The best Star Wars video games

The recently released Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is another outstanding video game set in a galaxy of noble Jedi Knights, malicious Sith, and valiant Mandalorians. It’s a perfect reason to resemble all the best titles that let players travel to the Star Wars universe via their PC or console. We purposely omitted gems from the past that cannot be bought anymore or don’t run on modern gaming platforms. As a result, here is a list of the best Star Wars games that are playable today.

• Shadows of the Empire
• Star Wars: X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter
• Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II
• Episode I: Racer
• Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast
• Knights of the Old Republic
• Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords
• Republic Commando
• Battlefront 2 (2005)
• Empire at War
• Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga
• Battlefront II (2017)
• Jedi: Fallen Order
• Squadrons
• Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
• Jedi: Survivor

Shadows of the Empire

Release date: December 3, 1996

The game was part of an ambitious multimedia project that also included a novel and a comic book. It covers the time between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, but each medium lets fans experience those events from a different perspective. The novel follows mostly Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and other well-known heroes; the comic book uses Boba Fett as its protagonist, while the game allows us to assume the role of a brand new character, a smuggler called Dash Rendar.

Shadows of the Empire is an action game. Mostly a third-person shooter, but it features multiple different mechanics. For instance, some missions require piloting a starship or riding a swoop bike. Dash Rendar’s journey takes him all around the galaxy. He travels to Coruscant’s sewers, the sandy wastelands of Tatooine, or the snowy planet of Hoth. Players have to fight their way through all sorts of enemies and obstacles, from Imperial troops to bounty hunters. Apart from its varied gameplay, SOE has memorable characters, including the cunning crime lord Prince Xizor.

X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter

Release date: April 29, 1997

Both the X-Wing and the TIE Fighter franchises are outstanding, and their every installment deserves to be on the list of the best Star Wars games. We decided to pick X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter because it lets players become ace pilots serving on both sides of the galactic conflict and fly iconic starships, including X-Wing, Y-Wing, B-Wing, TIE Fighter, TIE Interceptor, TIE Defender, and many more. Furthermore, compared to its predecessor, X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter offered better graphics and many other technical enhancements.

The game was initially meant to be mainly a multiplayer experience, but players were asking for a story-driven mode. As a result, Totally Games released the Balance of Power expansion pack. It added two single-player campaigns, making the already praised space combat simulator even better.

Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II

Release date: October 10, 1997

The first Dark Forces game was great, and it introduced Kyle Katarn, a mercenary who instantly became a fan favorite. Nonetheless, the second chapter in his story surpassed the original at any level. First of all, the sequel featured elements that Star Wars fans love the most: lightsaber fights and Force powers. The plot was also incredible, as Kyle Katarn is sent on a quest to save the galaxy from an evil Dark Jedi named Jerec and his minions.

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Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II has two endings depending on how you deal with NPCs and which Force powers you use. It’s also worth mentioning that players cherished multiplayer mode when the game was released. Even though this mode may be unplayable today, the single-player campaign is invariably compelling.

Episode I: Racer

Release date: May 18, 1999

This racing game was based on a single scene from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Rumor has it that the podracing sequence in the movie was purposely extended to serve as the game’s advertisement. The fact is that while many video games based on popular movies are a mere cash grab, Racer was surprisingly entertaining. Its fun gameplay and a vast selection of over 20 courses located on different planets earn it a place among the best Star Wars video games. This high-speed racing game offers a thrilling and immersive experience that still resonates with fans today.

While Star Wars Episode I: Racer may not have an extensive narrative, it allows players to compete in an exciting tournament or test their skills in multiplayer mode. Moreover, the game features Jake Lloyd and Lewis MacLeod, who reprise their roles as Anakin Skywalker and Sebulba.

Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast

Release date: March 28, 2002

The last game to feature Kyle Katarn as its protagonist stands out as one of the best Star Wars games due to its perfect blend of captivating storytelling, immersive gameplay, and outstanding presentation. This engaging narrative is bolstered by well-written dialogue and memorable characters, making players feel invested in the unfolding events.

The gameplay mechanics are an essential factor in Jedi Outcast’s success. The game offers an optimal balance between first-person shooting and third-person lightsaber combat. Furthermore, Force powers provide a diverse and satisfying experience. The lightsaber combat, in particular, is praised for its fluidity and depth, offering players a sense of mastery as they progress.

Knights of the Old Republic

Release date: July 16, 2003

Set 4,000 years before the events of the films, KOTOR offers a fresh perspective on the galaxy far, far away, introducing players to new characters, locations, and lore. The game’s greatest strength lies in its engaging narrative. With an epic, branching storyline, KOTOR allows players to make meaningful choices that shape their character’s path, ultimately leading to different outcomes. This level of agency creates a highly immersive experience, making each playthrough feel unique and personal.

