Bioware and EA have announced that a new update for Star Wars The Old Republic is on its way and will bring new stories, characters and more to the game.

The details were released via a developer live stream, you can watch the full replay at the bottom, if you desire too, but for now, let us explain what is going to be included in the 7.1 update.

First is a new short story called Digging Deeper and in it players will be sent on a mission, that will have them uncover clues following the attack of Darth Malgus’ attach on the temple of Darth Nul. Another part of the story will be focused on the fate of Sa’har Kateen, the Jedi Padawan that Malgus dueled in the ruins of Elom.

There will be a host of new characters that players will meet during the story, from Minn Ishkah, an ambassador and member of the Republic Diplomatic Corp to Captain Wo Kasto of the Manaan Special Warefare Group. Those are of course for those aligned to the light side of the force, if you play something a little darker, then you will get to meet Commander Qrukk, a Sith Intelligence officer and servant of Darth Xarion.

If you are looking for a new operation to undertake, there is one coming called the R-4 Anomaly, which will have players team up to fight an obscure Sith cult, which is set on harvesting ancient technology, from a power that once terrified the galaxy.

This is not a simple operation as it will need 8 players to undertake it, with four new bosses available to fight during it, IP-CPT, Watchdog, Lord Kanoth and Lady Dominique, check out what they look like below.

The update will also bring a host of visual updates, including clearer messaging systems, readable aesthetics and a more standardised visual language. In addition, UX changes are also being included, such as with the Outfitter and subtitles for the chat window.

For those that like to earn gear, you can venture into the new daily area, set within the depths of Manaan, which has a wonderful design going for it.

Finally, there will be a wealth of new cosmetic items being added to the game, from weapons to mounts, pets and decorations, some of which will be obtainable from events and others once you have completed stories. Here is a sample of what is to come.

Again, if you want to watch the broadcast, where more details about each of the aspects, you can do so below. The update is expected to launch on August 2nd, once the server maintenance is completed, so an exact time is not yet known.