A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, a beloved video game franchise known as Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) captivated Star Wars fans with its compelling characters, rich world-building, and epic storylines. While the KOTOR games were set thousands of years before the events of the Star Wars films, many elements from this revered series have made their way into official Star Wars canon. In this article, we’ll take a nostalgic journey and explore 20 KOTOR characters, planets, and events that continue to shape the Star Wars universe to this day.
Revan – The Jedi Savior:
Reviled by some and revered by others, Revan remains one of the most iconic characters in Star Wars history. Once a Jedi Knight who turned to the dark side, Revan later redeemed themselves and became a symbol of hope and redemption.
Bastila Shan – The Battle Meditation Master:
Bastila Shan, a powerful Jedi Knight known for her unique battle meditation abilities, played a pivotal role in both KOTOR games. Her presence is still felt in Star Wars canon, with references to her throughout various media.
Malak – The Fallen Apprentice:
Darth Malak, Revan’s former Sith apprentice turned Dark Lord of the Sith, exemplifies the dangers of succumbing to the temptations of the dark side. His legacy is intertwined with Revan’s and continues to influence the galaxy.
Darth Bane – The Sith Lord:
Although not directly featured in the KOTOR games, the Sith Lord Darth Bane, who implemented the Rule of Two for the Sith, was inspired by the game series. Bane’s influence resonates throughout Star Wars lore, shaping the Sith Order for centuries to come.
Dantooine – A Beacon of Jedi Training:
Dantooine, a serene and peaceful planet featured prominently in KOTOR, served as a refuge for Jedi and a training ground for young Padawans. The planet’s importance to the Jedi Order is acknowledged in Star Wars canon.
Korriban – The Homeworld of the Sith:
Korriban, the ancestral homeworld of the Sith, plays a significant role in KOTOR as the final testing ground for Jedi initiates. This planet’s dark history continues to influence the Sith and their legacy in Star Wars canon.
Taris – The Fallen Metropolis:
Once a thriving city, Taris suffered a catastrophic fate during the Mandalorian Wars. Its ruins and remnants bear witness to the devastating conflict, leaving a lasting impact on the Star Wars universe.
HK-47 – The Assassin Droid:
HK-47, the charismatic and witty assassin droid, stole the hearts of players with his dark humor and ruthless efficiency. The droid’s popularity in the KOTOR series earned him a place in Star Wars canon, appearing in various media.
Jolee Bindo – The Wise Hermit:
Jolee Bindo, a retired Jedi living on the forest planet Kashyyyk, offered players his wisdom and unique perspective. While not a central figure in Star Wars canon, his character has been acknowledged in supplementary material.
Carth Onasi – The Loyal Soldier:
As the charismatic Republic pilot and a loyal companion to the protagonist, Carth Onasi showcased the bravery and determination of the Republic soldiers. His experiences and values are reminiscent of the ongoing struggles in the Star Wars universe.
Mandalorian Wars – A Catalyst for Conflict:
The Mandalorian Wars, a series of conflicts between the Mandalorians and the Galactic Republic, set the stage for the events of the KOTOR games. This brutal war, with its far-reaching consequences, laid the foundation for the ongoing conflicts in Star Wars canon.
The Star Forge – A Dark Side Superweapon:
The Star Forge, an ancient space station capable of mass-producing ships and fueling the dark side of the Force, was a central plot element in the first KOTOR game. Its influence and significance continue to resonate in Star Wars lore.
The Ebon Hawk – A Legendary Starship:
The Ebon Hawk, a versatile and iconic starship, served as the primary mode of transportation for the player character and their companions in both KOTOR games. Its recognizable design and legacy have earned it a place in Star Wars canon.
The Jedi Civil War – A Galaxy in Turmoil:
The Jedi Civil War, a devastating conflict between the Sith Empire and the Galactic Republic, forms the backdrop of the KOTOR games. This war’s ramifications and its impact on the Jedi Order reverberate throughout Star Wars canon.
The Sith Triumvirate – Darkness Reborn:
The Sith Triumvirate, composed of Darth Nihilus, Darth Sion, and Darth Traya, represented the embodiment of the dark side’s power and corruption in KOTOR II. While their stories were primarily explored in the game, their influence has been acknowledged in official Star Wars media.
Visas Marr – The Miraluka Jedi:
Visas Marr, a blind Jedi from the Miraluka species, embarked on a journey of redemption in KOTOR II. Her unique character and her connection to the Force have been referenced in various Star Wars novels and comics.
Nar Shaddaa – The Smuggler’s Moon:
Nar Shaddaa, a sprawling and dangerous moon, known for its criminal underworld, made a memorable appearance in KOTOR II. Its portrayal in the game offers a glimpse into the seedy underbelly of the Star Wars universe.
The Trayus Academy – A Dark Side Stronghold:
The Trayus Academy, located on the remote planet Malachor V, served as the training ground for the Sith and a focal point of dark side power. Its presence and the events surrounding it continue to influence Star Wars canon.
Canderous Ordo – The Mandalorian Mercenary:
Canderous Ordo, a Mandalorian mercenary and loyal companion to the player character in the first KOTOR game, represents the Mandalorian culture and their code of honor. His character has been referenced in supplementary Star Wars material.
The Battle of Malachor V – A Moment of Desolation:
The Battle of Malachor V, a pivotal event in KOTOR II, marked the end of the Mandalorian Wars and left an indelible mark on the galaxy. Its impact on the characters and the ensuing fallout continue to shape Star Wars canon.
Conclusion:
The influence of the Knights of the Old Republic series on the Star Wars canon is undeniable. From the complex characters like Revan and Bastila Shan to the iconic planets like Dantooine and Korriban, the KOTOR franchise has left a lasting impact on the Star Wars universe. Even years after their original release, these beloved elements continue to shape new narratives and expand the lore of the galaxy far, far away. As fans, we can only hope that the legacy of KOTOR will continue to be celebrated and explored in future Star Wars media, keeping the spirit of this beloved series alive.
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