 | url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2012/01/star-wars-old-republic-cost.html | title=Star Wars: The Old Republic -- the costliest game of all time? | date=January 20, 2012 | access-date=January 23, 2012 | archive-date=January 23, 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120123050021/http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2012/01/star-wars-old-republic-cost.html | url-status=live }}</ref> though if marketing costs are included, it is eclipsed by ''Grand Theft Auto V'', with an estimated cost of $265 million.<ref name="Budget">{{cite web |url=http://metro.co.uk/2013/09/09/gta-5-is-biggest-budget-video-game-ever-at-265-million-3955201/ |title=GTA 5 is most expensive video game ever at $265 million |publisher=Metro.co.uk |date=September 9, 2013 |access-date=September 10, 2013 |archive-date=September 10, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130910040317/http://metro.co.uk/2013/09/09/gta-5-is-biggest-budget-video-game-ever-at-265-million-3955201/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The game had 1 million subscribers within three days of its launch, making it the world's "fastest-growing MMO ever".<ref name=shortref1/><ref name=shortref2/> However, in the following months the game lost a fair share of its subscriptions, but has remained profitable.<ref name=shortref3/> The game has since adopted the hybrid free-to-play business model with remaining subscription option.<ref name="Yahoo! Finance"/> It is estimated that the game made $139 million in additional revenues, in addition to the subscription income, in 2013.<ref name="swtorstrategies.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.swtorstrategies.com/2014/01/swtors-cartel-market-rakes-in-139-million-dollars-in-2013.html |title=SWTOR's Cartel Market Rakes in $139 Million Dollars in 2013 |publisher=swtorstrategies.com |date=January 20, 2014 |access-date=February 4, 2014 |archive-date=January 22, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140122142517/http://www.swtorstrategies.com/2014/01/swtors-cartel-market-rakes-in-139-million-dollars-in-2013.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

The game's first cinematic trailer, "Deceived", was shown at the Electronic Arts 2009 E3 Press Conference on June 1, 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/info/media/trailers/deceived-cinematic-trailer/ |title="Deceived" Cinematic Trailer Released! |access-date=June 4, 2009 |publisher=BioWare |archive-date=April 26, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426055042/http://www.swtor.com/info/media/trailers/deceived-cinematic-trailer |url-status=live }}</ref> A public live demo was shown for the first time at the Gamescom. On September 29, 2009, BioWare announced that they would be accepting applications for testers from the game community. Within minutes, the official website was down due to traffic, and BioWare announced shortly after that the site was being changed in order to accommodate the increase in visitors. A second cinematic trailer, "Hope", was released on June 14, 2010, that depicts another battle that happened before the game, the Battle of Alderaan. On June 6, a new trailer "Return" was released at E3 2011 depicting the initial Sith invasion force as it retakes its home world of Korriban. Game testing was officially announced to be underway on July 9, 2010, for testers from North American territories.

The Australasia release was delayed,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/07/why-cant-australians-pre-order-star-wars-the-old-republic/|title=Why Can't Australians Pre-Order Star Wars: The Old Republic? [UPDATE: Delay Confirmed]|publisher=Kotaku|first=Mark|last=Serrels|date=July 21, 2011|access-date=September 12, 2011|archive-date=February 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120226013647/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/07/why-cant-australians-pre-order-star-wars-the-old-republic/|url-status=dead}}</ref> to hold back digital and boxed copies to avoid any problems encountered during launch.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/ea-holding-back-supply-of-the-old-republic-for-a-smooth-launch/|title=EA Holding Back Supply Of The Old Republic For A Smooth Launch|publisher=Kotaku|first=Mark|last=Serrels|date=August 19, 2011|access-date=September 12, 2011|archive-date=December 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121208214852/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/ea-holding-back-supply-of-the-old-republic-for-a-smooth-launch/|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, BioWare revealed that the game would not be region or IP blocked, allowing players to purchase the game from other regions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/bioware-will-not-region-block-or-ip-block-australian-players-who-import-the-old-republic/|title=BioWare Will Not 'Region Block' Or 'IP Block' Australian Players Who Import The Old Republic|publisher=Kotaku|first=Mark|last=Serrels|date=August 9, 2011|access-date=September 12, 2011|archive-date=December 22, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111222191308/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/08/bioware-will-not-region-block-or-ip-block-australian-players-who-import-the-old-republic/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Additionally, BioWare allowed Australian and New Zealand players to take part in the beta stages of the game. BioWare community manager Allison Berryman said "Data from this test will be used to inform decisions about the launch of the game in Oceanic regions".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/bioware-now-testing-the-old-republic-with-australian-and-new-zealand-players/|title=Bioware Now Testing The Old Republic With Australian and New Zealand Players|publisher=Kotaku|first=Mark|last=Serrels|date=October 12, 2011|access-date=October 12, 2011|archive-date=December 17, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111217075817/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/bioware-now-testing-the-old-republic-with-australian-and-new-zealand-players|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On October 11, 2011, BioWare announced that ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' would be released globally on December 20, 2011.<ref name="swtor1"/> However, this 'global' launch only included North America and a part of Europe, as the launch date had delayed for the Asia and Oceanic regions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/star-wars-the-old-republics-new-global-release-does-not-include-australia/|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic's New 'Global' Release Date Does Not Include Australia|publisher=Kotaku|first=Mark|last=Serrels|date=October 17, 2011|access-date=October 17, 2011|archive-date=December 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111227030614/http://www.kotaku.com.au/2011/10/star-wars-the-old-republics-new-global-release-does-not-include-australia/|url-status=dead}}</ref> On December 21, 2011, BioWare announced that an Australian and New Zealand release date had been set for March 1, 2012.

