Star Wars: The Old Republic

[GrantDawg]

I wanted to start a dedicated thread, since I know a lot of people are going to be playing. I was wondering if there would be an interest in someone starting a guild that board members can be a part of. I would guess we would need two separate guilds (Dark side/Light side). I am not sure if they would have to be on two separate servers or not. My preference would be for it to be a non-pvp server, and if there are rp servers, that would be even better.

So, anyone already registered a guild, or interested in helping me start one (or I guess really two)?

I'm enlisting/drafting Fozzie and RA as my two main FOFC liasons for the Lightside. So, if you are looking for an invite on Hyper Space Cannon and haven't register on guild portal for the full list, look for these three schmucks in game:

Floran- me
Laianna- Fozzie
Yodaman- RA

The guild portal site: http://dsswtor.guildlaunch.com/?gid=0

[Grover]

I'm already registered as part of a guild, which in hindsight was probably a mistake. I should say that I wouldn't consider myself one to be leading or heading up a guild, I've got no experience with such things. I've been an officer in guilds in WoW and Rift in the past, but that doesn't really mean too much.

edit: I've left said guild, so I suppose that makes me a free agent as things stand.

I'd definitely be interested in this and would play the side the majority here want to play. My main is going to be an Imperial Agent regardless, but I'd make a Trooper or Smuggler if the majority here go Republic.

As far as everyone else planning to play, what class / advanced class are you looking forward to most? Like I said above, I want to be an Imperial Agent, most definitely a sniper with Marksmanship/Lethality. I've wanted to play the IA since the bio/write up was on the SWTOR website. The big draw for me, is I see the class as a Grand Moff Tarkin type before he became the most cunning, ruthless, bad ass man in the galaxy as Palpatine's right hand man. I love the idea of the cover system and I've heard the IA has the most interesting story arc of all 8 archetypes available for play. The ship is also the coolest of the group, even though that's a minor detail. Not to mention all of the "We're the least popular class" threads on the SWTOR forum are funny as hell.

[GrantDawg]

I am interested in the IA as well, but I would guess my main will be a smuggler on the light side. There is no way I can only have one "main" in this game though. I will probably be playing both sides evenly. I am willing to be a main support for a guild(s), though I am not creative enough with websites and such to be a leader.

[Grover]

I am interested in the IA as well, but I would guess my main will be a smuggler on the light side. There is no way I can only have one "main" in this game though. I will probably be playing both sides evenly.

I want to play through all 8 classes just to get the story experience of them all.

[JediKooter]

I'm definitely interested.

[MacroGuru]

I think I will be buying this one and playing it.

[GrantDawg]

I start looking at what it takes to preregister a guild and such. Anyone know enough to have preferences on servers and such? Are we going to have to play light side on one server and dark side on the other? I am just assuming that we will.

[GrantDawg]

Actually looking at it, the guilds are just going to be placed in the game by the admins if you preregister. Should we preregister, or what till the early access time?

[Grover]

Actually looking at it, the guilds are just going to be placed in the game by the admins if you preregister. Should we preregister, or what till the early access time?

I think we should maybe wait, that way we can pick a server of our own.

[JediKooter]

Are there any benefits to preregistering?

[spleen1015]

Preregistering allows them to distribute the guilds across all of the servers so that folks don't over populate a particular server.

If you create a Republic and Empire guild, you can set them up as rivals and they will put them on the same server when they deploy them to a server.

[Crapshoot]

Can I still be bitter that there is no KOTOR 3 single player experience, given how much I adored 1 and 2?

[CleBrownsfan]

This is a buy for me... hell, I've only been following it for over two years now ;)

I will for sure be interested in a FOFC guild.

[GrantDawg]

Ok, reading the rules. Here are the things we will need to decide if we preregister:

1) If we want two differing faction guilds, we are going to need 8 preregistered members (4 to hold the light side, 4 to hold the dark side). You can only join one guild during the preregistration time frame per account.

2) Type of server for the guild(s) (*pve, pvp, rp). * I prefer pve and rp.

3) Timezone (I prefer a East Coast timezone, but am flexible on that).

4) Name the guild. We should use the same name for both guilds, and that will guarantee they will be on different servers. So, we need a name that will fit either side.

I am willing to set up and lead the light side guild. I need a dark side leader and other preorder players. Everyone who is in the intial setup will be officers, along with any regular poster here.

[GrantDawg]

The bonuses of preregistering a guild: Selecting a guild name to reserve it, and having it set when the game starts (if you don't, we will have to wait and set it up once the guild leaders gets to their respective home world, and then it might cost something in game).

[GrantDawg]

dola: We will also get a "Guild headquarters" website with a guild forum to further set things up before launch.

[CleBrownsfan]

I probably plan on playing the "light side".

I'm in the EST zone - so there is that.

Name - whatever you guys decide if fine by me

The headquarters sounds pretty neat.

[Grover]

If we need four of each, I'll go Sith Empire.

Guild name? Something as simple as FOFC could work, no?

I'm not sure if I'll be able to pre-register with this as I had been pre-registered with another guild. I left it, but from what's been said above, I may be out of luck here.

[JediKooter]

Preregistering allows them to distribute the guilds across all of the servers so that folks don't over populate a particular server.

If you create a Republic and Empire guild, you can set them up as rivals and they will put them on the same server when they deploy them to a server.

Ah cool.

Even though I'm on the west coast, I don't mind it if things are set up for east coast time. Just during the week, I don't get home at least until 9PM east coast time, so I may miss things.

I plan on having at least one Sith and one Jedi for sure.

As far as names for the guild, I'm cool with whatever, as long as it isn't something like 'Tony's Purple Rainbow Unicorn Guild'.

[GrantDawg]

If we need four of each, I'll go Sith Empire.

Guild name? Something as simple as FOFC could work, no?

I'm not sure if I'll be able to pre-register with this as I had been pre-registered with another guild. I left it, but from what's been said above, I may be out of luck here.


If you left it, I bet you could join another. We'll try once we get a better idea of who/what, and create the guilds.

And FOFC could work, but it would be better if we came up with something game-related IMHO.

[MacroGuru]

Ah cool.

Even though I'm on the west coast, I don't mind it if things are set up for east coast time. Just during the week, I don't get home at least until 9PM east coast time, so I may miss things.

I plan on having at least one Sith and one Jedi for sure.

As far as names for the guild, I'm cool with whatever, as long as it isn't something like 'Tony's Purple Rainbow Unicorn Guild'.

How about Pumpys Purple Rainbow Unicorn Pimp Guild?

[Grover]

Updated my first post with those who've expressed interest and those who've expressed interest in buying the game. I'm going to assume being in an FOFC guild and playing the game may not be mutual for them, but will update as it moves along.

I'll also add in what side someone is looking to play, class/AC if it's provided.

[spleen1015]

I'm already planning to raid in SWTOR with some real life friends. I may end up creating a character or 2 to play with FOFC. We'll see.

[JediKooter]

How about Pumpys Purple Rainbow Unicorn Pimp Guild?

Now that I would join any day of the week.

[ColtCrazy]

A buddy of mine managed to get selected for the Beta. He probably much holed up in his house this past weekend and played it. I stopped by and looked it over for maybe 10 minutes. Graphically, it's an impressive game. Character creation seems easy. I didn't get to play much, just a few minutes. Battle sequences are more real time than the original game. You can't pause, but you do have a list of skills to select from (rapid fire, etc). Definitely a must buy for me and I'd be willing to join up with any FOF guild. I'll probably be doing a Republic Smuggler.

[GrantDawg]

Updated my first post with those who've expressed interest and those who've expressed interest in buying the game. I'm going to assume being in an FOFC guild and playing the game may not be mutual for them, but will update as it moves along.

I'll also add in what side someone is looking to play, class/AC if it's provided.


Cool. Let's track those who have a pre-order willing to join a guild as well. We need four pre-order members per side to get a preregistered guild in the game.

[GrantDawg]

Ok, so taking a look I think my earlier assumption isn't true. We can have alts on both sides on a single server. So we definitely want to make sure the guilds are adversaries and end up on the same server. At least I would think.

[Pumpy Tudors]

How about Pumpys Purple Rainbow Unicorn Pimp Guild?
I've heard about a sorority house that has that exact name, although I refuse to confirm its existence in public.

[JediKooter]

I've heard about a sorority house that has that exact name, although I refuse to confirm its existence in public.

What I like about Pumpy, Reason 341: He is so coy.

[Grover]

Cool. Let's track those who have a pre-order willing to join a guild as well. We need four pre-order members per side to get a preregistered guild in the game.

I'm a pre-order. Collector's Edition to boot.

[CleBrownsfan]

I did pre order the ce edition so just tell me how and where to sign up!

[GrantDawg]

Grover, you willing to take the darkside guild creation (if it will let you)?

If so, we got three pre-order ready for the light side guild. Need one more light side, and three more dark side.

[Grover]

Grover, you willing to take the darkside guild creation (if it will let you)?

If so, we got three pre-order ready for the light side guild. Need one more light side, and three more dark side.

Yep. Once we can come up with / agree on a name, I'll get it going.

Are you on the Republic side of this?

