INTRODUCTION
Imagine stepping into a universe full of vivid characters, breathtaking interstellar landscapes, and pulse-pounding confrontations against cosmic odds. Picture an epic swirling of lightsaber battles, intergalactic politics, and the timeless struggle between the Dark Side and the Light Side. This is Star Wars: The Old Republic, an enthralling online role-playing game (RPG) that brings the magic and adventure of the Star Wars franchise to your fingertips. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a die-hard Star Wars fan, or a total newbie, this beginner-friendly guide will help you navigate and fully enjoy the Star Wars: The Old Republic experience!
WHAT IS STAR WARS: THE OLD REPUBLIC?
Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) launched by BioWare and LucasArts. Set thousands of years before the original Star Wars films, this game invites you to create and control your own personalized character in the dynamic, sprawling Star Wars universe. Whether you align with the Jedi or the Sith, the Galactic Republic or the Sith Empire, each decision you make influences the course of the game.
Star Wars: The Old Republic combines absolute RPG (role-playing game) components like character customization, lightsaber crafting, and skill tree advancements, with aspects of traditional MMO games such as world exploration, PVP (Player versus Player) arenas, and social interaction with other players, making it distinct from most other online MMORPG games.
HOW IT WORKS / HOW TO GET STARTED
To start playing Star Wars: The Old Republic, you first need to download and install the game from the official SWTOR website. After the installation, you will need to create an account. Once your account is created and verified, you can dive into the exciting process of character creation!
Choose your character’s class, which determines the nature of your gameplay and storyline. You can select from four classes (which further branch out) for each faction, ranging from stealthy operatives to formidable Sith Lords. Once you’ve made your selection, you’ll be able to customize the appearance of your character.
The gameplay largely consists of fulfilling quests, consecrating alliances, and combatting enemies with your personalized skills and abilities. By accomplishing these tasks, you’ll gain experience points, credits, and items to enhance your character and their capabilities.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To immerse yourself in the Star Wars: The Old Republic universe, you’ll need a reliable internet connection and a suitable gaming computer. The game requires around 40GB of storage space, and its performance will depend on your device’s specifications, so make sure to check the system requirements on the official website before beginning your download.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. Choose Your Class Wisely: With eight different classes to choose from, ensure to pick a class that aligns with your desired playstyle.
2. Exploration is Key: Immerse yourself fully in the game world. It’s filled with hidden treasures, mini-quests, and helpful NPCs.
3. Join a Guild: A guild can provide you with a community of players to learn from and team up with.
4. Be Social! Interact with other players, make alliances, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
5. Enjoy the Story: The powerful storytelling is one of the game’s main strengths, so take your time and enjoy the plot and character development.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Several online guides and tutorials provide valuable tips and strategies for SWTOR gamers, such as Dulfy.net, which features in-depth guides for each class. YouTube channels like ‘Vulkk’ and ‘Swtorista’ also offer a wealth of useful game walkthroughs and advice. For community discussions, advice, and game updates, Star Wars: The Old Republic subreddits and the game’s official forums are an indispensable resource.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. MMO: Stands for Massively Multiplayer Online game, where thousands of players interact in the same world.
2. PVP: Player versus Player, a type of combat where players fight against each other.
3. Faction: The side you choose to fight for in the game. SWTOR has two main factions: The Galactic Republic and the Sith Empire.
4. Class: The role a player’s character will take in the game which involves specific skills, abilities, and storylines.
5. Guild: A group of players who join together to accomplish goals and enjoy the game
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Don’t just stand there! It’s time to venture forth into the vast and vivid Star Wars universe. Your first step is to choose your faction and class. Then, immerse yourself in what is arguably one of the high points of the game — character creation. Take your time as you design how your new persona looks and feels, and then step into the Old Republic with the spirit of an explorer. Follow the game’s storyline, make alliances, join a guild, complete missions and above all, have fun! This is just the beginning of your journey, padawan. May the Force be with you!
