Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Twitch

MONSTER

Star Wars: Squadrons

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Star Wars: Squadrons
Item: Star Wars: Squadrons
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2020

GenresVirtual Reality, Adventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, Simulation, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableOct 1, 2020

PlatformPC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4

DeveloperMotive Studios

Overview

Master the art of starfighter combat in the authentic piloting experience STAR WARS: Squadrons. Buckle up, feel the adrenaline of first-person multiplayer space dogfights alongside your squadron, and learn what it means to be a pilot in a thrilling STAR WARS single-player campaign.

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Star Wars: Squadrons offers a dual narrative that lets players experience the conflict from both the New Republic and Empire's perspectives, praised for its immersive setting and character depth. However, critics overwhelmingly deem the story lackluster, citing predictability, a silent protagonist that hampers emotional engagement, and repetitive missions. While some moments shine, the overall sentiment highlights a disappointing narrative that fails to meet the franchise's standards. It's seen as a missed opportunity lacking depth and originality.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

22%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

68%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Star Wars: Squadrons has received some praise from critics, particularly for its immersive setting within the beloved Star Wars universe. Several reviewers, such as Game Informer and Road to VR, highlighted the engaging narrative structure that allows players to experience the conflict from both the New Republic and the Empire's perspectives. This dual narrative approach has been appreciated for providing a fresh viewpoint on the ongoing war, and some critics, like Malditos Nerds, found the characters to be deep and the story to fit well within the established lore. Additionally, Softpedia noted that the campaign unfolds through rich dialogues and cutscenes, contributing to a coherent experience that captures the essence of Star Wars. However, the overall sentiment regarding the story is predominantly negative, with many critics pointing out significant flaws. Reviewers like Ragequit.gr and Metro GameCentral criticized the narrative for its lack of originality and depth, often describing it as predictable and filled with clichés. The silent protagonist was frequently mentioned as a detractor, leading to awkward dialogues and a failure to engage players emotionally, as noted by GameMAG and Power Unlimited. Furthermore, critics like Destructoid and Gamer.nl remarked on the story's repetitive nature and its failure to create tension during missions, which ultimately left many feeling that the campaign served more as a tutorial than a compelling narrative experience. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Star Wars: Squadrons has the potential for a captivating story, it falls short in execution. Many reviewers agree that the character development is lacking, with VideoGamer and IGN Italia emphasizing the unconvincing nature of character arcs and interactions. Although some critics found enjoyment in the game's narrative, such as Xbox Tavern, the majority of feedback points to a story that feels underwhelming and fails to make a significant impact on the Star Wars canon. In conclusion, while there are moments of engagement and potential, the story of Star Wars: Squadrons is largely viewed as a missed opportunity, lacking the depth and originality that fans of the franchise have come to expect.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Star Wars: Squadrons impresses with its immersive dogfighting and ship control, blending arcade action with strategic depth. Critics praise its multiplayer modes and satisfying mechanics, making it accessible yet challenging. However, it faces criticism for a limited ship selection, a short campaign, and some control issues. Despite these drawbacks, the game successfully captures the excitement of space combat, appealing to both casual and hardcore fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Star Wars: Squadrons has received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its immersive dogfighting mechanics and the depth of ship control. Many reviewers, such as DualShockers and Windows Central, highlight the balance between arcade-style action and simulation elements, noting the engaging nature of piloting various iconic Star Wars spacecraft. Critics like GameSpot and New Game Network emphasize the strategic depth provided by power management and ship customization, which enhance the overall experience. The multiplayer modes, particularly Dogfights and Fleet Battles, are seen as engaging and rewarding, with several critics praising the unique feel of each ship and the tactical challenges they present. The game's intuitive controls and the satisfaction derived from mastering its mechanics are also frequently mentioned, making it accessible yet challenging for players of varying skill levels. However, despite the overall positivity, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks. The limited selection of ships and the short single-player campaign are recurring criticisms, as highlighted by reviewers like Gamer.no and Riot Pixels, who found the campaign lacking in engaging missions and the multiplayer experience somewhat repetitive. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Ragequit.gr, noted issues with mouse and keyboard controls, citing excessive deadzone that hampers targeting precision. Others, like Game Over Online, mentioned that many gameplay elements feel recycled from older titles, leading to a sense of linearity in mission design. This has led to concerns about potential fatigue for players over time, particularly in multiplayer modes. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Star Wars: Squadrons delivers a compelling gameplay experience that successfully captures the thrill of space combat in the Star Wars universe. While there are valid criticisms regarding the game's content and some control issues, the majority of reviewers, including Gaming Nexus and Trusted Reviews, agree that the gameplay is engaging, strategic, and rewarding. The combination of intuitive controls, diverse ship mechanics, and the focus on multiplayer combat has resonated well with players, making it a standout title for fans of the franchise. The game's ability to balance accessibility with depth has been particularly praised, suggesting that it caters to both casual gamers and those seeking a more challenging experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TL;DR: Star Wars: Squadrons impresses with its stunning visuals and immersive design, capturing the essence of the franchise, especially in detailed ship models and VR support. While some critics noted budget constraints and issues with character animations, the overall aesthetic is praised as one of the best in space shooters, evoking nostalgia and enhancing the gaming experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Star Wars: Squadrons is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's aesthetic fidelity to the beloved Star Wars universe. Reviewers such as GAMINGbible and GameSpot highlighted the game's stunning visuals, with detailed ship models and immersive environments that effectively capture the essence of the franchise. Critics like GameCrate and PCGamesN noted the impressive level of detail in the cockpits and the breathtaking space vistas, enhancing the overall experience for players. The game's use of the Frostbite engine has been commended, with GameOver.gr calling it the most visually appealing space shooter to date. Many reviews also emphasized the effectiveness of VR support in enhancing immersion, with UploadVR and Road to VR noting how the graphics shine in virtual reality. Despite the positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the game's visual presentation. Some reviewers, such as GRYOnline.pl and Gaming Nexus, pointed out that the graphics feel budget-conscious and do not meet the high expectations typically associated with the Star Wars franchise. Critics like Gamer.no and XGN expressed concerns about visual clutter and a lack of diversity in environments, which can hinder gameplay clarity and navigation. Additionally, character models received mixed reviews, with Power Unlimited and Vandal mentioning that while the ships and environments are well-designed, character animations and menu models fell short of expectations. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Star Wars: Squadrons delivers a visually appealing experience that effectively captures the spirit of the Star Wars universe, particularly in its detailed ship designs and immersive environments. While some reviewers highlighted issues with graphical fidelity and character animations, the majority found the overall presentation to be strong, with many praising the game's ability to evoke nostalgia through its visuals. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Critical Hit encapsulated this sentiment by acknowledging the game's stunning graphics and immersive qualities, ultimately affirming that the visual design contributes significantly to the game's success.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Star Wars: Squadrons boasts impressive sound design and music that immerses players in the franchise, with critics lauding its authentic effects and orchestral score. While most reviews celebrate the audio experience, some highlight shortcomings in emotional impact and voice acting, suggesting it lacks the energy to fully elevate gameplay. Overall, the sound elements are well-received but could use refinement in certain areas.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

