Welcome to the Reckoning FAQ page! Here we address some of the most common questions about Star Wars Galaxies, Reckoning, and how you can start your journey back to the world of Pre-CU SWG. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new player, this guide will help you understand the server setup, how to connect, and much more.
What is Star Wars Galaxies?
Star Wars Galaxies (SWG) was a groundbreaking MMORPG set in the Star Wars universe, originally developed by Sony Online Entertainment and published by LucasArts. It was first released in June 2003 for Microsoft Windows PCs, with the game being made available to players across multiple regions, including North America, Europe, Japan, and Australia. The base game, titled Star Wars Galaxies: An Empire Divided, was expanded upon with three major expansions over its lifespan.
The game was beloved for its deep mechanics, player-driven economy, and vast universe, allowing players to explore iconic planets, fight in galactic battles, and even create their own businesses. However, after a series of updates, the game underwent drastic changes, particularly the Combat Upgrade (CU) in 2005, which many fans felt altered the game in a negative way. On June 24th, 2011, Sony announced that the game would be officially shut down on December 15, 2011, ending an era of Star Wars MMORPG adventures.
What is Star Wars Galaxies Pre-CU and Why Bring it Back?
The term Pre-CU refers to the version of Star Wars Galaxies that existed before the Combat Upgrade (CU) patch was introduced. The Pre-CU version of the game is highly regarded by many SWG fans, as it offered a more intricate, sandbox-style gameplay experience. This version focused heavily on exploration, crafting, and social interaction, with a robust system for player-run towns, businesses, and player-driven economies. The combat system was slower, more methodical, and included a broader variety of skills, allowing players to truly customize their character’s abilities and playstyle.
When the CU was implemented, it streamlined many aspects of gameplay, including combat, and introduced a more action-oriented system. While the CU and later changes were meant to appeal to a wider audience, many long-time fans felt that these changes led to the loss of the game’s original charm. The shift resulted in the game’s decline, and ultimately, the decision to shut down the servers.
At SWG Reckoning, our mission is to bring back the Pre-CU Star Wars Galaxies experience. We believe that the Pre-CU version represents the pinnacle of SWG, and it remains a cherished part of gaming history. Our goal is to recreate that experience, free from the interruptions of later changes, and offer players a chance to relive the nostalgia of the original game.
Which Server Emulator Do You Run?
We run a customized version of SWGEmu’s Core3. SWGEmu is an open-source project that aims to recreate the original Star Wars Galaxies experience by reverse-engineering the game’s server code. This project has allowed communities like ours to keep the legacy of SWG alive, and our team at Reckoning has made several custom adjustments to improve performance and ensure the best possible experience for players.
By running a customized SWGEmu version, we ensure that the server runs smoothly, providing all the unique features that made Pre-CU SWG special, including the original combat mechanics, crafting, and social systems.
Is Running a Star Wars Galaxies Server Legal?
Yes, running a Star Wars Galaxies private server is legal as long as no proprietary code from the original Sony Online Entertainment servers is used. At SWG Reckoning, we do not use any original server code written by Sony. Instead, all of our code is developed from scratch by the SWGEmu team and is licensed under the GNU Affero General Public License (AGPL). This open-source license ensures that we are legally compliant while preserving the integrity and spirit of the original game.
How Do I Connect to Your Server?
To play on SWG Reckoning, you will need a copy of the original Star Wars Galaxies client. Specifically, you will need one of the following versions: An Empire Divided, The Total Experience, or The Complete Online Adventures. These versions of the game are still available for purchase from several online retailers.
Once you have your game client, follow the instructions provided in our detailed guide on how to connect to our server. The process is straightforward and should not take much time to complete.
How Do I Make an Account?
Creating an account is easy. Our website account system is integrated with the game server, so when you register on the website, you’ll also be able to log in to the game using the same credentials. Simply visit our website and register on the front page or click on the registration link to create your account.
You will need a valid email address to complete the registration, and be sure to remember your login credentials, as they are required each time you log in to play.
How Many Accounts Can I Have?
Each player is allowed to have one account. This account grants you access to 8 character slots, allowing you to create and play multiple characters on the same account. Additionally, you can have up to two characters logged in at the same time.
Exceptions are made for family members, roommates, and others living in the same household. If you need to create additional accounts for others in your household, please let us know through the form provided on our website, and we will make an exception for your account.
How Do I Report a Bug, Open a Support Ticket, or Make a Suggestion?
If you encounter any bugs, technical issues, or have suggestions for improving SWG Reckoning, you can easily report them by visiting our Support System. Simply click on the “Add New Ticket” button and fill out the necessary details. Make sure to be as descriptive as possible about the issue or suggestion you’re submitting, so our team can provide the best possible assistance.
Will You Ever Wipe the Server?
We do not plan to ever wipe the server. SWG Reckoning is intended to be a permanent home for the Star Wars Galaxies Pre-CU experience. While server wipes are sometimes necessary for technical reasons, we are committed to providing a stable, long-term environment for our community to enjoy. Unless a catastrophic event occurs, we plan to maintain the server indefinitely.