In a significant development for the beloved Star Wars MMO, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Electronic Arts (EA) is reportedly moving towards an agreement to transfer the game’s development and operation to a third-party studio, marking a new chapter in its ongoing evolution.
IGN has reported that Broadsword Online Games, the renowned developer behind Ultima Online and Dark Age of Camelot, is set to assume the responsibility for the game.
Sources indicate that the deal between EA and Broadsword Online Games will be finalized soon. As part of the transition, a significant portion of the core Old Republic team, estimated to be around half the 70 to 80 members, will join Broadsword Online Games.
Meanwhile, the remaining team members at EA will have the opportunity to explore alternative roles within the company or may, unfortunately, face potential layoffs.
Despite the change in management, Star Wars: The Old Republic will continue to receive updates, including the highly anticipated upcoming 7.3 patch. Furthermore, EA will remain the game’s publisher, ensuring continuity in its distribution and support.
The decision to entrust the future of The Old Republic to Broadsword Online Games comes as BioWare, the original developer of the MMO, shifts its focus to other projects. BioWare will now concentrate on ongoing single-player endeavors, including the highly anticipated Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and the next installment in the Mass Effect series.
When approached for comment, a spokesperson from Electronic Arts stated, “Almost 12 years after launch, Star Wars™: The Old Republic remains a success and continues to grow its dedicated and passionate community. We’re evaluating how we give the game and the team the best opportunity to grow and evolve, which includes conversations with Broadsword, a boutique studio that specializes in delivering online, community-driven experiences. Our goal is to do what is best for the game and its players.”
Star Wars: The Old Republic, initially launched in 2011 and introduced free-to-play options a year later, has been a longstanding MMO in the gaming industry. The game has retained a dedicated and enthusiastic player base with numerous expansions and content updates over the years.
While EA’s decision to transfer the development and operation of The Old Republic to Broadsword Online Games draws attention to the franchise’s future, BioWare’s ongoing projects, including Dragon Age: Dreadwolf and the next Mass Effect installment, remain a focal point. Recent developments have seen some key talent depart from BioWare, but former executive producer Mark Darrah remains a consultant who contributes to the development of Dragon Age: Dreadwolf.
Furthermore, reports suggest that the Mass Effect team is lending its expertise to support the production of the new Dragon Age game.
As the transition unfolds, Star Wars: The Old Republic players eagerly await further updates and hope for a smooth and successful handover to ensure a bright future for the game and its caring community.