[GrantDawg]

Yep. Once we can come up with / agree on a name, I'll get it going.

Are you on the Republic side of this?


Yuppers.

[-apoc-]

Free beta codes from Penny Arcade if you want one

Penny Arcade - SW:TOR Beta Keys! (http://www.penny-arcade.com/static/swtor/)

[JediKooter]

For beta testing...I may or may not have a couple of characters on a server that has Turbine in the name.

[SirFozzie]

Yo, interested (republic) and have preordered.

[Grover]

Sure is lonely on the dark side!

[Coffee Warlord]

All the Sith want is a peaceful, ordered society. What is the Republic but the precursors to anarchists? What are the Jedi but an elitist, arrogant group of decaying aristocrats who do nothing but talk?

Ahhh, there it is.

http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/001/248ipzbt.asp

[JediKooter]

Eh, sith happens.

I'll more than likely make a Sith Warrior to start.

[ColtCrazy]

If it gets closer and the sides are still skewed, I'll be happy to join the dark side as a bounty hunter. I'll probably play more than one character anyway, so it won't hurt me to turn!

[Grover]

Eh, sith happens.

I'll more than likely make a Sith Warrior to start.

Whoo!

[Grover]

http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111111-0

November 25-28!

[Havok]

I'm beta testing as well and the story for the IA and BH characters so far is pretty dam impressive! (IA especially) I also did a flashpoint and that was fun!

This game looks extremely promising.

[spleen1015]

I think some of you might find this useful.

http://www.starwarsmmolevelingguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/swtor-classes.jpg

[Coffee Warlord]

I am highly surprised the Sith aren't way more popular.

[GrantDawg]

I am highly surprised the Sith aren't way more popular.


Me, too. Seemed like all I saw where people talking about playing a sith, but I guess that was just the noisy wheels.

On the guild thing, I was hoping to give it some time to see if we could get more interested, but it is looking like maybe we should just try an form one guild and then add the second guild in game. Thoughts?

[Grover]

On the guild thing, I was hoping to give it some time to see if we could get more interested, but it is looking like maybe we should just try an form one guild and then add the second guild in game. Thoughts?

I tend to agree at the moment.

VERY surprised the Sith Inq and Warrior are so low on this list.

[GrantDawg]

Interesting article that does give some of the negatives I expected. Doesn't kill or even lesson my interest or excitement, but it will be a challenge for Bioware over the long haul.

GameSpy: GameSpy's Concerns About Star Wars: The Old Republic - Page 1 (http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/bioware-mmo-project/1212884p1.html)

[GrantDawg]

So, here is my idea for the Republic guild:

Faithful Order of the First Cohorts (FOFC)

Motto: Honor and Fidelity in War and in Peace.

History: The First Cohorts are a paramilitary group established over a thousand years ago. It descends from a Republic unit of the same name that were trapped on the resource planet (at the time) of Caanta, that held a small Republican mining outpost. The FC unit was the assigned security for the 1,000 civilian miners and support personnel working the planet. A Sith armada jumped into the system to take over the planet, killing hundreds and enslaving the 325 survivors, forcing them to work in barbaric conditions. Only 80 of the 200 members of the FC survived the initial attack, and hid themselves in a underground shelter on the far side of the planet from the outpost. Having the ability to escape from the planet, they instead choose to counter-strike the conquerors in attempt to save those who had been captured. Over six months, these few brave souls accounted for countless numbers of casualties among the Sith captors, while only suffering three losses of their own. Eventually the Sith found holding the planet untenable, and retreated back to their own space. The First Cohorts saved 287 of those who had been enslaved.

Afterward, the FC became heroes of the Republic. After the unit emblem had been retired by the Republic, survivors of that initial group formed a special order to promote honor and fidelity to democracy and freedom throughout the galaxy. The order came to be made up of people of many different disciplines, to help and support one another in keeping the Republic free. They recruited those who had showed special bravery in protecting the innocent, and had stood against all odds to hold ground versus the Sith, and enemies of democracy.

Over the years, members have been apart of some the greatest victories (both against the Sith, and internally) in Republic history. The Order has huge respect throughout the planets for its fairness and courage to stand against the dark. Due to its para-military nature, though, membership has waned in the last 300 years of peace. Now with a new war with the Sith on the horizon, the Order has been re-established with membership open to those willing to risk all to protect freedom and virtue for all.

Membership: Membership is through invitation of those already initiated into the Order, upon approval of an officer or the Commander of the FOFC. (Everyone on this message board gets instant approval and promotion to officer. All friends of members of FOFC will also get approval. Once in game, recruits can be added by any officer that feels comfortable with the prospect).

We will make simple rules of membership (such as members are to be over 18, unless parents are also members of the Order). There aren't going to be any kind of attendance requirements, or "you must drop everything to help X if needed" kind of stuff. We are just going to be a guild to help one another out in game, and group to run "Flashpoints" and such.

Any suggestions, critiques or comments?

[Coffee Warlord]

Bah, make 'em turn to the dark side. :)

[GrantDawg]

Ok, so I have ran into an old guild-y from LOTRO who has already started a Dark Side guild. It is an over 40 member group of mature players. They haven't started a Republic side yet, so I am working on maybe heading that up, and should be able get interested folks invites. I'll vouch they are some of the best people I have ever played with on any MMO, and it is a very casual guild. And we'll have the bonus of already having a nice guild-portal website and a vent server.

[GrantDawg]

Ok, I need the word. Those of you who have pre-orders, do you want me to pursue this or not? I need to have my ducks in a row to work this out.

BTW, I will warn you the guild name is pretty silly (Dragonsnacks). But I can guarantee it is the best casual play guild you'll ever be a part of.

[SirFozzie]

go ahead

[Grover]

Go for it.

[GrantDawg]

Alright guys, if you want to be a part of the guild please send me an IM with your emails, and I'll send you a request. You can also send an invite request to me on the TOR site. The guild is Dragon Snacks Light (sorry already for the somewhat silly name).

[GrantDawg]

I have Grover and Sir Fozzie. Just need one more pre-order.

[Grover]

Just accepted the invite. Think I'll be playing a Vanguard for the light side.

[GrantDawg]

Great. I just sent Clev his, so we have our 4. I'll post some more info in the message board on the Guild center. Anyone else interested, just let me know.

[spleen1015]

Another pretty picture for you guys.

EDIT - Removed pic because it is out of date.

More up to date information.

Armormech
Recommended Gathering Skills: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Underworld Metals).

Armstech
Recommended Gathering Skills: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Investigation (Researched Compounds).

Artifice
Recommended Gathering Skills: Archaeology (Power Crystals, Color Crystals and Artifact Fragments).
Recommended Mission Skills: Treasure Hunting (Gemstones).

Biochem
Recommended Gathering Skills: Bioanalysis (Biochemical Samples and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Diplomacy (Medical Supplies).

Cybertech
Recommended Gathering Skill: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Underworld Metals).

Synthweaving
Recommended Gathering Skills: Archaeology.
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Luxury Fabrics and Underworld Metals).

[Raiders Army]

Great. I just sent Clev his, so we have our 4. I'll post some more info in the message board on the Guild center. Anyone else interested, just let me know.

Just pre-ordered. I'm interested.

[GrantDawg]

Just pre-ordered. I'm interested.


Great! Either send me an email to throw you an invite, or just look for the Dragon Snacks Light guild and request one. Welcome aboard.

[CleBrownsfan]

Anyone else Beta testing this weekend?

[spleen1015]

Anyone else Beta testing this weekend?

I am. I don't know how much time I will get to play though. I have family coming in this weekend. When I get the chance to play, I am going to play an Imperial Agent.

[Coffee Warlord]

Ditto. Prolly fire up a freedom loving Sith.

[GrantDawg]

Me. Hope I caught it early enough to get in first day.

[CleBrownsfan]

Me. Hope I caught it early enough to get in first day.

When did you accept? I saw the e-mail this morning (around 9:00AM EST) and that's when I accepted.

[Grover]

I was confirmed yesterday around 2. I've already got the client installed.

[spleen1015]

I confirmed some time yesterday morning before 10am EST. The guys over at MMO-Champ noticed that things were open so I logged in an confirmed. I didn't get the email telling me to go confirm until 6:30pm last night.

I was able to update the client I had installed from the 10/4 weekend.

[GrantDawg]

I did it yesterday morning around 11AM. I think it went up somewhere around 8AM, so hopefully I am good for Friday.

[Raiders Army]

I will beta test. 1.8 GB of video then 12.4 GB of the game. After 13 hours, I'm done downloading.

[Mustang]

Screw it.. decided to Beta test.

Of course, with a download rate of 180k, gonna be awhile.. hopefully it is done by the weekend.

[Raiders Army]

Correction: there's another 5 GB download after that. Jeezus.

[Mustang]

I hope that some parts of these can be used for the release on December 15th. I really done want to dl another 20G for the game especially when everyone will be slamming the servers to do the download.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I accepted a beta invite this morning as well. DL seems to be going incredibly slowly, I'd imagine their servers are absolutely destroyed right now with people DLing.