Early access to the game was granted one week before release, on December 13, 2011, for those who had pre-ordered the game online; access opened in "waves" based on pre-order date.<ref name="swtor2"/>

On January 18, 2012, the first content patch (1.1) was released, adding a new Flashpoint and adding four bosses to an existing Operation. Patch (1.2) was released on April 12, 2012. The update included the new Legacy system, a new Flashpoint, Operation, a PVP Warzone, as well as improved character textures and advanced options such as user interface customization. Guild banks and player character pets were introduced. A Weekend Pass Free Trial was made available for new players but has since closed. Patch 1.3 was released in June 2012. The game update featured a New Group Finder, the ability to augment every item, adaptable social gear, and the ability to request character transfer between servers. Subsequent patches have introduced a 'Cartel Market' where players can purchase virtual currency to spend on cosmetic items in-game. These items include armour sets, lightsaber colour crystals, mounts, pets and character-perk unlocks.

In January 2012, ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the "Largest Entertainment Voice Over Project Ever", with over 200,000 lines of recorded dialogue.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2012/1/star-wars-the-old-republic-recognised-guinness-world-records-2012-gamers-edition/ |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Recognised Guinness World Records 2012 Gamer's Edition - 1 - 2012 - Latest news |publisher=Guinness World Records |date=January 1, 2012 |access-date=February 9, 2012 |archive-date=February 17, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120217175943/http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2012/1/star-wars-the-old-republic-recognised-guinness-world-records-2012-gamers-edition |url-status=live }}</ref> This feat is recorded in the Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition book. On April 26, 2012, BioWare announced that the game was available in the Middle East and remaining European countries who were excluded from the original launch.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/info/news/news-article/20120426|title=Expansion into New European and Middle Eastern Countries|publisher=BioWare|date=April 26, 2012|access-date=April 26, 2012|archive-date=April 27, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120427235432/http://www.swtor.com/info/news/news-article/20120426|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 21, 2020, the game became available on Steam.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2020/7/22/21334047/star-wars-the-old-republic-mmo-ea-origin-steam-free-to-play-subscription|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic is finally available on Steam|publisher=Polygon|first=Austen|last=Goslin|date=2020-07-21|access-date=2020-07-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200722181643/https://www.polygon.com/2020/7/22/21334047/star-wars-the-old-republic-mmo-ea-origin-steam-free-to-play-subscription|archive-date=2020-07-22}}</ref>

In June 2023, IGN reported that EA would be making a deal to move the ongoing development and operation of ''The Old Republic'' from BioWare to Broadsword Online Games, which maintains ''Ultima Online'' and ''Dark Age of Camelot'', to allow BioWare to focus on the ''Mass Effect'' and ''Dragon Age'' franchises.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Valentine |first=Rebekah |date=2023-06-06 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Going Third-Party as BioWare Focuses on Mass Effect and Dragon Age |work=IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/star-wars-the-old-republic-development-third-party-bioware |access-date=2023-06-08}}</ref>

===Subscription=== ''The Old Republic'' required a monthly subscription to play, following a month of play included with the initial purchase. Options are available to pay for one month, two month, three month, or six month blocks, with discounted rates for multiple month blocks.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/preorder/faq#q209655 |title=Preorder FAQs &#124; Star Wars: The Old Republic |publisher=Swtor.com |date=July 21, 2011 |access-date=December 7, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111209091933/http://www.swtor.com/preorder/faq#q209655 |archive-date=December 9, 2011 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> Payment is by credit card or time card. The free-to-play version integrates most of the primary features in the game, but has several restrictions, such as credit limits and reduced leveling speed.

