Revisiting Galactic Battles: A Look at Star Wars Battlefront Classic Collection

In 2024, I find myself revisiting the original Star Wars: Battlefront games, a nostalgic journey back to my youth spent huddled around a CRT TV with my older brother, immersed in the epic battles of Battlefront 1 and 2 on the PlayStation 2. Now, Aspyr has revived these classics with the Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection, offering both a trip down memory lane for longtime fans and a unique experience for newcomers.

Returning to these games after two decades is like stepping into a time machine. For those seeking to relive old memories, the games remain preserved, evoking the same excitement and joy. However, for those accustomed to modern shooters, the gameplay may feel outdated and unconventional. The controls, particularly in the first game, lack the refinement of contemporary shooters, with aim assist and hit detection quirks that take some adjustment. Additionally, matches can be longer compared to today’s fast-paced multiplayer games.

Yet, these quirks are characteristic of the era in which the games were developed. Back then, shooters like Call of Duty and Halo were still evolving, and Battlefront was no exception, exploring what made a compelling competitive shooter.

Despite their age, both Battlefront titles boast an abundance of features, especially Battlefront II, with its impressive single-player content. The standout mode, “Galactic Conquest,” offers hours of engaging gameplay. Moreover, the addition of heroes versus villains, space battles, and refined shooting mechanics in Battlefront II demonstrates the developers’ commitment to enhancing the experience.

The emphasis on single-player content in these games reflects the priorities of the time, contrasting with the predominant focus on multiplayer experiences in modern shooters. The inclusion of couch co-op/versus modes, once a standard feature, is now a rarity, serving as a reminder of gaming’s evolution over the years.

The Battlefront Classic Collection includes some changes from the original release, such as additional characters and features like trigger resistance for PlayStation 5. While these additions may enhance the experience for some, others may find them less appealing, such as the trigger resistance feature, which can strain the index finger during extended gameplay sessions.

Approaching Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection as a historical artifact allows players to appreciate its significance in gaming history. Despite its age and quirks, the collection offers a glimpse into a bygone era where offline content was abundant, and “fun” was paramount.

I extend my gratitude to Aspyr for providing an advanced review copy. Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection is set to release on March 14, available on various platforms including Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox One.