In 2003, I beta-tested Star Wars Galaxies, the first MMO set in the Lucas-built world of my youth’s fascination. Set in a period between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, players could make their way in various worlds as pistoleers, as crafters, even as entertainers.

While the game proved disappointing in retail, the beta was one of the most rewarding I’ve ever known. Included in this Flickr set are shots from the final hours of the beta. There were fireworks. Well deserved fireworks.

With the release of the newest Star Wars MMO underway, it seems fitting to look back and remember.