[Mustang]

I accepted a beta invite this morning as well. DL seems to be going incredibly slowly, I'd imagine their servers are absolutely destroyed right now with people DLing.

After the video download, the second piece for me ramped up to 1.1Mb/s d/l

[Critch]

I got in yesterday evening and downloaded overnight. No idea when I'll get to beta though cos the link for my testing details goes to a "SWTOR is down for maintenance" page.

[GrantDawg]

Who has gotten their date email yet for this weekend? I got Friday at 10am.

[Grover]

Who has gotten their date email yet for this weekend? I got Friday at 10am.

Ditto. 11am eastern. Goodbye weekend.

[GrantDawg]

Ditto. 11am eastern. Goodbye weekend.


Actually it would be 9 EST, because it is 10 CST. If you want to meet some guild mates, I will try and get some info up on our guild headquarters tomorrow evening on communication info.

[spleen1015]

9am Friday here as well.

[Grover]

Actually it would be 9 EST, because it is 10 CST. If you want to meet some guild mates, I will try and get some info up on our guild headquarters tomorrow evening on communication info.

Isn't central an hour behind eastern?

[Critch]

10am Saturday. I feel disrespected.

[Raiders Army]

10 AM CST Friday. We're looking to do some Black Friday shopping so I'll be on later that day. Saturday would be good for guilding. :)

[Mustang]

Saturday here.

[GrantDawg]

Isn't central an hour behind eastern?


You're right. I am a dufus.

[Coffee Warlord]

10am Friday here. Whee.

[GrantDawg]

I posted this in our guild hub, but if you haven't checked:

Any guild members in the open beta and interested in getting to know your fellow guildies, PM me here or on the TOR or guild portal website to get Vent log in info. We'll be making final decisions on which server we'll be on in testing after the client is up.

[Grover]

Less than ten minutes!

[SirFozzie]

Lucky you guys. I'm not till 10 AM tommorrow.

[gkb]

I'm at 10 AM tomorrow as well.

[Raiders Army]

Got on and played for about two and a half hours. Got to level 6 with a Sith Warrior named Viscera. It's a lot of fun, but my wife made the comment/asked if I was actually playing the game. There are a bunch of cutscenes. It's not really that bad and the story is quite good.

[Grover]

The Bounty Hunter is outstanding.

[GrantDawg]

Playing a IA Sniper. Very fun.

[Grover]

The opacity of the map is awesome when running around.

[DougW]

So, here is my idea for the Republic guild:

Faithful Order of the First Cohorts (FOFC)

Motto: Honor and Fidelity in War and in Peace.

History: The First Cohorts are a paramilitary group established over a thousand years ago. It descends from a Republic unit of the same name that were trapped on the resource planet (at the time) of Caanta, that held a small Republican mining outpost. The FC unit was the assigned security for the 1,000 civilian miners and support personnel working the planet. A Sith armada jumped into the system to take over the planet, killing hundreds and enslaving the 325 survivors, forcing them to work in barbaric conditions. Only 80 of the 200 members of the FC survived the initial attack, and hid themselves in a underground shelter on the far side of the planet from the outpost. Having the ability to escape from the planet, they instead choose to counter-strike the conquerors in attempt to save those who had been captured. Over six months, these few brave souls accounted for countless numbers of casualties among the Sith captors, while only suffering three losses of their own. Eventually the Sith found holding the planet untenable, and retreated back to their own space. The First Cohorts saved 287 of those who had been enslaved.

Afterward, the FC became heroes of the Republic. After the unit emblem had been retired by the Republic, survivors of that initial group formed a special order to promote honor and fidelity to democracy and freedom throughout the galaxy. The order came to be made up of people of many different disciplines, to help and support one another in keeping the Republic free. They recruited those who had showed special bravery in protecting the innocent, and had stood against all odds to hold ground versus the Sith, and enemies of democracy.

Over the years, members have been apart of some the greatest victories (both against the Sith, and internally) in Republic history. The Order has huge respect throughout the planets for its fairness and courage to stand against the dark. Due to its para-military nature, though, membership has waned in the last 300 years of peace. Now with a new war with the Sith on the horizon, the Order has been re-established with membership open to those willing to risk all to protect freedom and virtue for all.


Blah blah blah, role-play :P


Membership: Membership is through invitation of those already initiated into the Order, upon approval of an officer or the Commander of the FOFC. (Everyone on this message board gets instant approval and promotion to officer. All friends of members of FOFC will also get approval. Once in game, recruits can be added by any officer that feels comfortable with the prospect).
Typical, it works.


We will make simple rules of membership (such as members are to be over 18, unless parents are also members of the Order). There aren't going to be any kind of attendance requirements, or "you must drop everything to help X if needed" kind of stuff. We are just going to be a guild to help one another out in game, and group to run "Flashpoints" and such.

Any suggestions, critiques or comments?
Critique : This is generally the 'dream' scenario for a casual guild, but is very difficult to make work. You'll get a few 'core' guys that get hooked on the game, and want more. They usually leave to go somewhere more compatible to their gaming style. The "well, when people are on, we'll do some stuff can work for a while, but after that - attendance slips into an area where the people that are there and anxious to do this and that aren't able to - without pugging. Often see members leave to join impressive pugs guild, or if the pugs were garbage- then leave because their guild + garbage pugs can't meet their in game goals.

In short. SOME TYPE of schedule is necessary. Sure, things come up and people miss - but a schedule makes things run so much more smoothly. The down side is .. right off the bat, there will be people who know they are unable to maintain that schedule. Which, in all honestly, that's an upside in the long run. Those folks would've gotten frustrated at never being able to run when the group runs. Or, if they're really chill and casual - they immediately understand the role on the team... "Show up when you can, and we'll see if there is an opening for you to jump in".

my .02

[Coffee Warlord]

Got my lightsaber yesterday. It's...basically World of Star Warcraft. Not bad polish for a beta, but I haven't really seen anything amazing.

[GrantDawg]

Blah blah blah, role-play :P

Typical, it works.


Critique : This is generally the 'dream' scenario for a casual guild, but is very difficult to make work. You'll get a few 'core' guys that get hooked on the game, and want more. They usually leave to go somewhere more compatible to their gaming style. The "well, when people are on, we'll do some stuff can work for a while, but after that - attendance slips into an area where the people that are there and anxious to do this and that aren't able to - without pugging. Often see members leave to join impressive pugs guild, or if the pugs were garbage- then leave because their guild + garbage pugs can't meet their in game goals.

In short. SOME TYPE of schedule is necessary. Sure, things come up and people miss - but a schedule makes things run so much more smoothly. The down side is .. right off the bat, there will be people who know they are unable to maintain that schedule. Which, in all honestly, that's an upside in the long run. Those folks would've gotten frustrated at never being able to run when the group runs. Or, if they're really chill and casual - they immediately understand the role on the team... "Show up when you can, and we'll see if there is an opening for you to jump in".

my .02

Critiques to little to late, since we have joined my old guild from LOTRO (which by the way, works just like I listed and has worked perfect for LOTRO and WOW). We are about 56 strong right now.

[GrantDawg]

BTW: Never said there wasn't going to be a scheduled. I said there wasn't going to be mandatory attendance. I think it is idiotic that guilds require people to do x. If you aren't giving me a paycheck or a diploma, you can't require me to do crap. :)

[Raiders Army]

Having trouble logging into the guild website. I'll re-set my password and go from there.

[CleBrownsfan]

I'm having problems launching the game. The launcher wants to d/l a 1 mb patch but it errors out - and my play button is grayed as well.

I uninstalled the game and now re-installing to see if that works...

[illinifan999]

Well.....I'm hooked. I'm having a blast.

[Mustang]

Got my lightsaber yesterday. It's...basically World of Star Warcraft.

Actually.. World of Star Warcraft Effect Age..

Which isn't a bad thing. :)


Unsure of the social talk points though and how to do those.

[SirFozzie]

I just did the first space mission. yeesh.

[CleBrownsfan]

I got it to work. Just started a character and I'll dig into it in about a hour. I think it's going to be a long night ;)

SirFozzie is that a good, hard, or bad yeesh??

[Vince, Pt. II]

Very well polished for a beta (though I realize it's deep into the beta). Already the best MMO I've played outside of Warcraft (I've played Rift, Star Trek, LotR, City of Heroes and Champions).

So far I've messed around with a Jedi Knight and a Smuggler. Although each class feels pretty overpowered, I've definitely gotten my Jedi Knight into some trouble taking on multiple "Strong" enemies and going after a "Champion".

I'm not sure about their design decision to force a hard, irreversible choice with your character's development at level 10. While someone with MMO experience can make an educated decision at that point, I think that someone new to MMOs might not be happy with their choice a few dozen levels later.

[SirFozzie]

annoyed yeesh.

It's not till you hit L15 (and leave Coruscant) and optional, but it's an escort mission "on rails" your job is to try to prevent the destruction of a freighter by shooting down sith fighters and distracting Sith battleships (again, you're on a rail, you have no piloting, it's all gunnery.. closest I can describe it is the old Star Wars arcade game, except they're not shooting at YOU, they're shooting at your target..

I had to retry the quest SEVEN times tobe successfull (and success meaning defend the frieghter for 3.5-4 minutes.

