LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

The story of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga receives widespread praise for its comprehensive coverage of the entire Star Wars saga, spanning all nine mainline films and incorporating elements from spinoffs like Solo and Rogue One. Critics highlight its ability to condense complex narratives into a family-friendly, humorous format that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans. For instance, TheGamer notes the game’s “comedic flair” and exploration of iconic locations, while Nintendo Life applauds its “fast, flashy, and humorous retelling of major plot points.” The game’s structured approach—dividing each film into missions and allowing players to start from any trilogy—enhances accessibility, as noted by Nintenderos and Merlin'in Kazanı. Additionally, the inclusion of fan service, visual gags, and a playful tone (as praised by PC Gamer and Vooks) makes it an engaging celebration of the franchise’s legacy. Many reviewers, like TheIndependent, commend its balance of humor and fidelity to the source material, ensuring the essence of Star Wars remains intact. However, several critics point to narrative shortcomings, particularly regarding pacing, depth, and consistency. GameMAG criticizes the “uneven content distribution” across trilogies, noting missing key moments and underdeveloped character arcs. Similarly, NME and Checkpoint Gaming highlight inconsistencies in storytelling, with Checkpoint Gaming pointing out a disconnect between the game’s comedic visuals and its voice acting script. Others, like GameByte and GamingBolt, argue that some sequences feel “undercooked” or overly condensed, sacrificing depth for brevity. The Guardian mentions “pacing issues in retellings,” while Hardcore Gamer notes the omission of darker moments, creating “inconsistencies.” Additionally, AusGamers and GamingAge observe that the narrative feels “lite” compared to earlier LEGO games, with a more rigid delivery of story beats. These critiques suggest that while the game succeeds in breadth, it struggles to match the emotional or thematic richness of its source material. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus leans positive, with most reviewers acknowledging the game’s strengths as a humorous, accessible entry point for Star Wars fans. While GameMAG and NME express concerns about narrative depth, many others—such as Eurogamer Italy and XboxEra—praise its ability to “transform” the saga into an enjoyable experience, even salvaging weaker elements like the prequel trilogy. The game’s blend of humor, exploration, and nostalgia resonates with a broad audience, as noted by Jeuxvideo.com and Gamer.nl. Though some critics, like PC Gamer and GamingBolt, acknowledge its brisk pacing as a double-edged sword, the majority view it as a successful tribute to Star Wars. Ultimately, while not without flaws, The Skywalker Saga is seen as a fun, cohesive retelling that prioritizes entertainment over strict narrative fidelity, making it a worthwhile experience for fans and casual players alike.

The gameplay of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga receives praise for its innovative mechanics and expanded scope, with many critics highlighting improvements over previous entries in the series. Reviewers like GameGrin and IGN France commend the refined character classes, improved combat systems, and new camera perspectives that add depth to exploration and interaction. GameSpot and New Game Network note the introduction of an over-the-shoulder perspective and combo mechanics, which enhance accessibility while offering engaging combat and puzzle-solving. The open-world structure, featuring 24 planets and RPG elements like skill trees (Everyeye.it, BaziCenter), is seen as a significant evolution, allowing players to explore diverse environments and tackle side missions. Additionally, the inclusion of over 1,000 collectibles (Riot Pixels, Screen Rant) and varied gameplay modes—such as space battles and vehicular play (PC Games, NintendoWorldReport)—adds replayability and variety, making it a more dynamic experience than earlier titles. However, several critics point to repetitive design and a lack of challenge as major drawbacks. Atomix and Games.cz criticize the simplistic combat mechanics and shallow gameplay, arguing that the game feels unchallenging and lacks depth for experienced players. GameMAG and GameGrin note pacing issues and uneven mission design, while Comicbook.com and Jeuxvideo.com highlight repetitive level structures and puzzles. The open-world elements, though praised by some, are seen as detracting from the main campaign’s focus (Riot Pixels) or leading to a disjointed experience (GameSkinny). Additionally, Wccftech and IGN Brasil mention unsatisfying shooting mechanics and a lack of complexity in combat, while DualShockers and EGM note that the low difficulty makes it more suitable for casual players than hardcore fans. These critiques suggest that while the game introduces new features, they often fail to elevate the core experience beyond its formulaic roots. Overall, the consensus among critics is that LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga represents a mixed evolution of the LEGO gameplay formula. While many praise its expanded open-world design, improved combat mechanics (GameGrin, PSX Brasil), and accessibility for all ages (Guardian, DualShockers), others argue that these innovations are undermined by repetitive level design, lack of challenge, and uneven execution (Atomix, Games.cz, Jeuxvideo.com). The game’s balance between innovation and familiarity seems to appeal more to casual players and fans of the franchise, while seasoned gamers may find it lacking in depth. Despite its flaws, the title is generally seen as a worthwhile experience for those seeking a fun, family-friendly adventure with nostalgic charm (Xbox Tavern, Worth Playing), even if it doesn’t fully capitalize on its ambitious design choices.