After launch, the game's subscribers rose to 1.7 million by February 2012.<ref>{{cite web |last=Asazi |first=Master |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2012/02/01/old-republic-subscribers-hit-1-7m-sales-topple-2m.aspx |title=Old Republic Subscribers Hit 1.7M, Sales Topple 2M - News |publisher=Game Informer |date=February 1, 2012 |access-date=December 11, 2012 |archive-date=May 13, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513140646/http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2012/02/01/old-republic-subscribers-hit-1-7m-sales-topple-2m.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> By the end of March 2012, those numbers fell to 1.3 million.<ref>{{cite web |last=LeFebvre |first=Rob |url=https://venturebeat.com/games/eas-star-wars-the-old-republic-snares-1-3m-subscribers/#:~:text=Electronic%20Arts%20said%20today%20that,fiscal%20quarter%20ended%20March%2031|title=EA's Star Wars: The Old Republic snares 1.3M subscribers |publisher=VentureBeat |date=May 7, 2012 |access-date=March 31, 2025 |archive-date=October 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007160924/https://venturebeat.com/games/eas-star-wars-the-old-republic-snares-1-3m-subscribers/ |url-status=live }}</ref> By July 2012, the subscriber base fell below 1 million, prompting EA to convert the game to free-to-play. EA stated that 500,000 subscribers were needed to make the game profitable saying that they were "well above" that number.<ref name="shortref3"/> By May 2013, subscriptions had fallen below 500,000 but at the time, stabilized there.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/swtors-average-monthly-revenue-has-doubled-since-going-f2p/|title=SWTOR's average monthly revenue has doubled since going F2P|first=Katie|last=Williams|website=PC Gamer|date=May 10, 2013|access-date=September 11, 2021|archive-date=September 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210911220739/https://www.pcgamer.com/swtors-average-monthly-revenue-has-doubled-since-going-f2p/|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 15, 2012, the free-to-play option went live on all servers. As of August 2014 the game has over one million monthly players.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/8/14/6001503/star-wars-the-old-republic-2014-players-ea-bioware|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic continues to stay afloat with over 1M monthly players|last=Gera|first=Emily|date=August 14, 2014|work=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|access-date=August 14, 2014|archive-date=August 16, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140816164906/http://www.polygon.com/2014/8/14/6001503/star-wars-the-old-republic-2014-players-ea-bioware|url-status=live}}</ref>

As of 2025, ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' continues to generate substantial revenue through a combination of optional subscriptions, in-game purchases, and content expansions. A breakdown published by the fan and analytics site SWTOR Strategies estimates the game’s daily, monthly, and yearly earnings, highlighting its continued commercial relevance more than a decade after launch.<ref>{{cite web |title=SWTOR Revenue: Daily, Monthly & Yearly Breakdown |url=https://swtorstrategies.com/2025/06/swtor-revenue-daily-monthly-yearly-breakdown.html |website=Star Wars: Gamers |date=25 June 2025 |access-date=25 June 2025 }}</ref>

===Expansion packs=== {| style="float:left; margin-right:10px;" | {| class="wikitable sortable" |+''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' expansions |- ! Title !! Launch |- | ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' || April 14, 2013 |- | ''Galactic Starfighter'' || February 4, 2014 |- | ''Galactic Strongholds'' || October 14, 2014 |- | ''Shadow of Revan'' || December 9, 2014 |- | ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'' || October 27, 2015 |- | ''Knights of the Eternal Throne'' || December 2, 2016 |- |''Onslaught'' || October 22, 2019 |- |''Legacy of the Sith'' || February 15, 2022 |} |}

====''Rise of the Hutt Cartel''==== {{main|Star Wars: The Old Republic – Rise of the Hutt Cartel{{!}}''Star Wars: The Old Republic – Rise of the Hutt Cartel''}} In October 2012, BioWare announced ''The Old Republic''{{'}}s first digital expansion pack, ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'',<ref name="RotHC">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/rothc|title=Rise of the Hutt Cartel|publisher=BioWare|access-date=March 26, 2013|archive-date=February 14, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210214114153/http://www.swtor.com/rothc|url-status=live}}</ref> in which the Hutt Cartel's attempts to challenge the Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire for control of the galaxy.<ref name="RotHCFAQ">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/support/helpcenter/7140|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic - Customer Service|website=swtor.com|access-date=March 26, 2013|archive-date=March 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130324115027/http://www.swtor.com/support/helpcenter/7140|url-status=live}}</ref> The level cap was raised to 55. The battle with the Hutts and leveling above 50 is centered on the planet Makeb, which hides a "powerful secret". Much like the main game, the campaign on Makeb is fully voiced.<ref name="RotHC"/>

''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' was released on April 14, 2013. Those who pre-ordered the expansion prior to January 7, 2013, were allowed early access on April 9.<ref name="RotHC"/> In late September, ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' became free after subscribing to the game.

''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' is now free to play for all players in ''Star Wars: The Old Republic''.

