Star Wars: The Old Republic expansion in spring

Star Wars: The Old Republic will get its first expansion next year starring those obese space slug gangsters everyone loves to strangle. Rise of the Hutt Cartel is slated to land as a digital-only purchase in spring 2013 with enough new story content to raise the game's level cap from 50 to 55, BioWare announced today.

The continued narratives for The Old Republic's eight classes take place primarily on Makeb, a new planet where both the Republic and Empire clash with the Hutts over mysterious new technology. Players will find voiced story missions, allies, and gear as they make their way to level 55.

Rise of the Hutt Cartel will cost $10 for subscribers and $20 for not-so-free-now-is-it players. Pre-order by January 7 to receive a 5-day head start with the expansion content when it releases.