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Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Item: Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Drama, Single Player

AvailableNov 15, 2019

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperRespawn Entertainment

Overview

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a narratively driven, single-player game puts you in the role of a Jedi Padawan who narrowly escaped the purge of Order 66 following the events of Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. On a quest to rebuild the Jedi Order, you must pick up the pieces of your shattered past to complete your training, develop new powerful Force abilities and master the art of the iconic lightsaber - all while staying one step ahead of the Empire and its deadly Inquisitors.

Elsewhere

8.5

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order offers a mixed narrative experience; some critics praise its engaging story and character depth, especially Cal Kestis' journey and his bond with BD-1, while others slam it for predictability and lack of originality. The narrative resonates with die-hard fans but often feels rushed, disjointed, and uninspired, leaving many wanting more complexity and surprise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

54%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several praising its engaging narrative and character development. Critics like Power Unlimited and Game Revolution highlight how the story captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, with Cal Kestis' journey to restore the Jedi Order being particularly compelling. The emotional depth of the characters and their relationships, especially with the droid BD-1, is noted by GameStar and DarkStation, who emphasize the impact of character growth and the exploration of themes such as hope and redemption. Additionally, critics like Giant Bomb and Atomix appreciate the narrative's integration with Star Wars lore, suggesting that it resonates well with long-time fans of the franchise. However, a significant number of critics express dissatisfaction with the story's execution, pointing out its predictability and lack of depth. GameCritics and Cheat Code Central criticize the narrative for being boring and uninspired, with predictable plot points that fail to engage players emotionally. Many reviews, including those from MGG and Meristation, echo this sentiment, noting that while the story is set in a rich universe, it lacks ambition and originality. Critics like Shacknews and Gamer.nl mention that the story feels rushed and disjointed, with characters introduced only to be quickly discarded, leading to a narrative that struggles to maintain momentum and depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who find the story engaging and those who feel it falls short of expectations. While some, like TrueAchievements and Stevivor, appreciate the emotional moments and character arcs, others, such as Daily Star and Multiplayer.it, lament the lack of impactful storytelling and originality. The narrative is seen as a safe exploration of familiar themes within the Star Wars universe, which, while satisfying for some, leaves many critics wanting more in terms of complexity and surprise. Ultimately, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order presents a story that resonates with fans but may not break new ground in the broader context of video game narratives.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order impresses with engaging lightsaber combat and exploration, blending genres like Metroidvania and Souls-like mechanics for a satisfying progression system. Critics praise its combat strategy and world traversal but criticize a lack of innovation, repetitive gameplay, frustrating checkpoints, and pacing issues. While it offers a fun experience for fans, it doesn't break new ground for the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has received a mix of praise from critics, particularly for its engaging lightsaber combat and exploration mechanics. Many reviewers, such as LevelUp and PC Gamer, highlight the satisfying nature of the combat system, which requires strategic thinking, timing, and skillful execution. The game effectively incorporates elements from various genres, including Metroidvania and Souls-like mechanics, allowing for a rich progression system that enhances player abilities, as noted by critics like GameSpot and Atomix. Additionally, the exploration aspect is frequently praised, with critics like PCGamesN and The Sydney Morning Herald acknowledging the rewarding nature of traversing the game’s world and uncovering secrets. However, despite the commendations, several critics point out notable shortcomings in the gameplay. Screen Rant and Cultured Vultures emphasize a lack of innovation, describing the mechanics as unoriginal and too familiar, which detracts from the overall experience. Issues such as poor combat mechanics, frustrating checkpoint design, and repetitive enemy respawns are also raised by critics like AusGamers and Riot Pixels. Furthermore, the game’s pacing and lack of fast travel options can lead to cumbersome navigation, as highlighted by USgamer and IGN, which can detract from the immersive experience that the game aims to provide. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order offers a solid gameplay experience with enjoyable combat and exploration, it struggles with innovation and balance. Many reviewers appreciate the game’s blend of various mechanics, such as those from Dark Souls and Tomb Raider, but they also note that it can feel derivative and at times frustrating. Critics like Digital Chumps and Game Revolution encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging the game’s strengths while also pointing out its flaws. Ultimately, the game succeeds in delivering a fun experience for fans of the genre, but it falls short of pushing the boundaries of what players might expect from a Star Wars title.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order dazzles with stunning environments and artistic design that capture the essence of the franchise, earning praise from critics for its immersive worlds. However, it suffers from significant technical flaws, including poor textures, glitches, and frame-rate drops, leading to a mixed reception. While it creates an engaging Star Wars atmosphere, the game falls short of visual perfection, highlighting areas for improvement in future titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order have garnered a mix of praise from various critics, highlighting the game's ability to capture the essence of the Star Wars universe. Many reviewers, such as Cheat Code Central and PCGamesN, noted the game's stunning environments and artistic design, emphasizing the beautiful landscapes and immersive planetary settings. Critics like Gameplanet and Cultured Vultures appreciated the diversity of the worlds, with each location exhibiting a unique identity that enhances exploration. Additionally, Destructoid and God is a Geek remarked on the impressive visuals and environmental effects, which contribute to a captivating overall experience, making it one of the standout titles in the Star Wars gaming franchise. Despite the commendations, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the game's graphics and visual design. Reviewers such as Game Revolution and IGN Spain expressed concerns about the lack of inventiveness in the visual design, with many locations blending together and some textures appearing poor. Technical issues were frequently mentioned, including texture pop-ins, glitches, and inconsistent animations, as highlighted by GAMINGbible and The Daily Dot. Critics like GameCrate and Attack of the Fanboy noted that while the environments were visually appealing, performance issues such as frame-rate drops and visual fidelity detracted from the overall experience, particularly on consoles. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order presents a visually engaging experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise, though it is marred by technical inconsistencies and a lack of variety in some aspects of its design. While many reviewers, including ZTGD and Windows Central, praised the game's artistic direction and attention to detail, others like Giant Bomb and PC Gamer highlighted the shortcomings in texture quality and performance issues that undermine the visual experience. Ultimately, the game succeeds in creating a captivating Star Wars atmosphere but falls short of being a visually flawless AAA title, leaving room for improvement in future installments.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order boasts immersive sound design and a compelling orchestral score that largely captivates players, with critics praising its authentic lightsaber sounds and atmospheric audio. However, glitches like out-of-sync dialogue and forgettable music themes detract from the experience for some. Overall, the game's sound elements enhance the Star Wars vibe, but not without noticeable flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order received a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to immerse players in the iconic Star Wars universe. Many reviewers praised the authentic sound effects, particularly the satisfying lightsaber sounds and the atmospheric audio that captures the essence of the franchise. Critics such as IGN and Wccftech emphasized the authentic sound design that enhances the overall experience, especially during pivotal moments like lightsaber combat. Additionally, the orchestral score, crafted by composers Gordy Haab and Stephen Barton, was noted for its ability to evoke the familiar emotional beats associated with the series, with Game Informer and Digital Trends highlighting its cinematic quality and how it complements the gameplay. However, not all feedback was positive, as several critics pointed out notable flaws in the sound design and music. DualShockers criticized the game for glitches, including out-of-sync dialogue and moments where background music was missing, which detracted from the overall experience. Similarly, GRYOnline.pl and Forbes mentioned that the music felt too subtle and forgettable, lacking the iconic themes that fans have come to expect from the Star Wars franchise. This sentiment was echoed by Gameblog.fr, which noted that the music was not among the best in the saga. Such criticisms indicate that while the sound design had its strengths, there were also significant areas that left some players wanting more. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the sound design and music in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, with the majority praising its ability to enhance the immersive experience of the game. While there were some criticisms regarding glitches and the memorability of the music, the positive aspects, such as the effective use of iconic sound effects and a generally well-executed score, overshadow these issues. Critics like Atomix and GameGrin highlighted how the sound design effectively captures the Star Wars atmosphere, contributing positively to the overall experience. Thus, despite some shortcomings, the game succeeds in delivering a sound experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order boasts strong voice acting, particularly from Debra Wilson as Cere and the charming BD-1, enhancing character development and storytelling. However, the main character Cal Kestis, voiced by Cameron Monaghan, suffers from a "flat" and "wooden" performance, undermining emotional connection. Critics highlight a mixed reception; while the supporting cast shines, Cal's lack of depth detracts from the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has garnered a range of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting the overall quality and effectiveness of the performances. Many reviewers praised the cast, particularly Debra Wilson's portrayal of Cere, which was noted for its emotional depth and impact on the narrative (IGN, GamingTrend). Critics such as Atomix and GameStar emphasized that the voice acting contributes significantly to character development and enhances the overall storytelling experience. Additionally, the charming companion BD-1 received accolades for its well-executed voice work, which added a layer of humor and engagement to the game (VG247, GameSpew). The performances of the supporting cast have been described as strong and compelling, with many critics noting that they elevate the overall experience of the game (Giant Bomb, Game Informer). However, criticisms regarding the voice acting predominantly focused on the main character, Cal Kestis, voiced by Cameron Monaghan. Multiple reviewers described his performance as lacking depth or emotional resonance, with terms like "flat," "wooden," and "inconsistent" frequently appearing (IGN Spain, Everyeye.it, PCWorld). Critics such as Power Unlimited and TheGamer pointed out that Cal's characterization fails to create a strong connection with players, making it difficult to engage with his journey. Furthermore, some reviews mentioned issues with the overall expressiveness of certain characters, which detracted from the emotional impact of key scenes (IGN Italia, DarkStation). The overall consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment towards the voice acting in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. While the supporting cast and some performances were widely praised for their contributions to character development and emotional engagement, Cal Kestis's portrayal was frequently highlighted as a weak point. Critics like PCGamesN and TrueAchievements noted that while Monaghan's performance has its moments, it ultimately falls short compared to the more compelling supporting characters. This duality in reception suggests that while the game excels in many areas of voice acting, the protagonist's lack of depth may hinder the emotional connection players have with the story. As such, the voice acting is seen as a significant aspect of the game that could have been more consistently strong.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order shines on PC with smooth performance, but struggles on PS4 and Xbox One, plagued by bugs, frame drops, and loading issues. While some gamers still find enjoyment, the consensus is that significant technical shortcomings mar the experience across all platforms. The game desperately needs optimization and patches to fix its numerous flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