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Galactic Starfighter}}''==== In October 2013, BioWare announced its next expansion, which unlike its predecessor ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' did not include any story content; however, ''Galactic Starfighter'' introduced 12v12 space-based PvP combat on two maps, with 2 'capture-the-flag' combat missions. Three stock starfighters were made available—a scout, a strike fighter, and a gunship. More are accessible for Cartel Coins. Subscribers began their early access on December 3, 2013, with full subscriber awards if they maintained an active subscription on November 1. "Preferred access" players, those who do not have an active subscription but have purchased items via the Cartel Market, received their early access on January 14, 2014, with some rewards. Full access to all players with an account opened on February 4, 2014. A new "deathmatch" game style was added with the update, as well as a new starfighter class, the bomber.<ref name="Starfighter">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/galactic-starfighter|title=Galactic Starfighter - Star Wars: The Old Republic|website=swtor.com|access-date=October 29, 2013|archive-date=October 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131027002025/http://www.swtor.com/galactic-starfighter|url-status=live}}</ref>

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Galactic Strongholds}}''==== In January 2014, BioWare revealed plans for 2014 including two expansion packs, with one similar to ''Galactic Starfighter'' in scope and one more closely resembling ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel''.<ref name="Producer's Road Map 2014">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/blog/producers-road-map-2014|title=Producer's Road Map 2014 - Star Wars: The Old Republic|website=swtor.com|access-date=February 15, 2014|archive-date=February 10, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140210172126/http://www.swtor.com/blog/producers-road-map-2014|url-status=live}}</ref> The first is entitled ''Galactic Strongholds'', introducing player housing and flagships for guilds. Subscribers received early access August 19, 2014, as well as access to the exclusive "Nar Shaddaa Sky Palace"; preferred access players received early access starting September 16. Full access to all players with an account opened October 14, 2014.<ref name="Strongholds">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/galactic-strongholds|title=Strongholds - Star Wars: The Old Republic|website=swtor.com|access-date=April 16, 2014|archive-date=April 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140419200614/http://www.swtor.com/galactic-strongholds|url-status=live}}</ref>

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Shadow of Revan}}''==== On October 6, BioWare announced the second planned story expansion, entitled ''Shadow of Revan''.<ref name="ShadowOfRevan">{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/shadow-of-revan|title=Shadow of Revan - Star Wars: The Old Republic|website=swtor.com|access-date=October 6, 2014|archive-date=October 7, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141007005521/http://www.swtor.com/shadow-of-revan|url-status=live}}</ref> The expansion is centered on the Order of Revan, formerly a fringe group that appeared early in Imperial missions, now a great army seeking to establish a new galactic order, led by the reborn Revan himself. The campaign raised the level cap to 60, and takes place on two new worlds: Rishi, a tropical pirate haven on the edge of the galaxy, and Yavin 4 (which first appeared in the original ''Star Wars'' film), home of an ancient Sith warrior sect called the Massassi.<ref name="ShadowOfRevan"/> ''Shadow of Revan'' was available for preorder. Players who preordered before November 2, 2014, received an experience boost that granted twelve times multiplicative experience for class-related missions, seven days of early access, a grand statue of Revan for placement in strongholds, and a free edition of ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' (to give to another player). The expansion was released on December 9, 2014.<ref name="ShadowOfRevan"/>

The expansion is now free to play for all players.

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Knights of the Fallen Empire}}''==== In June 2015, the third story expansion for the game, titled ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'', was announced at EA's E3 2015 press conference.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2015/06/15/e3-2015-star-wars-the-old-republic-knights-of-the-fallen-empire-announced |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic - Knights of the Fallen Empire Announced |last=Dyer |first=Mitch |date=June 15, 2015 |website=IGN |access-date=June 21, 2015 |archive-date=June 20, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150620155839/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/06/15/e3-2015-star-wars-the-old-republic-knights-of-the-fallen-empire-announced |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'' features a renewed focus on cinematic storytelling, as well as new planets, new companions, a dynamic story affected by player choices and a level cap of 65. A cinematic trailer, titled "Sacrifice", was released along with the initial announcement. The trailer, made by Blur Studio, received critical acclaim, and was awarded the "Best Trailer of E3" Award by IGN.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2015/06/16/igns-best-of-e3-2015-awards?sf38732248=1&page=3 |title=IGN's Best of E3 2015 Awards |date=June 16, 2015 |website=IGN |access-date=June 21, 2015 |archive-date=June 23, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150623003642/http://www.ign.com/articles/2015/06/16/igns-best-of-e3-2015-awards?sf38732248=1&page=3 |url-status=live }}</ref> The first nine chapters of ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'' were launched on October 27, 2015, with additional chapters starting in early 2016. Subscribers received one level 60 character token. After the release of ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'', ''Rise of the Hutt Cartel'' and ''Shadow of Revan'' became free for those subscribing to the game, and access remains on the account if a subscription is canceled.

The release of ''Knights of the Fallen Empire'' depicts the story of "The Outlander"—the player character. The expansion introduced new companion characters available to all classes. One feature introduced with the expansion was the Alliance system. It entails recruiting allies, including some companions from other classes that formerly were restricted, from across the galaxy to join the fight against the Eternal Empire. Players were given the ability to strengthen their rebellion by providing resources to "Specialists" that oversee four areas of operation: Technology, Underworld Trade, Military and Force-Usage. Most of the early game content was heavily streamlined, allowing players to level up a character by completing solely story and class-specific missions if they so choose. A solo mode was also introduced for story-critical flashpoints. The new storyline, featuring primarily solo content, has 13 chapters.

