Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles review (PS5)

Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles returns with a refreshed take on the 2000 game that is now celebrating its 25th anniversary. Aspyr brings the lightsaber-swinging, droid-slashing action to modern consoles, offering updated visuals and gameplay features while retaining the essence of the original. And while it’s a nostalgic ride for fans of the prequels and early 2000s gaming, its dated design elements may struggle to captivate newer audiences despite the fresh coat of paint.

The game’s campaign spans ten levels, taking players through iconic locations from The Phantom Menace, including Theed Palace and the Trade Federation ship. Each level is packed with droids, creatures, and traps that keep players constantly on edge. The option to play as Jedi such as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Mace Windu, and Qui-Gon Jinn, alongside unlockable characters like the fan-favorite Darth Maul, adds variety. The inclusion of modern updates, such as the ability to toggle lightsaber colors and experiment with different control schemes, is a small but welcome enhancement.

Gameplay blends side-scrolling action with occasional platforming, creating a chaotic but engaging experience. Combat emphasizes lightsaber duels and Force abilities, offering a distinct Star Wars flavor. However, the platforming sections can feel imprecise, with awkward jumps and questionable collision detection causing frustration when things look and feel awkward. These issues, remnants of the original game’s design, remain largely unresolved in the remaster.

One of the best features is the couch co-op mode, which allows two players to battle through the campaign together. This mode shines as a nostalgic reminder of the appeal of split-screen gaming, even if it lacks online multiplayer support. Playing with a friend can mitigate some of the game’s more frustrating elements, making it a highlight of the experience.

Visually, Jedi Power Battles has received a noticeable upgrade, with sharper textures and more vibrant environments. While the enhancements bring the game closer to modern standards, it still shows its age in level design and animations, which can appear stiff compared to contemporary Star Wars titles. The audio remains a strong point, with iconic Star Wars music and sound effects immersing players in the galaxy far, far away.

Controls offer a mix of classic and modern options, catering to both returning fans and newcomers. While the modern control scheme improves on the original’s clunkiness, it doesn’t entirely resolve issues with responsiveness, particularly during more chaotic encounters or platforming segments. For some, the nostalgia may outweigh these shortcomings, but others may find the gameplay mechanics outdated.

Overall, Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles is a nostalgic journey that will resonate most with fans of the original release and Star Wars enthusiasts. The improved visuals, added features, and co-op mode make it a worthwhile experience for those looking to revisit or discover the game. However, its dated mechanics and occasional frustrations mean it might not appeal to everyone. For fans of Star Wars and retro action games, it’s a fun, if imperfect, slice of gaming history.

Score: 6.4/10