Explored: Imperial Intelligence Operatives?

The stage is set for the next SW:TOR class reveal.  Let’s explore what can be learned about this new sinister profession via what has been said in the past and what is being said in the latest holorecord.

Jedi Master Gnost-Dural has entered a new holorecord in the Jedi Archive. After a thorough analysis of the evidence, Master Gnost-Dural has discovered that the Mandalorians’ return to the galaxy and alliance with the Sith was no coincidence—it was the result of years of shadowy machinations by the sinister agents of Imperial Intelligence.

BTC 14 – Frustrated by a series of Republic military victories, the Empire began exploring alternative strategies in its drive to conquer the galaxy. Despite the tantalizing offers of Imperial Diplomats, members of the galaxy’s notorious underworld refused to swear allegiance to the Sith Empire. Thus, Imperial Intelligence began laying the groundwork to win the underworld’s loyalty through other means. Infiltrating the gladiatorial arenas of Geonosis, Imperial agents fixed the fights to cultivate the rise of a new Mandalore—an Imperial puppet who would call forth some of the galaxy’s most proud and independent warriors to unknowingly aid in the Empire’s dark designs.

via swtor.com

The Imperial Intelligence Agent is no doubt (in my opinion) the Empire counter-part to the Republic Smuggler.  While the Bounter Hunter and the Trooper may have some variations in terms of tactics, abilities and weapons, it’s now clear (with only one unknown class left on each side – assuming Jedi Knight is a class) that the BH and Trooper are designed to fill the same roll – A heavily armed and armored combatant that can fight at any range.

The Secret Agent Man will fill the same roll as the Smuggler and make good use of the cover system.  Does anyone refute that?  It’s pretty obvious, right?  The roll of the Smuggler and Operative seems to be that of a methodical ranged rogue.  This profession will sit in the rear, safely behind cover, and manipulate the battle.  How these two classes differ is yet to be seen. The Secret Agent Man will likely be wearing light armor if any and will be styled in a way that either makes him appear to be someone of significance (like a senator – I expect to see more capes) or an average Joe with a tactical advantage.  The ability to dual wield pistols will also be available to the Secret Agent Man.

The smuggler class is touted as the best shot in the galaxy, but what about the Secret Agent?  What, in terms of abilities can we expect from this profession?  Jedi Master Gnost-Dural says himself in the latest holorecord that, “Imperial Intelligence Operatives are clearly just as powerful as their Sith superiors.”  He also seems to suggest that when the Secret Agent Man cannot find someone to do his dirty work, he is more than capable of doing it himself – referring to Operatives becoming gladiators.

If we look at the differences between the Bounty Hunter and Trooper, we find that where the Trooper relies on pure firepower, the Bounty Hunter seems to have more utility.  If this is a reoccurring theme, and I am correct in thinking that the Smuggler has a fair amount of utility, then perhaps the Operative will be the one with greater damage potential?

Moving on, back during Comic-Con it was said that, “The Smuggler’s story is unique because they don’t need to go and consult with the Jedi Counsel or receive orders from Republic High Command.  Smuggler’s are creatures of the underworld – they deal with Crime-Lords, Bounty Hunters, Slavers, and the worst scum in the galaxy.”  In terms of story, who would the Imperial Intelligence Operative answer to and who would s/he be dealing with?

I do not foresee these agents answering to the Sith.  The Empire is in control on Coruscant and the Senate just happens to be on the same planet.  I see these agents filling more of a worldly roll and answering to the Politicians, perhaps even in direct contact with Senators – Leaving great opportunity for these Imperial Agents to pursue either foul or good hearted objectives (seeing as the Senate is neither good nor bad, every senator is an elected civil servant, and every senator may wish to purse a different course of action that he feels is best for his people).  This new profession is open to deal with anyone, anywhere.  Nothing and no-one is considered out of bounds when you’re a secret agent whom is considered to be the means of an end in a political scheme.  Imperial Intelligence Operatives are the manipulators.  I hope we see them pulling the strings in the story and not the other way around.

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