Best Gunplay in Star Wars Games, Ranked - July 2024

Highlights

Super Star Wars offers engaging 2D action and 3D battles for a complete Star Wars gameplay experience.
Shadows of the Empire on N64 sets the standard for blaster gameplay with fun mechanics and jetpack action.
Dark Forces is a fast-paced classic FPS reminiscent of Wolfenstein and DOOM, with revamped 2024 experience.

As a long-time Star Wars fan with countless hours spent immersed in the rich galaxy far, far away, I hold a special place in my heart for each game that brings the franchise to life in unique and engaging ways. Having experienced the thrill of leading a squad of elite soldiers as Boss in Republic Commando, to hunting targets as Jango Fett in Bounty Hunter, and battling it out in epic multiplayer matches in Battlefront 2, I can confidently say that these games stand out as some of the best Star Wars experiences to date.

As the release date for Star Wars: Outlaws draws near, fans might be searching for an engaging blaster game to keep them entertained until they can officially play it. This presents a fantastic chance to delve into some outstanding gunplay featured in numerous Star Wars Games and analyze what makes these games exceptional.

Star Wars ranks among the most popular franchises in gaming, boasting over 100 titles that date back to the 1980s. Early games showcase robust shooting mechanics and remain enjoyable with their engaging third-person and first-person shooter experiences, as well as those in the 2D genre. Rest assured, Star Wars offers a game for all preferences, particularly for fans of action-packed shoot-em-ups.

9 Super Star Wars

Chaotic 2D Action With 3D Space Battles

In the 1992 game Super Star Wars, you get to step into the roles of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, or Chewbacca. Prepare for thrilling levels filled with numerous adversaries, necessitating nimble reactions to dodge enemy blaster shots. The selection of characters offers diverse gaming experiences.

In this game, although most parts are set in two dimensions, certain areas introduce three-dimensional environments and land vehicle fights. Notable examples are the X-Wing dogfights above the Death Star, which include the famous trench run. The game offers thrilling boss battles, imaginative level designs, and a fast-paced, diverse gameplay experience that truly encapsulates the Run and Gun genre within the Star Wars universe.

8 Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire

Fun Mechanics With A Nintendo 64 Charm

Platform(s): Nintendo 64, Microsoft Windows
Released: 1996-12-02
Developer(s): Lucasfilm Games LLC
Genre(s): Third-person shooter, Platformer, Adventure

3D “Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire” was among the pioneers in its genre, paving the way for numerous subsequent games. It primarily revolved around blaster combat, enriching the experience through innovative features like a jetpack. The game offered an array of weapons, including blaster pistols, automatic rifles, heat-seeking missiles, and others. In simpler terms, “Shadows of the Empire” was one of the earliest “Star Wars” games that focused on blaster battles, introducing novel elements such as a jetpack and providing a diverse arsenal of weapons like pistols, rifles, and missiles.

The game offers enjoyable and captivating levels filled with elements to shoot at like explosives, dodge turrets, and solve platforming puzzles. There are vehicle sections as well, which is great news for enthusiasts of space battles. Despite having rough controls typical of early 3D games, its nostalgic appeal attracts many fans.

7 Star Wars: Dark Forces

A Fast-Paced Classic That Feels Like Wolfenstein/DOOM In Star Wars

Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation
Released: 1995-02-15
Developer(s): Lucasfilm Games LLC
Genre(s): First-person shooter, Adventure

In simpler terms, “Dark Forces,” a first-person shooter (FPS) game, offers an extensive collection of weapons and additional tools for players. Its gameplay is reminiscent of classics such as the original “DOOM” and “Wolfenstein 3D.” It enhances these games with elements like jumping and the ability to look up or down. The more current 2024 remaster lets modern gamers relive a significant “Star Wars” gaming history.

1. The game offers intense and demanding gameplay that requires swift decision-making and agility, offering rewards for quick wits. Its intricate levels, reminiscent of mazes, hold hidden treasures for those eager to explore. Varied boss fights, featuring different weapons, firing options, and explosives, prove beneficial in different situations. All in all, it’s a delightful, nostalgic journey worth acclaim.

6 Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection

Original Battlefront Experience

The “Battlefront Classic Collection” whisked players back to bygone eras, including the originals from 2004 and 2005. Unfortunately, the debut of this latest version wasn’t smooth sailing; it faced bugs and multiplayer difficulties that potentially hindered its rise to widespread fame. However, developers haven’t abandoned ship – they’ve been steadily issuing updates to address the initial problems.

