A Complete Guide to the Best Star Wars Video Games
When it comes to franchises, the Star Wars film series is probably what springs to mind. But did you know that there are – more than one hundred – Star Wars video games? You heard me correctly. One. Hundred! This makes Star Wars, incontestably, one of the biggest video game franchises out there. Now, understandably, there are some duds, but there are also some – truly – genre defining games as well. This is them.
Star Wars: Battlefront II (2017, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows)
Starting off strong, Star Wars: Battlefront II has already become a classic, despite having been released well under a decade ago. Sure, when it was first released there was a whole nasty controversy over its microtransactions. However, dependable as always, EA managed to steer the ship, ahem, pod racer (and the dialogue) back on course. Sure, now microtransactions are part and parcel of gaming – but in those hazy days of 2017?… not so much.
After setting things back on the right track, Star Wars: Battlefront II soon become a fan favorite. One standout aspect (that often goes under-praised) is the voice acting. This lends total authenticity to its galaxy-spanning battles. Among the talents is Zoe Grizedale, who adds a touch of depth to the game’s audio landscape with her brilliant voice work. It’s these small, often overlooked elements that bring scenes to life, making each skirmish feel more immersive – more real.
Beyond its sound design, the game underwent a massive overhaul after launch. First off? Removing pay-to-win mechanics – the world wasn’t ready! As a means of making up, EA also added free content updates that introduced new heroes, maps, and storylines. Talk about a make-up present. This transformation speaks to the developers’ dedication to turning around a troubled release into a beloved staple.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (2003, Xbox, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch)
This one somehow feels closer to a ‘space opera’ than a shoot-em-up! Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic – for the sake of my fingers, let’s call it KOTOR from now on – is a must-play. Released all the way back in 2003 – I know, it seems like light years ago – this RPG has aged surprisingly well.
The story unfolds thousands of years – before – the original films. This is a unique take and gives you, the player, the chance to carve your own path. Will you be a Jedi? Or will you fall to the dark side as a Sith? It’s 100% up to you. The game’s branching narrative with multiple endings is what makes this choice possible. As an aside, it also makes the game endlessly replayable!
With customizable characters, intricate dialogue trees, and an ensemble cast, including the unforgettable HK-47 with its dry, biting humor, KOTOR sets a standard in narrative depth that few Star Wars games have matched. HK-47’s sarcastic and brutally honest remarks make for some of the most entertaining moments. Plus (and I promise not to ruin it for you) the twist – seriously, no spoilers here – ranks among the best in video game history.
Star Wars Outlaws (2024, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows)
Onto the newest release on the list and one that regularly tops the charts for best sci fi games, Star Wars Outlaws is truly a force to be reckoned with. It’s the first – ever – fully open world Star Wars title. To be honest? This feels kind of unbelievable! With more than one hundred releases before it, finally getting to explore on your own terms is such a treat.
The protagonist, Kay Vess, is a scoundrel (to put it mildly!) navigating the criminal underbelly of the galaxy. The premise alone – a mix of heists, exploration, and moral choices – feels fresh compared to the traditional hero vs. Sith narratives. For us, the seamless transitions between ground exploration and space travel are excellent. It’s a tricky thing to do – and they’ve nailed it. Combining this with the, how can I put it politely? ‘Moral grey area’? That is Kay Vess, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an unconventional, fresh take on what a Star Wars video game can be.
LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga (2022, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows)
The Skywalker Saga is the newest entry to this successful string of games and it does not disappoint. Released in 2022, it’s a sprawling game that covers – all nine – mainline films at bite-sized, humor-filled levels.
You can visit iconic planets like Tatooine and Coruscant and explore them at your own pace. Better still, there are over 300 playable characters – which is frankly ridiculous. From Jedi legends to obscure background figures, there are guaranteed to be characters on the roster that you’ve never even heard of. It’s fun, playful, and a bigger release than ever before.
