Back in 2004, Star Wars Battlefront made its grand entrance, introducing fans to epic battles and online play that were groundbreaking for the series. Building on that success, Star Wars Battlefront 2 took the game to a whole new level, turning it into a timeless classic that gamers still enjoy even after many years. Following those, the series expanded into handheld territory with the PSP’s Renegade Squadron and Elite Squadron. Though these versions didn’t quite match the technical prowess of their console counterparts, they brought in fresh elements like custom loadouts and transitioning from ground battles to space fights. Then EA rolled out their Star Wars Battlefront reboot.
Now, EA and DICE’s take on the Battlefront series has been a bit of a mixed bag. When both games first hit the shelves, they had their share of issues; the initial release lacked content, and the sequel stirred controversy with microtransactions. Nonetheless, over time, Battlefront 2 received updates that rejuvenated interest, winning back many of its fans. Despite early hiccups, the enduring appeal of Star Wars Battlefront shows why it should remain an integral part of the franchise—and there are several compelling reasons for this.
### Why Star Wars Battlefront is Essential
Among all the Star Wars series out there, none dive into the theme of war quite like Battlefront. “War” is, after all, half of the franchise’s name and forms the backdrop for nearly every storyline. The original trilogy unfolded amidst the Galactic Civil War, the prequels explored the Clone Wars, and the sequels featured the rise of the First Order. Even the High Republic era, a time often depicted as peaceful, frequently revolves around avoiding galaxy-wide conflicts.
Although many Star Wars games have successfully touched on themes related to war—whether it’s surviving the aftermath of the Clone Wars or rebelling against tyranny—none capture the full-scale warfare like Star Wars Battlefront does. Each iteration brings the chaos of war to the forefront, offering players towering explosions, formidable vehicles, and the potent arrival of Jedi or Sith warriors. This perspective is unique to Battlefront and solidifies its role in the world of Star Wars gaming.
### Future Directions for Star Wars Battlefront
For Battlefront to maintain its spot in the Star Wars gaming universe, it needs to keep evolving, emphasizing its distinct viewpoint. The 2005 version of Star Wars Battlefront 2 is especially revered for its “Rise of the Empire” campaign, which stood out among its many features.
Beginning as a trooper in the 501st Legion, players embark on a journey spanning the Clone Wars to the Galactic Civil War. Initial battles pit the player against the Confederacy of Independent Systems, but post-Order 66, they become stormtroopers under the Empire. The story, with its poignant narration, offers a sobering look at the endless nature of war and the blind obedience of soldiers, grounding the game’s narrative in ethical complexities.
By contrast, EA’s version of Battlefront 2 opted for a narrative where players start as Imperials and switch sides to join the Resistance. However, its emotional impact fell short, partly because of distracting cameos that diluted the main story. Any future Battlefront should take a cue from the original sequel, focusing on the theme of being part of the relentless war machine.
### The Game Experience
Players are thrust into intense battles, whether clashing against waves of enemies on Starkiller Base with a lightsaber or charging through Yavin 4’s jungles alongside fellow troopers. They engage in thrilling space dogfights, attacking colossal First Order Star Destroyers. As Iden, an elite Imperial special forces soldier, players dive into a gripping story that spans decades, all while navigating multiplayer battles set across iconic Star Wars eras. Each character, starfighter, and trooper comes with unique abilities, giving players a multitude of tactical choices.
From taming tauntauns to piloting massive vehicles, players can bring down enormous Star Destroyers or wield the Force as legendary characters like Kylo Ren or Han Solo. This comprehensive experience, inspired by decades of Star Wars lore, keeps players coming back for more.
Overall, Star Wars Battlefront’s colorful history and unique take on warfare make it an essential and cherished part of the franchise’s video game legacy.
