We've known for awhile that Star Wars Galaxies is shutting down on December 15, but Sony Online Entertainment just announced the first concrete details on how the 8-year-old MMO will end. It turns out the fate of the galaxy is in the hands of the players!

"Beginning in September, the ongoing Galactic Civil War will escalate further as both sides seek to decisively win the epic conflict. In addition to all of the current Galactic Civil War activities, new events and contests will provide you with new ways to earn Galactic Civil War points and advantages you can use to help your side win.

At a time and date yet to be announced, but prior to December 15, all Galactic Civil War points will be tallied by server. The side with the higher score will win the game, and the galaxy, for each server, as well as change the way the game will end and what happens in the final moments. Celebrations will be in order for those who win and, for the losers, let's just say they'll be going out with a bang.

Neutral players will also see new decorations in the Storyteller system that will allow them to host their own shutdown events if they choose to opt out of the final battles in the Galactic Civil War."

September 15 is your last chance to activate your accounts and get into Star Wars Galaxies for the final months. If you've been away from the game and you're looking to return for the galaxy-ending event, log into your Station Account and purchase a 30-day SWG Game Pass to reactivate your account. You'll only be charged once and can play until the game shuts down. If you have an SOE All Access pass, then you're ready to go! May the Force be with you!