Star Wars Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike

"Use the force... and buy this game!"

Factor 5 and Lucas Arts has recently released the latest addition to the Star Wars universe, Rebel Strike. The Rogue Squadron series has always been one of the best Star Wars games around and this one is no exception. Rebel Strike continues the Rogue Squadron with better graphics, sound, levels, on foot levels, and a brand new Multiplayer mode.

Gameplay 8/10
The gameplay in the Rogue Squadron series has always consisted of space simulation battles, but in this game they have added on foot missions. The on foot missions are somewhat interesting. There is really not much challenge in the foot missions besides running around and shooting imperials. The camera angle is somewhat awkward in some parts of the on foot missions and the control isn’t that great ether, but the space flight aspect of this game remains unchanged and is as fun as ever. The computer AI has been greatly improved in the game, and there are more enemies in each level then before. In the Rogue Leader part of this game the AI has also been improved and the levels are considerably harder. The game has many new levels ether on foot or in your ship. You can also play this game as Luke Skywalker or Wedge Antillies. New parts of storyline have been added to this game and characters from the Star Wars Expanded Universe make an appearance. Wedge's storyline takes place mostly in ships, while Luke's takes place on land in speeder bikes and on foot.

Graphics 9/10
The graphics in Rebel Strike have been slightly improved. One thing that was added to this game was that they added a lot more detail to ship explosions. Instead of a Tie Fighter just exploding, little pieces of it would fly all over your screen. The lasers and the environment graphics have also been improved.

Sound 10/10
The sound in this game has been greatly improved over Rogue Leader. The music is less moody, and more exciting. The computer players say a lot more then the scripted advents and the standard ''Arrrrggg'' when they die. It actually feels like they’re talking to you.

Multiplayer 9/10
Multiplayer is a new addition and I must admit it is a great one. There are many Multiplayer modes in this game and each one has a lot of option like wingmen and powerups. You can choose different ships and can choose from different types of weapons to put on it. Their is also a Co-op mode featuring the the original Rogue Leader. The Co-op mode is fun to play but is harder then the original Rogue Leader.

Replay Value 8/10
In Rebel Strike their are many secrets to unlock. Such as levels and ships. The Multiplayer and Co-op mode also makes this title have some replay value.

I think this is a great game and Star Wars and non Star Wars fans will love this. I give this game a big 9/10

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 10/21/03