Star Wars Rogue Squadron III: Rebel Strike

"Factor 5's Homage to Classic Arcade Gaming"

Rebel Strike opens with an inspired animation that combines Star Wars characters and disco dancing. It's a clever opening which perfectly sets the tone for the kind of mindless fun and old-school charm that is to follow.

Making the Kessel Run
This time out, in addition to the flying levels that have been the hallmark of the series, the game features several ground-based levels which consist of running around on foot or piloting land vehicles (such as speeder bikes or AT-STs). It's an ambitious attempt to add variety, but ultimately results in the gameplay becoming a mixed bag.

It's not uncommon for the player to be wowed by a beautiful flying sequence, only to then be forced to run through a level, firing blindly at enemies which the camera is reluctant to reveal. This makes for gameplay that is very uneven, with several levels feeling more like short mini-games than actual missions.

It also leaves the single-player mode feeling as if it lacks any real focus. Missions consist of playing random sequences from the films, most of which are strung together by film clips and the barest of narrative cutscenes. One point in the game takes the player from a level based on the battle of Hoth directly to one of Luke racing a speeder bike on Endor. However, before selecting the Endor mission, the player can backtrack on the select screen and find two additional (non-bonus) missions that take place prior to Endor in the films. It's an odd layout that illustrates the sort of random gameplay that comprises the game.

You've Probably Already Read Enough About This Stuff
As expected with a Star Wars title, the graphics and sound are stellar. Tie fighters fill the screen, film clips are plentiful, and John Williams' score never fails to draw you in. One of the most notable additions to the series is a new light filtering effect that really adds a lot of atmosphere (no pun intended) to the flying levels.

The game's controls are very simplified, which is suitable for the arcade action. The c-stick is essentially used as an action button, allowing the player to trigger certain events in a level when prompted onscreen. The on-foot portions suffer the most in the control department, thanks to a clunky camera view and targeting system.

How Did They Manage to Make Slave 1 Cooler?
The game really makes up for its shortcomings with a slew of fun extras which add a ton of replay value. The most popular of which will undoubtedly prove to be the multiplayer and co-op modes. Surprisingly, Factor 5 has included a 2-player version of the entire Rogue Squadron 2 game! You almost have to wonder if the extras are intended to distract you from the awkward ground-based levels.

Of course, also adding to the replay value are the numerous ships and bonus levels that can be unlocked by earning medals on each level. My personal favorite extra, though, is the inclusion of the original Star Wars and Empire Strikes Back arcade games. Both are unlockable, while the classic Return of the Jedi game is rumored to be in there as well...

A Guilty Pleasure for Star Wars Fans
Overall, much like these arcade classics that inspired the series, the game is fun in bursts but lacks levels of any real substance. It will likely be best appreciated by fans of old-school gaming, while those expecting any depth to the gameplay should probably try renting first.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 10/27/03