When Star Wars Battlefront first hit the shelves in 2004, it was nothing short of groundbreaking. The game introduced fans to epic-scale battles within the beloved universe, coupled with an online play that was ahead of its time. A couple of years later, Star Wars Battlefront 2 elevated this successful formula, solidifying its place as a classic that gamers continue to enjoy even today, a testament to its longevity and appeal. The series extended into the portable gaming sphere with the PSP’s Renegade Squadron and Elite Squadron. Although these titles couldn’t quite match the technical prowess of the console versions, they brought fresh ideas into the mix, like personalized loadouts and seamless transitions from terrestrial to space combat. Then EA stepped in with a reboot of Star Wars Battlefront.
EA and DICE’s iteration of the Star Wars Battlefront saga has been a roller coaster, leaving a mixed impression on players. Initially, both games were marred by setbacks—the first lacked depth in content while the second was plagued with notorious microtransaction problems. Yet, there’s a twist in the tale, especially for Star Wars Battlefront 2. Over time, updates transformed it into a much-appreciated game, convincing old and new fans to give it another go, and many haven’t turned back since. This enduring popularity despite early missteps is a crucial reason why Battlefront shouldn’t fade away, and there are more reasons to consider as well.
Star Wars Battlefront holds a distinctive place in the franchise, and no other series examines the theme of war quite like it. War is an intrinsic part of the Star Wars narrative, woven seamlessly into each era—from the Galactic Civil War in the original trilogy to the Prequel’s Clone Wars and the rise of the First Order in the sequels. Even during the peace-focused High Republic period, there’s an underlying tension of potential conflict.
Numerous Star Wars games have touched on the fringes of these war themes, exploring the aftermath of the Clone Wars, Order 66, or the defiant stand of Rebels. However, no title delves into the warfare itself as profoundly as Battlefront. Each entry in the Battlefront series casts players right into the heart of colossal battles, an experience seldom fully captured in the films or series. The chaos of war—massive explosions, the intimidating presence of vehicles, and the formidable might of a Jedi or Sith entering the fray—comes alive through the gameplay, making it an essential facet of Star Wars gaming.
For Battlefront to maintain its iconic status in the gaming universe, future installments must build on this unique perspective. The 2005 Star Wars Battlefront 2 left a lasting impact, largely because of its engrossing “Rise of the Empire” campaign. Players navigated the journey of a 501st Clone Trooper, witnessing pivotal battles across the Clone Wars and the Galactic Civil War. Starting off against the CIS, then turning against the Jedi post-Order 66, players experienced firsthand the transformation into Imperial Stormtroopers—a grim tale of war’s endless cycle and blind obedience.
EA’s Star Wars Battlefront 2 took a different narrative route, starting with an Imperial who later joins the Resistance. Despite its attempt at depth, it didn’t quite hit the mark emotionally due to its reliance on celebrity cameos that distracted from the core story. A new Battlefront entry could look back at the original’s strengths, embracing the gritty reality of being just another soldier in an endless war machine.
Look forward to an immersive game that beautifully encapsulates the essence of war in the Star Wars realm. Whether you’re charging into battle on Starkiller Base with a lightsaber or piloting an X-wing against the First Order’s colossal star destroyer, Star Wars Battlefront’s multiplayer arenas allow you to step into dynamic battlegrounds across all three trilogies. The ability to customize and upgrade characters, along with commanding various vehicles and facing legendary figures such as Kylo Ren and Darth Maul, enriches the gameplay experience. It is a nod to a universe cherished for more than 40 years.
