Editor's Review

STAR WARS™: KOTOR II, officially known as Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II – The Sith Lords, is a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Obsidian Entertainment and released in 2004. As a sequel to the critically acclaimed Knights of the Old Republic, this game continues the saga set in the Star Wars universe, allowing players to immerse themselves in a rich narrative filled with moral choices, diverse characters, and expansive worlds. While KOTOR II has garnered a loyal fanbase, it is not without its strengths and weaknesses that warrant examination.

One of the standout features of KOTOR II is its deep and engaging narrative. The game picks up five years after the events of the original KOTOR, placing players in the role of the Exile, a Jedi who has been cut off from the Force. The storyline is intricate, exploring themes of redemption, loss, and the moral complexities of the Star Wars universe. Players are faced with choices that impact the outcome of the game and the fate of various characters, leading to multiple endings. This level of narrative depth encourages players to think critically about their decisions and enhances replayability, as different choices can lead to divergent paths.

The character development in KOTOR II is another significant strength. The game features a rich cast of companions, each with their own backgrounds, motivations, and arcs. Players can build relationships with these characters, which not only adds emotional weight to the story but also influences gameplay through companion abilities and interactions. The complexity of these characters makes them memorable, and players often find themselves genuinely invested in their journeys. Additionally, the customization options for the Exile, including class choices and Force powers, allow players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle.

Graphically, KOTOR II may show its age compared to modern titles, but it still provides a captivating atmosphere. The environments are diverse, ranging from the bustling streets of Nar Shaddaa to the desolate landscapes of Malachor V. The art design captures the essence of the Star Wars universe, with iconic locations and creatures that fans will recognize. The sound design, including voice acting and musical score, further immerses players in the experience, although the voice acting can be uneven in places.

However, KOTOR II is not without its shortcomings. One major concern is the game's pacing and structure. The story can feel disjointed at times, with some plot points lacking the necessary buildup or resolution. Certain areas may feel rushed, and players can encounter moments where the narrative momentum stalls. This uneven pacing can detract from the overall experience, especially for those who appreciate a tightly woven storyline.

Another issue is the presence of bugs and technical glitches, which can disrupt gameplay. Upon its initial release, KOTOR II faced criticism for various bugs that affected game performance and progression. While many of these issues have been addressed in patches and fan mods, new players may still encounter technical problems that can detract from immersion and enjoyment. Ensuring a smoother experience through updates or remastered versions would greatly benefit the game.

The combat system, while engaging, can also be polarizing for some players. The turn-based mechanics allow for strategic planning, but some may find the pacing slow, especially during lengthy encounters. Additionally, the game's UI can be clunky and less intuitive, which can lead to frustration during combat or when navigating menus. Improvements to the interface and combat flow could enhance the overall experience, making it more accessible to new players.

In terms of overall experience, STAR WARS™: KOTOR II successfully delivers a rich and immersive RPG experience that appeals to fans of the Star Wars franchise and RPG enthusiasts alike. Its strengths lie in its deep narrative, complex character development, and expansive world-building. However, the pacing issues, technical glitches, and combat mechanics may detract from the enjoyment for some players. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a classic title that has left a lasting impact on the RPG genre.

In conclusion, STAR WARS™: KOTOR II is a compelling sequel that builds on the foundation of its predecessor while offering a unique and thought-provoking experience. While it has its flaws, particularly regarding pacing and technical issues, the overall narrative and character depth make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Players who appreciate rich storytelling and moral complexity will find much to enjoy in KOTOR II, solidifying its place as a noteworthy title in the history of role-playing games.

About Game

Gather round, fellow beings of the galaxy, as we take a moment to appreciate STAR WARS™: KOTOR II. This gripping sequel, set five years after the events of the award-winning Star Wars® Knights of the Old Republic™, takes you on an epic quest as the Sith inch closer to annihilating the Old Republic.

As the only remaining Jedi, you're the last beacon of hope for the Republic, as you battle your way to reconnect with the Force. Prepare to be faced with a pivotal decision for you and the fate of this distant galaxy: can you resist the temptation of the Dark side, or will you succafone to its intoxicating power?

How to play

• Engage in an immersive and character-driven gameplay. Your choices dictate not only your path, but the destinies of your co-companions and potential allies. Whether you follow the light or embrace the shadows, every decision shapes your character and the course of the story.
• Navigate endless planets, rich in culture and varying flora and fauna, fully interactive with players. Engage in intense turn-based combat, utilize an array of intergalactic weaponry, and develop your characters' unique abilities for grand scale battles that require strategic maneuvering and wise choices. C H O O S E · Y O U R · D E S T I N Y.

Features

• Personalized characterization: Create a deeply individualized Jedi character with distinctive abilities and attributes.
• Interactive environment: Richly detailed planets and environments bring the Star Wars galaxy to life.
• Strategic combat: Engage in strategic turn-based combat with an array of intergalactic weaponry.
• Impactful decisions: Each decision, light or dark, shapes your character and affects relationships with others in your party.
• Accessible Support: If things get a bit dicey, fear not – Technical support is available via Aspyr's dedicated team at support.aspyr.com.