16%

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: Squadrons have received a predominantly positive reception from critics, with many praising the game's ability to immerse players in the iconic Star Wars universe. Reviewers like AusGamers and IGN Spain highlighted how the sound design effectively captures the essence of the franchise, with familiar sound effects and a fitting musical score that enhance the overall atmosphere during gameplay. Critics such as GameSpot and PC Games noted that the audio design includes recognizable Star Wars sounds that contribute significantly to the immersive experience, while others like MGG and GameMAG emphasized the quality of the orchestral pieces and iconic themes that resonate throughout the game. Overall, the sound design has been described as commendable, with many reviewers recommending the experience be enjoyed with quality audio equipment for maximum immersion. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as some critics pointed out specific shortcomings in the audio experience. Riot Pixels expressed disappointment, stating that the sound design fails to evoke strong emotions and that the iconic music does not enhance the experience as expected. Additionally, Game Over Online mentioned that while character monologues are well-voiced, they lack the energy needed to elevate the experience. Impulsegamer and Hardcore Gamer both noted that while the sound effects and music are present, some voice acting moments can come off as cliched or overshadowed by combat noise. This indicates that while the overall sound design is well-received, there are areas where it falls short of expectations. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Star Wars: Squadrons excels in its sound design and music, successfully immersing players in the beloved universe. Despite some criticisms regarding voice acting and emotional impact, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the game's audio elements, with many praising the authenticity and quality of the sound effects and music. Critics like Vgames and Eurogamer Italy particularly highlighted the standout orchestral score and iconic sound cues, reinforcing the game's ability to honor the Star Wars legacy while providing an engaging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The voice acting in Star Wars: Squadrons is polarizing; some critics praise the strong performances for enhancing immersion and character depth, while others slam the dialogue as wooden and bland, hampered by a silent protagonist. The mixed reviews highlight a need for more dynamic interactions to improve emotional engagement and narrative impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

