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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 5, Xbox Series X, 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 boasts a compelling story tied to the Star Wars universe, spotlighting protagonist Cal Kestis's emotional journey post-Order 66. Critics praise character dynamics and narrative techniques but slam its predictability and lack of tension. While some appreciate familiar themes, many find the plot uninspired with superficial characters that fail to evoke deep emotional engagement. Ultimately, the game delivers a solid but safe narrative, leaving players craving more depth and originality.

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 mix of praise from critics, particularly for its engaging premise and character dynamics. Many reviewers, such as Easy Allies and Atomix, highlight the narrative's strong connection to the broader Star Wars lore, emphasizing the emotional depth of the protagonist, Cal Kestis, and his journey of healing and purpose after the traumatic events of Order 66. Critics like Giant Bomb and LevelUp commend the well-developed characters and the storytelling techniques, including flashbacks, that enrich the narrative experience. Additionally, some reviews, such as those from XGN and Attack of the Fanboy, point out the exploration of significant themes like trauma and survival, which resonate with the audience and add layers to the storyline. However, the story is not without its shortcomings, as many critics express concerns about predictability and a lack of tension. DualShockers and MGG criticize the narrative for being limited and unambitious, often relying on familiar lore without introducing fresh perspectives. Metro GameCentral and GAMINGbible echo these sentiments, describing the plot as dull and lacking urgency, with bland dialogue that fails to engage players fully. Furthermore, several reviewers, including GamePro Germany and VGC, find the characters to be unremarkable and the overall storytelling superficial, which diminishes the emotional stakes of the narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order presents an engaging and well-integrated story within the Star Wars universe, it struggles with predictability and character depth. Critics like Shacknews and New Game Network note that the narrative starts strong but often loses momentum, making it feel safe and familiar. Although some reviewers, such as GamesBeat and Digital Trends, appreciate the familiar themes and execution, the general sentiment leans towards a recognition of missed opportunities for deeper storytelling and character development. As a result, while the game is celebrated for its connection to the Star Wars saga, it ultimately leaves some players wanting more in terms of narrative complexity and originality.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order impresses with its blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving, earning praise for Metroidvania mechanics and intricate level design. However, critics highlight frustrating inconsistencies in combat, poor crowd control, and uneven platforming that can detract from the experience. While the game captivates both casual and hardcore fans, its technical shortcomings may hinder full enjoyment.

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 garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving elements. Many reviewers, such as Worth Playing and Digital Trends, commend the game for its incorporation of Metroidvania mechanics, allowing players to unlock new abilities and revisit areas for further exploration. Critics like GameSpot and PlayStation Universe praise the combat system for its strategic depth, emphasizing the rewarding nature of mastering lightsaber skills and Force powers. The game’s level design is often noted for its intricacy, encouraging players to engage with the environment and discover hidden secrets, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and COGconnected. However, the gameplay is not without its shortcomings, as numerous critics point out various frustrations. Washington Post and EGM express concerns over the combat mechanics, describing them as inconsistent and at times unresponsive, which can lead to a frustrating experience for players. Critics like AusGamers and DarkStation note issues with crowd control and checkpoint design that detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, the parry timing and feedback in combat, as mentioned by Telegraph and Digital Trends, can feel capricious, making it challenging for players to fully engage with the combat system. Critics also mention that some platforming elements feel less polished, contributing to an overall sense of imbalance in gameplay. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order delivers a captivating experience with its mix of genres and engaging mechanics, it is marred by technical issues and inconsistencies in combat. Reviewers like IGN and GameStar appreciate the game’s ambition in blending elements from various successful franchises, yet they also acknowledge the need for refinement in certain areas, particularly in combat and platforming. Ultimately, the game appeals to both casual and hardcore players, but its challenging mechanics and occasional frustrations may deter some from fully enjoying the experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order dazzles with stunning visuals and immersive environments that capture the essence of the franchise, earning praise for its artistic direction and lighting effects. However, it stumbles with rushed character models, performance issues like frame rate drops, and graphical inconsistencies, leaving critics split. While the game excels in visual engagement, it misses the mark on the polish expected from a AAA title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

