Star Wars: The Old Republic Expansion Announced
Executive Producer Keith Kanneg detailed the upcoming 8.0 update and Masters of the Force era for the game.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in eSports
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Executive Producer Keith Kanneg has revealed the new Masters of the Force era and the 8.0 content update for Star Wars: The Old Republic. This major release concludes the Legacy of the Sith expansion and introduces a level cap increase to 85.
Why it matters
The transition to DirectX 12 aims to resolve long-standing interface obstacles while providing a more robust foundation for future game development. This technical upgrade allows the team to implement new features like the Galaxy in Chaos storyline.
The 8.0 update increases the level cap to 85 and introduces the new Children of Nul Operation. The development team successfully ported the interface to DirectX 12 to support these expanded technical requirements.
The players
Keith Kanneg
He serves as the Executive Producer for Star Wars: The Old Republic and frequently communicates development roadmaps to the player base.
The details
The update brings significant content additions including the Galaxy in Chaos storyline and Ryloth as a new playable world with Dynamic Encounters. Additional features arriving in the 8.0 cycle include new difficulty modes alongside Classic and Expert Ventures.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Executive Producer's Letter was released.
Season Trajectory
The transition to the DirectX 12 API updates the game's core engine to match modern industry standards. This technological shift secures the game's long-term viability by providing necessary headroom for future engine-heavy content releases.
Subscribers currently have access to the Public Test Server to experience the new content and system changes firsthand. Players can prepare for the level 85 cap increase by evaluating how the new combat style adjustments fit their current character builds.
The takeaway
The move to DirectX 12 serves as a critical infrastructure update that clears technical hurdles for future gameplay additions. Players should utilize the ongoing Public Test Server sessions to familiarize themselves with the new Difficulty Modes and level cap changes.
What happens next
The development team will continue to roll out Public Test Server content for subscriber testing over an extended period before the full 8.0 launch.
Further reading
For more news on the competitive landscape and updates, visit the /sports/esports/ section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MMORPG.
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