The vast universe of Star Wars is not just limited to the movies that have graced our screens over the decades. It extends to TV shows, books, comics, and, notably, video games. One of the most influential and beloved video game contributions to the Star Wars universe is the “Star Wars: The Old Republic” series. However, with the ever-evolving nature of Star Wars canon, where does “The Old Republic” stand? Let’s delve into its canonical status.
The Old Republic: A Brief Overview
Before diving into its canonical status, it’s essential to understand what “The Old Republic” entails. Set thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire, this era is rich with lore, detailing the battles between the Sith and the Jedi, the intricacies of the Galactic Republic, and the personal stories of countless characters. The MMORPG “Star Wars: The Old Republic” and its predecessor, the single-player RPGs “Knights of the Old Republic” I & II, are the primary sources of information about this era.
Canon vs. Legends: The Distinction
In 2014, Lucasfilm made a significant decision regarding the Star Wars universe. To pave the way for a new wave of Star Wars content without being bound by the vast expanded universe, they rebranded most of the existing non-film material as “Legends.” This move meant that only the movies and a select few other materials (like the “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” series) remained canonical. Everything else, including “The Old Republic” games, was moved to the “Legends” category.
The Old Republic in Current Canon
While “The Old Republic” games and their events are technically classified under “Legends,” it doesn’t mean they’ve been forgotten or entirely excluded from current canon. Over the years, there have been subtle nods and references to the era in various canonical Star Wars content. These hints keep the door ajar for the potential inclusion of “The Old Republic” elements in future canonical works.
The Future of The Old Republic in Canon
Given the immense popularity and rich storytelling of “The Old Republic” era, many fans hope to see it reintroduced into official canon. While there’s no confirmation from Lucasfilm about any such plans, the Star Wars universe is vast and ever-expanding. With new movies, series, and other content continuously in the works, the possibility remains that “The Old Republic” could find its way back into the heart of Star Wars canon.
Conclusion
The Star Wars: The Old Republic” era, with its deep lore and memorable characters, holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. While currently residing in the “Legends” category, its influence is undeniable, and its potential return to official canon remains a hope for many. As the Star Wars universe continues to grow, only time will tell where “The Old Republic” will stand in the grand tapestry of this iconic galaxy far, far away.
FAQ: The Old Republic Era in Star Wars
1. What is “The Old Republic” in Star Wars?
- The Old Republic” refers to a period in the Star Wars universe set thousands of years before the events of the original films. It’s an era rich with lore, detailing the battles between the Sith and the Jedi and the intricacies of the Galactic Republic.
2. How is “The Old Republic” different from the movies?
- While the movies focus on the Skywalker saga and the rise and fall of the Galactic Empire, “The Old Republic” delves into an ancient time where the Sith and Jedi orders are both at their peak, leading to epic galactic conflicts.
3. Are the events of “The Old Republic” considered canon?
- As of now, “The Old Republic” games and their events are classified under the “Legends” category, meaning they are not considered official canon. However, there have been subtle nods to this era in canonical Star Wars content.
4. What are the main sources of information about “The Old Republic”?
- The primary sources are the MMORPG “Star Wars: The Old Republic” and its predecessor, the single-player RPGs “Knights of the Old Republic” I & II.
5. Why was “The Old Republic” moved to the “Legends” category?
- In 2014, Lucasfilm decided to rebrand most of the existing non-film Star Wars material as “Legends” to pave the way for new content without being bound by the vast expanded universe.
6. Are there any plans to reintroduce “The Old Republic” into canon?
- While there’s no official confirmation from Lucasfilm, the Star Wars universe is vast and ever-evolving. Given the era’s popularity, there’s always a possibility for its elements to be reintroduced in future canonical works.
7. What are some iconic characters from “The Old Republic” era?
- Some of the most notable characters include Darth Revan, Darth Malak, Bastila Shan, and the Jedi Exile, among others.
8. How does “The Old Republic” era impact the broader Star Wars universe?
- While it’s set millennia before the films, the events, characters, and philosophies introduced in “The Old Republic” have shaped the foundations of the Force, the Sith, and the Jedi, influencing many aspects of the Star Wars universe we’re familiar with.
9. Are there any other materials, like books or comics, that explore “The Old Republic”?
- Yes, there are several books, comics, and other materials that delve into stories from this era, though they are also considered part of the “Legends” category.
10. Where can I play or experience “The Old Republic” stories?
- The “Knights of the Old Republic” games are available on various platforms, and the MMORPG “Star Wars: The Old Republic” can be played on PC.