Nightdive Studios, known for remastering classics, has finally revealed a date. Star Wars: Dark Forces is returning to the screens on February 28, 2024, as per GameSpot. Intriguingly, this date marks almost exactly 29 years after the original was launched, drawing in both waves of nostalgia and fresh excitement.
Originally released on March 10, 1995, Star Wars: Dark Forces carved its niche by daring to present a Star Wars-themed first-person shooter at a time when most were quick to label top-rated FPS games as a “Doom clone.” The structure is reminiscent of id Software’s classic, allowing players to navigate through intricate 3D landscapes and battle against the sprite-based enemies. What sets it apart is the extensive array of Star Wars weaponry, from blaster rifles to the intense thermal detonators.
Over the years, Dark Forces has enjoyed the title of the definitive Star Wars FPS, especially given its pioneering narrative sequences, which included animated cutscenes accompanied by authentic voice acting. The gripping narrative brought to life Kyle Katarn as well, a figure who swiftly became a fan favorite and a significant part of the extended Star Wars universe. The game’s plot intricacies like the stolen Death Star plans and the enigmatic Dark Trooper program have found references even in modern Star Wars canon, including the popular show, The Mandalorian.
With its track record of reviving classic shooter games, Nightdive Studios is the perfect fit for handling the Dark Forces Remaster. Their commitment to preserving the essence while infusing modern technology ensures that the game will not just be a nostalgic trip but also a modern gaming masterpiece. The updated game is set to be available on a variety of platforms including PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and S, Xbox One, and the Nintendo Switch. Notably, it will support 4K resolution and frame rates of up to 120 FPS depending on the platform.
The remastered version’s features are nothing short of state-of-the-art. Players can expect visuals at up to 4K 120FPS on modern platforms as well as integrated gamepad support and the addition of a new weapon wheel, rumble, and motion or gyro controls. This advanced 3D rendering is set to offer hyper-realistic lighting and atmospheric effects, bringing a richer depth to the gaming experience.
Nightdive Studios, utilizing their proprietary KEX engine, has revamped the game to allow it to run seamlessly with its upgraded gameplay, high-resolution textures, enhanced lighting, and rendering. Moreover, to further motivate players to immerse themselves, the game now supports Trophies and Achievements on Steam for Windows PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles.
In its core, Star Wars: Dark Forces presents players with an intense narrative centered on Kyle Katarn, who defects from the Galactic Empire to become a mercenary. He later joins the Rebel Alliance’s covert operations team, tasked with the formidable job of infiltrating the Empire. His mission leads him to unearth the clandestine Dark Trooper Project, which is an ambitious venture by the Empire to craft a new line of Imperial battle droids and power-armored stormtroopers. This intricate plot not only provides thrilling gameplay but also adds significant lore to the expansive Star Wars universe.
Nightdive’s decision to remaster this classic comes at a time when fans are keenly looking back at beloved titles. Their line-up for 2024 further demonstrates their commitment to this, with other remasters like System Shock 2 launching in the same year as well.
With Star Wars Outlaws scheduled to come out early next year as well, fans will have even more of a reason to whisk of to a galaxy, far, far away.