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Knights of the Eternal Throne}}''==== In December 2016, ''Knights of the Eternal Throne'' was released as the fourth story expansion and sixth major update that coincided with the game's five-year anniversary. A cinematic trailer, titled "Betrayed", was released along with the initial announcement of the expansion. The expansion continued the story of the Outlander. Subscribers received one level 65 character token, with additional tokens available at the cartel store. The storyline has nine chapters of solo content and it raised the level cap to 70. The expansion focused on defeating Empress Vaylin and the Eternal Empire. During the expansion, developers released several key updates and patches that continued the story and added new activities.

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Onslaught}}''==== In April 2019, it was announced on the official site that the next expansion, ''Onslaught'', would be released in September 2019.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20190413|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic &#124; News, Updates, Developer Blogs|website=swtor.com|access-date=April 14, 2019|archive-date=April 14, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190414145942/https://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20190413|url-status=live}}</ref> The expansion was to follow the new story that was begun with ''Jedi Under Siege''. In August, it was announced that the release date for ''Onslaught'' had been moved back from September 2019 to October 22, 2019.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20190826 |title=Onslaught Expansion Launches Worldwide on… |date=August 26, 2015 |website=swtor.com. |access-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827210655/http://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20190826 |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Onslaught''{{'}}s release timeline (nearly three years) was the largest gap between expansions and major game updates which typically occurred annually. This expansion raised the level cap to 75.

====''{{Visible anchor|Star Wars: The Old Republic: Legacy of the Sith}}''==== In celebration of the game's ten-year anniversary, ''Legacy of the Sith'' was revealed as the eighth major expansion on July 2, 2021 in an official Twitch livestream. The expansion represents a continuation of the storyline from ''Onslaught'', where the player pursues Darth Malgus across the galaxy to uncover his plans, while participating in a major battle on the ocean world of Manaan which has been invaded by the Sith Empire. The expansion raises the level cap to 80 and introduced revamped character creation, with expanded advanced classes where Force-user and Tech-user classes can utilize the other Force and Tech advanced classes and weapons and gain abilities based on light or dark alignment.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Announcing Legacy of the Sith, the next expansion for Star Wars: The Old Republic {{!}} Star Wars: The Old Republic|url=https://www.swtor.com/legacyofthesith|access-date=2021-07-03|website=swtor.com|archive-date=July 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702205144/https://www.swtor.com/legacyofthesith|url-status=live}}</ref> The expansion was scheduled for release on December 14, 2021, free for subscribers,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/star-wars-the-old-republic/legacy-of-the-sith-release-date|title=SWTOR Legacy of the Sith release date and everything we know|access-date=November 26, 2021|archive-date=November 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126143450/https://www.pcgamesn.com/star-wars-the-old-republic/legacy-of-the-sith-release-date|url-status=live}}</ref> but its release date was postponed until February 15, 2022.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20211207|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic &#124; News, Updates, Developer Blogs|access-date=December 7, 2021|archive-date=December 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211207180627/https://www.swtor.com/info/news/article/20211207|url-status=live}}</ref> A new cinematic trailer, titled "Disorder", was released on the same day as the expansion.

==Cinematic trailers== Bioware released six short films as cinematic trailers for ''The Old Republic'' and its expansion packs. * ''Deceived'' was released on June 1, 2009 and shows the Sith attack on the Jedi Temple on Coruscant ten years prior to the game.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS™: The Old Republic™ - 'Deceived' Cinematic Trailer | date=September 24, 2011 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdgmH9Vv2-I |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> * ''Hope'' was released on June 14, 2010 and shows the Battle of Alderaan 24 years prior to the game.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS™: The Old Republic™ - 'Hope' Cinematic Trailer | date=September 24, 2011 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAkcolVxDy0 |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> * ''Return'' was released on June 6, 2011 and shows the attack on a Republic space station over the ancient Sith homeworld Korriban, that started the war, 38 years prior to the game.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS™: The Old Republic™ - 'Return' Cinematic Trailer | date=January 23, 2012 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm4JEZudf0c |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> * ''Sacrifice'' was released on June 14, 2015 and depicts the story of Arcann and Thexan, twin heirs of Valkorion, Emperor of the Eternal Empire.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS: The Old Republic – Knights of the Fallen Empire – "Sacrifice" Trailer | date=June 15, 2015 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzq9epS2b1A |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> * ''Betrayed'' was released on October 7, 2016 and depicts the story of Vaylin.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS: The Old Republic – Knights of the Eternal Throne – "Betrayed" Trailer | date=October 7, 2016 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbpDxrew4A0 |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> * ''Disorder'' was released on February 15, 2022 and shows the Jedi Denolm Orr and Sa'har Kateen as they try to retrieve the holocron of Darth Nul, the creator of the Children of the Emperor.<ref>{{Citation |title=STAR WARS: The Old Republic - 'Disorder' Cinematic Trailer | date=February 15, 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgbMAdtp7aE |access-date=2023-03-06 |language=en}}</ref> The first five were later rereleased in 4K resolution.<ref>{{Cite web |title=ULTRA HD Cinematics - YouTube |url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiJsK_sFeeKyS5pJSePa5eH_TfwThyrxE |access-date=2023-03-06 |website=youtube.com}}</ref>