The majority of critics praised LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga for its vibrant and immersive visual design, highlighting significant improvements over previous entries in the franchise. Many reviewers celebrated the game’s detailed environments, dynamic camera systems, and enhanced graphical fidelity. For instance, IGN Portugal noted the “dynamic camera system that enhances the visual experience,” while VG247 praised the “vibrant and interactive sandboxes” with screen-accurate visuals. The game’s ability to blend LEGO’s signature blocky aesthetic with Star Wars’ iconic settings was frequently lauded, with PSX Brasil calling it “possibly the most visually appealing LEGO game to date.” Critics like PC Gamer and IGN Adria emphasized the realistic textures, detailed character models, and improved lighting effects that brought beloved locations to life. Even Cubed3 highlighted the “sublime aesthetic” and “next-gen feel,” noting that the game’s visual design successfully merged LEGO’s charm with high-quality production values. However, several critics pointed out technical and platform-specific limitations that detracted from the experience. Issues such as texture pop-in, resolution inconsistencies, and performance hiccups were frequently mentioned, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. ComicBook criticized the “visual issues, including characters floating and text appearing out of focus,” while Nintenderos and NintendoWorldReport noted the Switch’s blurred image and geometry pop-in. On other platforms, PlaySense pointed to 4K resolution problems like blurriness, and Games.cz mentioned blurry distant objects and lower frame rates during cutscenes. MeuPlayStation and PC Invasion also cited performance issues like frame drops and crashes, though these were less severe on higher-end hardware. Additionally, some reviewers, like CGMagazine, noted that certain LEGO models and alien characters suffered from visual flaws, suggesting that the blocky aesthetic occasionally clashed with the game’s ambitious scale. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with most agreeing that The Skywalker Saga represents a major leap forward in graphical quality for the LEGO franchise. The game’s ability to balance nostalgic charm with modern visuals earned widespread acclaim, as seen in GameWatcher’s assertion that it is “the best-looking Lego game to date” and Push Square’s praise for its “crisp image quality” and “packed details.” While platform-specific technical issues were acknowledged, many reviewers emphasized that the visual design’s strengths—such as immersive environments, expressive animations, and attention to Star Wars lore—far outweighed its flaws. As PSX Brasil noted, the game successfully “recreates iconic Star Wars locations,” while Twinfinite highlighted its “charming LEGO animations” and ray-traced reflections. For most critics, The Skywalker Saga stands as a visually impressive achievement that elevates the LEGO franchise to new heights.