KOTOR’s gameplay features RPG elements, including character customization, skill progression, and turn-based combat. These mechanics encourage strategic thinking and offer ample opportunity for players to develop their characters according to their preferred playstyle. The game’s presentation is also noteworthy. Although KOTOR’s graphics are dated by today’s standards, they were impressive at the time and still can transport players to the Star Wars universe.

Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords

Release date: December 6, 2004

Undoubtedly both Knights of the Old Republic games deserve to be listed as the top Star Wars releases. Knights of the Old Republic II: The Sith Lords (KOTOR II) is set five years after the events of the first game and follows a new protagonist, the Exile, on a journey to uncover their past and confront the Sith threat.

The game’s storytelling delves deeper into the complexities of the Force and challenges traditional notions of good and evil, providing a mature and nuanced perspective on the Star Wars mythos. This results in a captivating narrative that keeps players hooked throughout. KOTOR II builds upon the solid RPG foundation of its predecessor, introducing new gameplay elements such as improved combat, deeper character progression, and expanded crafting options. These enhancements offer greater depth and variety, making each playthrough feel fresh and engaging.

Republic Commando

Release date: February 28, 2005

Republic Commando offers engaging squad-based gameplay, an immersive story, and a unique perspective on the Clone Wars era. Set during the events of Episodes II and III, players assume the role of Delta-38, a clone commando leading an elite squad on dangerous missions across the galaxy. The game’s core strength lies in its tactical squad-based mechanics. Players can issue orders to their AI-controlled teammates, such as covering fire, hacking, and demolition, fostering a sense of teamwork and strategy. This dynamic gameplay elevates Republic Commando above a standard first-person shooter, offering a more nuanced and satisfying experience.

The narrative is another standout aspect, presenting a gritty, boots-on-the-ground perspective of the Clone Wars. Players are exposed to the camaraderie and challenges faced by clone troopers, humanizing these soldiers and adding depth to the Star Wars universe.

Battlefront 2

Release date: October 28, 2005

Battlefront II, today often called Battlefront II (2005) or Battlefront II Classic, is a first-person shooter and third-person shooter. Building upon the success of its predecessor, it offers an even more comprehensive experience that appeals to casual and hardcore fans alike. The game’s primary strength lies in its variety of gameplay modes, including Conquest, Capture the Flag, and the highly praised Galactic Conquest. These modes allow players to engage in massive battles across iconic Star Wars locations, controlling various infantry units, heroes, vehicles, and spaceships from the prequel and original trilogy eras.

Battlefront 2 also introduces a single-player campaign that follows the story of the 501st Legion, an elite unit of clone troopers who eventually become Darth Vader’s personal stormtroopers. This engaging narrative provides a unique perspective on the events spanning Episodes III to VI, adding depth to the game’s overall experience. The game’s visuals effectively transport players into the heart of the Star Wars universe, with detailed environments, character models, and special effects that capture the essence of each location.

Empire at War

Release date: February 16, 2006

Unlike most Star Wars games, Empire at War is a real-time strategy. It deserves a place among the best due to its gameplay, comprehensive scope, and engaging depiction of the Galactic Civil War. The game allows players to take control of either the Galactic Empire or the Rebel Alliance, managing resources, building armies, and directing epic battles both on land and in space. The gameplay mechanics are a key strength, offering a perfect blend of base building, unit production, and tactical combat. The inclusion of iconic Star Wars units, heroes, and locations further enhances the experience, allowing players to recreate classic battles or forge their own path to victory.

Galactic Conquest mode stands out as a highlight of Empire at War, tasking players with conquering or defending planets across the galaxy in a dynamic, persistent campaign. This mode adds depth and replayability, as players must strategically manage their forces and resources to achieve victory. The game also provides an engaging narrative that explores the events leading up to A New Hope, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of the Star Wars universe and adding context to the broader conflict between the Empire and the Rebellion.

Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga

Release date: November 6, 2007

The first Star Wars Lego video game covered the events of the prequel trilogy and was released in 2005. It was followed by Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy in 2006. Finally, in 2007 the release combining both titles came out. The game’s core strength lies in its engaging and accessible gameplay mechanics. Players can control various characters and use their unique abilities to solve puzzles, battle enemies, and progress through the story.

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The simple yet satisfying mechanics and the game’s cooperative multiplayer mode make it enjoyable for all Star Wars fans. Another notable aspect is the game’s lighthearted and humorous approach to storytelling. The slapstick comedy and visual gags add a refreshing twist to the familiar tales. Thus, making it a delightful experience for players of all ages. The Complete Saga also stands out for its comprehensive scope, encompassing all six films from the prequel and original trilogies. This allows players to relive their favorite moments, engage in epic battles, and explore iconic locations reimagined through the playful lens of the Lego universe.