==Other media== {{See also|Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic#Comics{{!}}''Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic'' § Comics|Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic#Novels{{!}}''Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic'' § Novels}} Chronicle Books released ''The Art and Making of Star Wars: The Old Republic'' in November 2011, which chronicles the creation of the game and includes concept artwork and interviews from the development team. The book was written by former ''Star Wars Insider'' editor Frank Parisi and BioWare writing director Daniel Erickson.<ref>{{cite web |date=November 18, 2011 |title=The Art and Making of The Old Republic |url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111118-0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322065225/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111118-0 |archive-date=March 22, 2012 |access-date=November 27, 2011 |publisher=Star Wars: The Old Republic official website}}</ref> The book includes a foreword by ''Penny Arcade''{{'s}} Mike "Gabe" Krahulik.<ref>{{cite web |date=November 15, 2011 |title=Book Review - The Art and Making of Star Wars: The Old Republic |url=http://www.torocast.com/index.php/editorials/item/782-book-review-the-art-and-making-of-star-wars-the-old-republic |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111117022855/http://www.torocast.com/index.php/editorials/item/782-book-review-the-art-and-making-of-star-wars-the-old-republic |archive-date=November 17, 2011 |publisher=TORCAST.com |df=mdy-all}}</ref>

Leading up to game's release on December 20, BioWare released music tracks from the game each day which were not included with the soundtrack which came with the Collector's Edition of the game.<ref>{{cite web |last=Fahey |first=Mike |date=December 2, 2011 |title=Countdown the Release of Star Wars: The Old Republic With Free Music |url=https://kotaku.com/countdown-the-release-of-star-wars-the-old-republic-wi-5864613 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320191915/http://kotaku.com/5864613/countdown-the-release-of-star-wars-the-old-republic-with-free-music |archive-date=March 20, 2012 |access-date=December 3, 2011 |publisher=Kotaku}}</ref> The first track released was titled "The Mandalorian Blockade".<ref>{{cite web |date=December 1, 2011 |title=Listen to the Music of The Old Republic |url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111201 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306060233/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111201 |archive-date=March 6, 2012 |access-date=December 3, 2011 |publisher=BioWare}}</ref>

Razer released several peripherals based on the game to coincide with the launch date. The peripherals included custom made keyboards, mice, gaming headsets and mouse pads.<ref>{{cite web |date=December 2, 2011 |title=Pre-Order The Old Republic Peripherals |url=http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111202-1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322172938/http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111202-1 |archive-date=March 22, 2012 |access-date=December 5, 2011 |publisher=BioWare}}</ref>

Between 2012 and 2014, LEGO released four sets based on the game, ''9497 Republic Striker-class Starfighter'', ''9500 Sith Fury-class Interceptor'', ''75001 Republic Troopers vs. Sith Troopers'' and ''75025 Jedi Defender-class Cruiser'' as part of its ''Lego Star Wars'' theme.<ref>{{cite web |last=Schreier |first=Jason |date=February 12, 2012 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Has Invaded Lego Land |url=http://kotaku.com/5884451/star-wars-the-old-republic-has-invaded-lego-land/gallery/1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120214211411/http://kotaku.com/5884451/star-wars-the-old-republic-has-invaded-lego-land/gallery/1 |archive-date=February 14, 2012 |access-date=February 12, 2012 |publisher=Kotaku}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Star Wars {{!}} The Old Republic |url=https://brickset.com/sets/theme-Star-Wars/subtheme-The-Old-Republic |access-date=2023-03-06 |website=Brickset.com |language=en}}</ref>

Electronic Arts later brought two Sith characters from the game into its mobile free-to-play turn-based RPG, ''Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes'', the Sith Marauder and eventually Darth Malgus himself.<ref>{{cite web |title=Kit Reveal - Darth Malgus |url=https://forums.galaxy-of-heroes.starwars.ea.com/discussion/255623/kit-reveal-darth-malgus |website=Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes |access-date=11 October 2023 |date=28 April 2022}}</ref>