The overwhelming majority of critics praised the sound design and music of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, highlighting its nostalgic appeal and immersive qualities. Many reviewers celebrated the inclusion of John Williams’ iconic scores, such as “Duel of the Fates” and the original Star Wars theme, which were consistently noted for enhancing the game’s atmosphere and emotional depth. For instance, GameSpot and IGN Italia emphasized how the music evoked a strong connection to the franchise’s legacy, while PC Games and Vandal praised the use of classic LucasArts sound effects alongside Williams’ compositions. The soundtrack’s ability to blend humor with epic moments was also lauded, with Push Square and Games.cz noting how it complemented the game’s lighthearted yet grandiose tone. Additionally, GameGrin and TheXboxHub highlighted the effective integration of original movie sound samples, reinforcing the game’s authenticity and nostalgic charm. While the positives dominated, some critics pointed to specific shortcomings in the audio department. GameByte criticized the “Mumble Mode” feature for replacing dialogue with incoherent babble, detracting from immersion, while Wccftech and Atomix noted inconsistencies in voice acting, with some impersonations falling short of the original actors’ performances. TierraGamer mentioned occasional audio glitches like static, though these were deemed minor and infrequent. MGG Spain acknowledged that not all voice actors matched the film counterparts, and Eurogamer Italy pointed out a lack of spatial quality in the soundtrack compared to other PS5 titles. These critiques, while valid, were relatively isolated and did not overshadow the overall acclaim for the game’s audio design. The consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the sound design and music being a standout aspect of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga. Despite minor issues, the majority of reviews emphasized how the soundtrack and voice acting elevated the experience, blending humor, nostalgia, and authenticity. PC Gamer and Gameblog.fr highlighted the stellar cast of voice actors and John Williams’ score as key contributors to the game’s immersive quality, while Games.cz and Twinfinite praised the effective use of iconic music to enhance gameplay. Even critics who noted flaws, such as Atomix and Wccftech, acknowledged that these did not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. The general sentiment was that the audio elements successfully captured the spirit of Star Wars while maintaining the playful charm of the LEGO franchise, making it a strong highlight of the game.

The voice acting in LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga receives generally positive reception, with many critics highlighting its humor, charm, and effort to capture the essence of the Star Wars universe. Reviewers like VG247 and Gaming Nexus note that while some characters’ lines are re-recorded or paraphrased, the overall delivery remains engaging and recognizable, maintaining the franchise’s whimsical tone. The inclusion of original actors, such as Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrissian and Anthony Daniels as C-3PO, adds authenticity, as praised by Gaming Age and Meristation. Localization efforts also shine, with GameByte and Jeuxvideo.com pointing to well-synchronized German and French dubs that enhance accessibility. VGC and We Got This Covered commend the voice acting for its humor and ability to elevate the game’s playful narrative, while Push Square and Cultured Vultures highlight the return of Clone Wars veterans, reinforcing continuity with previous LEGO Star Wars titles. The blend of original recordings and soundalikes is often seen as a strength, with XboxEra and Press Start Australia praising the talent behind the performances. However, several critics point to notable flaws in the voice acting, particularly its deviation from original actors and occasional inconsistencies. Atomix criticizes the absence of original cast members, calling it “somewhat cheap,” while Hardcore Gamer and Gaming Age note that some characters sound significantly different from their cinematic counterparts, detracting from immersion. PlayStation Country specifically mentions Qui-Gon Jinn’s voice as “notably off,” and VG247 highlights uneven delivery, with lines paraphrased by different characters. CD-Action also raises concerns about the Polish voice acting, though this is a niche issue. Additionally, Gaming Age and DualShockers point out the absence of recent trilogy actors, which some find disappointing despite the game’s broader success. While most praise the humor and effort, these critiques suggest that the voice acting, while serviceable, occasionally falls short of expectations for die-hard Star Wars fans. Overall, the consensus among critics is largely positive, with the voice acting being seen as a strong component of the game’s appeal. While there are valid criticisms about inconsistencies and the lack of original actors for certain characters, the majority of reviews emphasize its contribution to the game’s humor, accessibility, and nostalgic value. Vooks, GamesHub, and Movies Games and Tech all highlight the voice acting as a standout feature, with MeuPlayStation and SECTOR.sk appreciating the return of original actors for authenticity. The mixed reception underscores that while not perfect, the voice work aligns well with the LEGO Star Wars formula, balancing humor with recognizable character portrayals. Most critics agree that it enhances the experience without overshadowing the game’s core charm, making it a worthwhile addition to the franchise.

