Star Wars: Battlefront [PC]

First, the good news: Battlefront is everything Episodes I and II were not. Now the bad: That's not saying as much as you'd think. An open-ended third-person shooter which simulates epic conflicts waged in a galaxy far, far away, the game's focus is fast-paced, multiplayer thrills. Unfortunately, capturing the flavor of combat in two distinct eras -- the Clone Wars and Galactic Civil War epochs -- is its sole forte. Lacking the discipline and depth of storyline found in the feature films, grand-scale action sequences are all the title can offer... not audience empathy. While capable of providing a solid gaming experience for large-sized parties, the outing doesn't pack much play value for Star Wars buffs interested in a solo campaign.

A simplistic setup sees single users or groups of varying size (up to 16, 24, and 50+ on PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC, respectively) butt heads. Both split-screen and broadband-based conflicts are an option, as are desktop computer-exclusive LAN skirmishes which support more players. Available match types beyond obligatory instant action options include historical campaign and galactic conquest modes.

The former demands you choose a particular timeframe, then set about fighting famed struggles (the Battle of Naboo, the Rebellion on Theed, etc.). It's a design choice that works well with multiple combatants. But by your lonesome, you'll find it's a flop -- participants are forced to randomly flit between the forces of good and evil, destroying any hope at characterization or continuity.

Here's how it works: Players begin by choosing a map, e.g. Attack of the Clones or A Galaxy Divided. Afterward, they select an available side (Rebel Alliance, Galactic Empire, Republic Clone Army, or Separatist Battle Droids), and pick a starting planet. From there, opposing forces simply compete for control over two war zones on each world. Emerge victorious, and you claim the territory. Doing so grants the victor various bonuses -- troop regeneration, added reinforcements, hero units -- and lets you choose which landmass to assault next. Conquer four planets, such as Kashyyyk, Endor, or Yavin 4, and you'll further unlock secret base powers. For example, if the Empire reigns over Tatooine, it can use the Death Star to destroy an entire Rebel holding.

But forget all the high-level maneuvering for a moment... Battlefront's a game that's primarily concerned with carnage from an up close and personal perspective. You'll spend most of your time storming villages, wastelands, and military bases set at famed cinematic locations (Bespin, Hoth, etc.) alongside squadmates. Controlling an individual character, gamers essentially wage a one-man war on opponents. As you can imagine, the experience becomes much more sublime when you can coordinate combat tactics with live humans.

Despite the variety of assignments put forth -- sabotage shield generators, take out Trade Federation ships, etc. -- your real objective is always to capture enemy command posts. Doing so depletes rivals' supplies of reinforcements, though battles may also be ended early if all opposing troops are killed. The balance of power shifts constantly, providing fuel for the fire that is the title's frenzied gameplay.

The game succeeds admirably in terms of offering a fine selection of firefights under any configuration. Each side boasts four well-balanced classes -- pilots, soldiers, snipers, and heavy weapons specialists -- plus special souped-up, more powerful additions like the Droideka robot and Wookie smuggler. The number of vehicles up for grabs is also amazing; you can't beat ducking into and out of X-Wings, AT-ATs, and speeder bikes at whim. Furthermore, all characters and conveyances sport unique abilities, signature handling, and perform differently under specific situations, which adds considerable replay value.

Presentation-wise, unit models and overall texture quality won't disappoint, especially on the PC, where the game sports noticeably enhanced visuals at sharper resolution. In all editions, much occurs on-screen continuously (blaster fire whizzes past, Y-Wings explode on impact). No matter the platform, you'll really get a sense you're involved in an epic struggle.

Constant aural feedback in the form of screams, chatter, and explosions proves a nice touch, too. Observant gamers will even note little details which add flavor to fracases such as Jedi who can deflect shots back upon adversaries. Of course, once you've seen the first few hundred foot soldiers, AT-ST, or TIE fighters bite the dust, it all blurs into one big, multi-colored mush.

Enthusiasts seeking a little single-player loving won't find it in Star Wars Battlefront. Unless you've got friends willing to pass as potential victims, it's about a day's worth of cheap thrills. But those seeking a suitable multiplayer scrap should find themselves in good shape with this one.