DESCRIPTION

Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace puts players directly into the blockbuster movie of the same name. While the basic plot remains the same, much of the story has been slightly altered. It all begins as two Jedi, Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, attempt to end the Trade Federation's blockade of Naboo. Unknown to the Jedi is that Darth Sidious and his apprentice, Darth Maul, are the true force behind the blockade. Once the Jedi arrive at the Trade Federation Battle Ship, they are marked for death. Their mission of peace quickly becomes one of survival.

Over the course of The Phantom Menace, you'll assume the roles of Qui-Gon Jinn, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Queen Amidala and Captain Panaka. The majority of the action features Obi-Wan, with Qui-Gon also used often. The two remaining characters, however, are only playable for a limited number of levels.

Both Jedi have the same moves, but Qui-Gon is a bit faster with his lightsaber (lightsabers can only be used by the Jedi). They also both have the ability to use the Force by pushing enemies backward and sometimes to the ground to temporarily stun them. Queen Amidala's exclusive weapon is a droid stunner, a close-range weapon capable of disabling droids for a short time. Captain Panaka, meanwhile, uses the Naboo blaster, a gun not differing much from a standard blaster. Other weapons in the game include light repeating blasters, blaster rifles, proton missile launchers, heavy blasters, thermal detonators, Gungan energy balls, flash grenades and heavy repeating cannons.

The action is viewed form a third-person perspective and slightly above the character, with a total of 11 levels spread out over the planets of Naboo, Tatooine and Coruscant. Levels are as follows: Trade Federation Battle Ship, Naboo Swamp, Otoh Gunga, Theed Palace Garden, Theed City, Mos Espa, Mos Espa Arena, Desert Landing on Tatooine, Coruscant, Return to Naboo and The Final Battle. Notable Star Wars characters making appearances include a young Anakin Skywalker, Jabba the Hutt, C-3PO and R2-D2. Also found on the game disc as a bonus (perhaps for the game's four month delay) is the "Duel of the Fates" music video. ~ Jonathan Sutyak, All Game Guide