Battlefront II

Release date: 17 listopada 2017

This FPS may seem like a controversial choice since Battlefront II infuriated many players with its loot boxes. However, DICE and EA worked hard and wholly revamped character development and microtransactions. As a result, we have to cherish Battlefront II’s polished gameplay. A vast range of characters and maps that let us fight in every corner of the galaxy is also among its pros.

Even though Battlefront II focuses on multiplayer battles, players who prefer a solo experience can also appreciate it. The solo campaign may not be particularly long or complex, but it serves as a great tutorial. Moreover, it introduces some interesting characters, particularly Iden Versio, a leader of the elite imperial commando called Inferno Squad.

Jedi: Fallen Order

Release date: November 15, 2019

Jedi: Fallen Order is set between Episodes III and IV. Players assume the role of Cal Kestis. This young Jedi embarks on a quest to rebuild the Jedi Order while evading the relentless pursuit of the Empire. The game’s narrative is a key strength, offering a fresh perspective on the Star Wars saga and introducing memorable new characters. The compelling story keeps players invested in Cal’s journey as he uncovers ancient secrets, forms new alliances, and faces his inner demons.

Jedi: Fallen Order’s gameplay mechanics blend exploration and puzzle-solving, drawing inspiration from popular action-adventure titles and combat inspired by the Dark Souls series. The game’s fluid lightsaber combat system is particularly noteworthy. It allows players to execute a variety of attacks, blocks, and Force powers in satisfying cinematic duels against various foes. The game also excels in its world-building. Players traverse diverse environments across multiple planets, each with distinct flora, fauna, and challenges. This level of detail creates an immersive experience, giving players the sense of truly inhabiting the Star Wars galaxy. Players also fell in love with Cal and his friends: Cere Junda, Dreez, and Merrin.

It’s also worth mentioning that Jedi: Fallen Order’s financial and critical success convinced many developers and publishers that players seek a compelling single-player story-driven adventure.

Squadrons

Star Wars: Squadrons is a space combat game providing an engaging single-player campaign and immersive multiplayer experience. The game puts players in the cockpit of iconic starfighters from both the New Republic and Galactic Empire. It offers a unique perspective on the epic battles that define the Star Wars universe. Squadrons’ gameplay mechanics are a standout feature, blending accessibility with depth and customization. The game’s flight controls balances arcade-style action and simulation, allowing players to pull off exhilarating maneuvers while managing their ship’s systems. This results in intense, skill-based dogfights that capture the essence of Star Wars space combat.

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The game also features a captivating single-player campaign. It alternates between the perspectives of two pilots, one from the New Republic and one from the Galactic Empire. This dual narrative provides insight into both sides of the conflict and adds depth to the overall experience. Squadrons’ multiplayer modes, including Dogfight and Fleet Battles, offer hours of competitive and cooperative gameplay. Players can customize their ships, load-outs, and cosmetics, allowing for various strategies and playstyles. The game’s commitment to teamwork and communication further elevates the multiplayer experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie among pilots.

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Release date: April 5, 2022

Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga is the latest action-adventure game that combines Star Wars and Lego. It covers the entire nine-episode saga and distinguishes itself with a non-linear progression system, allowing players to choose which episodes and storylines they want to explore in any order. This open-world approach encourages exploration and offers a fresh perspective on the beloved Star Wars narrative.

The Skywalker Saga further enhances the gameplay experience by introducing new combat mechanics and character abilities, adding depth and variety to the action. Players can master fighting styles, utilize various powers, and even pilot iconic vehicles, resulting in a diverse and engaging gaming experience. The game’s humorous and lighthearted take on the Star Wars universe is yet another reason for its acclaim. By incorporating clever visual gags and playful storytelling, it provides a delightful and accessible gaming experience for fans of all ages.

Jedi: Survivor

Release date: April 28, 2023

Jedi: Survivor is a worthy sequel to Jedi: Fallen Order due to its gripping narrative, expanded gameplay mechanics, and seamless integration into the existing Star Wars universe. As a direct follow-up, the game builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. It also introduces new elements that elevate the overall experience. The fresh perspective adds nuance and intrigue to the overarching Star Wars narrative, drawing players further into the captivating tale of resilience and redemption. Jedi: Survivor expands upon Fallen Order’s gameplay by offering a more diverse range of Force abilities, combat styles, and customization options. This variety allows players to develop their own unique playstyle and encourages experimentation with different strategies.

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Additionally, the game introduces new allies and adversaries, enriching the universe and providing fresh challenges for players to overcome. Another strong point of Jedi: Survivor is its emphasis on exploration and discovery. The game features a vast array of interconnected planets and regions, each with its secrets, side quests, and lore. This open-world design promotes immersion and offers countless hours of engaging content for fans to uncover.