[SirFozzie]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWJ6282UZOM

[spleen1015]

Very well polished for a beta (though I realize it's deep into the beta). Already the best MMO I've played outside of Warcraft (I've played Rift, Star Trek, LotR, City of Heroes and Champions).

So far I've messed around with a Jedi Knight and a Smuggler. Although each class feels pretty overpowered, I've definitely gotten my Jedi Knight into some trouble taking on multiple "Strong" enemies and going after a "Champion".

I'm not sure about their design decision to force a hard, irreversible choice with your character's development at level 10. While someone with MMO experience can make an educated decision at that point, I think that someone new to MMOs might not be happy with their choice a few dozen levels later.

The Advanced Classes in SWTOR are the same as your classes in WoW. You just get to level before you get to choose.

[Atocep]

My thoughts after 1.5 beta weekends for those that are maybe sitting on the fence.

Gameplay is largely WoW with lightsabers. There are some subtle differences such no auto-attacks (to do damage you press a button) and crowd control immunity handled differently, but if you've played WoW or Rift you'll instantly know what you're doing here.

Graphics are rather average, at best, but are polished.

The storylines are actually quite good. I find myself wanting to keep playing more for the storyline than my actual enjoyment of the gameplay. Each class has a storyline, but a large number of quests end up being cross class quests with key story quests that are class exclusive.

The lightside/darkside options are intriguing from a story standpoint, but for those that are wanting the best items they present a "false choice" dilemma. There are items based on your level of lightside or darkside and a small number (as many) for those that stay neutral. If I were to play through the game and simply select the darkside option at every opportunity I could maybe hit darkside 3 (just an example). If you were to play through and put thought into your choices (playing the way you want) and end up with a mix of darkside and lightside choices you may only hit darkside 2. I would have access to the darkside 3 gear while you wouldn't. For game that has pushed the importance of story above all else this is a poor design decision IMO.

Every quest is done in cutscenes. You really don't read anything. Voice work is outstanding. You also mostly avoid situations like in other MMOs where you run around and pick up 15 quests, run around to do those, and then run back to do a mass quest turn in. It gives the story and gameplay a much more natural flow and feeling. There are "on the fly" instances for story where you'll cross through a green door (no loading) and it creates an instance for you to do a story event. A very nice touch to the game and a great way to tell the story without having to deal with load times.

There are small 2 player dungeons. Which are a fantastic addition to MMOs IMO.

I haven't messed with the space stuff yet, but the friends I know that have said it's rather basic and seems to be meant as more of a distraction or break from the regular gameplay.

I pre-ordered the first day it was available mostly because I knew that I'd end up playing it to some extent since most of the guys I game with are really excited about it and if I'm going to play i'd prefer to play with the early access. I don't think my experience in beta has done anything to get me any more or any less excited. It's almost exactly what I've expected (both good and bad).

Overall, I'd say if you're a Star Wars fan and you enjoyed WoW then it's a must buy. For those people there really isn't much reason to play WoW after this is released. For everyone else it isn't so simple. A quick summary would be Star Wars WoW with a Bioware story and dialogue wheel. If that interests you then I'd say go ahead and check it out.

[DougW]

My thoughts after 1.5 beta weekends for those that are maybe sitting on the fence.

Gameplay is largely WoW with lightsabers. There are some subtle differences such no auto-attacks (to do damage you press a button) and crowd control immunity handled differently, but if you've played WoW or Rift you'll instantly know what you're doing here.

Graphics are rather average, at best, but are polished.

The storylines are actually quite good. I find myself wanting to keep playing more for the storyline than my actual enjoyment of the gameplay. Each class has a storyline, but a large number of quests end up being cross class quests with key story quests that are class exclusive.

The lightside/darkside options are intriguing from a story standpoint, but for those that are wanting the best items they present a "false choice" dilemma. There are items based on your level of lightside or darkside and a small number (as many) for those that stay neutral. If I were to play through the game and simply select the darkside option at every opportunity I could maybe hit darkside 3 (just an example). If you were to play through and put thought into your choices (playing the way you want) and end up with a mix of darkside and lightside choices you may only hit darkside 2. I would have access to the darkside 3 gear while you wouldn't. For game that has pushed the importance of story above all else this is a poor design decision IMO.

Every quest is done in cutscenes. You really don't read anything. Voice work is outstanding. You also mostly avoid situations like in other MMOs where you run around and pick up 15 quests, run around to do those, and then run back to do a mass quest turn in. It gives the story and gameplay a much more natural flow and feeling. There are "on the fly" instances for story where you'll cross through a green door (no loading) and it creates an instance for you to do a story event. A very nice touch to the game and a great way to tell the story without having to deal with load times.

There are small 2 player dungeons. Which are a fantastic addition to MMOs IMO.

I haven't messed with the space stuff yet, but the friends I know that have said it's rather basic and seems to be meant as more of a distraction or break from the regular gameplay.

I pre-ordered the first day it was available mostly because I knew that I'd end up playing it to some extent since most of the guys I game with are really excited about it and if I'm going to play i'd prefer to play with the early access. I don't think my experience in beta has done anything to get me any more or any less excited. It's almost exactly what I've expected (both good and bad).

Overall, I'd say if you're a Star Wars fan and you enjoyed WoW then it's a must buy. For those people there really isn't much reason to play WoW after this is released. For everyone else it isn't so simple. A quick summary would be Star Wars WoW with a Bioware story and dialogue wheel. If that interests you then I'd say go ahead and check it out.

In my 5 hours ish, this is my feel. I'm very impressed with the voice acting, it's all really seemed to fit and pro.

I knew about the Dark/Light I/II/III, but didn't know that it'd give you advantage in gear. Hope they change that, and add neutral stuff - and let people play the game as they thought, and not answer with adding to their dark/light points.

[GrantDawg]

In my 5 hours ish, this is my feel. I'm very impressed with the voice acting, it's all really seemed to fit and pro.

I knew about the Dark/Light I/II/III, but didn't know that it'd give you advantage in gear. Hope they change that, and add neutral stuff - and let people play the game as they thought, and not answer with adding to their dark/light points.


"Advantage" is not the word I have heard. Light/Dark can allow you to use some equipment and block others. But, there are normal equivalence as well in stats and such. It is more cosmetic.

[DougW]

"Advantage" is not the word I have heard. Light/Dark can allow you to use some equipment and block others. But, there are normal equivalence as well in stats and such. It is more cosmetic.

That's what I would hope, but Atocep says the "Neutrals" are left out.

So, I'm getting the image that there is +++gear for Light III, and +++gear for Dark III ... which works out - no matter which path you chose; but - if you're character stays at a Dark I/Light I, and not really an All good, All bad path ... then you're left out. Is that what you meant Atocep ?

[Atocep]

That's what I would hope, but Atocep says the "Neutrals" are left out.

So, I'm getting the image that there is +++gear for Light III, and +++gear for Dark III ... which works out - no matter which path you chose; but - if you're character stays at a Dark I/Light I, and not really an All good, All bad path ... then you're left out. Is that what you meant Atocep ?

True Neutrals aren't left out. Right now there are less options for them and it's something Bioware has acknowledged and siad they need to improve. They just said they're not sure they're going to have it addressed by launch.

[Vince, Pt. II]

The Advanced Classes in SWTOR are the same as your classes in WoW. You just get to level before you get to choose.

I know that, but your average run of the mill gamer might not. And once you've invested 4 hours or so into a character, making a poor choice and being held to it can be a bit annoying, I'd imagine.

Edit - I think the real question is going to be flexibility within the Advanced Classes. As a Jedi Guardian, only one of my talent point trees is labeled "defense." If you can make a legitimate DPS out of a Jedi Guardian, then the point is largely moot.

[Raiders Army]

The storylines are actually quite good. I find myself wanting to keep playing more for the storyline than my actual enjoyment of the gameplay. Each class has a storyline, but a large number of quests end up being cross class quests with key story quests that are class exclusive.

I'd agree with this completely. Because our beta characters are going to get wiped, I'm playing for the story this weekend. The story is very well done.

The only other MMOs I've played were CoH and Rift (well, beyond the first month...I also played Star Wars Galaxies, the Matrix, Guild Wars, and LOTRO). This is the most enjoyable story wise.

For some reason, CoH always calls me back though.

[GrantDawg]

I know that, but your average run of the mill gamer might not. And once you've invested 4 hours or so into a character, making a poor choice and being held to it can be a bit annoying, I'd imagine.

Edit - I think the real question is going to be flexibility within the Advanced Classes. As a Jedi Guardian, only one of my talent point trees is labeled "defense." If you can make a legitimate DPS out of a Jedi Guardian, then the point is largely moot.


You can. Almost every advanced class can do more than one role (only the sniper/gunslinger seemed to be held to "ranged dps" only). Guardians can tank, or melee dps, depending on how you spent your skill points.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I have found (so far) that the story of the Smuggler is much more intriguing than the story of the Jedi Knight. Somewhat because I feel almost like I HAVE to play the Jedi as a "good guy," I suppose, but it also seems like I have many more interesting decisions to make as a Smuggler.