1. The gameplay is a tribute to the classics, blending the straightforward yet captivating combat of the original and the polished soldier and hero actions from the sequel. Every sound cue and visual element recalls fond memories of local multiplayer Instant Action battles and Galactic Conquest campaigns. Despite some issues in the re-release, it undeniably delivers a dose of nostalgia.

5 Star Wars: Battlefront (2015)

Competitive Boots-on-the-Ground Gunplay Across Iconic Star Wars Locations

2015’s reboot of “Star Wars: Battlefront” was generally well-received but fell short on certain fan expectations, as additional content was sold separately that should have been included in the initial release. Regardless, the team at DICE created an impressive game featuring exciting blaster battles. The matches in the online mode are characterized by low health, high damage, and swift respawns, making them fast-moving and intense.

In this game, battles feel authentic and not entirely typical of the “Star Wars” series, as soldiers succumb promptly when outmatched. The individuals with the swiftest reflexes for aiming and strategic maneuvers tend to emerge victorious on the battlefield. Despite some negative feedback, the gunplay is engaging and hard to put down.

4 Star Wars: Hunters

A PvP Arena Shooter In The Star Wars Universe

Star Wars: Hunters has made its successful debut on mobile devices and the Nintendo Switch, captivating players with its enjoyable gameplay and cheerful presentation. This game showcases an array of one-of-a-kind characters, each boasting intriguing designs and individual combat techniques. For instance, the Sentinel character wields a heavy repeating blaster that effectively takes out multiple opponents from afar.

characters equipped with lightsabers joining in close-quarters battles can be found, but it’s strategic long-range skirmishes that truly define the gameplay. Thoughtfully designed levels set up engaging combat scenarios where agility and fast decision-making are crucial. Similar to other mobile hero shooters, characters possess unique abilities to keep battles exciting. Ultimately, Hunters offers a strong, immersive shooting experience for mobile gamers.

3 Star Wars: Republic Commando

Impressive FPS Combat And Smart AI

Republic Commando offers an exceptional first-person shooter adventure, boasting excellent game mechanics, intelligent AI teammates, and a captivating narrative that lingers in the minds of players even post-game. The gunplay is thrilling and demanding, featuring powerful weapons, formidable enemies, and exhilarating stages. What truly sets this game apart is its squad: elite clone commanders who each possess distinct abilities, characters, and talents that prove instrumental during combat.

leading a team of four soldiers, Boss is responsible for giving orders during operations. The team can break down doors, set charges, concentrate their assault, and much more. Notably, they can revive each other and even Boss, which strengthens their bond and promotes cooperative play with the AI. This advanced AI, combined with polished combat mechanics and meticulously crafted levels, makes for an engaging experience.

2 Star Wars: Bounty Hunter

Hunt Targets With Dual-Wielded Pistols And A Jetpack

Platform(s): PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, GameCube, Microsoft Windows
Released: 2002-11-19
Developer(s): LucasArts
Genre(s): Third-person shooter, Platformer, Adventure

In a new take on the Star Wars saga, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter delves into the backstory of Jango Fett prior to his fate in Attack of the Clones. Gamers will have the chance to wield his legendary twin blasters, jetpack, flamethrower, and various other bounty-hunting tools. This captivating title is a must-play for enthusiasts of Mandalorians – the armored warriors introduced in the franchise through Boba Fett, Jango’s offspring.

1. Playing around with this game’s numerous features is incredibly enjoyable, and its action-packed battles are filled with thrilling acrobatics as Jango performs somersaults and rolls to dodge laser fire. The levels are meticulously designed to accommodate the game’s frenetic gunplay. This title appears to have been influenced by the 1996 classic, Shadows of the Empire, but has been enhanced and upgraded in all aspects.

1 Star Wars: Battlefront 2 (2017)

The Best Elements Of Battlefield Placed Into The Star Wars Universe

As a gamer, I jumped into the fray of Battlefront 2 at launch, only to find myself in the thick of controversy due to its overreliance on microtransactions. However, the game’s creators swiftly responded, shifting their focus back to the gameplay and eliminating the pay-to-win elements that had initially soured fans like me. This was a breath of fresh air because, as a fan of the Battlefront series, I care most about the gameplay. The blasters pack a punch, and the maps are visually stunning, much like its 2015 predecessor. It’s a relief to be back in the Star Wars universe, where the thrill of battle is everything it should be.

As a seasoned gamer with over two decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that this game is a true gem. The roster of iconic heroes it boasts is nothing short of impressive – each one bringing unique guns and abilities to the table, adding layers of excitement and depth to every battle.

2024-07-30 07:34