78%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order across different gaming platforms, there are some notable positives, particularly for the PC version. Critics like New Game Network and XGN highlighted that the game runs smoothly on PC with minimal stutters and good overall stability, suggesting a well-optimized experience. Additionally, some Xbox One reviewers, such as SomosXbox, reported stable frame rates and minimal loading times, indicating that while there are issues, the game can still provide an enjoyable experience. On the PS4 front, PlayStation Country noted that the game was complete at launch with no microtransactions, which implies a level of polish and stability that is commendable. However, the negatives are significant and varied across all platforms. On Xbox One, critics like Shacknews and Gamer.nl pointed out that the game suffers from numerous bugs, glitches, and frame drops that detract from the overall experience. Similarly, PS4 reviewers, including the Washington Post and USgamer, reported issues such as input recognition problems, texture pop-in, and long loading times that can disrupt gameplay. The PC version, while generally more stable, was not without its own issues; Game Revolution and Giant Bomb noted significant bugs and collision detection problems that impacted gameplay. This pattern of technical shortcomings suggests that the game struggles to deliver a consistent experience across platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has notable technical performance issues across all platforms, with the PS4 and Xbox One versions facing the brunt of the criticism. Reviewers like Gamer.no and Digital Chumps highlighted the varying performance levels, particularly on older consoles, where frame rate drops and bugs were prevalent. While some critics acknowledged that the game is still playable and enjoyable despite these flaws, the overwhelming sentiment is that the technical issues significantly hinder the experience. The game appears to be in need of optimization and patches to address these widespread concerns, as many reviewers expressed hope for improvements in future updates.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order offers mixed replay value. Critics praise its exploration and backtracking mechanics, likening it to Metroidvania games, with collectibles encouraging return visits. However, many also criticize the limited rewards, repetitive gameplay, and tedious exploration, leading to a consensus that, while there are enticing elements, the game ultimately lacks a compelling reason for players to replay after the initial run.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order reveal several positive aspects that critics appreciate. Many reviewers highlight the game's encouragement of exploration and backtracking, which can enhance replayability. For instance, critics like IGN and We Got This Covered note that the game allows players to revisit areas with new abilities, which can make the experience of exploration rewarding. Additionally, the presence of collectibles and hidden secrets, as mentioned by The Daily Dot and Gaming Nexus, adds layers of motivation for players to return to previously explored locations. Critics such as Xbox Tavern and COGconnected emphasize that the game’s design, including its Metroidvania elements and various difficulty levels, contributes to a sense of replay value, appealing to those who enjoy thorough exploration and challenge. Conversely, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value being limited. Reviews from Washington Post, GameCritics, and Riot Pixels indicate frustrations with the gameplay mechanics and a lack of engaging rewards for exploration, leading to diminished incentive to replay the game. Many critics, including Vandal and PC Invasion, point out that while collectibles exist, they often lack meaningful impact, making exploration feel tedious rather than rewarding. Additionally, the repetitive nature of gameplay and enemy encounters, highlighted by critics like Atomix and Stevivor, detracts from the overall replay experience, suggesting that players may not find enough compelling reasons to revisit the game after completing the main story. Overall, the consensus among critics appears to be mixed regarding the replay value of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. While some reviewers appreciate the opportunities for exploration and the potential for revisiting areas, many others highlight significant drawbacks that limit replayability. Critics like Power Unlimited and GamesRadar+ acknowledge the game's structure that encourages backtracking, but they also note that the lack of substantial rewards and the linearity of the experience can lead to frustration. Ultimately, while there are elements that may entice players to return, the prevailing sentiment is that the game falls short of providing a robust replay experience, with many reviewers suggesting that the enjoyment may wane after the initial playthrough.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order reflects a blend of appreciation for its engaging gameplay and storytelling, alongside criticism of its technical shortcomings. Many critics, such as Wccftech and IGN, highlight the game as a commendable representation of the Star Wars universe, praising its captivating narrative and enjoyable combat mechanics. The Daily Dot and Xbox Tavern go further, labeling it a must-play for fans and even a masterpiece, emphasizing its successful integration of various gameplay elements. Critics like M3 and Gaming Nexus also commend the game for being a significant step forward for single-player Star Wars titles, with M3 noting it as the best since 2005, indicating a strong connection to the franchise's legacy. However, numerous reviews point out substantial flaws that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as MGG and GameCritics express disappointment with the game's predictable story and frustrating gameplay mechanics, while others like Washington Post and Cheat Code Central mention technical issues that hinder the gameplay experience. The lack of originality and ambition is a recurring theme, with many reviewers, including GAMINGbible and VGC, noting that while the game has its moments, it often feels derivative or half-baked. These criticisms suggest that while the game has potential, it is marred by execution issues that prevent it from being a standout title. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a solid and enjoyable game that successfully captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, yet it is held back by technical problems and a lack of innovation. Critics like PCGamesN and Stevivor acknowledge its charm and engaging gameplay while recognizing the need for improvements in execution. Overall, while the game is celebrated for its strengths and is seen as a positive step for the franchise, many reviewers agree that it falls short of being a classic due to its significant flaws.

TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order garners praise for its engaging gameplay and narrative, hailed as a must-play for fans and a notable step forward for single-player titles. However, it suffers from technical issues and a predictable story, leading critics to deem it derivative and flawed. While it's celebrated for capturing the Star Wars essence, many agree it lacks the innovation to be a standout classic.

MONSTER

Reviews

227 reviews found

100

Gamers Heroes

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order sets a new standard for Star Wars titles and is the best game of the year.

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100

Xbox Tavern

Xbox One

Nov 18, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Jedi: Fallen Order is hailed as a masterpiece, excelling in storytelling, gameplay, and presentation, and is considered one of the greatest games ever made.

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GamingTrend

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is praised as a masterpiece, well-paced and executed, standing out as one of the best games of 2019 and a contender for Game of the Year.

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PLAY! Zine

PlayStation 4

Dec 30, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is praised as a phenomenal adventure that successfully integrates various gameplay elements while staying true to the Star Wars franchise, making it a memorable experience.

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Forbes

Xbox One

Dec 11, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is praised as one of the best 'Souls-like' games, combining various gameplay elements effectively. It is recommended for purchase due to its quality and lack of microtransactions.

GamesBeat

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is praised as one of the best 3D Metroidvania and Souls-like games, showcasing Respawn's expertise in game design. It is considered a significant achievement in the Star Wars gaming universe.

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GameCrate

Xbox One

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is hailed as one of the best Star Wars games ever made, successfully blending story, gameplay, and immersion in the Star Wars universe.

TrueGaming

PlayStation 4

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is praised as a remarkable blend of action and adventure elements, delivering a captivating experience for both Star Wars fans and action-adventure enthusiasts.

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Press Start Australia

PlayStation 4

Nov 14, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a successful game that captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, providing an authentic experience that resonates with fans.

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The Sydney Morning Herald

Xbox One

Nov 25, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a remarkable game that restores the balance after a decade of disappointing Star Wars video games.

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