DESCRIPTION

Graphical enhancements and added two-player modes aside, Star Wars: Starfighter Special Edition is essentially a port of the PlayStation 2 original. Based around the exploits of three pilots: Rhys Dallows, Vana Sage, and Nym, the game weaves a narrative that, while concurrent with the events of Episode I, is totally unique to the game. Throughout the title's 19 missions, of which five are exclusive to this edition, players will helm three completely different fighters, each of which is unique to their owner. Rhys' Naboo Starfighter is extremely quick with a modicum of firepower, while Nym's Havoc is slow, but armed to the teeth with energy bombs, triple laser cannons and more. Falling somewhere in between is Vana's Ship, the Guardian Mantis. It's highly maneuverable, but lacks the speed or power of the other two.

The missions themselves run the gamut from standard seek-and-destroy excursions to massive space battles, with five bonus missions making their way into this edition. Certain missions even allow the player to command wing mates, ordering them to defend or attack specific structures and enemies. CG cut-scenes perform the necessary task of setting the stage for upcoming missions, as well as providing some insight into the various characters you're forced to control. LucasArts saw fit to include an additional three multi-player modes in the title, bringing the grand total to five.

Hunter pits two players against each other, one being the requisite hunter, while the other his prey. Capture the Flag and Dogfight are exactly what they sound like, and staples in many a multi-player mode, regardless of genre. Tag and Detonator Drop round out the selection. Detonator Drop is much the same as CTF, but now there's only one flag (a bomb in this case) that everyone must recover. Once retrieved it must be dropped off at an opponent's base before time runs out. Tag requires the designated person to keep an enemy under a beam for ten seconds to score.

Visually, Star Wars: Starfighter Special Edition proves the most accomplished, sporting sharp textures and a smooth frame rate. ~ Gavin Frankle, All Game Guide