In 2015, Disney released Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens, the first installment of the sequel trilogy, which reignited fans' enthusiasm for the franchise. Interestingly, the renewed interest also brought about the revitalization of Star Wars video games licensed by Lucasfilm.
In response to Star Wars' monumental rise in popularity, Lucasfilm introduced remarkable new video game titles while also bringing some of the classics back into the limelight. Though some entries are perhaps more memorable than others, they've had an undeniable influence on the medium as a whole. Move over moof-milkers because these are 10 Star Wars video games better than the sequel trilogy.
10 Jedi: Fallen Order Introduced Unique Characters And Complex Lore
Released in 2019, Jedi: Fallen Order takes place five years after the events of Revenge of the Sith. The plot revolves around a young Padawan, Cal Kestis, who the Galatic Empire relentlessly pursues because of his force abilities.
This award-winning game accurately captures the feelings of terror that spread throughout the galaxy after the Empire's rise to power. Cal starts his journey as a reluctant force user, afraid of being executed for his abilities. However, his eventual acceptance of his destiny allows players to use various amazing force abilities and customizable lightsabers.
9 Jedi Outcast Offered Memorable Lightsaber Duels
When it comes to exciting lightsaber dueling mechanics, Jedi Outcast is widely considered one of the best. The game shifts from a first-person to a third-person perspective, based on the type of weapon the player uses. The game also featured a competitive multiplayer mode.
The plot, which takes place eight years after Return of the Jedi, follows Kyle Katarn, a New Republic mercenary. However, it's eventually revealed that Kyle was a former Jedi who voluntarily severed his ties with the force after nearly succumbing to the Dark Side's temptations.
8 The Old Republic Is An MMORPG With A Compelling Story
Lucasfilm's expansive video game library also includes an MMORPG, The Old Republic. The game has acquired particularly notable critical acclaim regarding its complex and compelling story. The Old Republic takes place well before the Star Wars films, during the Sith's initial rise to power.
Players can choose from various species and classes, complete with their own starship, adding an element of replayability to the game. Ever wondered what it was like to be a Twi'Lek bounty hunter or a Mirialan Jedi Knight? If so, The Old Republic is definitely worth checking out.
7 The SNES Star Wars Games Frustrated And Entertained Kids In The '90s
The SNES Super Star Wars games, which include Episodes IV-VI, are infamous for their unforgiving yet surprisingly enjoyable game mechanics. The first installment, titled Super Star Wars, even won the title of "Best Action/Adventure Game of 1992" from EGM Magazine.
Though the developers made some questionable creative choices adapting the films to a video game format, players choose from various playable characters, including Han Solo, Chewie, and even Princess Leia. Undeniably frustrating at times, these games provided hours of enjoyment for kids in the early 90s.
6 Battlefront II Embodies The Atmosphere Of The Movies
Battlefront II is an impressive multiplayer combat-based Star Wars game that has twelve different online modes. The game, which was introduced in 2017, allows players to relive some of their favorite Star Wars moments through highly detailed levels and recognizable fan-favorite characters.
The game also includes a single-player campaign, which takes place after Return of the Jedi, but before The Force Awakens. Since its release, Battlefront II has received critical acclaim and several awards, including Game Critics' "Best Online Multiplayer."
5 Knights Of The Old Republic Redefined The Science Fiction RPG Genre
Knights of the Old Republic is often referred to as one of the best Star Wars video games to date. First released at the end of 2003, the game has won countless awards, including "2004 Game of the Year" and has sold millions of copies over the years.
The RPG mechanics are complex and enjoyable, and the game provides players the option to choose the "Dark" or "Light" path as a Force user, based on NPC interactions and dialogue choices. Players also get to travel to iconic locations in the Star Wars universe, including Dantooine, Kashyyyk, and many more.
4 Squadrons Let Players Experience The Thrill Of Intergalactic Space Combat
Star Wars: Squadrons is a more recent game that focuses exclusively on starship combat. Released in 2020, the game allows players to jump in the cockpit of their favorite Star Wars fighter starships and experience the thrill of intergalactic combat.
The story begins immediately after Alderaan is destroyed by the Death Star in Episode IV - A New Hope. Darth Vader is tasked with eliminating any refugees who may have been lucky enough to escape the planet's horrific destruction. As a Rebel Alliance member, players must take part in various missions to protect the galaxy from the Empire.
3 Episode 1 Racer Captured The Iconic Podracing Scene From The Phantom Menace
Despite the almost universal disappointment in Phantom Menace upon its release, audiences all agree that the "podracing" scene was one of the most exciting Star Wars moments to date. Attempting to capture the thrill of podracing from the movie, LucasArts released Episode 1: Racer in 1999.
The game did a remarkable job of incorporating the high-speed, exhilarating feel from podracing that fans experienced while watching the movie. Interestingly, Episode 1: Racer won the Guinness World Record in 2011 for the "best-selling sci-fi racing game."
2 Shadows Of The Empire Features Dash Rendar's Harrowing Mission To Rescue Princess Leia
In 1996, Lucasfilm introduced Star Wars fans to Shadows of the Empire, designed to fill the expositional gap between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi. The project was actually multifaceted, including a novel, comic book series, and extensive merchandising.
The game built upon the complex Star Wars lore while introducing some unique elements as well. Shadows of the Empire kicks off with the protagonist, Dash Rendar, who becomes involved in the iconic "Battle of Hoth." Dash encounters many recognizable characters from the franchise during his mission, including Boba Fett, IG-88, Luke Skywalker, and more.
1 Empire At War Adapted Star Wars To The Real-Time Strategy Genre
Considering the impressive variety of Star Wars games available, it should come as no surprise that LucasArts has dabbled in the "Real-Time Strategy" genre. Released in 2006, Empire at War is set immediately after Revenge of the Sith.
Rather than trying to compete with the popular Starcraft and Warcraft type RTS games of the day, Empire at War does an excellent job of staying true to its source material, providing a unique and enjoyable playing experience for gamers in its own right.