==Reception== {{Video game reviews | GR = 84% (46 reviews)<ref name="gr">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/951199-star-wars-the-old-republic/index.html |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic for PC |website=GameRankings |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=March 13, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209011440/https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/951199-star-wars-the-old-republic/index.html |archive-date=December 9, 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | MC = 85/100 (73 reviews)<ref name="mc">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/star-wars-the-old-republic/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic for PC Reviews |website=Metacritic |publisher=Red Ventures |access-date=July 1, 2012 |archive-date=June 27, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627022457/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/star-wars-the-old-republic |url-status=live }}</ref> | 1UP = B<ref name=1UP>{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-tor-pc |title=Review: Star Wars: The Old Republic Offers Something for Everyone |date=January 12, 2012 |first=Ryan |last=Winterhatter |publisher=1Up.com |access-date=September 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120624201431/http://www.1up.com/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-tor-pc |archive-date=24 June 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | EuroG = 8/10<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/star-wars-the-old-republic-review|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review|first=Oli|last=Welsh|website=Eurogamer|date=January 3, 2012|access-date=September 23, 2019|archive-date=September 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923174402/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/star-wars-the-old-republic-review|url-status=live}}</ref><br/>4/10 (re)<ref name="rereview">{{Cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-11-26-star-wars-the-old-republic-re-review|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic re-review|first=Richard|last=Cobbett|website=Eurogamer|date=November 26, 2012|access-date=September 23, 2019|archive-date=September 23, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190923174641/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-11-26-star-wars-the-old-republic-re-review|url-status=live}}</ref> | G4 = 5/5<ref name="g4rev">{{cite web|url=http://www.g4tv.com/games/pc/61502/star-wars-the-old-republic/review/|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review - PC|date=December 21, 2011|first=Matt|last=Keil|access-date=December 27, 2011|archive-date=February 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120226091727/http://www.g4tv.com/games/pc/61502/star-wars-the-old-republic/review/|url-status=dead}}</ref> | GSpot = 8.0/10<ref name="GSpot">{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/star-wars-the-old-republic/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-review-6348266|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review|publisher=GameSpot|first=Kevin|last=VanOrd|access-date=2012-01-08|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322075014/http://uk.gamespot.com/star-wars-the-old-republic/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-review-6348266/|archive-date=2012-03-22|df=mdy-all}}</ref> | GSpy = 4/5<ref name="GSpy">{{cite web|url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/bioware-mmo-project/1215744p1.html|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review|publisher=GameSpy|first=Leif|last=Johnson|access-date=2012-01-07|archive-date=February 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210183915/http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/pc/bioware-mmo-project/1215744p1.html|url-status=live|date=2012-01-04}}</ref> | GRadar = 8 out of 10<ref name="gradar">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/star-wars-old-republic-review/|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review|publisher=GamesRadar|first=Hollander|last=Cooper|date=January 10, 2012|access-date=February 20, 2020|archive-date=May 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513213426/http://www.gamesradar.com/star-wars-old-republic-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> | GT = 8.6/10<ref name="gametrailers">{{cite web |url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/review-star-wars/725625 |access-date=April 26, 2012 |title=Star Wars: The Old republic Review |date=April 2012 |publisher=GameTrailers |archive-date=April 17, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120417220431/http://www.gametrailers.com/video/review-star-wars/725625 |url-status=live }}</ref> | GameZone = 8/10<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamezone.com/products/star-wars-the-old-republic/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-review|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic review|publisher=GameZone|first=Andrew|last=Clouther|date=February 8, 2012|access-date=April 26, 2012|archive-date=April 30, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430104903/http://www.gamezone.com/products/star-wars-the-old-republic/reviews/star-wars-the-old-republic-review|url-status=live}}</ref> | IGN = 9.0/10<ref name=IGN>{{cite web|url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/121/1214622p1.html|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review|access-date=January 10, 2012|date=January 7, 2012|archive-date=June 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120606031217/http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/121/1214622p1.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> <!-- Custom Reviewers --> | PCGUS = 93/100<ref name="pcgamerrev">{{cite web|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/review/star-wars-the-old-republic-review/|title=Star Wars: The Old Republic review|first=Josh|last=Augustine|website=PC Gamer|date=December 22, 2011|access-date=December 27, 2011|archive-date=March 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331185426/http://www.pcgamer.com/review/star-wars-the-old-republic-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> <!-- Awards --> | award1Pub = ''GameSpy'' | award1 = Best MMO in 2011 Game of the Year Awards<ref>{{cite web |url=http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/articles/121/1215449p5.html |title=GameSpy: GameSpy's 2011 Videogame Awards: Day Five! - Page 5 |publisher=Uk.pc.gamespy.com |access-date=February 9, 2012 |archive-date=February 10, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210225323/http://uk.pc.gamespy.com/articles/121/1215449p5.html |url-status=live }}</ref> }}

