When Star Wars Battlefront launched in 2004, it created a buzz in the gaming world by introducing expansive battles and online play that was new to the franchise. Its follow-up, Star Wars Battlefront 2, took everything great from its predecessor and amplified it, becoming a beloved classic still enjoyed years later. Not long after, two spin-offs for the PSP—Renegade Squadron and Elite Squadron—hit the market. While they couldn’t quite match the technical prowess of the console versions, these games introduced inventive features like customizable loadouts and seamless ground-to-space transitions. Enter EA’s Star Wars Battlefront reboot.
The collaboration between EA and DICE brought us two new Battlefront games, but their reception was mixed. Fans initially criticized both releases for different reasons: the first game felt bare-bones, lacking sufficient content, while the second was plagued by controversial microtransactions. However, through substantial updates, Battlefront 2 has regained the community’s favor, drawing players back in over time. This renewed interest demonstrates that despite its hurdles, Battlefront retains a charm that keeps it relevant—and there are more reasons it’s worth keeping around.
### Star Wars Battlefront Should Remain a Staple of the Franchise
In the universe of Star Wars, war is more than just a backdrop—it’s central to the narrative. The original trilogy revolved around the Galactic Civil War, the prequels focused on the Clone Wars, and the sequels tackled the rise of the First Order. Even during the relatively calm High Republic era, there are still undertones of potential galaxy-wide conflict.
Many Star Wars games have explored themes related to war—surviving the Clone Wars or rebelling against oppression, for example—but none capture the essence of war quite like Star Wars Battlefront does. Every Battlefront installment puts the player right in the middle of colossal battles. Unlike the films and series, where large-scale warfare might be brief, these games deliver an immersive experience with dazzling explosions, fearsome vehicles, and the powerful intervention of a Jedi or Sith. This immersive slice of warfare is why Battlefront remains pivotal in the Star Wars gaming canon.
### The Next Star Wars Battlefront Should Double Down on its Unique Perspective
If the Battlefront series is to continue as a key part of the Star Wars gaming experience, it should evolve while retaining its distinct viewpoint. Take 2005’s Battlefront 2 as an example. Its “Rise of the Empire” campaign stood out, offering depth and emotional resonance.
In this iteration, players begin as 501st Clone Troopers, engaging in battles that span both the Clone Wars and the Galactic Civil War. As the story unfolds, players witness the transformation of these Troopers into Imperial Stormtroopers, confronting both moral dilemmas and the relentless cycle of war. The story, paired with haunting narration, captures the complicated nature of duty and conflict.
In contrast, EA’s Star Wars Battlefront 2 attempted a narrative where players transitioned from Imperial loyalist to Resistance member. While ambitious, it often got sidetracked by cameo appearances that diluted its core storyline. Any future Battlefront entries would do well to embrace the original Battlefront 2’s approach, centering on the gritty reality of being just another soldier in the unending machine of war.
