A press release for you buffs this fine morning, not to mention some tantalising images, too:

LucasArts Entertainment Company LLC today announced its upcoming role playing game (RPG), Star Wars(R) Knights of the Old Republic(TM), will debut on the Xbox(TM) video game system this fall and release on early 2003. Developed by Corp., the dramatic game features an original story set some 4,000 years prior to the timeframe of the Star Wars films in an era dominated by an epic conflict between the Jedi and the evil Sith.

"Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic will be available on two dynamic platforms, and PC, both of which are perfectly suited for the incredibly compelling and high role playing experience this game will offer," said Simon Jeffery, president of LucasArts. "As always, LucasArts' goal is to determine the best platform fit for each game. In this case, BioWare's tremendous expertise in the PC genre makes that platform an ideal showcase for the game, while an Xbox version provides a great opportunity for to establish the first major RPG franchise on that platform."

"BioWare has been fortunate to develop role playing games that have been well received over the years," said Ray Muzyka, BioWare's joint CEO and co-executive producer of Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic. "In Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic, we'll be able to bring BioWare's strengths -- engaging story development, striking art and animation style, and rewarding character -- to the Star Wars universe in a way that will deliver an amazing game play experience."

Added Greg Zeschuk, BioWare's other joint CEO and co-executive producer, "The Xbox and PC are both fantastic game machines, and the development team is committed to pushing the boundaries of both platforms to make Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic the best role playing game possible."

Additional information about Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic can be found on the LucasArts web site, here.

By Luke Guttridge