Star Wars Galaxies is getting old. Which, in the MMO world, is good news, as it proves that the game has stood the test of time and still enjoys a dedicated following. LucasArts and Sony Online Entertainment, the developer and the publisher of the game, are planning quite a few events to mark the anniversary.

On July 22, players will celebrate the so called "Empire Day". Princess Leia will make an appearance, the Imperial troops will execute a few parades and fireworks will go off in the game world. The soundtrack for the festivities will be provided by Max Rebo Band and two new statues, one of the Emperor and another of Yoda will be unveiled. All subscribers will get goggles which are inscribed with a V and will also receive a Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back poster.

There are plans to create and release a trading card game based on the concept of Star Wars Galaxies. The first version, called Champions of the Force, is due out in late summer or early autumn and will be exclusively available for all those who have active subscriptions for the MMO.

There will be two decks on offer, one for the Light Side and the other for the Dark Side, with both Imperial and Rebel units mixed in. The trading card game will be tied in with the MMO game by way of "loot cards" which can be earned in the trading game and then redeemed for items in the MMO. After a while, the MMO will begin to offer opportunities to earn cards which can then be played in the card game.

Subscribers to Star Wars Galaxies will get five free booster packs every month and each player will be able to get starter decks and more booster packs from the Sony Online Entertainment's Station Store.

Star Wars Galaxies was very well received when it was originally released but a 2005 update that revamped the combat system has been widely criticized and led to a reduction in the game's popularity.