The Improvements You're Looking For: Star Wars Battlefront II Review

Hi, my name is Ben and welcome to another episode of “I like this game, and you’ll probably like it too.” For those that don’t listen to or read things, the highly anticipated and somewhat controversial Star Wars Battlefront II dropped this past Friday. We’ve spent the weekend playing this laser beam extravaganza, and now come to you with our thoughts and comments in this review.

Sequel to the incredibly-poor-in-hindsight Star Wars Battlefront (2015), this game exemplifies developer DICE’s attempt to action feedback. If you played the previous game, then you likely have a ton (negative) feedback for it. I’m happy to say early in this review that they listened, and while not perfect, the improvements and changes simply cannot be ignored. Let’s begin.

Star Wars Battlefront II features a storied campaign! Never thought you’d read that sentence, did you? Bridging the fascinating gap between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, this story showcases an almost underwhelming narrative, but is filled with memorable moments and surprisingly interesting characters. I was excited for the idea of a story built by DICE with their various engines, but wasn’t so sure that it would work out too well (too many disappointing campaigns with previous Battlefield campaigns). I am pleased to say the story of Battlefront II is great for any and all Star Wars fans. It adequately marries Battlefront’s already popular gameplay, with some seriously wondrous and genuine Star Wars moments.

You play Iden Versio, a skilled special operations commander for the Empire’s Inferno Squad. Player’s step into her boots during the Battle of Endor, just before the Death Star II is destroyed by the Rebel Alliance. Iden is a cold stone, but not emotionless operator, and players take control of her as the Empire collapses under the mounting pressure of a successful and motivated Rebellion, one that is rarely seen in the beloved films. I may be a sucker, but I thoroughly enjoyed viewing the Rebellion’s transformation into the New Republic, and enjoyed the Empire’s shattered remains turn into the menacing First Order.

Iden is even a more enjoyable and well-rounded character than I anticipated. She is the daughter of a vicious Imperial Admiral, and product of intense indoctrination into the Empire’s hive-minded thinking and propaganda. While I expected her to exhibit some close-minded behavior, she was surprisingly open to different perspectives, which result in some developments which I will not spoil here. The “supporting cast” is also a thrill to experience. You wondered what Luke Skywalker and the gang did during the weeks following the Battle of Endor? Play the campaign!

Now let’s be clear, the game is certainly imperfect. Some plot points a bit trite, and the writing can be underwhelming. Gameplay mimics the multiplayer almost exactly, so there are no complaints there, but some comments. Because it mimics the multiplayer mechanics, there is no cover system. Movement is a bit horizontal, but gives enough freedom of movement for ample exploration and observation while outside of combat. But, this campaign is bound to be fun for anyone looking for some a new Star Wars story (thank god it’s canon).

Enough story, let’s talk multiplayer. Battlefront is traditionally multiplayer, so it’s heart and soul still exists within it this time around. No matter what your thoughts are on Electronic Art’s inability to understand the ethical conundrum that is microtransactions, Battlefront II’s multiplayer is one hell of a pivot in the right direction. Fun, varied, and beautiful, the experience now includes all three eras from the Star Wars sage. Destroy Separatist Droid tanks on Kashyyyk, blast Rebel scum on Endor, or shoot down First Order TIE Fighters above Starkiller Base. Your call. The various planets and locations showcase the most outstanding Star Wars set pieces I have personally seen in a video game. Whether it’s the Rebel Base on Yavin 4, or Clone Research facility on Kamino, everything looks and is perfect.

In regards to gameplay and mechanics, Battlefront II has spruced an already impressive gameplay experience. Movement is a bit sharper and easier to control, and the switch between first and third person is fantastic. Flight mechanics have undergone the most drastic change however. In the previous game, flying was easy and fairly boring. Now, DICE has made flying more in line with their Battlefield series - it took me a while to become acclimated to the game’s new default flight controls, but I find it exhilarating to encounter and wonderful to look at. Weapons are also a stark improvement, now including upgrades and modifications. Star Cards, which are perks purchasable within the game help customize any ships, classes, or heroes you have unlocked.

Touching on the criticized progression system, EA and DICE had implemented an interesting but frustrating way to advance your trooper’s “career.” While playing, you can earn a number of in-game currencies: credits, crystals, and tools. Credits are general points, while crystals and tools help with upgrades. Personally, I do not find the system difficult to understand, but I do think it symbolizes a slippery slope - who knows if EA will activate microtransactions again, making it difficult to earn enough in-game currency to afford Luke Skywalker?

To finish, I find Star Wars Battlefront II to be a great video game, even though it isn’t perfect. I enjoy the unique perspective and story that the campaign provides, and I enjoy the thrilling and diverse multiplayer gameplay even more. I want more, but what I have so far is enough of a fun and improved experience.

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Ben Stembridge, Editor-in-Chief

Ben leads the reviews and news coverage for Game Chop. He also offers opinions on games and the industry, covering a wide range of genres and platforms. Ben especially enjoys discussions on game narratives, design styles, and independent titles.

#BenStembridge