Skip to main content

E3 2012: Bioware announces new Star Wars: The Old Republic content, limited free play

Star Wars: The Old Republic is getting some new content for players to explore, as well as a couple of changes to PvP, levels caps and character transfers. Bioware announced this and more during the EA press conference at E3 2012 in Los Angeles.

The changes include a new version of the hardcore difficulty mode for veterans, group finders, ranked PvP and increased level caps. In terms of content, Bioware is adding a new planet centered around the Hutt cartel, which will feature a number of new missions and a new companion. A new species, the Cathar, is being added as well.

Recommended Videos

Bioware’s other big announcement is that starting in July, everyone can play The Old Republic up to level 15 for free. The MMO has lost members in recent months, and it’s clear that EA and Bioware are trying World of Warcraft’s free-to-play model for early levels.

Scott Younker
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Binge, a new gaming content service, to be revealed at E3
Binge's homepage.

More details about Binge, a new streaming service aimed at gamers, will be revealed at E3, according to Forbes. The platform, which calls itself "the future of gaming entertainment," will reportedly contain original content featuring popular gaming franchises and characters.

Rather than trying to compete with Twitch and other livestreaming platforms, Binge aims to attract viewers who want "premium-level" series and shorts based on their favorite games. The platform will be free and available to watch on smartphones, gaming consoles, desktop computers, and TVs.

Read more
Nintendo announces its E3 plans, including a 40-minute Direct
Breath of the Wild 2 Zelda and Link

Nintendo has finally revealed its E3 2021 plans. The company's strategy this year is largely the same as it has been in previous years, with a main Direct presentation and a Treehouse stream featuring demos afterward.

While this year's E3 is different than previous installments thanks to the move to all-digital, not much is changing for Nintendo. The company has long ditched physical presentations in favor of digital showcases, so it's right at home with the format change.

Read more
E3 2021 is officially a free, all-digital event featuring Nintendo, Microsoft, more
E3 2020 contingency plans

The ESA finally revealed the first official details about E3 2021 after months of rumors. The show will be all-digital in 2021 and feature many major gaming studios -- and some notable absences.

E3 2021 will take place from June 12 to June 15 as originally scheduled. While the ESA danced around whether or not the show would be in-person, today it officially confirmed a full digital pivot. The ESA previously said that the event would be a "reimagined" version of the show.

Read more