In February 2005, LucasArts released Star Wars Republic Commando on the original Xbox. The game received good reviews, with many players enjoying the tactical battles and squad mechanics. However, there was never a sequel and the chance of seeing anything more was unlikely. Then, developer Aspyr announced that it was bringing an updated edition of the game to PlayStation 4 and the Nintendo Switch. While the game works fine on the PlayStation, players have reported some issues with the Switch version.
The Switch has never been the most powerful console compared to its competition, but even it should have no problem playing a game from 2005. However, the Switch port has issues with its frame rate, with reports of it reaching as low as 25 frames per second in some sections. However, there could be a solution for struggling Switch players as Aspyr has mentioned that it is working on a patch that will come out in early May.
Star Wars Republic Commando emphasizes teamwork as a means to complete objectives. These can range from anything as simple as breaching a door to positioning the team's sniper to cover the explosives expert. This style works when everything is running amicably. The tactical choices have to be made on the fly, and the response has to be smooth. In the situation where the player is suddenly unable to respond quickly due to the frame rate, the entire experience is affected. The battles, which should be a mix of fast-paced shooting and split-second decisions, become slow and frustrating.
While Republic Commando is an older game, there are some impressive set pieces. The game allows players to fight through the battle of Geonosis, and aid the Wookies on Kashyyyk. The player will sometimes see the battles unfold around them, but all of that can be ruined when the frame rate begins to drop. The Star Wars universe is full of exciting environments and Republic Commando is no different. However, floating through space towards an abandoned clone trooper Dreadnaught doesn't work if the game isn't running as smoothly as it should.
While the full details of the patch haven't been announced, it will hopefully be able to fix some of the frame rate issues. If it is able to provide stability, it will go a long way to making the port more enjoyable. Players will be able to make the tactical choices they need to, and will be able to fight the Separatists as a well-functioning unit, rather than as a disorganized rabble. When May rolls around, Switch players will finally know if trusting in the will of the force has paid off, or if Aspyr will leave them to the dark side.