Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II is a classic role-playing game developed by Obsidian Entertainment and released in 2004. It is a direct sequel to the original Knights of the Old Republic game developed by BioWare, and it takes place five years after the events of the first game. The game is set in the Star Wars universe, but it takes place 4,000 years before the events of the original trilogy.
Knights of the Old Republic II has been praised for its complex characters, engaging story, and deep exploration of the Star Wars universe. It is a game that has stood the test of time and has become a cult classic among fans of the series.
One of the most notable features of Knights of the Old Republic II is its cast of characters. Unlike the first game, which had a clear protagonist in the form of Revan, Knights of the Old Republic II does not have a singular hero. Instead, the player takes control of a former Jedi named the Exile, who is on a quest to stop a Sith Lord named Darth Traya.
The Exile is accompanied on their journey by a variety of interesting characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. These characters include a Mandalorian mercenary named Mandalore, a droid called HK-47, a Jedi Master named Kreia, and a young Jedi Padawan named Visas Marr. Each of these characters has their own personality and is well-developed, making them feel like real people rather than just game NPCs.
The story of Knights of the Old Republic II is also one of its strengths. It is a darker and more complex tale than the first game, exploring themes of redemption, betrayal, and the nature of the Force. The player is constantly faced with moral choices that affect the outcome of the story, and the consequences of these choices are not always immediately apparent.
The game also delves deeper into the lore of the Star Wars universe, introducing new concepts and ideas that have become fan favorites. For example, the game introduces the concept of the Sith Triumvirate, a group of three powerful Sith Lords who seek to destroy the Jedi and the Republic. It also explores the history of the Jedi Order, revealing that the order has been plagued by infighting and corruption for centuries.
Knights of the Old Republic II also features improved gameplay mechanics compared to the first game. The combat system has been refined, with new features such as the ability to use two weapons at once and the ability to set up special attacks. The game also features more customization options, allowing players to tailor their character’s skills and abilities to their playstyle.
However, the game is not without its flaws. The game was rushed by its publisher, LucasArts, and as a result, the game was released with several bugs and unfinished content. The game’s ending was also controversial, with many fans feeling that it was rushed and unsatisfying.
Despite these issues, Knights of the Old Republic II remains a beloved game among fans of the Star Wars franchise. Its deep exploration of the Star Wars universe and its engaging story and characters have made it a classic of the role-playing genre. It is a game that is well worth playing for any fan of the series or anyone looking for a great RPG experience.