Vaguely spoiler-ish here, but they're all side quests so I'm not going to bother with spoiler tags.

So far, the biggest choice I've had as a Jedi Knight was being told to spy on my fellow Padawans who were suspected of harboring romantic interests. They were, and they offered to give me a powerful lightsaber crystal if I lied about it to our masters. I turned them in. It would have been a cooler story arc here if anything happened because of it - instead, the Jedi Masters who assigned me the quest complained about the Padawans' weakness, and I never heard anything more.

As a Smuggler, I've already had plenty of more interesting choices to make. Sent on a quest to recover some stolen medicine by a republic official, I discover a woman who readily admits to stealing it because she was going to give it to a bunch of sick refugee children. The separatists in turn stole it from her though, so she wasn't able to give it to the children. After recovering the medicine, I have the option of returning it to the Republic official, or to the woman who stole it...I chose the woman. Like the padawan quest above, it would have been interesting if the official had questioned me or something about the medicine, but I routinely walk by him in town and nothing happens. Similarly, I had a side quest where a refugee asked me to recover a family heirloom necklace that she left when they fled the overrun town. Upon arriving at her house, a Republic investigator is there searching the house himself, claiming that she is an imperial spy and that the necklace is actually a communications device. The necklace was removed during the separatist ransack, and the investigator asks me to return it to him instead if I find it. Again, I'm given the option to return the item to either of the quest givers. I chose to return to the woman and confront her about the necklace, and she was not very convincing. I lied to her about finding the necklace and returned it to the investigator. As seems to be a theme, there hasn't been any follow-up to the quest after this point.

As a Smuggler, I'm only level 5 and just recently turned in both quests - hopefully something comes of either of them. As a Jedi, I've actually left the planet that the quest occurred on, so there's not likely to be much continuation of that quest line.

[CleBrownsfan]

I played about 5 hours yesterday/night. I started as a Trooper because I won't be one once the game comes out. I got to level 9 and the low levels aren't much different from any other MMO. People are complaining about the UI but I don't see any problem with it - I'm sure in time they'll make it customizable.

Anyone know how long we have to play the beta?

[Grover]

SWTOR just posted an update on facebook regarding this...

As a reminder the #SWTOR Weekend Test ends Monday at 11:59pm CST (Austin), Tuesday at 5:59am in London and 6:59am in Paris/Berlin.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Pushed to 15 on my Jedi Knight tonight, and saw a whole lot of opening up in the story line. Coruscant (2nd planet) has added a bunch of complexity to the questing available. Several morality decisions like I mentioned above with the Smuggler, and several of them without a clear, easy answer. I found myself looking at the computer and seriously having to think about how I wanted to answer the questions posed. I was fairly certain that they would have minimal impact in-game, but to ME they were important decisions. It's been a while since I've played a Bioware game, and I forgot how much I enjoyed them.

I think that right there is why I am enjoying this game as much as I am - while it is clearly an MMO, the story is so great that the overall style of the game is much less grindy than a typical MMO. It's still "Kill X of these" or "Gather Y of those," but there are fewer quests per area, and they fit the story really well. You also have a great balance of going out and DOING stuff (questing) and then coming back and catching up on the story with dialogue, choices and upkeep of the character (buying and selling equipment, training, etc). The fact that there are so many cosmetic/quality of life improvements over World of Warcraft (vendors in the form of Medical Stations interspersed throughout zones, allowing your companions to leave you and sell crappy gear a la Torchlite, "hearthstones" not being bound to one particular place) just makes me that much more excited about it.

Once I finished Coruscant (and, thinking that the beta ended for me tonight, I rushed through the final area of it to finish off the story quests there), I was awarded my ship - I was level 15, but if I had gone through and done all the side quests in the final area, I'd probably be 17 or so. I did the first space mission, and blech was SirFozzie right above. I actually enjoyed it, but it took me four or five tries to complete it successfully. The frustrating part was that it didn't seem to make a difference what I did. I tried saving the high-powered missiles for the Sith Battleships to keep them off the freighter, but that didn't work. Then I tried dusting the fighters with them and focusing my blasters on the Battleships, and THAT didn't work. To make it extra annoying, I wouldn't fail the mission until there was less than 30 seconds left every time. I finally got it by using most of my missiles early, then saving 4 or so of them for the last few fighters that attacked the ship. I ended up making it by the skin of my teeth. Hopefully not all of the missions are that difficult.

[Raiders Army]

So far, the biggest choice I've had as a Jedi Knight was being told to spy on my fellow Padawans who were suspected of harboring romantic interests. They were, and they offered to give me a powerful lightsaber crystal if I lied about it to our masters. I turned them in. It would have been a cooler story arc here if anything happened because of it - instead, the Jedi Masters who assigned me the quest complained about the Padawans' weakness, and I never heard anything more.
That was an interesting story although after bribery, the guy told me to do what I had to do. :)

The crystal would've been interesting to get though.

[Grover]

So I had a great time with the beta. The combat mechanics are some of the best I've played in an MMO in that they require some actual thought rather than spamming a couple of abilities over and over again. I played an IA to 15, a BH to 17 and a Sith Warrior to 12.

I'm really considering rolling a Juggernaut as I'd like to try tanking as a Sith, despite not really wanting to play any of the force sensitive classes at first. The IA was everything I hoped it would be, requiring some thought before engaging mobs. I had fun with the BH as well, but I found Mako's healing to be a bit weak.

I know this is vague, I'll get some more detail when I'm thinking more clearly.

[Grover]

Torhead: It's a trap! (http://www.torhead.com/)

Huzzah. don't know why I didn't look for this sooner.

[GrantDawg]

I had a blast in beta. Had been considering a long review post, but I haven't fully recovered. :)

I played a sniper, shadow, sith marauder, and BH over the weekend. In the end, I think I'll be playing two characters as my mains that I had no intention of playing: A Merc and a Sage.

[CleBrownsfan]

Anyone know how the early release for pre-orders is going to work? I have the CE pre-ordered from Gamestop. If the release date to sell the game is the 20th how will pre-orders be able to have game in hand to play before the 20th?

[spleen1015]

Early access starts on 12/15. When you get into Early Access is determined by when you entered your pre-order code into the SWTOR website.

The latest beta client will be able patched for live, so don't uninstall it.

They are going to allow a grace period that runs passed 12/20 so that folks can still play while they wait for their pre-orders to arrive.

[CleBrownsfan]

Ahhh - cool. Thanks

[Chubby]

any good preorder bonuses out there? I was hoping this wouldn't suck me in but you bastards are making me want it more

[Grover]

any good preorder bonuses out there? I was hoping this wouldn't suck me in but you bastards are making me want it more

Collector's Edition ($150) has all kinds of cool bonuses. A galaxy map, soundtrack CD, tin storage box, Darth Malgus statue, a bunch of in-game items like a mouse droid, flare gun, special shops that only CE folk can access in game.

[Chubby]

I guess I'm just worried I'll get burned out quick like I did with WOW as I HATE the grindyness (tho everyone is saying the story seems to take your attention away from that which I like)

[Grover]

I guess I'm just worried I'll get burned out quick like I did with WOW as I HATE the grindyness (tho everyone is saying the story seems to take your attention away from that which I like)

I didn't feel like I was grinding anything at all. You'll get a quest to destroy 6 of something and once you kill a mob you might get an optional bonus quest to kill X amount of mobs. Quest doesn't have to be done or turned in, but as soon as you kill the X amount, you get the XP. The character progression and stories keep everything very, very fluid.

Buy Star Wars: The Old Republic (http://buy.swtor.com/us/)

[Grover]

Also of note to anyone who looks at the SWTOR forums... be warned as people are pretty cavalier about spoiling storylines without any thought for people who may not want to know things before experiencing them.

[Surtt]

Anyone know how the early release for pre-orders is going to work? I have the CE pre-ordered from Gamestop. If the release date to sell the game is the 20th how will pre-orders be able to have game in hand to play before the 20th?

When you order the game Gamestop will email you back a "pre-order code." Create an account on the swtor website and enter the code. You then can down load and play on the 15th, you will have a few days after the 20th to enter the code that came with the game or your account will be shut down till you do.

With the games getting mailed into the heart of the xmass season, this could be a mess. I hope they take it into account and give a week or more grace period.

[spleen1015]

I removed the Crew Skills pic because as of the last beta weekend, come of the info was out of date. Here is the most current info based on beta.

Armormech
Recommended Gathering Skills: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Underworld Metals).

Armstech
Recommended Gathering Skills: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Investigation (Researched Compounds).

Artifice
Recommended Gathering Skills: Archaeology (Power Crystals, Color Crystals and Artifact Fragments).
Recommended Mission Skills: Treasure Hunting (Gemstones).

Biochem
Recommended Gathering Skills: Bioanalysis (Biochemical Samples and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Diplomacy (Medical Supplies).

Cybertech
Recommended Gathering Skill: Scavenging (Scavenged Metals and Compounds).
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Underworld Metals).

Synthweaving
Recommended Gathering Skills: Archaeology.
Recommended Mission Skills: Underworld Trading (Luxury Fabrics and Underworld Metals).

