Electronic Arts released its newest Star Wars game, Star Wars: Zero Company, on Aug. 27. This title joins a long history of Star Wars video games, with the first dating back to 1982. The franchise has expanded significantly since its early days, offering a variety of experiences for fans.
A History of Star Wars Video Games
Star Wars video games began with The Empire Strikes Back on the Atari 2600 in 1982. Since then, the franchise has produced over 100 titles across various platforms. Many early games remain enjoyable, even with hardware limitations. These titles span different eras of gaming, from the 8-bit era to modern consoles.
The collection of Star Wars games offers diverse gameplay experiences. Some games retell stories from the original trilogy, while others introduce new narratives within the established universe. The evolution of gaming technology has allowed for increasingly complex stories and immersive gameplay, reflecting the growth of the Star Wars saga itself.
If you are looking for a starting point after finishing Zero Company, a ranked list of the 12 best Star Wars games is available.
These selections represent a broad range of titles that have resonated with players over the decades, showcasing the enduring appeal of the franchise in interactive media. The games are playable on platforms including PlayStation 4, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
Best Star Wars Games on Modern Platforms
Modern platforms offer access to numerous Star Wars titles, including recent releases and backward-compatible classics. The Star Wars Jedi series, developed by Respawn Entertainment, has received acclaim. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order introduced players to Cal Kestis’s journey after Order 66, featuring lightsaber combat and exploration.
The sequel, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, expanded on the foundations of its predecessor. It provided more open maps, enhanced lightsaber combat, and a fast-travel system.
While facing some initial technical issues and challenging bosses, patches have improved the experience. Both titles are available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
Other notable games include Star Wars: Squadrons, which offers a flight combat experience, and Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga.
The Skywalker Saga provides a modern take on all nine Skywalker family films, with improved gameplay and level design. These games are accessible across multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox.
Star Wars: The Old Republic’s Evolving Model
Star Wars: The Old Republic transitioned from an anticipated RPG to an MMORPG, which initially tempered some player enthusiasm. The game was designed to offer a deep narrative experience alongside its online multiplayer aspects. Despite early concerns about its endgame content, the game evolved considerably.
When initial subscription numbers decreased, Electronic Arts shifted towards a free-to-play model. This adjustment allowed the game to build a larger player base and secure continued development. Broadsword Online Games now stewards the title, ensuring ongoing support and new content drops, even after Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm.
The MMORPG continues to receive updates, allowing players to experience a significant portion of its content without a subscription. This model has sustained the game’s community and development for years. The game is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II
Knights of the Old Republic II explored themes of moral ambiguity, questioning established notions of the Force, Jedi, and Sith. The game introduced a new perspective through the character Kreia, influencing party members’ allegiances. Players could guide companions towards either the light or dark side of the Force.
Despite its strengths in narrative and character development, the game suffered from rushed development to meet publisher deadlines. This resulted in some aspects lacking the intended polish and depth. Modders have since worked to restore cut content from the game’s original code, improving the player experience.
The original 2005 release of Star Wars: Battlefront 2 is remembered for its large-scale battles and vehicle combat. Players could engage in massive multiplayer matches on extensive maps. While lacking modern shooter depth, its chaotic fun created many memorable moments. This title is accessible on PlayStation 2, PSP, Windows PC, and Xbox.
Retro Star Wars Experiences
Retro Star Wars games offer a glimpse into the franchise’s early interactive history. Star Wars: Rogue Squadron, released on the Nintendo 64, required the expansion pak for its full intended experience. This allowed for detailed environments filled with enemy targets for players to engage.
The gameplay loop of Rogue Squadron was addictive, drawing players into its space combat scenarios. Despite dated visuals, the game’s stages can still evoke memories of its gameplay. The Steam version is available for those seeking to revisit this title. The game is playable on Nintendo 64 and Windows PC.
Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter, released after Starfighter, introduced Force abilities into space combat. It also featured a split-screen cooperative campaign. Critics noted similarities to its predecessor, and the storyline was considered disjointed. However, it offered improvements in gameplay and is playable on PlayStation 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best Star Wars games of all time?
The 12 best Star Wars games of all time include titles such as Star Wars: Zero Company, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II. These games span various genres and eras, offering diverse experiences for fans.
What Star Wars games can I play on PS5 and Xbox Series X?
You can play Star Wars: Zero Company, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. These titles offer modern graphics and gameplay designed for current-generation consoles.
Is Star Wars: The Old Republic still being developed?
Yes, Star Wars: The Old Republic is still under development and receives ongoing support. It has evolved with a free-to-play model and continues to get new content drops from Broadsword Online Games.
When did the first Star Wars video game release?
The first Star Wars video game, The Empire Strikes Back, was released in 1982 for the Atari 2600. This marked the beginning of a long history of Star Wars interactive entertainment.
