EA and BioWare announced that Star Wars: The Old Republic pre-order has begun today and released first details on the various versions of the game that are currently available for pre-order.

BioWare has also announced special “Beta Test Weekends” starting in September which will be open to selected players worldwide to get a sneak preview of the game. Players who want take part in these weekends should register at www.StarWarsTheOldRepublic.com .

The three editions of Star Wars: The Old Republic are:

Star Wars: The Old Republic Collector’s Edition – The Collector’s Edition includes a host of virtual in-game and physical items for the ultimate Star Wars fan. Physical items include a Darth Malgus Statue from Gentle Giant, the journal of Jedi Master Gnost Dural from Chronicle Books, The Music of The Old Republic soundtrack, a security key and a map of the in-game Star Wars galaxy. Virtual items include a Flare Gun, Training Droid, personal HoloDancer, HoloCam, the STAP vehicle and access to the Collector’s Store, an in-game store with new in-game items exclusively for owners of the Collector’s Edition. The Collector’s Edition will also include 30 days of game time and has an MSRP of $149.99 (USD) at participating retailers.

Star Wars: The Old Republic Digital Deluxe Edition – The Digital Deluxe Edition has an MSRP of $79.99 (USD) and includes 30 days of game time and five virtual items, including the Flare Gun, Training Droid, personal HoloDancer, HoloCam and the STAP vehicle.

Star Wars: The Old Republic Standard Edition – The base edition of the game is available at retailers and online for an MSRP of $59.99 (USD) and includes 30 days of game time.

For more information on Star Wars: The Old Republic, pre-order details and special editions, visit www.starwarstheoldrepublic.com