15%

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

The voice acting in Star Wars: Squadrons has received a range of opinions, with several critics highlighting its strengths. For instance, Vandal praises the performances as "outstanding," emphasizing the caliber of professional actors involved, which aligns with the franchise's legacy. Similarly, Hardcore Gamer acknowledges that while the military dialogue may lack some shine, the voice acting is still well executed. Critics like Hobby Consolas and UploadVR also commend the voice work for enhancing the immersive experience, suggesting that the performances contribute positively to the game's atmosphere. Trusted Reviews notes that the voice acting is strong enough to carry the action, while Twinfinite appreciates the believability of the characters, indicating that there are moments of effective character engagement. On the other hand, numerous critiques point out significant flaws in the voice acting. COGconnected describes the in-game dialogue as "wooden," while Finger Guns finds the performances to be "bland and corny," indicating a lack of memorable characters. GameOver.gr mentions that, despite having good actors, the awkward delivery detracts from the flow of natural conversation, a sentiment echoed by Power Unlimited, who feels that the silent protagonist hampers interactions, making them uncomfortable. Furthermore, GameSpot and Generación Xbox highlight the limitations posed by the silent main characters, which undermine emotional connections and reduce character depth. Many critics, including PC Gamer and GameCritics, express that the characters often come across as forgettable or lacking in impact, which diminishes the overall narrative experience. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Star Wars: Squadrons is mixed. While some reviewers, like Screen Rant and Road to VR, celebrate the performances for their contribution to immersion and character depth, many others, including Push Square and GameSpot, criticize the delivery and the limitations imposed by a silent protagonist. This dichotomy suggests that while there are instances of strong voice acting, the overall execution suffers from awkward dialogue and a lack of engaging character interactions, leading to a somewhat divided reception. The critiques reveal a clear need for more dynamic and interactive dialogue to enhance the emotional engagement and narrative depth within the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Star Wars: Squadrons" shines on PC and Xbox One with smooth performance and versatile controls, earning praise from critics. However, the PS4 version struggles with significant technical issues, including bugs and performance inconsistencies. While many hope for improvements via updates, the game remains an engaging experience for fans, despite its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Positives: Across the various platforms, "Star Wars: Squadrons" has received commendations for its overall technical performance, particularly on PC and Xbox One. Critics like Meristation and GameSpew highlighted that the game runs smoothly on Xbox One X without significant issues, indicating good optimization. Similarly, many PC reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and Player 2, praised the game for its impeccable performance, with several noting stable frame rates even during intense gameplay scenarios. The game is also recognized for its versatility in control schemes, accommodating various input devices, which enhances the overall experience. On PS4, while there are mixed opinions, some critics like TrueGaming and Vandal noted that the game performs excellently without major technical issues, particularly in multiplayer modes. Negatives: However, the technical performance of "Star Wars: Squadrons" is marred by several criticisms, especially on PS4 and PC. Critics from PLAY! Zine and Gamer.no pointed out issues such as poor controller support and bugs that disrupt gameplay, which can be particularly frustrating for players. On PC, reviewers like LevelUp and Merlin'in Kazanı highlighted poor optimization, with issues like low frame rates, screen tearing, and long loading times that detract from the experience. Additionally, several critics noted that the VR mode suffers from various technical problems, including control difficulties and crashes, as mentioned by Gaming Age and CGMagazine. Xbox One reviews, while generally positive, still acknowledged minor issues like joystick support and bugs that can disrupt gameplay, as noted by GameOver.gr and Generación Xbox. Overall Consensus: The overall consensus among critics is that while "Star Wars: Squadrons" offers a solid and enjoyable experience across all platforms, it is not without its flaws. The game excels in terms of performance on Xbox One and PC, with many praising its smooth gameplay and support for various control schemes. However, the PS4 version faces more significant challenges, including input bugs and performance inconsistencies. Despite these negatives, many reviewers remain optimistic that the developers will address these issues through patches and updates. The sentiments expressed by critics like GameSpot and Hardcore Gamer reflect a common belief that while there are areas for improvement, the game still provides a captivating experience for fans of the franchise.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Star Wars: Squadrons excels in multiplayer with thrilling dogfights and ship customization, drawing players back. However, critics agree the game faces major replayability issues due to a short single-player campaign, repetitive gameplay, and limited content. Without ongoing updates, its appeal may fade quickly, making it better suited for die-hard fans than casual gamers seeking long-term engagement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

