Star Wars The Force Unleashed Review

BY Malik Meghani | POSTED: 24 September 2008

Is the Force strong with this one?



Let me be the first to say, it’s about time Lucasarts and Activision finally released a game worthy of bearing the Star Wars brand.  The Force Unleashed is arguably the best Star Wars game to bless next generation consoles.  Many of you are probably sceptical after reading the first two sentences in this review wondering whether or not I’ve forgotten about the Lego Star Wars franchise which in its own right is a great game.  However, it isn’t really a STAR WARS game.  Let’s face it, it’s a Lego game. 

The wait for the next Knights of the Old Republic has been long and tedious.  Fans have eagerly been awaiting the arrival of a Star Wars game that would truly portray the drama, tension and action we have all been spoilt with present in the Star Wars movies and books.  That wait is now over!

The Force Unleashed introduces gamers to the world of Star Wars from “The Dark Side”.  The game begins with a magnificent prologue chapter that many will no doubt enjoy playing over and over again for weeks to come.  Gamers are given the opportunity to control the evil Darth Vader as he arrives on an unknown planet in the midst of war.  To the best of our knowledge, he’s up to no good as usual.  Darth Vader is equipped with fully decked out arsenal of ‘Force’ powers as well as some truly astonishing lightsaber abilities as he reaps havoc in his search for the Jedi.  The chapter serves as a type of Force 101 for gamers where they are introduced to the controls and the beautiful scenery.

Once complete, gamers will be thrown into an epic saga of treachery, lies and betrayal.  How the story unfolds will remain a mystery until you’ve gone out and bought the game which will be releasing September 19th 2008.

Controls are an important aspect of what makes or breaks a game.  Lucasarts and Activision have created a control scheme that vividly mimics the onscreen action.  Movement is handled with the left analog stick as expected.  Camera angle can be tilted left or right accordingly using the right analog stick.  Face buttons are mapped to different actions ranging from jumping (A), light saber attack(X), force lightning (Y) and force push (B).  Other force powers are mapped to the right trigger (force grip) and left bumper (force dash).  The left trigger is used to block basic attacks.  For the most part, controls are very responsive and add to the enjoyment of fighting as a Jedi.  However, there are problems with the response of some buttons, particularly the double jump, which may cause frustration for some.  Nonetheless, the controls make for an enjoyable experience for all.

For the many gamers who appreciate the technical aspect of gaming, it would be a crime for me not to mention the sheer awesomeness of the soundtrack.  From the minute the classic Star Wars theme begins to the end of the story, gamers are treated to a sound track that appropriately portrays the feeling of being in the Star Wars universe.

From a graphical standpoint, The Force Unleashed is a truly beautiful game.  From the wonderful backdrops and massive levels to the crisp real time cinematics, Lucasarts and Activision have done a fine job in creating a gorgeous world depicting the Star Wars universe.  Unfortunately, the game does suffer some slow down but it’s hardly noticeable and rarely occurs.  There are moments where the camera angles can get frustrating but those are easily forgiven.  There are also some moments of graphic tearing and clipping but none of it really takes away from the core game.  A little more polish would have been nice but by no means does it make this game not worth picking up!

Sadly, there is no multiplayer present which may turn some fans away but for those dedicated to the Star Wars franchise; the single player will see you battling for the universe for a good 6 – 10 hours depending on what difficulty you chose to play on.

For all the fans of the series, this game is a must by! For gamers who have never gotten into Star Wars, this game warrants a look, if not for the Star Wars franchise, then at least for the great gameplay!