When Star Wars Battlefront hit the scene back in 2004, it instantly set a new benchmark for the franchise with its epic scale battles and online play. Its follow-up, Star Wars Battlefront 2, took everything the original did and made it better, becoming a timeless classic that fans are still diving into years down the line. Following those groundbreaking games, the PSP saw two spin-offs, Renegade Squadron and Elite Squadron. Although not as technically advanced as their console counterparts, these handheld adventures introduced cool new features like custom loadouts and transitions from ground to space combat. Then EA decided to reboot the franchise.
The Star Wars Battlefront games from EA and DICE have a somewhat complicated reputation. Initially, both games had their share of issues; the first lacked in content while the second stirred controversy with its microtransactions. Over time, however, Battlefront 2 managed to win back players, thanks to steady updates that greatly improved the experience. Despite its rocky start, Battlefront’s ability to maintain a strong player base illustrates why it shouldn’t be forgotten. There’s more to it than just nostalgia.
Star Wars Battlefront Should Remain a Staple of the Franchise
The concept of war is woven deeply into the fabric of the Star Wars universe—just look at the franchise’s name. Whether it’s the Galactic Civil War driving the original trilogy, the Clone Wars in the prequels, or the First Order’s emergence in the sequels, conflict is a constant. Even during the High Republic era, often described as a period of peace, stories frequently revolve around efforts to prevent galaxy-wide wars.
Numerous Star Wars games over the years have dabbled in war-related themes, exploring the lives of Clone Wars survivors or the struggles of Rebels in their fight for freedom. However, none have captured the essence of war itself quite like Star Wars Battlefront.
Each installment in the Battlefront series puts warfare front and center, something only occasionally seen in the films and shows. With massive battles, intense vehicle combat, and the sheer force of heroes like Jedi and Sith entering the fray, the games offer a rare and exhilarating perspective on the Star Wars universe that should be a cornerstone of the franchise’s gaming offerings.
The Next Star Wars Battlefront Should Double Down on Its Unique Perspective
If Star Wars Battlefront is to remain a core component of Star Wars gaming, it needs to keep pushing boundaries and enhancing its unique viewpoint. The 2005 release of Star Wars Battlefront 2, known for several standout features, is particularly remembered for its “Rise of the Empire” campaign.
Players start off as part of the 501st Clone Troopers, experiencing the narratives of the Clone Wars and the Galactic Civil War. Initially battling the CIS before shifting targets to the Jedi in the wake of Order 66, players watch the 501st transform into Imperial Stormtroopers and continue this journey under the Empire. The campaign paints an unexpectedly poignant picture of soldiers merely executing orders amidst the relentless cycle of war, skillfully narrated in a way that adds emotional depth.
EA’s Star Wars Battlefront 2 aimed for sort of a reverse storyline, where players begin as part of the Empire and shift to the Resistance. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit the mark emotionally, mainly due to cameos that somewhat overshadowed the story. A potential new entry should follow the path of the original Battlefront 2, emphasizing the grim reality of being just another part of the relentless machinery of war.
In the grand tapestry of Star Wars games, the Battlefront series holds a distinct spot. Whether it allows players to storm through enemy ranks or engage in large-scale galactic warfare, it presents an experience rooted deeply in the franchise’s lore. The potential is there to explore new narratives and deliver gripping gameplay across the beloved galaxy.
