Early Access to Star Wars: The Old Republic Begins Today

The Saga has begun for one of the most anticipated titles in recent history.

Early access for those who pre-ordered The Old Republic has commenced as of 12pm GMT today. The MMORPG goes live on December 20, 2011 for the rest of North America and Europe.

To deal with the wave of millions of early-birds, the ‘Early Game Access program’ will help manage server volumes and will try and smooth the day-one experience. In order to be a part of the Early Game Access program, you must have pre-ordered Star Wars: The Old Republic and then redeem your code at http://www.swtor.com/preorder/code.

“The Old Republic blends the best of breed features from the MMO space and adds significant innovations, resulting in an emotionally engaging online experience where you have a clear, meaningful purpose,” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, General Manager of EA’s BioWare label and Co-Founder of BioWare. “Our Beta testers have told us we have truly captured the magic of the Star Wars™ universe and changed what they expect from an MMO. The Old Republic team is incredibly excited, honored and humbled to provide early access to our pre-order customers today. This is just the beginning of a grand adventure together!”

The game is set thousands of years before the classic films and players will be asked to join forces with either the Galactic Republic or Sith Empire and choose one of eight the iconic Star Wars characters: Jedi Knight, Jedi Consular, Smuggler, Trooper, Bounty Hunter, Imperial Agent, Sith Inquisitor, or Sith Warrior.

Every copy of Star Wars: The Old Republic includes 30 days of access to the game, after which players must pay $14.99 per month, $41.97 for 3 months (equating to $13.99 per month), or $77.94 for six months (equating to $12.99 per month).