Star Wars: The Old Republic Update 7.6: Galactic Threads Launching in December
The next major update for Star Wars: The Old Republic (SWTOR), Game Update 7.6, is set to launch in early December. The update brings a mix of new content, quality-of-life improvements, and technical enhancements, along with updates to PvP and the continuation of the game’s storyline with “Galactic Threads.”
Galactic Threads Storyline
The new story chapter picks up after the events of Desperate Defiance. Players will pursue Darth Malgus while unraveling the mysteries of Darth Nul’s holocron and the Hidden Chain’s ambitions. Familiar faces such as Lana Beniko, Major Anri, and Talos Drellik return as players venture across Hoth, Tatooine, and the temple ruins on Elom.
However, the SWTOR team has announced a delay for this storyline to ensure it meets their quality standards. While this chapter remains in development, other parts of Update 7.6 will launch as planned.
Dynamic Encounters and New Lair Boss
One of the biggest additions is Dynamic Encounters, a new world content system designed to make planets feel more alive. These encounters will debut on Hoth and Tatooine, offering players spontaneous missions ranging from herding Banthas to battling Hidden Chain forces. Special Hidden Chain Invasions will yield unique armor pieces, and a rare Freckled Loth-cat mini pet is up for grabs.
Update 7.6 will also introduce the Propagator Core XR-53, a new Rakatan lair boss originating from the wreckage of the Emperor’s Fortress on Ilum. Available in Story and Veteran modes, this encounter promises significant challenges and rewards for players.
Cartel Market and Cosmetics Updates
Update 7.6 includes several Cartel Market additions:
- Remote Trading Post Bundle: Inspired by Galaxy’s Edge, this bundle features repairable decorations that players can upgrade by completing missions.
- Skeleton Crew Cosmetics: New armor, weapons, and dyes are arriving, including the Mysterious Rogue and Fearless Buccaneer sets.
- Long Hair Customization: A new hairstyle will be available for free to all players.
- Dyes will also see a permanent 50% price reduction.
The Master the Fight: Starbolt Edition Bundle launches on November 15 for $99.99, including subscription time, Cartel Coins, and an exclusive mount.
PvP Season 7: Path to Mastery
The PvP season brings new armors, titles, and decorations themed around “Path to Mastery.” Notable changes include reducing Warzone group sizes from eight to four players and disabling level 75 Set Bonuses in PvP matches.
Modernization and Accessibility Efforts
Game Update 7.6 introduces updates to planets such as Tython, Korriban, and Ilum, along with improved character models for several species. These updates aim to enhance visual fidelity while retaining the distinctiveness of each character. Additionally, inactive character names will be freed up, and subscribers won’t need to take action to retain their names.
Life Day and Seasonal Events
The winter-themed Life Day event returns in mid-December with new rewards, including the Tirsa G1-F7 Mount and Life Day Ornate Robes. Players can also look forward to a new Companion Mount feature that combines mounts with mini pets, such as the Meirm Cicada Mount, available free for subscribers between November 29 and January 4.
Looking Ahead
With a mix of dynamic content, storyline updates, and community-focused changes, Game Update 7.6 reflects SWTOR’s continued efforts to modernize the game and engage its long-time fanbase. While the “Galactic Threads” storyline delay may disappoint some players, the wide array of new features promises plenty of fresh adventures in a galaxy far, far away.
Those interested in SWTOR can check it out for free as the game is technically free to play, but more dedicated players will need to pay up to access all the content.
Further Reading: Official Blog Post