The Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection marks the return of two iconic titles from a galaxy far, far away – bundled together in a single package so we can enjoy them again on modern platforms. Developed by Aspyr and now available on PlayStation 5, this collection offers a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s, inviting both veteran players and newcomers to experience how we all played large-scale battles in the Star Wars universe way before EA repurposed the title in 2015.
The premise of the collection is straightforward: to once again dive into several memorable conflicts of the Star Wars saga across various iconic locations. With both Star Wars: Battlefront and Star Wars: Battlefront II included, players will find an abundance of content in this bundle, from engaging campaigns to the intense multiplayer modes that ultimately defined the series.
Upon booting up the collection, players are greeted with a wealth of maps, heroes, and villains.. The two campaigns offer very distinct experiences, with the first game focusing more on showcasing battles from different Star Wars episodes (the first six films, with an emphasis on the original trilogy), while the second delves deeper into the Clone Wars era, following the elite 501st Legion of Stormtroopers and focusing more on the dark side of the force.
The gameplay mechanics remain as satisfying as ever, with familiar FPS controls that make it easy to jump into the action. However, some players may find the turning speed in these games to be a tad sluggish compared to modern games, detracting slightly from the overall experience until you get used to it. Nonetheless, the diverse array of character classes and the ability to pilot iconic vehicles adds depth to the gameplay, offering plenty of game-altering options for players to explore.
Visually, while the collection doesn’t boast significant graphical improvements, there are subtle enhancements such as sharper textures and improved aliasing. However, the real appeal lies in the faithful recreation of beloved Star Wars locales and the immersive sound design that brings the battles to life. However, if you’re expecting something akin to the 2015 reboot, the visuals here will likely disappoint you.
Despite its strengths and appeal to longtime fans, Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection is not without its flaws. Some maps may feel bland and empty, and the UI could benefit from a modernization to enhance the overall user experience. Additionally, the lack of crossplay support limits the multiplayer experience, potentially hindering the longevity of the collection – something we’re hoping to see added post-launch.
In conclusion, Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection, despite its dated visuals, offers an authentic and enjoyable experience for fans of the original series. With its wealth of content, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic charm, it serves as a fitting tribute to the timeless appeal of the Star Wars universe and how popular these games were back in the day. Whether reliving fond memories or discovering the series for the first time, this collection delivers a gaming journey that captures the essence of a galaxy far, far away – the way we experienced it twenty years ago.
Score: 7.9/10
Press Play Media 