'Star Wars: The Old Republic' Special Editions announced

Star Wars: The Old Republic is now available for pre-order, Electronic Arts has announced.

The Collector's Edition and Standard Editions are available now at participating retailers, while the Digital Deluxe Edition is exclusive to download service Origin.

Pre-order users will receive early access to Star Wars: The Old Republic before its official launch, as well as an in-game colour stone to change weapon effects.

It was also announced that beta tests will run starting September for selected players worldwide, and that Star Wars: The Old Republic would release in 2011.

"We are targeting Star Wars: The Old Republic to be one of the biggest launches in the second half of 2011," said BioWare general manager and co-founder Dr Ray Muzyka.

"Our teams at BioWare and EA, along with our partners at LucasArts, are laser-focused on creating a high-quality game, but just as importantly, they are resolute in delivering a high-quality service.

"We are taking all of the necessary steps to make sure The Old Republic has a thriving community built on a stable online foundation from day one, including limiting supply at launch to ensure that players easily transition into the servers."

Star Wars: The Old Republic was originally scheduled for early 2011, and was later confirmed by Electronic Arts to release by the end of the year. However, rumours have suggested it could still slip into 2012.

> Preview: Star Wars: The Old Republic
> Interview: BioWare's James Ohlen on Star Wars: The Old Republic

Watch Star Wars: The Old Republic's E3 2010 trailer below: