It is no secret that Star Wars has captured the imaginations of millions of fans across the globe. The plight of the Rebel Alliance, the noble Jedi and vile Sith, and the exciting dog fights in space all contribute to a sci-fi universe that spawned more books and video games than most intellectual properties can even dream about. The Old Republic, for example, only uses the basic framework of the universe and sends us far into the past, yet it still captures the heart of what Star Wars is.
Roleplayers use this setting and take it to the next level by creating their own stories within it. With such a wide open universe, there is plenty of room for these stories. But what makes Star Wars such a fantastic setting for roleplayers and non-roleplayers alike? Jump past the cut to find out how.
There is frequent debate on how to categorize Star Wars: Is it a fantasy series or is it a sci-fi series? Science Fiction is defined as “a form of fiction that draws imaginatively on scientific knowledge and speculation in its plot, setting, theme, etc. “ which would include Star Wars as it deals with advanced technology that (we hope) would be plausible in the distant future. But then we have the Force and the mystical elements of the Jedi and Sith Orders that swing us way back into the realm of fantasy. These two elements have fit into one universe so well that it makes it extremely difficult to categorize Star Wars, leaving it to occupy a spot between the two.
But it is exactly this spot between fantasy and sci-fi that allows it to appeal to so many fans. Those interested in the hero’s journey and the battle between good and evil have a backlog of stories about Jedi struggling with the responsibility of their powers, corrupted Sith hunting down the light in the galaxy, and good triumphing over evil in the end. Han Solo dealing with gangsters, Hutts and the seedier elements of the galaxy while still managing to prove he has a heart of gold. The Old Republic offers us the tale of the Bounty Hunter, the Sith Inquisitor and even the not-so-lowly Trooper to round out the possibilities.
Darth Vader is an excellent example of this blend. His body was rebuilt after being nearly burnt to cinders in a lava flow, leaving him more machine than man and encased permanently in a terrifying suit. Yet he still remains a master of lightsaber combat and Force techniques, using them in battle and to crush the windpipes of unfortunate Imperial officers. Each element plays into another without being ludicrous or unbelievable, thus creating one of the most iconic villains of our time.
Roleplayers find themselves with as many possibilities as there are stars in the galaxy. Fantastic creatures and advanced technology lend itself to an ideal setting for those seeking any variety of stories. Of course, the ideal setting does not only apply to Star Wars. The Old Republic era is one that is ripe for roleplayers to spread their wings and could be considered the ideal setting within.
The Old Republic era, which includes not only SWTOR but KOTOR 1 & 2 but a span of thousands of years yet to be filled in by authors gives fans the space to breathe outside of the many political and galaxy wide events that made up the Clone Wars, Rebellion and New Republic eras. Entire family histories with the Jedi Order can be added without reprise. Perhaps a grandfather or aunt was on the Jedi Council once? Or perhaps your Bounty Hunter was descended from one of the Mandalores? Be wary not to fall into the trap of making your character too important: A title is nice, but if it is all you have then you run the risk of driving off people. Otherwise, there is nothing wrong with improvising with the space you are given.
Star Wars and The Old Republic offer us something unique: Not only is it a excellent blend between sci-fi and fantasy elements, but it offers us a setting that we can imagine ourselves in, roleplayer or otherwise. Bioware offers us the chance to make choices along with their story, but the stars are the limit when it comes to this universe. So go forth and forge your own story, Junkie Nation. May the Force be with you, and may you always have a good blaster at your side.
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