Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection should have been a slam dunk.
The new package contains some of the best Star Wars video games ever made, now with multiplayer support across all modern platforms. I was ecstatic about its announcement at February’s Nintendo Direct: Partner Showcase. The ability to easily play locally or on the go with the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic feature.
However, developer Aspyr’s track record with remasters is disappointing. Multiple server issues at launch impacted online play, along with other minor gameplay problems. Despite these issues, Star Wars: Battlefront II is a game that more people should experience, especially on PC or Xbox where it can be played in a better way.
A mixed collection
The Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection received an overwhelmingly negative review status on Steam mostly due to its flawed online play. Initial server issues and poor connections made a significant portion of the games unplayable. Aspyr acknowledged these problems and has been working to improve network stability and prevent future outages.
Despite some initial issues being resolved, problems such as invert controls, missing cutscenes, and limited local play persist, making the $35 price tag a tough sell until the game is patched and discounted.
Nevertheless, the core appeal of both Battlefront games in a single launcher on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation is commendable. The games offer enjoyable online multiplayer experiences when they work, and the chance to revive an older game online is a welcome opportunity, albeit with missed potential by Aspyr.
Star Wars Battlefront 2 is still worth playing
Despite the collection’s issues, Star Wars: Battlefront II remains a standout game with its immersive sandbox experience. The game’s various modes and captivating campaigns, especially the Rise of the Empire campaign, offer players a deep dive into the Star Wars universe, filled with unique storylines and engaging gameplay.
While the shooting mechanics may feel dated compared to modern games, Star Wars: Battlefront II is a must-play for any Star Wars or shooter game fan. It’s a shame that the Classic Collection falls short, but the Steam and Xbox versions still offer a rewarding gameplay experience.
The other ways to experience these classics
For a more reliable experience, consider playing both Star Wars: Battlefront games individually on Steam or through backward compatibility on Xbox. These versions offer enhanced features and improved performance, albeit without online multiplayer support. By opting for these alternatives, you can still enjoy the essence of the original games without the drawbacks of the Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection.
Despite the flaws of the Classic Collection, the original Star Wars: Battlefront games remain timeless classics. Don’t let a subpar remaster deter you from experiencing these iconic titles.
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