When George Lucas was busy making “Attack of the Clones,” video game developer, LucasArts worked on a game titled, “Star Wars: Starfighter.” Set during “The Phantom Menace,” the story follows three pilots. Names are Rhys Dallows, Vana Sage & Nym. The unlikely trio band together to prevent the Trade Federation from conquering Queen Amidala’s home planet from being taken over. Starfighter was officially released in 2001 (same year Jak and Daxter came out) on PlayStation 2 and Xbox. It received praise from critics, fans and gamers alike. Plus, it was a commercial success. A sequel known as “Jedi Starfighter” was released two months before Attack of the Clones opened worldwide.
I have a few reasons why I wanna review this game. Mark your calendar, folks.
- Pedro Pascal will reprise his role as Mando in “The Mandalorian and Grogu.” Coming in May 22, 2026.
- “Galactic Racer,” a spiritual successor to Nintendo 64’s podracing game. It’ll be released sometime around 2026.
- “Fate of the Old Republic” is currently in development. Game developer, Casey Hudson mentioned he intends to complete it before 2030. A long way ahead.
- Ryan Gosling will headline Starfighter. A film not a 100% adaptation of the 2001 game. It’s set 5 years after “The Rise of Skywalker.” Shawn Levy signed on to direct. Intended release date, May 28, 2027. The exact same year Attack of the Clones will turn 25.
Light Side & Dark Side Aspects
Light Side: Voice Actors all did a solid job for their respective performances.
Graphics for a PS2/Xbox game still hold up.
Gameplay/Mechanics
- Presented as a space combat simulator, you play as three pilots, Rhys, Vana & Nym piloting their ships participating in 14 missions.
- Fire lasers and missiles at designated targets.
- Every mission contains a bonus and hidden objective. If you complete a specific one, you unlock bonus content like additional missions, ships and concept art and audio commentary by the production team. Depending on the bonus and hidden objective, they act as bronze, silver and gold medals.
- Enemy variety consists of Trade Federation droid ships.
- Command your squadmates to attack, defend and report a status update on your pals.
- Look up cheat codes online and input any code. Don’t be shy.
John Williams’ score from the films are retained.
Sound Effects from the films are also retained.
Chemistry between the three pilots serve as the main highlight.
Random Thoughts
- I think I got this game on my 9th birthday as a present along with Jedi Starfighter and Spider-Man on PS2.
- Nym’s my favorite character. Although the game and its sequel are no longer canon, he’s mentioned in a 2019 era sourcebook, “Collapse of the Republic.” Meaning, he’s in the official canon.
- Unlike Jedi Starfighter, the first game’s not on the PlayStation Store.
Last mission recreates the Naboo pilots goal to destroy the Droid Controlship in The Phantom Menace. This time, Rhys does the honors blowing it up instead of Anakin.
Dark Side: Regardless on any difficulty level, there are no checkpoints. If you screw up, you’re forced to start a level from the very beginning.
The game can be 100% completed in 7 hours. Not enough to equal a full price at release. Which is ridiculous. Replaying every level to achieve bronze silver and gold medals couldn’t save replay value.
The Final Verdict: B, FOR BOMBS AWAY!
Despite two nitpicks on a short length and lack of checkpoints, Star Wars: Starfighter still holds up. I had fond memories playing this game along with its sequel on the PS2. Nowadays, I think they’re great. If you wanna relive your childhood, introduce them to your kids. Which upcoming Star Wars game are you looking forward to the most? I’m waiting for Fate of the Old Republic. I’ll keep myself occupied. Give the developers some time to coordinate.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 