April 23rd, 2004 (12:00am) - Knights of the Old Republic, arguably the best game available for Microsoft’s Xbox console is receiving a sequel courtesy of Obsidian. Bioware will not be responsible for the development of the title; since the developer is currently deep in development with the Xbox exclusive Jade Empire, but they will overlook the development of KotOR II.
The sequel, subtitled The Sith Lords takes place five years after the events in the original… The Republic is in shambles after the Jedi Civil War and Darth Malak’s horrors. The Jedi order has disbanded and in the game you play as a Jedi who has been exiled.
The decision to have the game take place five years after the events of the original, and not immediately after, was to ensure that two completely different experiences can be enjoyed without the events of one ruining the other, due to the fact that both games are heavily based on the player’s personal choice in specific events.
In the sequel the Ebon Hawk returns as well as the two droids from the original (Yes, HK-47 is back!). It has also been mentioned that it’s possible that other key characters from the original may make an appearance as well. However, their role in the game will be small. The Sith Lords will also feature seven planets with only Dantooine reappearing from the original.
Now, what about Revan?
Lead Designer Chris Avellone says, “About a year after 1, Revan took off to the Unknown regions and hasn’t been heard of since. Reven does have a specific fate, and it will be revealed in Sith Lords”
Avelleno also mentioned that a lightsaber will not be accessible from the beginning of the game; players will have to work for it. In addition weapons in the game are being “leveled out” to balance out the damage delivered by a lightsaber compared to a Wookie Bowcaster.
Of course, Dark and Light side points return. However, other characters in the game will be affected by the path you choose to follow.
”You’re not the only one getting dark/light side points. Some companions idolize you, and if you slip to the dark side they will too. Or if they don’t like you, the opposite happens. So treat that droid with respect buddy if you want his help. The fate of the universe may depend on it.” Said Avelleno.
Producer Micheal Gallo mentioned that “We don’t want KotOR 1 players to think were reusing stuff. [The Sith Lords] will have new armor, species, lightsaber colors, characters, and planets. It will still maintain that classic KotOR feel though.
The Sith Lords will feature ten playable characters such as Kreia an old Jedi, the 2 droids, and a man named Atton Rand.
Other details reveal that the game’s visuals will only be slightly updated over its predecessor and that players WILL NOT be able to upload characters from the original Knights of the Old Republic. In addition the new classes in the game have been revealed, which are…:
Light side
Jedi Master: Wise in the force.
Jedi Watchmen: Watcher of space sectors and specific planets
Jedi Weapons Master: A killing machine with all the moves for butt kicking
Dark side
Sith Lord: corrupts will and minds.
Sith Marauder: Anger. Hate. Channel these to become the ultimate warrior
Sith Assassian: Strikes from Shadows.
New force powers included in the game are Dark Side Rage and Meditation and Light Side Force Sight (See through walls) and Force Clairvoyance (which gives players insight into the future).
Expect more details at the forthcoming E3. The Sith Lords is scheduled for release for the both the Xbox and PC
