Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire

"A whole load of genres jam-packed into one cart"

I remember back when i first bought my N64, this was one of the first games i ever rented. It was one of the most fun games i had played, having little experience with 3d games. Though it's 5 years ago now, I can still feel the excitement i felt after beating the first level. I've never been a Star Wars fan, so the atmosphere doesn't do much for me, yet i truly enjoyed this game.

There are 4 types of levels in SotE, and i will review them separately.

Planet based flight: 8/10 --This is fun, good looking, and well controlled. I dislike the small space you are given to fly in, but this is one of my favourite parts of the game.

Speeder bike thingy: 5/10 --You're on a hover bike, and you move way too ****ing fast. The city portions will find you constantly crashing or getting turned around. This is the weakest portion of the game.

Ground based Action game: 6/10 --I don't like the sloppy controls in this section, and unfortunately, it encompasses around half of the game. It can be fun, and in some places, the poor controls help add to the fun.

Space flight: 8.5/10 --Now this is fun. There are only two levels of space combat, one being a turret mission, but the final mission goes from turret based to a massive free flying area literally clogged with ships. It took me quite some time to reach this place, but it is certainly worth the effort.

Now the game in categories:

Graphics: 7/10 --good in their time, but now dated. Characters do not seem overly blocky, and ships are nicely detailed.

Sound: 8/10 --Well scored, and well done sound effects. I don't really care for Star Wars, but the music is varied and suited to the levels. The sounds are logical, but sometimes overly fuzzy.

Controls: 6/10 --Some scenes control well, others not so well. Jumping and walking are floaty, while ship controls are spot on.

Gameplay: 7/10 --A nice blend of different genres done alright. I like the blend, as it lends the game different identities.

Best levels:
The final level
The sewers (scared the **** out of me the first time I played it)
The battle of Hoth

Worst levels:
Speeder bike level
First turret mission
Raid on the space ship

Difficulty Balance: 8/10 --There is a difficulty for you, and with some effort, you will pass the game.

Overall: 7/10 --A likeable game that covers a lot of territory, while following an average narrative. If you like Star Wars, or action games in general, you should at least rent this one.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 05/20/02, Updated 05/20/02