The technical performance of LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga varies across platforms, with some systems showing stronger stability than others. On Nintendo Switch, critics like Nintenderos and GamersRD praised its "acceptable" and "phenomenal" performance, noting smooth frame rates despite occasional stutters during intense sequences. For Xbox Series X, IGN highlighted generally smooth gameplay with minor glitches, while MondoXbox commended the ability to choose between higher frame rates or resolution, showcasing a solid technical foundation. On PS5, Metro GameCentral and Jeuxvideo.com reported minimal bugs and fluid performance, though some issues like camera problems in co-op (noted by NME) and screen tearing (TheSixthAxis) were mentioned. PC reviews, such as those from PC Gamer and GameWatcher, emphasized smooth runs with high frame rates, though minor hiccups like refresh rate resets or lag were noted. Overall, next-gen consoles and PC seem to handle the game better than older systems. However, technical issues plagued several platforms, particularly Nintendo Switch and PS5. ComicBook and Comicbook.com criticized the Switch for "numerous glitches" and "level loading issues," while Gaming Nexus noted framerate dips during cutscenes. On PS5, NME described a "game-breaking glitch" and camera problems in co-op, and Meristation highlighted frame drops during cutscenes. Xbox Series X faced challenges too: Windows Central and GameGrin reported glitches requiring restarts, while But Why Tho? mentioned split-screen issues. Even IGN noted a "significant bug" hindering story progression, though a patch was in development. Xbox One saw similar struggles, with Cultured Vultures calling it the "most unstable Lego game," and GameGrin citing softlocks. These issues suggest that while performance is generally acceptable, platform-specific bugs and optimization gaps remain problematic. The overall consensus among critics is that LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga has notable technical flaws but remains largely playable across platforms. While Xbox Series X and PC received more positive feedback for smoother performance (e.g., MondoXbox, PC Gamer), Nintendo Switch and PS5 faced more frequent issues like frame rate inconsistencies, softlocks, and camera glitches (ComicBook, NME). Despite these problems, many reviewers acknowledged improvements over previous titles, with IGN Italia praising fast loading times and Metro GameCentral noting "virtually no bugs." The game’s technical shortcomings, while frustrating for some, didn’t overshadow its core appeal, as noted by Hey Poor Player (no major issues) and TrueAchievements (commendable stability on Series X). Ultimately, the experience is platform-dependent, with next-gen systems offering a more polished playthrough.

The majority of critics highlight LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga as offering strong replay value through its expansive content, collectibles, and open-world exploration. Reviewers like IGN Italia and ZTGD emphasize the game’s vast array of over 1,000 collectibles, 380 playable characters, and hours of side missions that encourage players to revisit levels multiple times. NintendoWorldReport and PC Games note that character customization, unlockable extras, and free-mode exploration provide lasting engagement, while Checkpoint Gaming and PSX Brasil praise the game’s ability to satisfy completionists with its “vast universe” of puzzles, ships, and challenges. The inclusion of Kyber Bricks, skill trees, and dynamic character abilities (as highlighted by Xbox Tavern) further enhances replayability, allowing players to approach content in new ways. Many critics, such as IGN Portugal and Malditos Nerds, also commend the game’s focus on exploration and hidden secrets, which reward thorough playthroughs. However, several critiques point to design flaws and repetitive elements that may limit the game’s appeal for some players. GameOver.gr and Gamer.no note that the open-world structure can feel underwhelming or tedious, with repetitive gameplay mechanics potentially deterring long-term engagement. Meristation and Jeuxvideo.com criticize the disconnect between story mode and side missions, as well as the effort required for rewards that may not always justify the time investment. Additionally, Power Unlimited and But Why Tho? mention that while the game is ideal for fans and collectors, its lack of online co-op or challenging content might leave some players uninterested. The reliance on collectibles and side quests, though praised by many, risks feeling overwhelming or grind-heavy, as noted by Eurogamer Italy and Wccftech. These issues suggest that while the game’s replay value is substantial, it may not resonate equally with all audiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the game’s replay value, despite acknowledging its shortcomings. Most reviewers, including Cubed3, MGG Spain, and Digital Trends, agree that the sheer volume of content—ranging from character unlocks to free-play exploration—makes it a compelling experience for fans of the franchise and completionists. While some critics like GameCritics and Xbox Achievements point out minor drawbacks, the majority emphasize that the game’s accessibility, charm, and depth justify its longevity. The balance between nostalgia-driven gameplay and modern sandbox elements ensures that players can return repeatedly, even if not all aspects are universally praised. As The Independent and CGMagazine conclude, the game’s ability to blend humor, exploration, and collectibility creates a replayable experience that caters to a wide range of player preferences.