Hey there, Star Wars fans! Ever wondered about diving into the galaxy far, far away through video games but felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of titles? You're not alone! With so many games spanning different eras and genres, figuring out where to start can be tougher than navigating the Kessel Run. But fear not, young Padawans! This guide will walk you through the Star Wars game universe in a way that makes sense, whether you're looking for chronological order, the best storylines, or just the most fun. So, grab your lightsaber (or your controller), and let’s jump into hyperspace!

Why Play Star Wars Games?

Before we dive into the order, let’s talk about why you should even bother with Star Wars games. For starters, they offer a unique way to experience the Star Wars universe beyond the films and TV shows. Games allow you to step into the shoes of iconic characters, make crucial decisions that affect the story, and explore new worlds and narratives that expand the lore. Whether you're battling the Empire, smuggling goods for the Hutts, or training to become a Jedi, there’s a Star Wars game for every type of fan.

Moreover, Star Wars games often delve deeper into the characters and events only hinted at in the movies. They provide context, backstory, and alternative perspectives that enrich the overall saga. Plus, let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to wield a lightsaber and Force-push some Stormtroopers? The immersive experience of these games is unparalleled, making them a must-try for any Star Wars enthusiast. From epic space battles to intimate character-driven stories, Star Wars games offer a diverse range of experiences that keep you engaged and entertained. The ability to influence the narrative and forge your own path within the Star Wars universe is a compelling reason to explore these games.

Chronological Order: A Galaxy Spanning Decades

If you're a stickler for timelines, playing the games in chronological order is the way to go. This approach lets you experience the unfolding of the Star Wars saga from the earliest conflicts to the rise of the First Order. However, keep in mind that some games cover the same periods or overlap, so there might be some minor inconsistencies. Here’s a comprehensive chronological list to get you started:

Era of the High Republic

• Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures - Nameless Terror - While primarily a comic series, the High Republic era is slowly making its way into games. Keep an eye out for future titles set in this period, which explores the golden age of the Jedi, centuries before the Skywalker saga.

Era of the Old Republic

• Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) - Set thousands of years before the Skywalker saga, KOTOR plunges you into a conflict between the Jedi and the Sith. You play as a Jedi Knight tasked with stopping Darth Malak, a fallen Jedi and Sith Lord, from unleashing a devastating weapon upon the Republic. This game is a masterpiece of storytelling, character development, and moral choices. KOTOR is celebrated for its complex narrative, memorable characters, and the ability to shape the protagonist's alignment with the Force. The rich lore and intricate plot make it a standout title in the Star Wars gaming universe. With its engaging gameplay and branching storylines, KOTOR offers an immersive experience that remains captivating even today. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to resonate with players on a deep, emotional level.
• Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords - Taking place five years after the events of KOTOR, this sequel puts you in the role of a Jedi Exile, seeking to reconnect with the Force while battling a resurgent Sith threat. The game delves into the philosophical aspects of the Force and the consequences of the Jedi Order's actions. The Sith Lords builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a more nuanced and morally ambiguous narrative. The game explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the corrupting influence of power. With its compelling characters and thought-provoking storyline, The Sith Lords is a worthy addition to the KOTOR legacy. The game's complex moral choices and intricate plot make it a standout title in the Star Wars gaming universe.
• Star Wars: The Old Republic (MMORPG) - This massively multiplayer online role-playing game allows you to explore the Old Republic era in a persistent online world. You can choose to play as a Jedi, Sith, or one of several other classes, each with its own unique storyline. The Old Republic offers a vast and immersive experience, with hundreds of hours of content to explore. The game's engaging storyline, diverse characters, and dynamic combat system make it a standout title in the MMORPG genre. With its rich lore and intricate plot, The Old Republic is a must-play for any Star Wars enthusiast. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to resonate with players on a deep, emotional level. The game continues to receive updates and expansions, ensuring that there is always something new to discover.

Era of the Clone Wars

• Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Republic Heroes - This action game allows you to play as various Jedi and Clone Troopers during the Clone Wars. It’s a more lighthearted take on the conflict, geared towards younger audiences.
• Star Wars: Battlefront II (Classic) - While primarily focused on multiplayer battles, the original Battlefront II does have a campaign that touches on events during the Clone Wars, from the perspective of a clone trooper in the 501st Legion.

