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Star Wars Jedi Survivor Review (Pros & Cons)

Star Wars Jedi Survivor Review

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is the highly anticipated sequel to the popular Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. Fans have been eagerly awaiting its release, and now that it's here, it's time to dive into the game and see if it lives up to the hype. In this Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order review, we will explore the game's graphics, gameplay mechanics, customization, performance, and story.

Graphics and Performance

A Feast for the Eyes

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor showcases breathtaking visuals that transport players into the heart of the Star Wars universe. The game's art direction is nothing short of remarkable, featuring lush landscapes, meticulously designed characters and creatures, and impressive special effects that bring the iconic lightsaber battles to life. The environments are rich and diverse, ranging from dense forests and ancient ruins to bustling cities and imposing Imperial facilities. This visual variety keeps the game fresh and engaging throughout the entire journey.

Attention to Detail

The game's developers have spared no effort in ensuring that even the smallest details are consistent with the larger Star Wars universe. The characters' clothing, hairstyles, and accessories are thoughtfully crafted, and the weapon customization options are among the best in any Star Wars game to date. These details, while subtle, contribute significantly to the immersive quality of the game, creating a sense of authenticity and depth that fans will appreciate.

A Few Hiccups Along the Way

Despite its stunning visuals, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor has faced some challenges in terms of performance. Some players have experienced issues such as low frame rates, stuttering, and game crashes, which can be particularly frustrating during intense combat sequences or crucial moments in the story. While the developers have released several patches to address these problems, a few lingering issues remain.

For example, I experienced frame drops when transitioning between zones within the game's maps, which seemed odd because it wasn't during scenes with numerous enemies or complex lighting effects. Additionally, certain areas within the game, like the archive base on Jedha, seemed to have a higher frequency of crashes. While these issues might not affect all players, they were particularly bothersome for me when I encountered them.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Lightsaber Combat Perfected

The lightsaber combat in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is smooth, responsive, and satisfying. The game offers five different lightsaber stances, each with its own skill tree, allowing players to customize their playstyle. The combat is further enhanced by the addition of force abilities, such as the charged force slow ability, which adds depth and strategy to battles.

An Explorer's Paradise

Exploration is a key aspect of the game, with large, diverse environments filled with secrets and collectibles. The addition of a grappling hook and fast travel system makes traversing these vast landscapes more enjoyable and less time-consuming. Side puzzles and quests offer additional content for players who want to delve deeper into the Star Wars universe.

Platforming Overload

While exploration is a significant part of the game, some players may find the platforming elements tedious and repetitive. However, others may appreciate the challenge these segments bring, as they test players' skills and provide a change of pace from the combat-focused gameplay.

Customization and Progression

A Personal Touch

Character customization in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a marked improvement over its predecessor. Players can now modify their character's hairstyle, facial hair, and clothing, in addition to customizing their lightsaber. This level of personalization allows players to feel more connected to their in-game avatar.

Diverse Skill Trees and Perks

The game features a comprehensive progression system with multiple skill trees and perk slots. This allows players to tailor their character's abilities to match their preferred playstyle, whether it's focused on lightsaber combat, force powers, or a balanced approach.

Performance and Technical Issues

Devoted Developers

The game's initial launch was marred by performance issues, including low frame rates and crashes. However, the developers have been committed to addressing these problems through a series of patches. While some issues remain, the game's performance has significantly improved since launch, and the developers' dedication to fixing these issues is commendable.

A Rocky Road to Stability

Despite the developers' efforts, some players still experience technical issues, particularly when it comes to crashes. For instance, some players have reported crashes when entering or exiting specific areas, such as the archive base on Jedha. While these issues can be frustrating, they are relatively minor in the grand scheme of the game's overall experience.

Story and Characters

A Captivating Tale

Star Wars Jedi: Survivor continues the story of Cal Kestis, five years after the events of Fallen Order. The game's narrative is engaging, filled with twists and turns that will keep players invested in the story. The game also references the High Republic era and the extended universe, adding depth and context for Star Wars aficionados.

Room for More Character Development

The character development in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is well-executed, with returning and new characters alike experiencing growth and change throughout the story. The relationships between characters are dynamic and evolve as the plot unfolds, adding emotional weight to the narrative.

Connections to the Larger Universe

The game pays homage to the broader Star Wars universe by including references to the High Republic era and various aspects of the extended universe. This attention to detail and continuity will surely be appreciated by dedicated fans, while also providing a richer experience for newcomers.

Summary: Star Wars Jedi Survivor Review

In summary, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a visually stunning game with engaging combat, exploration, and customization options. The game's story, while divisive, offers an intriguing narrative filled with twists and turns. However, the game suffers from performance issues, bugs, and a lack of balance in gameplay elements.

Pros

  • Stunning graphics and immersive environments
  • Improved character and lightsaber customization
  • Engaging and responsive lightsaber combat
  • Expansive worlds filled with secrets and collectibles
  • Interesting story with numerous references to the extended Star Wars universe

Cons

  • Performance issues on even high-end gaming hardware
  • Persistent bugs and technical issues
  • Lack of balance in gameplay elements, with an overemphasis on platforming
  • Divisive storyline that may feel disconnected from the core narrative
  • Some players may find the High Republic era focus detracts from Cal Kestis's personal journey

Despite its flaws, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is a must-play for fans of the franchise and those who enjoyed the previous game, Jedi Fallen Order. With its captivating story, satisfying combat, and extensive customization options, there's plenty to love about this action-packed adventure. However, players should be prepared for potential performance issues and bugs that may impact their experience.