Dark Horse Comics in association with BioWare and LucasArts released the first issue of the bi-monthly web comic Star Wars the Old Republic: Threat of Peace today.‚  The comic will narrate the epic series of events leading up to a dramatic conclusion where the player enters the world of The Old Republic.

Star Wars the Old Republic, the very ambitious MMO project currently in development from BioWare promises to redefine the genre and draw fans of the KOTOR series from their consoles to the vastness of online PC gaming.‚  Many fans were crying out for KOTOR 3, but BioWare has wanted an MMO in the Star Wars universe for quite some time now and promises a wealth of content, exceeding the sum of both KOTOR 1 and 2.

BioWare is releasing details on the project each week on their site and what we have seen so far looks amazing and for any Star Wars junkie, absolutely worth the wait.‚  The Old Republic, set thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader, in the middle of a constant Sith vs. Republic struggle, puts you in the role of a Jedi or Sith and every irrevocable decision you make will ultimately shape your journey.

The comic, written by BioWare’s own Rob Chestney will feature “action packed, character driven episodes,” the first of which, entitled Treaty of Coruscant follows this storyline.

The Sith Empire has scored a series of solid military victories over the Republic, winning control of several critical star systems and seriously damaging the Republic’s logistical supply lines. Overwhelmed but stoic, the Jedi and the Republic Military have succeeded in defending the core worlds and have slowed the Empire’s steady advances. In a surprising turn of events, the Empire has now extended an offer of peace to the Galactic Senate. Wary but desperate, the Republic has agreed to engage in ceasefire talks. A large delegation of prominent Senate and the best and brightest of the Jedi are traveling to the planet Alderaan, where they expect to hunker down for lengthy negotiations on the terms of a treaty with a representative from the Sith Dark Council.

I have long been awaiting an MMO with high caliber storytelling on par with BioWare’s previous console efforts, and from developer commentary and the studios undying enthusiasm for an immersive experience I can’t help but think The Old Republic will be everything everyone is hoping for.

As excited as I am for The Old Republic, I want it done right and given BioWare’s past successes I know they have a winning formula in place, one that undoubtedly takes time and effort.‚  At the same time however, a release date, month, season, anything I can circle on my calendar would be greatly appreciated.

For now, read Treaty of Coruscant here and watch video documentary from BioWare staff here and here.

About The Author

Eddie Makuch is a Blast staff writer. Reach him at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @EddieMakuch.

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