Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster Review: A Tribute to Classic Gaming
by Vignesh L
Updated Feb 28, 2024
Star Wars: Dark Forces
Star Wars: Dark Forces is a cool video game made by LucasArts. It came out in 1995 for computers like MS-DOS and Macs, and later in 1996 for the PlayStation. The story happens in the Star Wars world but before the main movies. You play as Kyle Katarn, a guy who works for the good guys, the Rebel Alliance. He finds out about a secret project by the bad guys, the Galactic Empire. This project is all about making really tough robots and super strong soldiers called stormtroopers.
The game uses a special game engine called Jedi, which makes it different from other shooting games at the time. It lets you do stuff like go up and down in levels, which was new and cool back then. People who reviewed the game when it came out mostly liked it, especially on computers.
They thought the levels were well made and liked how the game worked. But the PlayStation version wasn't as good because it had worse graphics and was slower. Still, lots of people bought the game, almost a million in the US alone by 1999! It did so well that it led to more games in the series, like the sequel Dark Forces II.
Nowadays, a company called Nightdive Studios is working on making the game look and play better for newer systems. They released the updated version on February 28, 2024, so now you can enjoy the old-school fun on your computer, PlayStation, Xbox, or even Nintendo Switch.
Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster Review
The remastered version of Star Wars: Dark Forces by Nightdive Studios brings back a classic game in a shiny new package. Available on various platforms like PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and older consoles, this updated version is worth checking out for fans old and new. Originally released in 1995, Dark Forces was ahead of its time, blending first-person shooting with the beloved Star Wars universe. Now, with updated graphics and improvements, it's even more enjoyable to play.
One of the standout features of Dark Forces is its engaging storytelling. Instead of just shooting everything in sight, the game introduces fully voiced cutscenes that add depth to the narrative. You're not just mindlessly blasting enemies - you're on a mission with real objectives and motivations.
The remaster brings these cutscenes to life with new high-resolution assets, along with revamped weapon sprites and world textures. It's a treat for the eyes, while still retaining the original pixel art style that fans love. Controls are smooth and responsive across all platforms, whether you're playing with a controller or using gyro aiming on Switch and PlayStation. Plus, you can switch between the enhanced visuals and the original low-resolution graphics for a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
While there are some minor issues with music playback and performance on certain consoles, they don't detract too much from the overall experience. The game still captures the essence of what made Dark Forces great back in the day. Overall, the remastered version of Star Wars: Dark Forces is a fantastic tribute to a classic game. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, it's worth diving into the galaxy far, far away and experiencing the thrill of battling Imperial forces in first-person shooter action.
Star Wars: Dark Forces Gameplay
In Star Wars: Dark Forces, gameplay revolves around stepping into the shoes of Kyle Katarn, navigating through a series of missions set in the expansive Star Wars universe. As a first-person shooter game, you experience the action directly through Kyle's eyes, blasting your way through various enemies and obstacles.
Each mission is like a chapter in a big adventure story. You're given specific tasks to complete, which tie into the overall plot of the game. From infiltrating enemy bases to rescuing hostages, every mission presents new challenges and objectives to overcome.
What makes Dark Forces stand out is its mix of shooting, puzzle-solving, and exploration. Sure, you'll be firing blasters and grenades at stormtroopers and alien creatures, but you'll also need to use your brain to solve environmental puzzles and navigate tricky obstacles.
The game introduces features that were groundbreaking at the time, like the ability to look up and down, duck, and jump. These might seem basic now, but back then, they added a whole new level of immersion to the gameplay. Throughout your journey, you'll come across power-ups that boost your health, shields, and ammo supplies. There are also handy gadgets like a headlamp to light up dark areas or ice cleats for slippery surfaces. These items can be a lifesaver in tough situations.
Combat is a big part of Dark Forces, and you'll have a range of weapons at your disposal, from blasters to explosives. Each weapon has a primary and secondary mode, giving you different ways to deal with enemies. You'll need to manage your ammo carefully and make strategic choices about which weapons to use in different situations.
But it's not all about fighting. Dark Forces throws in plenty of platforming challenges, like jumping across gaps and navigating treacherous terrain. Plus, there are complex puzzles to solve, adding depth and variety to the gameplay. Overall, Star Wars: Dark Forces offers an exciting and immersive gameplay experience, blending action-packed shooting with brain-teasing puzzles and exploration in the iconic Star Wars universe.
Looking for a dose of nostalgia? Fresherslive's games article revisits classic arcade games that defined a generation. Relive the excitement of the arcade era.
Star Wars: Dark Forces Plot
Dark Forces follows the journey of Kyle Katarn, once a hopeful farmer, who later joins the Imperial Academy after his parents' death, blaming Rebels for their demise. However, his belief shifts when he discovers the Empire's true role in his parents' fate, prompting him to ally with the Rebel Alliance.
Assigned by the Rebels, Kyle embarks on a mission to retrieve Death Star plans, aiding in its downfall. Later, he uncovers the Empire's sinister Dark Trooper Project, led by General Rom Mohc. Travelling across different planets, Kyle disrupts Imperial operations, rescues key allies like Crix Madine, and thwarts dark schemes.
Encountering challenges such as facing Jabba the Hutt's influence and evading Boba Fett's pursuit, Kyle persists in his mission. Infiltrating Coruscant's computer vault reveals crucial intel on the Dark Trooper Project's smuggling routes. Disguised as a smuggler, Kyle penetrates the Executor and Arc Hammer, Mohc's stronghold and the project's final stage. In an intense battle, he defeats Mohc and destroys the Arc Hammer, dealing a significant blow to the Empire's plans. Darth Vader acknowledges Kyle's strength in the Force as he escapes, and the Alliance honors his bravery with the Star of Alderaan.
Throughout his journey, Kyle's transformation from a disillusioned Imperial to a hero fighting for justice is evident. His determination to confront the Empire's injustices and stand up for what's right makes him a symbol of hope in the galaxy's struggle against oppression.
Star Wars: Dark Forces Trailer
Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster Review - FAQs
PC, Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and older consoles.
It blends shooting action with puzzle-solving and exploration in the Star Wars universe.
Ability to look up and down, duck, and jump.
Through fully voiced cutscenes that introduce characters and motivations, adding depth to the narrative.
To disrupt Imperial operations, rescue allies, and thwart the Empire's sinister schemes, particularly the Dark Trooper Project.