Prettier Than Real Life, but Just as Flawed: Star Wars: Battlefront Review
- bstemmy94
- Mar 19, 2016
- 3 min read
As you can probably guess from the title of this post, we have some talking to do about the newest Star Wars thing on the block (the new game, not the movie). Star Wars: Battlefront, the next-generation revitalization of an age-old classic has been out for some time now. Reviews have been mixed, and experiences with the game from Electronic Arts have been varied, so let's get right to it.
First off, the game is without a doubt one of the most awe inspiring examples of next generation graphics we have ever seen. The game can impress even the most vitriolic cynic, and bewilder those who are already on-board. Snow, plants, rocks and so many other environmental features are stunning beyond compare. However, one of the most beautiful graphic features is color; laser blasts, explosions and the environment shine bright and react to light incredibly. One of our favorite physical parts of the game to discuss is the overall approach to design. No matter what you think of the game, Battlefront's design team with DICE should be commended for the games phenomenal aesthetic design of everything from the menu to the in-game text.
Now, a sharp as hell left turn: the game is simply not worth $60.00. We are not going out on a limb by saying this (since everyone else is too), so we'll elaborate. The game is fun, pretty and very cool, but it lacks a variety of content an immersive online multiplayer game needs. Customization is limited for character appearance and is nonexistent for weapons. While there are several (but not enough) blasters to choose from, there are no modifications or personalization features whatsoever. Now, this is clearly an effort to preserve the classic Star Wars feel - no fancy stuff, just what you see in the movies. As admirable as that is, it simply disappoints players who want to earn some more flare for their amazingly cool new blasters. Starfighters as well are cookie cutter and bland. Your amazing personal X-Wing is sadly just like everyone else's. While it's a classic and beautiful look, some variety would be much appreciated.
You can choose from a variety of pre-made faces and hairstyles, as well as a few alien races. However, there's not much customization other than that. Your rebel and stormtrooper's snazzy looking outfits change with every map and environment, but you cannot alter them. Lack of content seems to touch every corner of the game’s existence, as the amount of alien races is surprisingly small, and seems to be missing some (the hell is Admiral Akbar?). While EA has recently released new maps and game modes, the initial release was hindered by the game's simplicity.
Let's shift to another positive before my blood pressure gets a little crazy. Again, the game is fun. There it is, the most important thing. Battlefront is a great time with a lot of appeal for many people. The neat and seamless transition from third to first-person is awesome to play around with, and combat is great and very smooth. Rocketing around a beautiful and iconic landscape and blasting bad guys never really gets old.
EA is set up to release some expansion passes this year, four to be exact. Now this brings some hope that the game will expand itself and become what we all want it to be. Nonetheless, EA's track record is to charge quite a lot for a small product. $49.99 for the Season Pass, which includes early access to all expansion, and $14.99 for each expansion which are to be eventually released individually. Battlefront's first expansion, Outer Rim, features two new heroes, four new blasters and two new maps (ugh, really?). Let's just hope that Star Wars: Battlefront realizes how much players reeeaaaally want it to be great.
Be sure to read our reviews of the Star Wars Battlefront's expansions, including Outer Rim, Bespin and Death Star.
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