49%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

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 received considerable praise from critics, highlighting the game's ability to capture the essence of the Star Wars universe. Many reviewers, such as Game Rant and Destructoid, lauded the game for its stunning cutscenes and beautifully crafted environments that enhance the immersive experience. Critics like Cubed3 and PlayStation Country noted the distinct and varied worlds, commending the game for its impressive artistic direction and attention to detail. The lighting effects, particularly during lightsaber battles, were frequently mentioned as visually captivating, with GamingTrend specifically praising the RTX lighting and shadow work that elevate the overall aesthetic. However, despite the numerous positives, several critics pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphical performance. Reviewers such as Areajugones and Hobby Consolas highlighted issues with character models that appeared rushed or lacked detail, detracting from the overall visual fidelity. Technical performance inconsistencies were a common theme, with critics like IGN Italia and Stevivor noting frame rate drops and stuttering during intense gameplay moments. Additionally, the design of certain characters, particularly wookiees, was criticized for being subpar, as mentioned by both IGN and RPG Site. These performance issues, combined with texture pop-in and minor glitches, led to an overall mixed reception regarding the game's graphical quality. The overall consensus among critics is that while Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order excels in creating a visually immersive experience that resonates with fans of the franchise, it is hampered by technical inconsistencies and some lackluster character designs. Many reviewers, including PC Games and The Daily Dot, acknowledged the game's stunning environments and artistic direction, but also pointed out that these strengths are occasionally undermined by performance issues. Ultimately, the game is seen as a visually engaging experience that captures the spirit of Star Wars, yet it falls short of the graphical polish expected from a AAA title, as reflected in the opinions of critics like Forbes and Giant Bomb.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order shines with immersive sound design and an orchestral score that pays homage to the franchise, captivating players with authentic effects and emotional music. Critics laud its combat sound and cinematic quality, yet some highlight technical glitches and forgettable themes as drawbacks. Overall, while not flawless, the audio elevates the gameplay experience, firmly rooting it in the Star Wars universe.

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 have garnered 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 lightsaber sounds and blaster shots, which effectively capture the essence of the franchise. Critics like SomosXbox and Gamersky emphasized the quality of the sound design, noting how it enhances the overall experience during combat. The orchestral score, crafted by Gordy Haab and Stephen Barton, received commendations for its blend of original compositions and nods to John Williams' iconic themes, as noted by PC Games and IGN Italia. The music was described as elevating key moments in the game, contributing to the emotional weight of the narrative and the immersive atmosphere, with critics like DarkStation and Stevivor highlighting its cinematic quality. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out issues with the sound design, particularly glitches such as out-of-sync dialogue and moments where background music was missing, as noted by DualShockers. Others, like Gameblog.fr and GRYOnline.pl, criticized the music for being forgettable or lacking the memorable themes typically associated with the Star Wars saga. This sentiment was echoed by Forbes, who described the music as not particularly memorable. While the voice acting received praise across the board, the inconsistency in the music's impact and the occasional technical glitches detracted from the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the sound design and music in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. While there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the music and technical glitches in sound, the majority of reviews highlight the game's ability to evoke the Star Wars atmosphere through its impressive sound effects and orchestral score. Critics like Xbox Tavern and Eurogamer Italy encapsulated this sentiment, noting that the sound design and music significantly enhance the gameplay experience, making players feel deeply immersed in the Star Wars universe. Despite some shortcomings, the overall impression is that the audio elements of the game contribute positively to its narrative and immersive qualities, affirming the game's place within the beloved franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order garners mixed reviews. Critics praise Cameron Monaghan's performance as Cal Kestis for being relatable but also criticize it for lacking depth. Debra Wilson's portrayal of Cere and the charming BD-1 are standout highlights, adding emotional richness. However, inconsistencies in accents and the protagonist's weak portrayal hinder overall immersion. While supporting characters shine, the game's narrative impact suffers from Cal's shortcomings.

