Yesterday evening, one of the worst-kept and most anticipated secrets in recent videogame history was finally made official as LucasArts and the King of RPGs, BioWare, announced the Star Wars: The Old Republic MMO. Set approximately 3600 years before the events of the films, the online game will revolve around the struggle between the Old Republic and the resurgent *Ancient* Sith Empire, and allow players to portray either Jedi or Sith (as well as a host of other classes).

I'm not linking to any site in particular, since there are plenty reporting about this and a quick search will reveal them, but suffice to say, the very fact BioWare's developing this means that the *story* -- which is often a weak point in MMOs -- will be top-notch, and their knowledge of the SW universe will all but ensure a high-quality product. Many, including myself, had hoped for a KotOR 3, but this might be the one MMO I just have to play.

Needless to say, this is a huge announcement in the world of gaming, even if everyone knew it was coming.

I said I wasn't going to link to any specific website. I lied. :P This article was too good not to post, and provides some excellent early insight into the title: http://kotaku.com/5066929/star-wars-the ... now-so-far

Cool.

MotherFRAK!

From E3 '09:

http://www.gametrailers.com/video/e3-09-star-wars/49936

I know nothing about the timing on this. When is it supposed to be set?

I can't get to the Game Trailers site, but if this is the "Deception" video that a buddy sent me the other day, then HOLY CRAP does that look cool.

The part when the shuttle crashes and then the bay door opens to reveal a TON of red lightsabers igniting was unbelievably cool! I hate the idea of MMORPGs, (from a a time/money draining perspective), but this looks so good I may have to get it anyway.

I don't know the deal with MMORPGs, if its a persistent world, how does it really have a narrative that has a start and end?

Regardless, this looks awesome, and as Ulic mentions, Bioware being involved makes me think it might be worth my time and money.