STAR WARS™ Knights of the Old Republic™
" Classic adventure RPG with deep Star Wars story and strategic combat but dated graphics and bugs "
STAR WARS™ Knights of the Old Republic™ Review
STAR WARS™ Knights of the Old Republic™ is widely regarded as a classic RPG and one of the greatest Star Wars games ever made. Released in 2003, it offers a deep, engaging story set thousands of years before the films, with memorable characters and meaningful player choices that impact the game's outcome. The game introduced many features now standard in RPGs, such as morality systems and character customization. Despite its age, the narrative and gameplay remain compelling, with a rich Star Wars atmosphere and iconic plot twists that continue to resonate with players.
However, the game shows its age in graphics and technical performance on modern systems, often requiring mods or patches for stability and improved visuals. Combat mechanics, while praised for challenge, can feel dated and sometimes frustrating, especially the final boss fight. Nonetheless, the game’s storytelling, world-building, and character development have left a lasting legacy, making it a must-play for RPG and Star Wars fans alike.
Highlights
Players consistently praise the game's rich and immersive storyline, highlighting its classic Star Wars narrative and memorable characters like Revan and Bastila Shan.
The gameplay mechanics, including turn-based combat combined with real-time decision-making and a morality system, are noted for depth and challenge.
Many appreciate the atmospheric world-building and the game's influence on future RPGs, despite its dated graphics.
The story's plot twists and character dynamics are often described as emotionally impactful and engaging.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's technical issues on modern hardware, including frequent crashes and bugs, which often require unofficial patches or mods to resolve.
The graphics are considered outdated, and some players find the combat system clunky or frustrating, particularly the final boss encounter which can feel unfair and requires specific preparation.
The game’s save system and lack of respec options can hinder player flexibility and enjoyment.
Additionally, AI pathing and some mini-games have been noted as weak points.
Pros
- • Deep and engaging Star Wars story with memorable characters and impactful choices.
- • Innovative RPG mechanics that influenced modern role-playing games.
- • Challenging and strategic turn-based combat system.
- • Rich world-building and atmospheric environments.
- • High replayability with multiple endings and character paths.
- • Strong narrative pacing and top-tier writing quality.
- • Classic Bioware storytelling at its peak.
Cons
- • Dated graphics that require mods for modern appeal.
- • Technical issues and crashes on current systems without patches.
- • Final boss fight can be frustrating and requires specific builds.
- • Limited save system and no respec option reduce player flexibility.
- • Some AI pathing and mini-games feel clunky or unpolished.
- • Combat mechanics may feel slow or outdated to some players.
- • Occasional bugs and stability problems persist.
Rating Criteria
It is four thousand years before the Galactic Empire and hundreds of Jedi Knights have fallen in battle against the ruthless Sith. You are the last hope of the Jedi Order. Can you master the awesome power of the Force on your quest to save the Republic? Or will you fall to the lure of the dark side?