Bioware Reveals Jedi Knight Class in Old Republic

Keepers of peace but capable in wartime, the Jedi Knights are the quintessential living symbol of the Republic, and MMO fans will officially get a chance to play as one when Bioware's Star Wars: The Old Republic launches next year.

The third class revealed for the Republic side (along with Trooper and Smuggler) and fifth overall (with the Bounty Hunter and Sith Warrior classes for the Sith), the Jedi Knight figures to be one of, if not the, most popular classes in the game. According to information the Old Republic web site, while a Jedi Knight wears "robes [that] range from light cloth to thick leathers, many Jedi Knights also wear parts or entire suits of heavy armor when going into battle" and the Knight's "graceful movements are awesome to behold." The Jedi Knight's powers include force pushes, blaster bolt deflection, and even the ability to throw a lightsaber and have it return to his hand.

Here's the description of the class from the TOR web site:
A symbol of hope in dark times, the Jedi Knight stands for the legacy of the Jedi Order—more than twenty-thousand years of protecting the Republic and keeping the peace across the galaxy. Though Jedi Knights have served as generals, guerilla fighters, and warriors for generations, their legendary combat prowess faces its greatest test during this age.

Through years of disciplined training and meditation, the Jedi Knight hones body and mind into perfect harmony. Combining the foresight of the Force with unrivaled reflexes and practiced physical precision, the Knight turns combat into an art form, gracefully executing acrobatic feats in tandem with elegant lightsaber tactics.

A source of inspiration to allies and intimidation to adversaries, the Jedi Knight's presence is welcome in any confrontation. The Order's long history of fighting for justice has earned the trust of countless friends and the hate of innumerable enemies. Few, though, are foolish enough to challenge a seasoned Jedi Knight unless they have the skills and technology to even the odds.

The Jedi's dark counterparts scored many victories during the war, expanding their Empire, and putting the Republic on the defensive. Since the Treaty of Coruscant, the Sith have consolidated their military might, even while the Jedi have withdrawn to Tython, a move that's been looked at with suspicion by many of the Republic's politicians. Nonetheless, the war is far from over, and the Jedi Knight's resolve remains firm. With unwavering allegiance to the Republic and the light side of the Force, the Jedi Knight fights with valiant determination, wading into the thick of any battle to protect freedom and democracy and hold fast against those who oppose it.

No matter how dire circumstances may become, the Jedi Knight trusts the Force and keeps a cool head. Knowledge and self-control are the critical components of wise decisions, and emotional and mental clarity are an absolute necessity. Maintaining focus allows the Knight to rely on intuition; a right mind leads to right action.

For many, the Jedi Knight is the guardian of a precious dream; a dream of peace, a dream of justice, a dream of a brighter future. The fate of the galaxy depends upon the Knight's ability to keep this dream alive.