Upon release, the game received praise for its voice acting and class story arcs, while criticism focused on repetitive endgame content and server queue issues. With a score of 85 on Metacritic<ref name="mc"/> and an 84% on GameRankings.<ref name="gr"/> ''G4TV'' gave a review of 5/5 and praised the game for "Top notch music and voice acting" and "hundreds of hours of content".<ref name="g4rev"/> ''PC Gamer'' gave a 93/100, praising the story, voice acting, and the amount of content available.<ref name="pcgamerrev"/> ''GameSpy'' gave a review of 4/5, praising the story lines and companion system but criticising the "standard kill and fetch" quests.<ref name=GSpy/> ''GameSpot'' gave the game 8.0/10, saying "[''The Old Republic''] isn't the next step in online role-playing games. Instead, it's a highly entertaining refinement of what has come before it."<ref name=GSpot/> ''GamesRadar'' gave the game 8/10 calling it "an extremely satisfying experience that sets the stage for a bright future".<ref name="gradar"/> The game has received a 9.0/10 "Amazing" rating from ''IGN''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Kolan |first=Nick |date=January 6, 2012 |title=Star Wars: The Old Republic Review - PC Review at IGN |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/121/1214622p1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108012441/http://pc.ign.com/articles/121/1214622p1.html |archive-date=January 8, 2012 |access-date=February 9, 2012 |publisher=Pc.ign.com}}</ref> ''1Up.com'' gave the game a B and stated: "The Old Republic is far from perfect, but no game since World of Warcraft has offered a similar experience with such a wide appeal."<ref name=1UP/>

During ''Star Wars: The Old Republic''{{'}}s launch week, long queue times were seen on some servers, with BioWare increasing population caps and adding more servers to attempt to resolve them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.swtor.com/node/312436|title=Working on reducing queues|date=December 23, 2011|access-date=December 27, 2011|archive-date=January 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107235823/http://www.swtor.com/node/312436|url-status=live}}</ref> Some pre-order users discovered they had invalid registration codes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hexus.net/gaming/news/pc/33057-star-wars-the-old-republic-hit-teething-problems/|title=Star Wars The Old Republic hit with teething problems|first=Steven|last=Williamson|date=December 23, 2011|access-date=December 27, 2011|archive-date=January 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107221154/http://hexus.net/gaming/news/pc/33057-star-wars-the-old-republic-hit-teething-problems/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/people-unable-to-log-in-to-swtor-due-to-insane-queues-218381.phtml|title=People unable to log in to SWTOR due to insane queues|first=Jim|last=Sterling|date=December 22, 2011|access-date=December 27, 2011|archive-date=May 20, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120520170349/http://www.destructoid.com/people-unable-to-log-in-to-swtor-due-to-insane-queues-218381.phtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After release, at least one reviewer was less favorable as ''Eurogamer'' lowered their rating to a 4/10 from its initial high score.<ref name="rereview"/>

MSNBC awarded ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' game of the year.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://video.msnbc.msn.com/in-game/45799487 |title=The best game of the year - Video on msnbc.com |publisher=MSNBC |access-date=February 9, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419085022/http://video.msnbc.msn.com/in-game/45799487 |archive-date=April 19, 2012 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref> In 2012, The AbleGamers Foundation chose ''Star Wars: The Old Republic'' as their Mainstream Game for 2011 for being able to accommodate gamers with special needs. It praised the game's features which included many accessibility options, including full subtitles, queue-able actions, multiple action bars, area looting, auto looting, and built-in mouse sensitivity.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/disabled-gamers-laud-the-old-republic-as-2011s-most-acc-5878178|title=Disabled Gamers Laud The Old Republic as 2011's Most Accessible Title|publisher=Kotaku|first=Owen|last=Good|date=January 21, 2012|access-date=January 23, 2012|archive-date=January 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120123115726/http://kotaku.com/5878178/disabled-gamers-laud-the-old-republic-as-2011s-most-accessible-title|url-status=live}}</ref> During the 15th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences awarded ''The Old Republic'' with "Outstanding Achievement in Online Gameplay", along with receiving a nomination for "Role-Playing/Massively Multiplayer Game of the Year".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/games/video_game_details.asp?idAward=2012&idGame=1200 |title=D.I.C.E. Awards By Video Game Details Star Wars: The Old Republic |publisher=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences |website=interactive.org |access-date=21 November 2023}}</ref>

{{Clear}}

==References== {{Reflist|30em}}

==External links== {{Wikiquote}} *{{IMDb title|1320395}} *{{Official website|http://www.swtor.com}} *{{Wookieepedia|Star Wars: The Old Republic|''Star Wars: The Old Republic''}}

{{Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic series}} {{BioWare}} {{Star Wars games}} {{Authority control}}

Category:2011 video games Category:BioWare games Category:Free-to-play video games Category:LucasArts games Category:MacOS games Category:Massively multiplayer online role-playing games Category:Science fiction massively multiplayer online role-playing games Category:Space opera video games Old Republic Category:Video games developed in the United States Category:Video games scored by Jason Graves Category:Video games scored by Lennie Moore Category:Video games scored by Mark Griskey Category:Windows games Category:Windows-only games Category:Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic