Update (1/12): BioWare has confirmed it is "targeting a spring 2011 release for Star Wars: The Old Republic," though it warns "we have not announced a specific date."

Original (1/11): Electronic Arts expects its "major MMO" to launch in spring 2011, suggesting a likely release date for subsidiary BioWare's Star Wars: The Old Republic. EA CEO John Riccitiello made the revelation while discussing the company's next fiscal year during a conference call today, explaining: "One key driver is going to be the launch date of our major MMO. As it stands today, the game is making great progress towards a Spring 2011 launch. But given the volatility of this particular sector and the fact that we haven't yet provided a specific launch date, at least for now, we're excluding the revenue, or will be excluding the revenue, from our FY11 plans."

Though the game wasn't mentioned by name--we're checking in with EA for official word--The Old Republic is a likely candidate, especially as it represents the company's only known "major MMO" without an announced release timeframe.

Update: Responding to our request for clarification, Electronic Arts stated: "No further comment beyond what John said. However keep in mind that the purpose of his comment was to offer some insight on the caution we are using in planning the next fiscal year. I don't think you can make any assumptions about launch dates of specific titles based on that comment."