Star Wars - The Old Republic is one of the most highly anticipated MMORPG titles of 2011, based on the highly popular Old Republic console titles developed by Bioware. The game is based 300 years after the events in the original console games and focuses on a time where conflict between the Empire and Republic is at its peak. The game offers a total of 8 classes which all feature the option of choosing from 1 of 2 specializations.

The most appealing aspect to Star Wars - The Old Republic is the amount of control and level of interaction players have with the main story. Unlike other MMORPG titles where your actions have little to no effect other than to boost your characters power, ToR gives players the opportunity to shape the world how they see fit in the form of Light and Dark Side decisions. A Jedi Knight that is attempting to resolve a conflict can do so in several ways, peacefully negotiate a resolution, force your will into the situation via the use of force powers or just take out your Lightsaber and start swinging. Each choice has its own consequences, rewards and story outcomes. The decision system is what made the console titles so popular and Bioware are trying to ensure they deliver the same experience in their MMORPG.

Companions play a large part in ToR, as you progress through the game you can meet and unlock other characters to join your party. Each companion offers something a little different, some are typical MMORPG archetypes allowing a caster to bring a tanking companion or a tank to bring some extra damage but they also play vital parts in other areas of the game. The crafting system in The Old Republic uses your companions to craft your items leaving you to explore the Star Wars Universe. At any time during questing or exploring you can simply select a companion to craft items or gather materials for you, leaving you to enjoy the more exciting aspects of the game.

The game is currently in closed beta and is expected to launch before the end of this year.