Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection Game Review

As a long-time fan of the Star Wars universe, I was excited to dive into the Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection. This collection brings together the beloved games from the early 2000s, allowing both nostalgic players and newcomers to experience the iconic battles of the Galactic Civil War and the Clone Wars. In this review, I will share my thoughts on the gameplay, graphics, sound, and overall experience of this classic collection.

Overview of the Collection

The Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection includes the original Battlefront and Battlefront II, both developed by Pandemic Studios. Released initially in 2004 and 2005, these games set the standard for multiplayer shooters with their large-scale battles, various playable characters, and numerous vehicles.

Gameplay

One of the standout features of both games is the gameplay mechanics. I found the controls to be intuitive, whether I was piloting a speeder on Endor or engaging in blaster fire on the streets of Coruscant. The ability to switch between third-person and first-person perspectives adds a layer of strategy to the experience.

The class system in Battlefront allows players to choose from different roles, such as Trooper, Heavy, Sniper, and Officer, each with unique abilities and weapons. This variety ensured that I never felt bored, as I could change my playstyle depending on the class I chose.

In Battlefront II, the introduction of hero characters allowed players to take on the roles of iconic figures from the Star Wars saga. I enjoyed the thrill of battling as Darth Vader or Yoda, using their unique powers to turn the tide of battle. The hero system added an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay, allowing for memorable moments in each match.

Graphics and Sound

While the graphics may not match the standards of modern games, I appreciated the nostalgic charm of the original art style. The environments were rich with detail, from the snowy landscapes of Hoth to the lush jungles of Kashyyyk. Each map offered a unique atmosphere that captured the essence of the Star Wars universe.

The sound design deserves particular mention. The iconic sounds of blaster fire, lightsabers clashing, and the unmistakable voice lines from characters brought the game to life. The music, composed by John Williams, further enhanced the immersion, making me feel like I was part of the epic battles from the films.

Multiplayer

Multiplayer has always been a significant aspect of the Battlefront series, and this collection stays true to that heritage. I found it exhilarating to join large-scale battles, with up to 64 players in some modes. The chaos of combat, combined with the teamwork required to achieve objectives, created a thrilling experience.

The various game modes, from Conquest to Capture the Flag, kept the gameplay fresh. I particularly enjoyed Galactic Conquest, which added a strategic layer to the multiplayer experience. Managing resources and choosing where to attack made every decision feel impactful.

Single Player Campaign

While multiplayer is a highlight, the single-player campaigns are also worth exploring. Battlefront II features a narrative-driven campaign that follows a clone trooper’s journey. I found the story engaging and appreciated the effort to provide context to the battles I was fighting.

Although the AI can be somewhat predictable, the campaign missions vary enough to keep things interesting. From space battles to ground skirmishes, I enjoyed the variety of gameplay experiences that the single-player mode offered.

Nostalgia Factor

For those of us who grew up playing the original Battlefront games, this collection serves as a trip down memory lane. I found myself reminiscing about late-night gaming sessions with friends and the excitement of unlocking new characters and maps. The nostalgia factor is a significant draw, making it easy to lose hours revisiting these classic titles.

Improvements and Modernization

While the classic collection does a fantastic job of preserving the original games, there are areas where it could benefit from modernization. The user interface feels dated, and improvements to matchmaking could enhance the multiplayer experience. Additionally, incorporating some quality-of-life features, such as enhanced graphics options or updated controls, would make the games more accessible to a new audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection is a must-play for fans of the franchise and those looking to experience the roots of multiplayer shooters. While it may not have the polish of modern titles, the gameplay, sound design, and nostalgic value more than compensate for any shortcomings. Whether you’re reliving your childhood or discovering these games for the first time, the collection offers a rich and enjoyable experience.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jgtzOjOZ_3Y?si=aiemwjt7oi39D7p-" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>