[spleen1015]

Looks like they're having another beta this coming weekend.

[Grover]

Looks like they're having another beta this coming weekend.

Did you get an email?

[spleen1015]

I did not. It has been announced over on the forums and SR tweeted about it.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I just got an email. Sadly, I'm quite busy this weekend.

[spleen1015]

I am ready for my characters to be 'real', so part of me is okay with not receiving an email. The other part of me is hoping Gmail is just being slow like it likes to do some times.

[Grover]

I am ready for my characters to be 'real', so part of me is okay with not receiving an email. The other part of me is hoping Gmail is just being slow like it likes to do some times.

Ditto! I want to further explore the SW Juggernaut some more.

[Critch]

I got the email for the weekend beta and I'm not a pre-order. So I guess they're not choosy who they let in or they're going for the hard sell.

Main thing I got from last weekend's beta is that I should never buy another MMO cos I waste too much time, hours vanish. I was vaguely impressed, although I dont think it's a WoW killer and I don't see myself spending 60 bucks on it, grown too used to Steam sales. If I could trust myself with a MMO, I'd be back to WoW.

I got to level 16 as a Sith Juggernaut, it was Force Leap to attack then try to retain aggro while the AI companion shot the crap out of them. Wasnt overly exciting, Republic Trooper was more fun.

[GrantDawg]

I got the email for the weekend beta and I'm not a pre-order. So I guess they're not choosy who they let in or they're going for the hard sell.

Main thing I got from last weekend's beta is that I should never buy another MMO cos I waste too much time, hours vanish. I was vaguely impressed, although I dont think it's a WoW killer and I don't see myself spending 60 bucks on it, grown too used to Steam sales. If I could trust myself with a MMO, I'd be back to WoW.

I got to level 16 as a Sith Juggernaut, it was Force Leap to attack then try to retain aggro while the AI companion shot the crap out of them. Wasnt overly exciting, Republic Trooper was more fun.


I hate the term "WoW killer." Nothing is going to kill WoW. Hurt it? Maybe down the line. "Kill" it? Not a chance.

I'm in this weekend as well.

[GrantDawg]

Dola: Actually even "hurting" WoW would be a self-inflicted wound. And that is coming.

[Critch]

How about WoW-spanker?

[Grover]

BioWare has said 500,000 subs in the first year would make a profit. WoW has lost 1.7m subs this year already and is still over the 10 million mark. I think SW:TOR is going to be more a niche MMO than WoW is and the game would do well to achieve and hold 2-3 million players.

[spleen1015]

I agree on the Wow-Killer term. Why can't there be more than 1 very successful MMO?

[GrantDawg]

BioWare has said 500,000 subs in the first year would make a profit. WoW has lost 1.7m subs this year already and is still over the 10 million mark. I think SW:TOR is going to be more a niche MMO than WoW is and the game would do well to achieve and hold 2-3 million players.


And that is the numbers they are likely to hit and hold. Not 10 mill, but more than say 1.8 mill.

[Mustang]

I agree on the Wow-Killer term. Why can't there be more than 1 very successful MMO?

There can be only one!

[Atocep]

I hate the term "WoW killer." Nothing is going to kill WoW. Hurt it? Maybe down the line. "Kill" it? Not a chance.

I'm in this weekend as well.

"WoW killer" has been used to label the game that knocks WoW out of the top spot among online games. Not really to kill it.

The "wow killer" people have been predicting ever since Vanguard was released has been League of Legends. Not a true MMO. League of Legends has 32 million accounts, peaks at 1.5 million concurrent players, and has surpassed WoW in playtime per week according to tracking software like Xfire.

I think Star Wars will do really well if its first 2 months go well. Warhammer hit some pretty big numbers at release, but died off quickly due various reasons. Bioware needs to hold on to release subscribers and let the rest slowly migrate over.

[Grover]

Oh my god was Vanguard terrible.

[Atocep]

Oh my god was Vanguard terrible.

Worst MMO I've ever played and I've played quite a few. It was the original wow killer IIRC though. Crazy hype for it.

[Grover]

Worst MMO I've ever played and I've played quite a few. It was the original wow killer IIRC though. Crazy hype for it.

I remember the hype and fell prey to it. The graphics were pretty fantastic for an MMO at the time, but I remember the game was incredibly taxing on my PC.

Do you know what the #2 subscription MMO to WoW is currently?

[GrantDawg]

I know people who loved, and were disappointed in, Vanguard. I never really looked at it, but from those who liked it (but felt it was released too early and buggy) I would guess it was improved version of an old school sandbox-mmo (like EQ). Pretty close?

[GrantDawg]

I remember the hype and fell prey to it. The graphics were pretty fantastic for an MMO at the time, but I remember the game was incredibly taxing on my PC.

Do you know what the #2 subscription MMO to WoW is currently?


Aion?

[Grover]

Aion?

You would be correct.

MMO Data (http://mmodata.net/)

[Bearcat729]

Early access starts on 12/15. When you get into Early Access is determined by when you entered your pre-order code into the SWTOR website.

The latest beta client will be able patched for live, so don't uninstall it.

They are going to allow a grace period that runs passed 12/20 so that folks can still play while they wait for their pre-orders to arrive.

D'oh I uninstalled it already....

[GrantDawg]

Oh my. New beta is full graphics. So beautiful.

[Grover]

Oh my. New beta is full graphics. So beautiful.

Bah. I didn't get an invite. Jealous.

Can you turn anti-aliasing on now?

[GrantDawg]

Bah. I didn't get an invite. Jealous.

Can you turn anti-aliasing on now?


Actually, in this build it seems to be on by default. The default is the high setting, and it is running smoother on my high end card than the medium one was.

[Mustang]

Any word on how they are doing the pre-order downloads? Going to have to DL everything again I assume..

[Grover]

Any word on how they are doing the pre-order downloads? Going to have to DL everything again I assume..

If you were in last week's or this week's beta, keep your launcher. They're patching the final game straight from this version.

Otherwise, probably have to download it all again.

[Mustang]

If you were in last week's or this week's beta, keep your launcher. They're patching the final game straight from this version.


Sweet.

I've logged in every few days to get any updates pushed just in case this is what they were going to do so, at least I don't need to re-do everything.

[GrantDawg]

The current beta build is supposed to be the launch build. There still is likely to be a patch at Early access and another at launch (if past games launches are any indicator), but there is no reason to reload.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Since I got to see about all that I wanted to see last weekend, I'm re-rolling a Jedi Knight and playing him as dark side as I possibly can. Wondering if anything other than flavor text changes. So far, about two story quests deep, it's just flavor text.

[Grover]

Since I got to see about all that I wanted to see last weekend, I'm re-rolling a Jedi Knight and playing him as dark side as I possibly can. Wondering if anything other than flavor text changes. So far, about two story quests deep, it's just flavor text.

I found it hard to get into the Jedi Knight story. I also felt like their starting area was oversized.

[Atocep]

I wasn't a big fan of the Jedi stuff either. Also, lightening is way cooler than wind.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I found it hard to get into the Jedi Knight story. I also felt like their starting area was oversized.

Agree on both parts, but it got way more interesting once you got to Coruscant.

[Grover]

Agree on both parts, but it got way more interesting once you got to Coruscant.

Good to read, as I was probably going to roll a Knight for the FOFC guild.

[frnk55]

I have a questions. How fast is the leveling? How about solo play? I play LOTRO and love it and I quit WOW because leveling is a joke. To easy and quick. So if it's like LOTRO I know I will like it.

[spleen1015]

Leveling is much slower than today's WoW.

It takes about 4-6 hours to get to level 10.

[Vince, Pt. II]

Leveling is much slower than today's WoW.

It takes about 4-6 hours to get to level 10.

It's even going pretty slow on my second runthrough of a Jedi Knight, where I'm skipping all the cinematics I can and already know the mechanics and where to go. I'd imagine it'll take me a good 3-4 hours to get to level ten.

[Coffee Warlord]

The Jedi starting area felt way, way bigger and harder to navigate than the Sith starting area.

[GrantDawg]

The game also gets progressively harder. I'm in my late teens with my BH Merc, and it is not just "walk through" anymore. I wouldn't say it is "hard." I would say just tougher. Start slacking, and you'll end up dead going solo. And there are herioc 4 man instances that were pretty tough even with four good players.

[Vince, Pt. II]

So two hours in, and my Dark Jedi Knight is level 7. There is absolutely no change so far outside of flavor text...which I guess is to be expected, but is still slightly disappointing.

[Grover]

The game also gets progressively harder. I'm in my late teens with my BH Merc, and it is not just "walk through" anymore. I wouldn't say it is "hard." I would say just tougher. Start slacking, and you'll end up dead going solo. And there are herioc 4 man instances that were pretty tough even with four good players.

I noticed this too last weekend, and I think it is a great thing. I got tired of WoW because they made it easier and easier. I want my games to be a challenge.

[illinifan999]

Leveling is much slower than today's WoW.

It takes about 4-6 hours to get to level 10.


Even though it was slower, I found it much more enjoyable. I barely even realized that it was slower since I was so immersed in the story.

