Greetings Gamers! Greg here from Gaming Cypher to fondly remember a Star Wars game from my youth. If you are a huge Star Wars nerd like me and also happened to be a kid when Episode 1 came out the idea of a new Star Wars movie was extremely exciting. The Phantom Menace movie also brought with it a few games, Racer, the Phantom Menace movie game, and Jedi Power Battles, okay actually there are 10 games. Regardless Racer and Jedi Power Battles were among the few that could be enjoyed with friends taking turns.
For those who might have missed the original release or even its existence slips your memory, Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles is an arcade-style platformer where gamers play as one of their favorite Jedis to burn through enemy defenses list the blast doors in the opening scene of the Phantom Menace. Now, with its arrival on PS5, the question is: Does this Playstation classic hold up, or is it best left in the archives of the Jedi Order?
At its core, Jedi Power Battles is a hack-and-slash adventure where players choose from a roster of Jedi, including Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn, and Mace Windu. Each Jedi has unique combos and Force abilities, adding variety to the experience. The controls, however, are stiff by modern standards. Platforming sections can be frustrating, with jumps feeling imprecise, but the melee combat retains its nostalgic charm. Striking down waves of enemies with a lightsaber still carries that Star Wars magic, even if the hit detection is spotty.
What truly shines is the cooperative multiplayer. Playing with a friend on the same screen brings back the classic couch co-op fun that so many modern games lack. However, the lack of online multiplayer is a missed opportunity that could have elevated this re-release.
While this is technically an upscaled port rather than a full remake, Jedi Power Battles benefits from improved resolution and frame rates. The PS1-era polygonal models are still blocky, but the cleaner edges and smooth performance make the action easier to follow.
That said, the game retains its original design quirks, such as awkward fixed camera angles and rigid animations. It’s a stark reminder of how far game development has come, but for those who grew up with the original, the authenticity is appreciated.
The campaign is relatively short, but the game encourages replayability with different Jedi, Jar Jar, unlockable characters, and secrets hidden throughout levels. The difficulty can be punishing at times, especially with the stiff controls, but mastering the combat feels rewarding.
Unfortunately, outside of the main story, there isn’t much to keep players engaged. A modernized challenge mode or online leaderboards would have added value to this re-release.
Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles on PS5 has truly been restored for fans of the original, delivering classic couch co-op and nostalgic lightsaber action. However, its clunky platforming and lack of modern enhancements keep it from being a must-play for newcomers.
For longtime fans, it’s a worthy trip down memory lane. For everyone else, this relic of the past might be better left in the Jedi Archives. Score: 6.5/10
Related: Reviews by Greg Vander Velde
I've been a life long nerd and video game junkie known to associate with the likes of Link, Nathan Drake, Batman, and Master Chief. I'm a filmmaker by profession, but spend lots of time behind a controller escaping the real world. @GregVelde on Instagram/Twitter/YouTube
More Stories
SYNDUALITY: Echo of Ada Review for Xbox Series X/S
The Stone of Madness Review for Steam
Tomb Raider IV-V-VI Remastered To Launch for PC and Consoles February 14, Pre-Order Now