Star Wars
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed’s Switch port attempts to take advantage of nostalgia but isn’t able to capture what that made the original game unique.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed has left its impression on the franchise back in the summer of 2008 at the very least in terms of the video game genre is involved. There is still a lot of hope that Star Wars: The Force Unleashed 3 will be announced in the near future even if it seems. It doesn’t mean the franchise remains inactive, however it’s not as if Star Wars: The Force Unleashed is set to make its debut on Nintendo Switch on April 20.
In the show, characters play the role of Galen Marek, better known as Starkiller. As Darth Vader’s apprentice Starkiller prepares to become a fully-fledged Sith Lord, and also to help Vader to take over the throne of Palpatine however, of course the plan is a disaster. It has Light and Dark alternative endings to the game, however Star Wars: The Force Unleashedmade waves upon its release by letting players transform into an actual Sith. The result was not only an innovative game but also a fervent and enthusiastic fan base.
This means that it possible to put Star Wars: The Force Unleashed on the Switch an exciting idea in particular because it lets players see the universe far, far away with an entirely new lens. The game might not be the original, but a lot of old-school fans would appreciate an excuse to go back to the game. The newcomers would have the chance to experience Starkiller and his pure power for the very first time. On paper, the whole thing looks great, but in reality the execution is seriously imperfect.
What gamers should be aware of as early as possible is that this is a port with motion controls, not an update or even the remaster of. It’s actually an adaptation of The game for Wii, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, which has a few tweaks that other platforms didn’t have because of its limitations in terms of technology. Some people believe it is inferior to other versions, such as the PlayStation and Xbox versions which, unfortunately, does not hold true in the Switch version.
A lot of the images of this Switch game Star Wars: The Force Unleashed are perceived as messy, particularly when you play in handheld mode. It’s better when you dock it, but otherwise, it’s difficult to distinguish from distance. A red flower and health vials that are available are so alike that they are easily confused as well as every aspect from forest that lie in Kashyyyk to the clothing of Starkiller choices are a mistake visually. The issue is present in all seasons, but it’s perhaps most apparent when fighting.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed‘s combat is a bit tweezer. The motion controls are good however they’re not coupled with a thrilling combat. Starkiller is able to use Force Lightning, throw his Lightsaber and enlist Force Lightning, unleash the Dark Side of the Force and slam on the floor, or unleash devastating combinations however, the Switch port doesn’t take in all the force in Starkiller. It’s lost in translation and when paired with sponge-like enemies that can take several Force bars worth of electricity, it’s just not like fun being a Starkiller.
It’s a pity and a shame because Starkiller’s power is an essential aspect of Starkiller’s personality. Starkiller has a number of things that aren’t seen in the series as well as one of his most impressive actions in the game–associating with the Star Destroyer on Raxus Prime–loses the power he has in this game. While it’s not exploring the battle and triumph of the moment through the game, it simply happens without much thought on the subject, which is a huge negative for the game. There are a lot of things that just happen, and there’s nothing to enhance plot points and gameplay components, from poor combat to the boring facial animations.
Related: Star Wars: The Force Unleashed – How Long Will It Take
The players will also be fighting with their cameras as often as Starkiller combats with Storm Troopers. The most obvious is when fighting that involve large creatures, such as Rancors or machines, but the camera can focus in and out when it is needed at the most critical times. The camera can also perform complete 180 degrees when Starkiller is knocked down. If the players stand facing in one direction and the camera detects that, it will make sure that they look and move exactly the opposite direction, and without any reason. This makes staying clear of any follow-up attacks almost impossible.
In the majority of cases the rather simple design in Star Wars: The Force Unleashed is great for those who wish to play games on the go. The game is only just a few hours regardless of how meticulously one collects Lightsaber crystals, as well as other items of collectibles. However, players may find themselves in the same place at least a couple of times.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed‘s levels generally require you to walk through several zones, fighting off enemies and then moving on. This can cause it to feel repetitive at times. This is especially the case when you add in the graphics and combat, since the game can become dull and repetitive very quickly. The design of the levels is an unsatisfactory mix however, while it does have plenty of options but the technical limits of Wii are clearly evident with the Switch.
Its Duel Mode, despite sharing some of the same flaws it is perhaps the most fun feature. There’s plenty of enjoyment to be had being Luke Skywalker, Mara Jade, Maris Brood, Vader, and many other characters, and it also allows local multiplayer to provide fun for the whole family. The issue is the way the game provides no incentive to play the mode, and if it does it isn’t able to expand beyond the original concept.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed‘s greatest attraction is nostalgia, thanks to this Switch port. A lot of people have fond memory of this game since its initial release in 2008. But it’s unfortunate that this port fails to live up to the famed IP. The worst part is the fact that there are a lot of gorgeous games available that are available on Switch and there’s no reason why to not have one. It could have helped redeem the poor-performing Wii version However, instead it could have exacerbated its flaws.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed is available on Switch the 20th of April. Game Rant received with a code for the purpose for this article.