Star Wars: The Old Republic - Trooper and Smuggler

 From here on out, we will be looking at each of The Old Republic’s classes and planets in-depth; starting with the Trooper and Smuggler classes.

Trooper:

Troopers in The Old Republic are not your typical grunts. They are more equipped, better trained, and never shirk their duty. They can tank, which is very unusual for a ranged class, and do some major damage should the situation call for it. The Trooper’s Advanced Classes hone one of those abilities to the highest degree, depending on which you choose:

Vanguard: Vanguards can wear the heaviest types of armor available to the Republic, and combined with their advanced survivability training, they are the ideal tank for any group situation. Considering that they can hold the enemies aggro from a distance, I think it would be safe to assume that they would excellent at kiting melee opponents while maintaining aggro.

Commando: Need something blown up? Bring in a Commando! While they cannot wear the highest quality armor like their Vanguard counterparts, they can wield the most powerful blasters available. Heavy blasters combined with a myriad of explosives makes the Commando a one-man wrecking team that even the Sith would do well to fear.

Starship: BT-7 Thunderclap

The Old Republic site describes the BT-7 Thunderclap as “the Republic’s largest and most elite rapid assault ship—streamlined for fast deployment in combat situations”. Built by Rendili Hyperworks, the Thunderclap is a somewhat bulky ship, but still sleek enough to be maneuverable. Its interior is designed with the same no-nonsense feel that the Trooper carries himself with. This is not a luxury ship, but a military vessel, and so appropriate accommodations like a tactical meeting room are present.

Known Companion: Tanno Vik

Republic records describe Tanno Vik as “one of the most talented demolitions experts to ever serve in the Republic military”. Born on the lawless Nar Shaddaa, the Weequay viewed enrolling in the Republic military as a means to further his own ends. In the academy, Vik displayed his talent in demolitions and nearly landed himself a position in the Special Forces division; but his attitude and disregard for authority held him back. He was eventually discharged from the Republic military after being convicted of running a protection racket while stationed on Talay. Now, Tanno Vik offers his services as a mercenary.

Smuggler:

The Smuggler class is Bioware’s attempt to fulfill the Han Solo fantasy we’ve all had at one point or another in The Old Republic. Smugglers live life by their own rules, even if that means making a few extra enemies in the process. They are not afraid to skirt the bounds of the law, if not break the law entirely. Gameplay-wise, they are one of the only classes (save for the Imperial Agent) in The Old Republic that can take advantage of cover, and can specialize in either healing or DPS.

Gunslinger: With his two trusty blasters as his side, the Gunslinger is ready and willing to resolve any conflict with “aggressive negotiations”. They can shoot out your legs, blind you, and generally make your life miserable. If you value your life or your limbs, do your best to avoid dueling a gunslinger.

Scoundrel: The Scoundrel always shoots first, whether it be with his blaster pistol or scattergun. He is also equipped with a stealth belt, and can sneak into and out of sticky situations without much trouble. Finally, the Scoundrel is always sure to keep a med pack with him at all times, just in case things become a little too nasty.

Starship: XS Freighter

The Corellian XS Freighter is without question the Millennium Falcon of The Old Republic. It is designed as a sleek and nimble ship that can outrun just about anything. On the inside, the ship is very utilitarian, but also comfortable enough to live on for extended periods of time. It is also equipped with a number of hidden storage compartments for transporting those less than legal wares.

Known Companion: Bowdaar

Bowdaar is a fierce gladiatorial fighter that has never lost a match in the 100 years that he has been forced to fight in the arenas. As a Wookiee, he already possessed incredible strength, but combined with his combat skills, he is practically unstoppable. It is unknown how he came to be a slave to begin with, or how he will become the Smuggler’s companion, but one thing is certain; Bowdaar will be a very nice companion to have in a pinch.


Next: In-depth look at The Old Republic's Jedi Knight and Jedi Consular classes