The galaxy of Star Wars has, over the decades, ventured far beyond the cinematic universe, making legendary leaps into books, merchandise, and video games. And now, a beacon from the past, Star Wars: Dark Forces, one of the most iconic video games from the beloved franchise, is poised to make its triumphant return.
Resurrected in a dazzling high-definition attire, the game is geared up to satiate both the nostalgics and new fans alike.
Nightdive Studios, whose previous hits include remasters of System Shock and Quake II, has taken on the noble quest of bringing back this cherished game from the mid-90s. With the capability to support a whopping 4K resolution at a max of 120 frames per second, players can expect a visual spectacle that’s in sync with modern gaming standards.
Beyond the sleek graphics, the game is being embellished with several other features to enhance the experience. These additions include modern gamepad support, trophies, achievements, and spruced-up cutscenes. A tantalizing taste for gamers, the revamped title retains the core charm and spirit of the original, presenting a nostalgia-laden journey with a polished veneer.
For those unfamiliar with the game’s narrative, Star Wars: Dark Forces has players take on the role of Kyle Katarn, a mercenary entrusted by the Rebel Alliance with a crucial mission. His objective? To unearth and annihilate the Galactic Empire’s sinister Dark Trooper project. These aren’t your regular stormtroopers; they are a clandestine force, bolstered with Force-sensitive abilities and bolstered by battle droids.
The game was groundbreaking in its time. Beyond being a mere licensed entry into the Star Wars universe, Dark Forces was a pioneer, forging a path in the first-person shooter genre. While its mechanical nuances might feel tethered to its era, its storytelling ethos feels surprisingly contemporary. Several of its themes and elements, from the enigmatic Dark Troopers to Kyle’s iconic Bryar blaster pistol, have permeated the more recent Star Wars narratives, particularly in series like “The Mandalorian” and films like “Rogue One.
The remaster isn’t just a visual treat but acts as a bridge connecting fans to a pivotal moment in both Star Wars and in gaming. Though some purists might argue that its spirit never really waned – evident in how its essence lives on in the modern Star Wars tales — the remaster is a welcome nod to a legendary title that deserves to shine in today’s gaming cosmos.
Interestingly, the technological backbone of this remaster, Nightdive’s proprietary KEX engine, was earlier employed in several renowned titles like Doom 64 and Quake II. The engine, taking the baton from the original game’s Jedi engine, offers enhanced 3D rendering, rejuvenating levels and locales that players adore, from the sprawling metropolis of Coruscant to the intimidating interiors of a Star Destroyer.
As fans, both old and new, await this gem’s release on platforms including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X, one thing is evident — Star Wars: Dark Forces’ remaster will reinvigorate a piece of Star Wars legacy that hold a special place in the heart of fans.
Speaking of Star Wars, Electronic Arts is backporting Star Wars Jedi: Survivor to the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Finally, Ubisoft is promising “handcrafted” planets for Star Wars: Outlaws, which should be better than what Starfield can offer.
