Star Wars: Empire at War Review

Star Wars: Empire at War, developed by Petroglyph Games (formed by ex-Westwood Studios developers) and published by LucasArts, launched on PC in 2006. This real-time strategy (RTS) title offered a fresh take on the genre by seamlessly blending strategic galactic conquest with intense tactical battles, all set within the iconic Galactic Civil War era of Star Wars. This Empire at War PC review explores its unique hybrid gameplay and why it remains a beloved RTS classic.

Gameplay: Grand Strategy Meets Tactical Combat

At its heart, Star Wars: Empire at War distinguishes itself with a two-tiered gameplay system. The “Galactic Conquest” mode operates as a grand strategy layer, where players manage planets, resources, build fleets, and deploy armies across a vast galaxy map. This strategic map allows you to move forces, establish outposts, and scheme your way to galactic domination as either the Galactic Empire or the Rebel Alliance.

When two opposing forces meet on a planet, the game transitions into real-time tactical battles. These are split into two distinct types: glorious space battles and gritty ground battles. In space, players command fleets of starfighters (like X-wings and TIE Fighters) and capital ships (from Corvettes to majestic Star Destroyers), targeting critical subsystems and maneuvering for tactical advantage. Ground battles see iconic units like Stormtroopers, Rebel soldiers, Speeder Bikes, and even colossal AT-ATs clash across diverse planetary landscapes. Hero units like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, and Han Solo bring powerful unique abilities to the battlefield. The transition between the strategic and tactical layers is seamless, creating a truly immersive experience.

• Unique blend of grand strategy and real-time tactical combat
• Two distinct and engaging battle types: space and ground
• Playable as both the Galactic Empire and Rebel Alliance
• Iconic Star Wars vehicles, units, and hero characters
• Strategic management of planets and resources across the galaxy

Story and Setting: The Galactic Civil War Unfolds

The narrative of Empire at War places players directly into the thick of the original Galactic Civil War, prior to and during the events of *A New Hope*. As either the Empire or the Rebellion, players aim to achieve their respective goals – crushing the rebellion or dismantling the Empire’s tyranny.

The game masterfully leverages established Star Wars lore, from recognizable planets and characters to the ultimate superweapon, the Death Star. The various campaigns provide a structured way to experience the war, culminating in satisfying conclusions.

Graphics and Sound: An Authentic Star Wars Experience

Visually, Star Wars: Empire at War on PC delivered an authentic Star Wars experience. The graphics were strong for their time, with detailed ship models, recognizable ground units, and impressive environmental effects, especially during large-scale explosions in space. The tactical view provides a clear overview while the ability to zoom in highlights the cinematic action.

The sound design is exceptional. Featuring John Williams’ iconic soundtrack and authentic sound effects directly from the films (the roar of TIE Fighters, the blaster fire, the crunch of AT-ATs), the game immerses players deep into the Star Wars universe. The voice acting is also top-notch, often using original or sound-alike actors for the classic characters.

Legacy: A Modding Powerhouse

Empire at War was well-received upon release and solidified its place as a beloved Star Wars RTS. It received an expansion, *Forces of Corruption*, and has a remarkably active and dedicated modding community, which has vastly expanded its content and longevity, creating some of the most impressive Star Wars mods ever seen.

Is Star Wars: Empire at War on PC Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For Star Wars fans, RTS enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique blend of grand strategy and tactical combat, Empire at War PC is a must-play. Its ingenious design, iconic presentation, and vibrant modding scene offer countless hours of rewarding strategic depth and galactic conquest. It’s a true classic PC game that lets you live out your fantasies of commanding the war for the galaxy.