STAR WARS™ Republic Commando™

STAR WARS™ Republic Commando™ is widely praised for its enduring quality and unique squad-based gameplay. Players appreciate the game's tactical mechanics, which allow near-total control over a squad in a challenging and immersive Star Wars environment. The story is engaging, with strong character development, especially highlighted by the presence of Temuera Morrison as the protagonist, Clone 38 "Boss." The game's atmosphere is noted for its dark and gritty yet authentic Star Wars feel, supported by a memorable soundtrack and solid gunplay. Though originally an Xbox title, it has aged well with community mods enhancing graphics and fixing technical issues.

However, some players note the game’s relatively short campaign and the need for mods to improve mouse sensitivity and widescreen support. Additionally, certain difficulty spikes and bullet sponge enemies can be frustrating. Despite these minor flaws, the game remains a beloved classic with a dedicated fanbase and is recommended especially for those who enjoy tactical shooters and Star Wars lore.

Highlights

Players especially praise the game's squad command mechanics and tactical depth, which stand out even years after release. The engaging storyline and character development, particularly through Clone 38, receive high marks. The game's atmosphere and audio design, including the iconic soundtrack, contribute significantly to immersion. Visuals, while dated, are still appreciated when enhanced with mods. The challenging gameplay and balanced weapon economy further enhance the experience, making it one of the best Star Wars FPS titles available.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's short campaign length and the necessity of installing mods for optimal experience, such as fixing mouse sensitivity and widescreen support. Some players find certain enemies, like Super Battle Droids, overly bullet spongey and difficulty spikes occasionally unfair. Multiplayer functionality is limited without mods, and a few technical issues persist due to the game's age. Additionally, some feel the game’s mechanics and graphics show their age, and wish for an official remaster or sequel.