The next digital expansion for Star Wars: The Old Republic is Galactic Starfighter, a free-to-play, PvP-focused add-on with a dogfighting slant. Its most notable additions include 12-on-12 space fights, customizable ships, a ground-game XP boost, and "new weapons, powers and abilities to customize your ultimate Starfighter."

Galactic Starfighter will have a staggered release. It's complicated, so buckle up.Although it opens up to the public on February 4, 2014, subscribers will have early access on December 3, 2013. Preferred players -- those who purchase anything from SWTOR's online store -- can join in on January 14, provided they buy anything on or after this date.Subscribers as of November 1 will "qualify for the following bonuses," which include an early Gunship unlock and "Daring" paint jobs, in addition to the early access subscriber rewards. Galactic Starfighter will receive regular updates following its release.For the full breakdown of what you'll receive from each tier, check out the full breakdown below.

Early Access Starting December 3

Exclusive Gunship "Daring" Paint Jobs with Early Gunship Role Unlock Only available to Subscribers who were also Subscribers on November 1, 2013

Strike Fighter “Valiant” Paint Jobs

Scout "Valiant" Paint Jobs

Imperial Battle Ace and Republic Squadron Commander Pilot Suits

In-Game Titles: “First Galactic Starfighter” and “Test Pilot”

Maximum leveling and progression

Early Access Starting January 14

Imperial Battle Ace Pilot Suit

Republic Squadron Commander Pilot Suit

In-Game Title: “Test Pilot”

Also available to Subscribers during this period.

Imperial Battle Ace Pilot Suit

Republic Squadron Commander Pilot Suit

Available to all players with a SWTOR account during this period.

(December 3, 2013 - January 13, 2014)Subscriber Early Access Rewards(January 14, 2014 – February 3, 2014)Preferred Status Early Access Rewards(February 4, 2014 – Ongoing)Free-to-Play Access Rewards

Mitch Dyer is an Associate Editor at IGN. He’s currently reading Kurt Vonnegut's Welcome to the Monkey House. Follow him on Twitter follow him on IGN , and listen to him on Podcast Unlocked