According to IGN, MMORPG Star Wars: The Old Republic will soon go third-party. EA, the game’s publisher, wants developer BioWare to focus their efforts on Mass Effect and Dragon Age. Third-party studio Broadsword Online looks to take over the reins 12 years after the Star Wars game debuted.
Electronic Arts has released the following statement regarding the news:
“Almost 12 years after launch, Star Wars: The Old Republic remains a success and continues to grow its dedicated and passionate community. We’re so proud of the work the team has done, and the future of the game and the community continues to be very bright. We’re evaluating how we give the game and the team the best opportunity to grow and evolve, which includes conversations with Broadsword, a boutique studio that specializes in delivering online, community-driven experiences. Our goal is to do what is best for the game and its players.”
While the deal is not yet finalized, EA and Broadsword have signed a letter of intent regarding the deal, and it could be finalized this month. Former Mythic Entertainment co-founder and BioWare VP Rob Denton runs Broadsword Online and also worked on Star Wars: The Old Republic in its early days.
The Old Republic reached the milestone of $1 billion in lifetime revenue last year, proving that there is still considerable interest in the game. Further updates and content releases are planned, and EA will continue to be the game’s publisher.
