US publishing giant Electronic Arts is apparently moving its BioWare studio off the long-running Star Wars MMO The Old Republic.

That's according to IGN, which reports that the company has been in discussions – and even signed a letter of intent – with developer Broadsword Online Games. The studio is best known for maintaining Ultima Online and Dark Age of Camelot.

BioWare currently has between 70 and 80 members of staff working on The Old Republic, with half of these set to move to Broadsword if such a deal goes through. Staff will have the chance to move to other roles within EA, but layoffs are a possibility.

“Almost 12 years after launch, Star Wars: The Old Republic remains a success and continues to grow its dedicated and passionate community," an EA spokesperson said.

"We’re so proud of the work the team has done, and the future of the game and the community continues to be very bright. We’re evaluating how we give the game and the team the best opportunity to grow and evolve, which includes conversations with Broadsword, a boutique studio that specialises in delivering online, community-driven experiences. Our goal is to do what is best for the game and its players.”