[Grover]

Even though it was slower, I found it much more enjoyable. I barely even realized that it was slower since I was so immersed in the story.

Agreed. This is what makes the game more enjoyable overall. The actual story.

[GrantDawg]

The end of all testing came tonight. I can't express how excited I am for this game to release. I was in the open beta, and launch of LOTRO. That was a good launch. I expect this one to be better. Are there things they still need to add? Yes. But hardly any MMO's come out with all the bells and whistles in at launch. Some things will be added soon after launch (like guild tools and such), some may or may not ever come (housing. Guild ships). But overall, the actual game play is fantastic. I am ready to kick off my Merc and Consular for real in just ten days!!!!

[SirFozzie]

I am so bummed that I'll be in Vegas for early access.

[spleen1015]

I like these damn images. Here's another good one.

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/5812/torclasschart.jpg

[Grover]

Another excellent chart, spleen!

[spleen1015]

Another excellent chart, spleen!

I just find them and share them. :D

[GrantDawg]

I just find them and share them. :D


And then I steal them and share them.

[Grover]

I've been working on it for a bit, but I've come up with my Sith Juggernaut build.

Skill Calculator - Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) Database (http://www.torhead.com/calculator/skill#101cMGourrkuRZhMMZM.1)

[spleen1015]

I've been working on it for a bit, but I've come up with my Sith Juggernaut build.

Skill Calculator - Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) Database (http://www.torhead.com/calculator/skill#101cMGourrkuRZhMMZM.1)

You might find this useful

Immortal Juggernaut (SW) | Defense Guardian (JK) Compendium (http://sithwarrior.com/forums/Thread-Immortal-Juggernaut-SW-Defense-Guardian-JK-Compendium)

I'm planning on Guardian Tank as a main.

[Grover]

Yeah, I've been visiting Sith Warrior quite a bit, very good site. Seems to be one of the better TOR sites around.

[gkb]

I'm bummed I only got to test for one weekend. I only go to level 4 or 5 with a Smuggler. I'm still not sure what I want to play when the game launches and I have zero idea about crafting.

[Atocep]

Looks like you will have to uninstall the beta client to upgrade to retail. Emails went out telling you to uninstall. Bioware says they'll have clarification later today.

Also, a FAQ goes up sometime this week to explain Early Access.

[spleen1015]

Looks like you will have to uninstall the beta client to upgrade to retail.

Do you have a reference for this?

Stephen Reid tweeted last week that we would be able to patch the beta client to retail.

[Grover]

Do you have a reference for this?

Stephen Reid tweeted last week that we would be able to patch the beta client to retail.

I've seen numerous posts on SWTOR forums about people receiving an email about uninstalling the beta client.

I've yet to get one, but maybe that's just gmail being gmail.

EDIT: http://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=11782561#post11782561

[Atocep]

Do you have a reference for this?

Stephen Reid tweeted last week that we would be able to patch the beta client to retail.

That tweet was deleted and I got an email telling me to uninstall my beta client to prepare for the retail client. Bioware is posting later today to explain it

[/URL] [URL="https://twitter.com/#%21/Rockjaw"]@Rockjaw (https://twitter.com/#%21/Rockjaw) Stephen Reid


Confused about <s class="hash">#</s>SWTOR (https://twitter.com/#%21/search?q=%23SWTOR) install/uninstall? We'll have a Forums post up soon about it.

[spleen1015]

Gotcha.

Those Bastards!!

[Atocep]

Hopefully this is a poorly sent email. The email tells you to uninstall and wait for the retail client. However, if you click on the FAQ at the bottom it sends you to page that tells you to uninstall if you have a beta client from before the 25th.

[Chubby]

so is anyone getting the CE? I'm trying to decide between the CE and the digital deluxe

[Grover]

so is anyone getting the CE? I'm trying to decide between the CE and the digital deluxe

Yes! I pre-ordered the CE back in August. As a Star Wars nerd, I'm a sucker for the extras.

[Chubby]

for me the biggest bonus is the store, the other stuff is nice but not a biggie. was there any word in the beta about how useful the special store was? i seem to remember people saying they had gotten into thatvendor in beta somehow

[spleen1015]

From what I have read/heard online, the store has gear that you can't get any where else. It has the same stats as other gear in the game, it just looks different.

I have also heard that there are different companion kits (changes the way your companion looks).

That is all I have heard about.

[Grover]

From the SWTOR forum...

In preparation for the official release of Star Wars: The Old Republic, we wanted to make sure that everyone has the correct game client installed on their machine.

If you participated in our Game Testing Program before November 25th, we recommend that you uninstall the game testing client (refer to instructions below) and then download and install the launch game client. We’ll update this post with more instructions when they’re available. You will need 27GB of free space to install the launch game client. The actual size of the game client is approximately 19GB (without additional languages installed).

If you have played in our game testing program at any point from November 25th onwards, you will not need to re-install the game client, as you should already have the launch version installed.

To verify that you have the launch version installed, you can check for the "assets_swtor_main" version file in the following location on your computer: \Program Files (x86)\EA\BioWare\Star Wars – The Old Republic (assuming default installation). If you have that file present, you do not need to reinstall the game client.

With that said, some users may notice that their game client folder is much larger than 27 GB on their system. This may be due to having redundant files from previous versions of the client. If you need to clear up space, we recommend completely uninstalling the client and downloading and installing the launch game client. Again, we’ll update this post with more instructions when they’re available.

[Atocep]

So misleading email it is. Glad to hear. My son is jumping into his first MMO at launch with Star Wars (he's played a bit of WoW and that's it) and I didn't want to have to download it on his computer and redownload it on mine.

[GrantDawg]

so is anyone getting the CE? I'm trying to decide between the CE and the digital deluxe


You are going to have a very hard time finding a CE available (been sold out for a good while). As a matter of fact, Walmart cancelled all it CE orders yesterday. The only guess was they didn't actually end up getting enough/any.

[Grover]

There's been a huge number of complaints on the forums about GameStop "running out" of pre-order codes as well, so I'd advise against going through them as well.

[Chubby]

hmm me thinks i'll preorder the digital deluxe when i get home from work tonight

[spleen1015]

Here's a dev post explain the mod system and its history.

http://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=11832962

[GrantDawg]

Here's a dev post explain the mod system and its history.

http://www.swtor.com/community/showthread.php?p=11832962


I saw the orange items in this last weekend and wonder what the changes were. I think they are going in the right direction. Item customization is a nice addition, but reducing it to a few parts instead of several was smart.

[Grover]

I saw some orange items from commendation vendors over Thanksgiving weekend and assumed they were 'epic' or higher quality than the purples. That's an excellent post and explanation on the system. Kudos to the dev for his insight.

[Chubby]

preordered, looking forward to this

[Grover]

Ping: GrantDawg! I was looking for the guildportal site for Dragon Snacks, couldn't find it in here or on our private forums at the SWTOR site. Do you have a link?

[spleen1015]

Here's another sexy picture I found, it is updated from the one I removed a couple of days ago.

Here is a link to a good forum post about Crew Skills as well
http://www.mmo-champion.com/threads/1037886-Professions-Crew-Skills-Guides?p=14538013&viewfull=1#post14538013

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QAhdLutmVM4/TtvZSg_AHTI/AAAAAAAAGPE/RRCStd7u3m8/s1600/SWTOR+Crafting+Chart.png

[GrantDawg]

Ping: GrantDawg! I was looking for the guildportal site for Dragon Snacks, couldn't find it in here or on our private forums at the SWTOR site. Do you have a link?


It is on the frontpage of our private site. But here Dragon Snacks - Beta - Star Wars: The Old Republic - Guild Hosting - Guild Launch (http://dsswtor.guildlaunch.com/?gid=0)

[gkb]

Here's another sexy picture I found, it is updated from the one I removed a couple of days ago.

Here is a link to a good forum post about Crew Skills as well
Professions/Crew Skills Guides? (http://www.mmo-champion.com/threads/1037886-Professions-Crew-Skills-Guides?p=14538013&viewfull=1#post14538013)



Thanks for posting this!

[Grover]

It is on the frontpage of our private site. But here Dragon Snacks - Beta - Star Wars: The Old Republic - Guild Hosting - Guild Launch (http://dsswtor.guildlaunch.com/?gid=0)

I am blind. Thanks!

[Grover]

A bit off topic, but I had to share.

Talent Calculator - Game - World of Warcraft (http://us.battle.net/wow/en/game/mists-of-pandaria/feature/talent-calculator)

Have any of you lot seen this? Warcraft has re-imagined the talent trees and has pretty much done away with the specialization trees for each class. It's an interesting idea, but definitely seems to cater to the casual player.

This confirms that I will never go back to World of Warcraft.

[Chubby]

It is on the frontpage of our private site. But here Dragon Snacks - Beta - Star Wars: The Old Republic - Guild Hosting - Guild Launch (http://dsswtor.guildlaunch.com/?gid=0)

Guessing I have to wait til i get in the game (15th-20th) to join the guild. Planning on a lightside sith.

[Grover]

Guessing I have to wait til i get in the game (15th-20th) to join the guild. Planning on a lightside sith.

Warrior or Inquisitor?

