Nightdive Studios, known for their exceptional remaster work on various titles, including , , and other series, has ventured into the realm of retro first-person shooters once again. This time, they delve into the Star Wars universe with , a game that offers a unique perspective in more ways than one. Not only does it shed light on one of the many ‘clones’ that surfaced following the massive success of id Software’s groundbreaking shooter, but it also explores a segment of the Star Wars expanded universe that no longer holds relevance within the franchise canon.
While some may label Dark Forces from 1995 as a mere imitation of Doom, this description fails to capture its true essence. Despite drawing inspiration from Doom, the game stands out due to LucasArts’ expertise in the adventure genre. They managed to elevate Dark Forces by incorporating storytelling elements through cutscenes and mission briefs, creating a gameplay experience that transcended simple ‘shoot and go’ mechanics. The inclusion of actual objectives was a refreshing departure at the time, providing players with a sense of purpose beyond mere infiltration. Every mission was a step towards advancing the rebellion’s cause—for the galaxy’s sake.
For many readers who may not have encountered Dark Forces previously, the game remained confined to platforms like MS-DOS, Mac, and PS1 until Nightdive’s revival efforts breathed new life into it. As Poe Dameron might say, “Somehow, Dark Forces returned.” Unlike Palpatine’s fleeting return in The Rise of Skywalker, Dark Forces Remaster is a triumph, modernizing the classic FPS with enhanced visuals, refined controls (including optional gyro aiming), and a plethora of features catering to both veterans and newcomers alike.
Spanning 14 levels, Dark Forces delivers a substantial yet engaging experience without overstaying its welcome. Players traverse diverse environments, from Imperial detention centers to eerie underground lairs teeming with grotesque creatures. The game’s aesthetic draws solely from the original trilogy, unburdened by the iconography introduced in the prequel or sequel trilogy. This focused approach contributes to a more grounded gameplay experience, albeit one that exists outside the official canon.
While it’s possible to swiftly navigate through levels, especially on lower difficulty settings, the game rewards exploration with hidden secrets like new weapons and extra lives. Taking your time to uncover these surprises adds depth to the gameplay—sometimes, a well-aimed Thermal Detonator reveals hidden passages behind cracked walls.
The true delight of Dark Forces lies in its combat mechanics. As you progress, you acquire a diverse arsenal to combat enemies, each weapon offering a satisfying feel. The tactile feedback of the Stormtrooper Laser Rifle, accompanied by Joy-Con vibrations, enhances the immersive experience. Combat scenarios, where lasers ricochet off walls, inject chaos into engagements. Despite minor frame rate fluctuations during intense combat sequences, gameplay remains a joyous experience from beginning to end.
Visual enhancements in the remaster retain fidelity to the original game while adapting to modern displays. The introduction of a subtle 3D effect enhances depth perception, enriching the visual immersion. Players familiar with the original can opt for a ‘software’ mode that preserves the classic visuals while benefiting from gameplay improvements.
The game offers extensive customization options for controls and accessibility features such as ‘view bobbing,’ ‘weapon flashing,’ ‘H.U.D flashing,’ and ‘subtitles.’ Nightdive’s attention to detail is evident in features like the ‘menu transition speed’ slider, showcasing a commitment to player comfort. Whether you prefer a modernized FPS experience or a faithful recreation of the 1995 release, Dark Forces Remaster caters to both preferences and more.
Conclusion
Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster stands as another triumph for Nightdive, revitalizing a nostalgic FPS classic with modern enhancements and additional features. With refined gameplay, updated visuals, and a range of accessibility options, this rendition offers the definitive way to relive the forgotten era of Star Wars through Dark Forces. Despite minor technical issues, this remaster is a must-play for fans of the galaxy-spanning conflict.