Era of the Galactic Empire

• Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order - Taking place five years after Revenge of the Sith, you play as Cal Kestis, a Jedi Padawan on the run from the Empire. This action-adventure game combines exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving in a compelling single-player experience. Fallen Order is celebrated for its engaging storyline, challenging combat, and stunning visuals. The game's exploration of the post-Order 66 world and the struggles of the remaining Jedi make it a standout title in the Star Wars gaming universe. With its compelling characters and immersive gameplay, Fallen Order is a must-play for any Star Wars enthusiast. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to resonate with players on a deep, emotional level.
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor - The sequel to Fallen Order, Survivor continues Cal Kestis’s story as he fights against the Empire and searches for a safe haven for himself and his allies. This game expands upon the combat and exploration mechanics of its predecessor, offering a more refined and engaging experience. Survivor is praised for its improved combat system, enhanced exploration, and deeper storyline. The game's exploration of the themes of hope, resilience, and the cost of resistance make it a standout title in the Star Wars gaming universe. With its compelling characters and immersive gameplay, Survivor is a worthy successor to Fallen Order and a must-play for any Star Wars enthusiast. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to resonate with players on a deep, emotional level.
• Star Wars: The Force Unleashed - Play as Starkiller, Darth Vader’s secret apprentice, in this action-packed game that explores the dark side of the Force. The game offers over-the-top Force powers and a unique perspective on the events between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope. The Force Unleashed is celebrated for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging storyline. The game's exploration of the dark side of the Force and the moral ambiguities of the Star Wars universe make it a standout title in the Star Wars gaming universe. With its compelling characters and immersive gameplay, The Force Unleashed is a must-play for any Star Wars enthusiast. The game's enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and its ability to resonate with players on a deep, emotional level.
• Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II - Continuing Starkiller's story, this sequel sees him grappling with his identity and his connection to the Force while on the run from Darth Vader. The game features refined combat and even more powerful Force abilities.
• Star Wars: Rogue Squadron Series - These flight combat games put you in the cockpit of various Rebel Alliance starfighters during the Galactic Civil War. They offer thrilling dogfights and a chance to participate in iconic battles from the movies.
• Star Wars: Battlefront (2015) & Star Wars: Battlefront II (2017) - These games offer immersive multiplayer battles set during the Galactic Civil War and beyond. The 2017 Battlefront II also includes a single-player campaign that tells the story of Inferno Squad, an Imperial special forces unit.

Era of the New Republic

• Star Wars: Squadrons - This space combat game puts you in the pilot's seat of New Republic and Imperial starfighters in the aftermath of Return of the Jedi. It features a single-player campaign and intense multiplayer battles.

Era of the New Jedi Order

• Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy - Set after Return of the Jedi, you play as a new student at Luke Skywalker's Jedi Academy. The game allows you to customize your character, learn new Force powers, and choose your own path as a Jedi.

Era of the Resistance

• Star Wars: Uprising - A mobile game set between Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, Uprising explores the power vacuum left by the fall of the Empire.
• Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes - While primarily a mobile strategy game, Galaxy of Heroes includes characters and events from all eras of Star Wars, including the sequel trilogy.
• LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens - A lighthearted retelling of The Force Awakens in LEGO form, this game is perfect for younger fans or those looking for a more casual experience.
• Star Wars Jedi: Challenges - An augmented reality game that allows you to wield a lightsaber and battle against iconic Star Wars villains.
• Star Wars: Battlefront II (2017) - The multiplayer component includes maps and characters from the sequel trilogy, allowing you to participate in battles from The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker.

Playing by Story Arcs: Thematic Journeys

Another way to approach Star Wars games is by focusing on specific story arcs or character journeys. This method allows you to delve deeper into the narratives that resonate with you the most. Here are a few suggestions:

• The Knights of the Old Republic Saga: Play KOTOR and KOTOR II to experience the epic tale of the Old Republic era, with its compelling characters, moral choices, and exploration of the Force.
• The Jedi Knight Series: Play Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II, Jedi Knight: Mysteries of the Sith, and Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy to follow Kyle Katarn's journey from mercenary to Jedi Master.
• The Force Unleashed Duology: Play The Force Unleashed and The Force Unleashed II to explore the story of Starkiller, Darth Vader's secret apprentice, and his impact on the events of the Galactic Civil War.
• The Modern Jedi Saga: Experience the story of Cal Kestis with Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor. These games deliver a modern take on the classic Star Wars adventure formula.

Genre-Based Recommendations: Something for Everyone

Star Wars games span a wide range of genres, so you can choose games based on your preferred play style. Here are some recommendations based on genre:

• Action-Adventure: Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed
• RPG: Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II - The Sith Lords, Star Wars: The Old Republic
• Flight Combat: Star Wars: Rogue Squadron Series, Star Wars: Squadrons
• Shooter: Star Wars: Battlefront (2015), Star Wars: Battlefront II (2017)
• LEGO: LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga, LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Conclusion: Your Star Wars Gaming Adventure Awaits

So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to playing Star Wars games in order! Whether you choose to follow the chronological timeline, explore specific story arcs, or dive into your favorite genres, there’s a Star Wars game out there for you. The galaxy far, far away is vast and full of adventure, so grab your controller and start your own Star Wars gaming journey today! May the Force be with you!