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 received notable praise from several critics, highlighting the strong performances that contribute positively to character development and the overall narrative. Critics such as Atomix and GameSpace commend the voice acting for adding emotional depth to the story, with Cameron Monaghan's portrayal of Cal Kestis being described as relatable and engaging. Debra Wilson's performance as Cere is frequently highlighted as a standout, with IGN and Digital Trends noting her emotional delivery as a significant strength of the game's voice work. Additionally, the charming character of BD-1 has been recognized for its well-executed voice direction, enhancing the game's immersive experience, as noted by VG247 and GameSpew. Conversely, there are several criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly concerning the character of Cal Kestis. Many reviewers, including IGN Spain and Everyeye.it, describe Monaghan's performance as flat and lacking depth, which detracts from the overall impact of the character. GameCritics points out inconsistencies in accents among the voice actors, which can disrupt immersion. Furthermore, some critics, such as Power Unlimited and InsideGamer.nl, mention that while the supporting cast is strong, the main character's portrayal falls short, making it difficult for players to connect emotionally with him. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a notable divide in opinions regarding the voice acting quality. While many reviewers appreciate the strong performances and emotional depth added by the supporting characters, particularly BD-1 and Cere, they also express dissatisfaction with the protagonist's portrayal. Critics like TrueAchievements and COGconnected highlight that, despite some inconsistencies, the voice acting generally contributes to the game's narrative engagement. Ultimately, the voice acting in Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is viewed as a key component of the experience, but it is marred by the perceived shortcomings of its central character, Cal Kestis.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" shines on PS5 and PC with improved load times and stable performance, but suffers from severe technical issues on PS4 and Xbox One, with critics reporting glitches, crashes, and frame rate drops. While next-gen versions offer a polished experience, older platforms fall short, highlighting a stark divide in quality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

77%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

18%

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

The technical performance of "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, reviewers from Push Square and PlayStation Universe praised the game for its improved load times and stable 60 frames per second performance, offering a much more fluid experience compared to previous generations. The PC version also received some commendations, particularly from XGN, who noted that the game runs smoothly without crashes or bugs on their testing hardware. Additionally, IGN mentioned that while the game struggles to maintain 60 FPS across platforms, the overall performance on PC is decent, suggesting that players may find a satisfactory experience if they have the right setup. However, the technical issues on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions are quite pronounced, with many critics highlighting significant performance problems. DualShockers, TheGamer, and DarkStation all reported numerous glitches, crashes, and frame rate drops on the PS4, which severely impacted the gameplay experience. Similarly, Xbox One critics like Gamer.nl and AusGamers noted significant technical issues, including stuttering and bugs, with Post Arcade mentioning freezing screens and missing floors. These problems were echoed across multiple reviews, with many critics stating that the performance issues detracted from the overall enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order" suffers from notable technical shortcomings, particularly on the PS4 and Xbox One, where the experience can be marred by glitches and performance drops. While the PS5 and PC versions show improvements and offer a more polished experience, the base console versions are often described as unpolished and in need of optimization. Critics like USgamer and GamePro Germany pointed out that while the game has potential, its current state on older platforms leaves much to be desired, indicating a clear divide in performance quality based on the hardware used.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has a mixed reception regarding replay value. Critics praise its exploration-friendly design and Metroidvania-like structure, offering around 20 hours of gameplay with potential for revisiting areas. However, many highlight shortcomings such as lack of meaningful collectibles, tedious backtracking, and absence of side quests, leading to a belief that the game lacks lasting appeal post-story. In essence, while some elements invite return visits, many players may feel their experience is limited to a single playthrough.