23%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Star Wars: Squadrons highlight several positive aspects, particularly in its multiplayer offerings. Many critics, such as Game Informer and God is a Geek, emphasize the exhilarating dogfights and tactical depth provided by multiplayer modes like Fleet Battles, which are seen as a significant draw for players. The customization options available for ships further enhance replayability, as noted by critics like We Got This Covered and GamingBolt, who point out that these features encourage players to return for more engagement. Additionally, some reviewers, including Power Unlimited and MGG Spain, mention the inclusion of various difficulty levels and practice modes that can also motivate players to revisit the game. However, the consensus among critics leans heavily towards the limitations of replay value, particularly in the single-player campaign and the overall content available. Critics such as Game Over Online and Riot Pixels express concerns about the short campaign duration and the repetitive nature of both the campaign and multiplayer modes, which can lead to a sense of saturation. The lack of ongoing support and additional content post-launch is a recurring theme, with reviewers like UploadVR and GameSpace highlighting that this absence may hinder long-term engagement. Furthermore, several critics, including Eurogamer Italy and IGN Italia, point out that the limited number of maps and modes in multiplayer can diminish the excitement over time. Overall, the critics' consensus suggests that while Star Wars: Squadrons offers engaging multiplayer experiences with some replay value, the game suffers from significant limitations that may affect its longevity. The short single-player campaign and the repetitive nature of multiplayer modes are common points of criticism, as highlighted by reviewers like Hardcore Gamer and Malditos Nerds. Despite the potential for enjoyable gameplay, many critics agree that the lack of variety and ongoing content may ultimately lead to a decline in player interest, making it a title that may appeal more to dedicated fans of the franchise rather than a broader audience seeking long-term replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Star Wars: Squadrons is mixed, with many critics highlighting its strengths in gameplay and immersive experiences. Reviewers such as UploadVR and GameGrin commend the game for its engaging flight mechanics and VR support, suggesting that it offers an enticing multiplayer experience and a solid single-player campaign. Critics like ZTGD and Finger Guns also express satisfaction with the dogfighting mechanics, emphasizing that the game successfully captures the essence of the Star Wars universe. Additionally, several reviews, including those from PCGamesN and PC Invasion, appreciate the nostalgic revival of classic space combat, while others like Guardian proclaim it as a high watermark for interactive Star Wars experiences. However, the game is not without its shortcomings, which many reviewers have pointed out. Critics such as Riot Pixels and Hardcore Gamer express disappointment in the campaign's lack of depth and the multiplayer's limited offerings. The consensus among many, including GRYOnline.pl and Gamer.nl, is that while the gameplay is enjoyable, the narrative and design aspects fall short, leading to a feeling of a missed opportunity for a more robust experience. Critics like Push Square and Gamer.no echo this sentiment, noting that the game suffers from a lack of content and variety, which may hinder its long-term appeal. In terms of overall consensus, Star Wars: Squadrons is viewed as a fun yet flawed title that appeals to fans of the franchise, particularly those who appreciate space combat. While many critics, such as GameSpot and Digital Chumps, acknowledge the engaging gameplay and visuals, they also highlight the limitations in narrative depth and multiplayer modes. Ultimately, the game is recognized as a solid experience for both casual players and dedicated fans, but it is clear that there are significant areas for improvement, particularly in content and storytelling, as noted by critics like Meristation and TheSixthAxis.

TL;DR

Star Wars: Squadrons garners mixed reviews, praised for its immersive gameplay and engaging dogfighting mechanics, particularly in VR. Critics applaud its nostalgic throwback to classic space combat and solid single-player mode. However, the campaign lacks depth and multiplayer options are limited, leaving many feeling it missed a chance for a richer experience. Overall, it’s a fun ride for fans but falls short in narrative and content, signaling room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

128 reviews found

100

Guardian

PlayStation 4

Oct 7, 2020