Lego Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy

By Don Pesci

The original Lego Star Wars proved to be a runaway success due to its light hearted and innovative take on an already successful franchise. It engrossed both younger and older gamers due to its excellent replay value and overall charm. The game was lacking in numerous areas, the second game in the franchise has tried to resolve these problems. Overall this has been accomplished very effectively.

There have been minor graphical improvements implemented in this game. These enhancements can be seen through increased depth in the character models and the textures on the walls. Despite the facts additions have been employed you can not help but feel this is only a port from the older generation of consoles.

Essentially the gameplay is identical from the original game. A number of minor additions have been instigated which helps add a feeling of depth lacking in the previous title. These changes range from greater destructibility of your surroundings and varying techniques between the characters. The gameplay is relatively simple which enables it to be enjoyed by all ages. Although this game is essentially targeted at younger gamers, some of the puzzles may infuriate this age group. The levels are far longer and more diverse then those featured in the original game. Vehicles have developed from being an enjoyable diversion in the first game to an integral part of the gaming experience. There are a number of missions which faithfully recreate the numerous dogfights featured in the movie. These missions range from the destruction of the Death Star featured in A New Hope to the Battle of Hoth from the Empire Strikes Back. Initially the controls of these missions feel clunky and lack the intuitiveness of the rest of the game but eventually the majority of gamers will come to grips with them.

The sound featured in this game helps authentically recreate the feel of the original movies. This is achieved through aspect of the movies music being featured in the game. The sound of the blasters and lightsabers echo their cinematic counterparts. Voice acting has been intentionally removed to maintain the charm featured in the original game.

As in the original game the games replay value proves to be quite astounding. Players can revisit levels with older character to attain True Jedi Status (amassing the required amount of stud pieces) and find the hidden canisters located in each level.

One of the key additions in this game is the create-a-character options. This is an enjoyable distraction which allows you to create a wide array of characters to be used in the free play option.

As in the original game there a camera issues which detract from what is otherwise an outstanding experience. During the combat sections of the game the camera will often not permit you to view the enemies attacking you. These issues come to a forefront in the vehicle missions; the camera will repeatedly prevent you from having a clear view of you surroundings.

In spite of the fact this game is a marked improvement on its predecessor it still features room for improvement. As in the original game it is frustrating to change character while fighting. Added depth in fighting could be added but overall these are only minor issues.

Overall this game proves to be one of the standout titles on the 360 due to its unique light hearted charm. This game is an essential purchase for all gamers due to its outstanding replay value and improvements over its predecessor.

9/10