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 a mixed sentiment among critics, with several highlighting positive aspects that could encourage players to return to the game. Many reviewers, such as IGN and Power Unlimited, commend the game’s design that encourages exploration and revisiting areas with newly acquired abilities, which can enhance the overall experience. Critics like Digital Trends and GamingTrend note that the game offers around 20 hours of gameplay, with additional opportunities for exploration and collectibles that can entice completionists to dive back in. The Metroidvania-like structure, as mentioned by Xbox Achievements and RPG Site, provides a framework for discovering secrets and unlocking new paths, which can be appealing for players looking for depth. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replayability due to various limitations. IGN Japan and Riot Pixels point out the lack of meaningful collectibles and engaging rewards for exploration, which diminishes the incentive to revisit the game after completing the main storyline. Critics like GameOver.gr and PC Invasion echo these sentiments, noting that the absence of fast travel and the repetitive nature of gameplay can make backtracking feel tedious. Furthermore, many reviewers, including Worth Playing and GAMINGbible, highlight the absence of side quests and endgame content, which can leave players feeling that there is little reason to return once the primary narrative is completed. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided perspective on the replay value of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. While some appreciate the exploration elements and the potential for revisiting areas, as noted by critics like Destructoid and PlayStation LifeStyle, many others highlight significant drawbacks that limit the game's longevity. The lack of compelling rewards, fast travel options, and side content leaves a considerable number of players feeling that the game may not offer enough to warrant multiple playthroughs. As a result, while there are aspects that can enhance replayability, the overall sentiment suggests that many players may find their experience largely confined to their 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.

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its strengths in gameplay, visuals, and overall immersion in the Star Wars universe. Many reviewers, such as MondoXbox and GameCrate, praised the game for successfully blending story and gameplay, calling it a standout title within the franchise. Critics like Softpedia and COGconnected emphasized the engaging character development and emotional moments that resonate with players, while others, such as Gamers' Temple, noted its strong kinship to beloved titles like Tomb Raider. The game is often described as a worthy addition to the Star Wars lineup, with compelling lightsaber combat and a captivating experience that appeals to both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. However, despite its strengths, several critics pointed out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. MGG and IGN Japan highlighted issues with a predictable story and navigation problems that can frustrate players. Critics like Trusted Reviews and GameSpot mentioned technical issues that hinder gameplay, while others, such as GamePro Germany and VGC, noted that the game lacks originality and feels somewhat underbaked. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gamer.no and Telegraph, described the game as a mixed bag, capturing the essence of being a Jedi but ultimately falling short of being revolutionary or polished. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a commendable effort that successfully revitalizes the franchise, despite its shortcomings. While it may not reach the heights of a masterpiece, as noted by Trusted Reviews and IGN Japan, it is recognized as a significant improvement over previous Star Wars titles and a solid single-player experience. Critics like PlayStation LifeStyle and LevelUp suggest that the game offers a worthwhile experience for fans willing to overlook its flaws, with many expressing optimism for potential sequels that could refine its mechanics and storytelling.

TL;DR

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order impresses with engaging gameplay and story, earning praise for its lightsaber combat and immersive experience in the franchise. While critics appreciate character development and emotional depth, they cite flaws like a predictable plot and technical issues. Overall, it's a solid addition to the series—better than past titles—though it falls short of being revolutionary. Fans are encouraged to enjoy it and look forward to future improvements in potential sequels.

MONSTER

Reviews

230 reviews found

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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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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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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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.

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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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.

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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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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GameSpace

Nov 14, 2019

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

The review highly praises Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, describing it as a single-player epic with no microtransactions or live service. It commends the character development, emotional moments, and the magic of growing as a Jedi. It also expresses confidence in Respawn's delivery and states that the future of the Star Wars franchise is in incredible hands.

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BaziCenter

Xbox One

Nov 28, 2019

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

Star Wars: Jedi Fallen Order is a commendable title that showcases Respawn's talent in creating a compelling narrative and gameplay experience, worthy of the Star Wars name.

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