Star Wars Galaxies: An Empire Divided was a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the Star Wars universe. Developed by Sony Online Entertainment and published by LucasArts, the game was released in 2003 and was actively played until its closure in 2011.
Set in the time period between the prequel trilogy and the original trilogy of the Star Wars films, An Empire Divided allowed players to create their own characters and explore the galaxy as members of various professions such as bounty hunters, smugglers, and Jedi Knights. The game featured a wide array of planets and locations from the Star Wars universe, including Tatooine, Hoth, and Coruscant, as well as original locations such as the city-planet of Coronet on Corellia.
An Empire Divided was notable for its extensive character customization options and its player-driven economy, which allowed players to craft and sell items to one another. The game also featured a wide range of activities for players to engage in, including space combat, creature taming, and player-versus-player (PvP) combat.
However, despite its popularity, An Empire Divided faced a number of challenges over the course of its eight-year run. In 2005, the game underwent a major overhaul with the release of the “New Game Enhancements” (NGE), which significantly changed the gameplay mechanics and sparked controversy among the player base. In 2011, LucasArts announced that it would be shutting down the game as part of a restructuring of its online gaming division.
The closure of An Empire Divided was met with disappointment and sadness by many of its dedicated players, who had formed a strong sense of community within the game. Despite attempts by some fans to keep the game alive through private servers, the official servers were shut down on December 15, 2011, marking the end of an era for one of the most iconic MMORPGs of the 2000s.
While the closure of An Empire Divided marked the end of an era for Star Wars fans, the legacy of the game lives on through its passionate player base and the memories of those who experienced its vast and immersive universe.
FAQ
When did Star Wars Galaxies officially close?
Star Wars Galaxies officially closed on December 15, 2011. The closure was marked by a significant in-game event that brought the game’s story and community activities to a fitting conclusion.
Why was Star Wars Galaxies shut down?
The closure of Star Wars Galaxies was primarily due to the expiration of the licensing agreement between Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) and LucasArts. Additionally, the impending release of BioWare’s Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR) played a role, as it was believed many players would transition to the new MMO.
What was the final event in Star Wars Galaxies?
The final event in Star Wars Galaxies was a “galaxy-ending event” designed to give players a memorable send-off. This event included large-scale battles and significant in-game activities to provide closure to the players and celebrate the community one last time.
Were there any special offers for Star Wars Galaxies players after the closure?
Yes, Sony Online Entertainment offered players with active accounts access to several other SOE games for free from October 15 to December 31, 2011. These included titles like Free Realms, Star Wars: Clone Adventures, EverQuest I and II, and DC Universe Online.
How did the Star Wars Galaxies community react to the closure?
The community reaction was mixed, with many expressing sadness and nostalgia for the game that had been part of their lives for years. The final in-game event saw a high turnout, as players gathered to experience the game one last time and bid farewell to friends and the virtual world they had grown to love.
Is there any way to play Star Wars Galaxies today?
While the official servers are no longer available, dedicated fans have created private servers and emulator projects to keep the game alive. These projects aim to recreate the original game experience and maintain the community spirit of Star Wars Galaxies.
What impact did the closure of Star Wars Galaxies have on the MMO landscape?
The closure of Star Wars Galaxies marked the end of an era for many long-time MMO players. It highlighted the challenges faced by legacy MMOs in maintaining player bases amidst new game releases and evolving gaming trends. The transition also underscored the importance of community and player-driven content in the longevity of MMOs.
