Star Wars game gets new lease of life after 13 years
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR), the massive multiplayer online game (MMORPG) that’s been around for over 12 years, is still going strong with a huge update coming soon. Originally developed by BioWare, the game was taken over by Broadsword Online in 2023, and they’re gearing up to take players on even more thrilling adventures with Update 7.6, titled Galactic Threads, which is set to roll out in early December 2024.
This new update promises some exciting changes, including fresh story missions, a major graphics overhaul, and new gameplay features like Dynamic Encounters. These additions will make the iconic Star Wars planets players know and love feel even more immersive and unpredictable, as the game world comes alive with new, unexpected events.
New Adventures Await
The story in Galactic Threads picks up where the previous “Desperate Defiance” chapter left off. Players continue the hunt for Darth Malgus, while also diving into the secrets of Darth Nul’s holocron and the hidden plots of a mysterious group called the Hidden Chain. The update will take players to several classic Star Wars locations, including Hoth, Tatooine, and a dig site on Elom, where they’ll explore the ruins of Darth Nul’s temple.
Dynamic Encounters: Making the Galaxy Feel Alive
One of the standout features in this update is Dynamic Encounters, which are random world events designed to make the planets feel more alive and active. Players could find themselves herding Banthas at a spaceport or fighting off enemy forces in a heated battle. These events will initially appear on Hoth and Tatooine, with unique rewards such as special armor, tech fragments, and even rare mini-pets up for grabs.
A New Challenge: Propagator Core XR-53
In addition to the new story content, Update 7.6 introduces a tough new challenge for players: the Propagator Core XR-53. This lair boss is a dangerous Rakatan droid that originates from the remains of the Emperor’s Fortress. It’s a formidable foe that threatens to rebuild itself by harvesting resources. The fight will be available in both Story and Veteran modes, so even the most experienced players will find a tough challenge.
Visual Overhaul
As part of Broadsword’s commitment to improving the game’s graphics, this update will include big visual upgrades. Expect better textures and lighting on iconic planets like Tython, Korriban, Hoth, and Ilum, plus updated character models for species such as Zabrak, Chiss, and Togruta. The graphical improvements will give the game a fresh look while maintaining the classic Star Wars feel.
Fun Themed Rewards and Life Day Festivities
The Skeleton Crew-themed content will also be available, offering new mounts, armor, and weapons for players to collect. If you’re an active subscriber between November 29 and January 4, you can claim the Meirm Cicada Mount, which comes with a companion and mini-pet function.
The annual Life Day event will also return in December, bringing holiday cheer to the galaxy with two new rewards: the Tirsa G1-F7 Mount and the Life Day Ornate Robes.
A Living, Breathing Galaxy
While SWTOR might not be as popular as some other MMORPGs like World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy XIV, it’s still beloved by many Star Wars fans. The game’s rich storytelling and multiplayer features bring the magic of BioWare’s RPG legacy into a vibrant online world. With the new Galactic Threads update, SWTOR ensures its place as one of the longest-running and most cherished Star Wars games out there, still offering plenty of adventures for players to enjoy in the galaxy far, far away.