[Chubby]

Warrior or Inquisitor?


Inquisitor - Assassin

May go Sorcerer but with the info I've read so far on the SWTOR pages I'm going assassin. Kind of depends how I like the melee up to lvl 10, I'm usually a ranged guy but I like the stealth too

[Grover]

Pre-orders can now download the game client.

It's telling me there's no active subscription for my account, I've a feeling I'm not the only one.

Found my answer to this... it's because the account hasn't been flagged for early access. Huzzah.

[spleen1015]

Star Wars: The Old Republic | News, Updates, Developer Blogs (http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111207)

Looks like Early Access starts on the 13th instead of the 15th.

[Grover]

So those of you who have pre-ordered and have a ship date after release, you will not be able to play until you have the physical copy of the game in your hands with the CD Key. Stephen Reid has said there will be no grace period for those waiting for their copy.

The SWTOR forum is up in arms in anger, which I find more amusing than anything. Sure it sucks to have a week of early access and I won't be able to play for a week after that, but whatever. It's the holiday season, there's plenty to do.

[Chubby]

Pre-orders can now download the game client.

It's telling me there's no active subscription for my account, I've a feeling I'm not the only one.

Found my answer to this... it's because the account hasn't been flagged for early access. Huzzah.

huh, it's DLing for me

[Surtt]

Star Wars: The Old Republic | News, Updates, Developer Blogs (http://www.swtor.com/news/news-article/20111207)

Looks like Early Access starts on the 13th instead of the 15th.

They are(were) staggering the pre-launch over 5 days.
We were discussing at work how pissed people would be when they learn they do not get in until the 5th day on Monday, having to sit around all weekend while their friends could play. Hopefully they shifted everything up so everyone gets in for the weekend.


So those of you who have pre-ordered and have a ship date after release, you will not be able to play until you have the physical copy of the game in your hands with the CD Key. Stephen Reid has said there will be no grace period for those waiting for their copy.

The SWTOR forum is up in arms in anger, which I find more amusing than anything. Sure it sucks to have a week of early access and I won't be able to play for a week after that, but whatever. It's the holiday season, there's plenty to do.

Without giving any warning so people could get priority shipping?
It is unreasonable to to have zero grace period, even with overnight you would be cut off for a day. I checked on Amazon and with free shipping you would not get the game till after the 27th. I think they will need to back off on this, its their own fault they launched during xmass shipping.

[spleen1015]

SR already said that there would be a grace period and now they are saying there won't be. I think the backlash is going to be huge. There are folks in Red Zone countries that ordered from Amazon US because they were told there would be a grace period.

It doesn't matter to me because I placed my order with Origin and I will have my code on time, but they've made a mistake here.

[Grover]

SR already said that there would be a grace period and now they are saying there won't be. I think the backlash is going to be huge. There are folks in Red Zone countries that ordered from Amazon US because they were told there would be a grace period.

It doesn't matter to me because I placed my order with Origin and I will have my code on time, but they've made a mistake here.

Thread went up at 5:10 eastern about there being no grace period....already at 1900 posts.

[GrantDawg]

So those of you who have pre-ordered and have a ship date after release, you will not be able to play until you have the physical copy of the game in your hands with the CD Key. Stephen Reid has said there will be no grace period for those waiting for their copy.

The SWTOR forum is up in arms in anger, which I find more amusing than anything. Sure it sucks to have a week of early access and I won't be able to play for a week after that, but whatever. It's the holiday season, there's plenty to do.


Glad I bought the digital version. :)

I am also showing the no subscription thing, but the website confirms I have early access. I imagine the no subscription note is the lack CC info for the subscription, and that haven't put up what will allow us to do that yet.

[GrantDawg]

SR already said that there would be a grace period and now they are saying there won't be. I think the backlash is going to be huge. There are folks in Red Zone countries that ordered from Amazon US because they were told there would be a grace period.

It doesn't matter to me because I placed my order with Origin and I will have my code on time, but they've made a mistake here.


Agreed. They are doing their best to shoot themselves in the foot with this.

[Grover]

I think it's a bit suspect that all the European countries are getting shipped around the 13th through Amazon, yet in the US it's not until the 20th or later. I'm really hoping this changes.

[Chubby]

I think it's a bit suspect that all the European countries are getting shipped around the 13th through Amazon, yet in the US it's not until the 20th or later. I'm really hoping this changes.

I think they changed early access to the 13th due to this

[spleen1015]

This game can not get here soon enough.

Hopefully entering my pre-order code about 7 hours after pre-orders went live gets me in on 12/13.

[Grover]

This game can not get here soon enough.

Hopefully entering my pre-order code about 7 hours after pre-orders went live gets me in on 12/13.

I'm with you, the more early access time the better, especially since I won't be able to play for a week after launch because of the shipping fiasco.

[spleen1015]

I'm with you, the more early access time the better, especially since I won't be able to play for a week after launch because of the shipping fiasco.

Hopefully they figure out a solution for that. Folks getting to play early access only to have the game taken away for x number of days really defeats the purpose of Early Access, IMO.

[Grover]

I'm not holding out too much hope. My amazon delivery date is still 27-29th.

At least I'll be able to reserve names for my characters.

[Grover]

http://www.oldrepublic.net/content/attachments/559d1323268717-crew-skills-map.jpg/

Another Crew Skills map

[illinifan999]

I'm wondering how worthwhile crafting will be in this game compared to WoW, especially while leveling. Or if I should just pick up all gathering skills to maximize money.

[Vince, Pt. II]

I'm wondering how worthwhile crafting will be in this game compared to WoW, especially while leveling. Or if I should just pick up all gathering skills to maximize money.

Has anyone noticed/seen if crafting skills can be re-rolled? For example, all gathering skills while leveling, then once you hit max level drop one (or more) of the gathering skills to pick up a crafting skill.

[Grover]

Has anyone noticed/seen if crafting skills can be re-rolled? For example, all gathering skills while leveling, then once you hit max level drop one (or more) of the gathering skills to pick up a crafting skill.

Yes, you can drop a skill and pick something else up.

[Vince, Pt. II]

In that case as long as you don't mind some tedium, gathering while leveling, then switching over to crafting is probably the way to go.

[gkb]

How many skills can you have? How many skills does your crew get to have?

[Grover]

How many skills can you have? How many skills does your crew get to have?

You get three skills. They are shared with your companion, hence why they're called "Crew Skills." You can collect on your own, or send the companions on mission to collect for you.

It's best to send your companions on missions while you're turning in quests or running from place to place.

[Chubby]

How many skills can you have? How many skills does your crew get to have?

3 total, only 1 crafting max tho

[Surtt]

Has anyone heard about their pre-launch start time yet?
If it starts tomorrow they need to let people know.

[spleen1015]

Has anyone heard about their pre-launch start time yet?
If it starts tomorrow they need to let people know.

You'll get an email when your access starts. They're not letting people know ahead of time.

[spleen1015]

Dola,

Good thing is, you don't need to wait for the email. Keep reloading the launcher and your play button will get activated when you have access.

[Surtt]

You'll get an email when your access starts. They're not letting people know ahead of time.

???
What if I wanted to take some time off to play and need to know ahead of time?
These people are asses.

This whole launch seems to be designed to anger as many customers as possible.

[spleen1015]

Depends on your PoV, I guess.

If they send out notifications and shit hits the fan and people don't get to play when they said they could, then there will be lots of pissed off people.

Either way, there will be pissed off people.

[Grover]

So Dragon Snacks Light is on a different server than Dragon Snacks Dark.

[Mustang]

This whole launch seems to be designed to anger as many customers as possible.

Maybe because I'm getting older (or maybe it is because I'm into Skyrim), while I pre-ordered to play earlier whenever I'm allowed to I'm fine with it. I think the only thing they 'owe' me is a December 20th.

Then again, I'm probably in the minority and most people want to take up arms against them.

[GrantDawg]

So Dragon Snacks Light is on a different server than Dragon Snacks Dark.
This whole launch seems to be designed to anger as many customers as possible.

Another example. There is no reason they couldn't put our small, six member pre-registered group with the larger guild. But whatever.

Our server will be "The Jekk'Jekk Tar." We will not be using the server they placed the Light side guild on. If you haven't already, register and log into the guild portal site. The vent server info is in there, and it will be the best way to communicate and get guild invites and such. When i can get a character to level, I'll be creating the light side guild on that server, but the dark side is the main guild anyway.

[Grover]

Another example. There is no reason they couldn't put our small, six member pre-registered group with the larger guild. But whatever.

Our server will be "The Jekk'Jekk Tar." We will not be using the server they placed the Light side guild on. If you haven't already, register and log into the guild portal site. The vent server info is in there, and it will be the best way to communicate and get guild invites and such. When i can get a character to level, I'll be creating the light side guild on that server, but the dark side is the main guild anyway.

Looking forward to it, already sent you a PM on Guild Portal in regards to the Republic side of things. Excited to work with what seems like a good group of folks.

[GrantDawg]

Anybody in yet? I'll probably be a couple of days into the roll-in cycle.

[CleBrownsfan]

I just looked and I didn't pre-order until 8/1... so it's going to be a while for me.