Star Wars is way more than a movie franchise; it’s a cultural icon. In 2015, research conducted by YouGov in the United States found that 75% of respondents believed that Star Wars is for audiences of all ages and generations. The franchise has released 12 movies so far, including standalone stories and an animated film, as well as a long list of spin-offs.
Unsurprisingly, George Lucas’ universe has become the digital playground for avid gamers and fans. Like the movie, Star Wars-inspired games have also crossed generations. The first adventure (The Empire Strikes Back) was released for Atari 2600 back in 1982. Gaming technology has developed at warp speed, with square pixels giving space to 3D immersion and nearly cinematic graphics.
Indeed, gamers will need much more than an 8-bit console to enjoy the latest adventures. Today, they can (almost literally) embark on this interstellar saga with VR headsets and a host of peripherals, creating deeply realistic and immersive settings. Here’s a Star Wars guide on how gamers and fans can gear up to suppress the Rebellion or take arms against the Empire.
Playing Among the Stars
It doesn’t matter how advanced a flat screen may be; it’ll never be as immersive as virtual reality. VR headsets bring 3D graphics to a new level, creating entire 360-degree environments, be it an X-wing cockpit or the Death Star itself. So, players don’t merely play the saga; they become part of it.
However, health specialists advise against the prolonged use of VR gear, as it may cause eye strain and other vision problems. Still, players can enjoy easy-going games like the Starburst slot between one adventure and another. Indeed, there’s plenty of adventure out there: Trials on Tatooine, Droid Repair Bay, Star Wars: Squadrons, Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge, Vader Immortal (Episodes I, II, and III), and even a pinball game.
Those who don’t have a VR headset yet (but are considering buying one) should have a look at Meta Quest 3. It gives access to a bundle of games, though prices may vary according to the region. The pack includes all episodes of Vader Immortal, Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge, and the 3D pinball game.
Gearing Up for the Journey
Star Wars’ VR adventures are available for PlayStation and Xbox, but can also be enjoyed on a PC if it meets specific technical requirements. For instance, Star Wars: Squadrons requires processors equivalent to or above AMD Ryzen 7 2700X or an Intel i7-7700, with graphics cards Radeon RX 480 or Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060. The same requirements apply to the VR headset.
A reliable and fast internet connection is also crucial for those who want to participate in multiplayer games; a minimum speed of 512 kbps is generally necessary. When it comes to controls, players may use a gamepad, mouse and keyboard, or a HOTAS (hands-on throttle and stick) device. HOTAS controllers are especially recommended for flight simulations, as they contribute significantly to the immersive VR experience.
One of the most popular options here is the Logitech G X56 H.O.T.A.S. RGB, given its extensive options for customization and controls. There are also high-quality gamepads for PlayStation and Xbox available. Better still, they can be customized with faceplates. However, gamepads won’t deliver their best in a VR setting, being much less immersive than HOTAS devices, especially during flight simulations. Alternatively, players can opt for controller handle extensions that emulate lightsaber moves and grip.
Diehard fans may also enjoy customized audio gear, like limited edition headphones and earbuds, inspired by the franchise’s main characters. If customization is not a priority, options are endless. Earbuds and wireless headphones provide more comfort and a secure fit than earphones, especially for games that involve body movements.
Streamers should also consider a powerful facecam with green screen backgrounds. Elgato Facecam Pro is a popular option among streamers, as it provides 4K video and high-definition backgrounds, creating incredibly immersive virtual scenarios.
How To Set Up the VR Gear
VR devices are designed to be intuitive, but it’s possible to enhance gameplay experience and players’ comfort with some clever choices on the settings menu. Firstly, players using Oculus Quest should adjust the game to the borderless mode, as the game frequently crashes in full-screen mode.
SteamVR headsets deliver higher resolution and refresh rate, reducing motion sickness. However, SteamVR users have reported being stuck with refresh rates from 30Hz to 60Hz, even though the device can deliver up to 120Hz (nearly 50Hz more than Oculus Quest). Players can also adjust SteamVR’s supersampling settings to improve its performance.
The Future Beckons
There’s a new adventure coming up, and fans just can’t wait. Star Wars: Eclipse is the result of a partnership between LucasFilm Games and Quantic Dream. According to the official website, Star Wars: Eclipse is still in the “early development” stage. Still, fans can sign up for updates to get snapshots and teasers.
Apart from jaw-dropping graphics, this anxiously anticipated release also promises engaging storytelling, a wide range of characters, and every choice can radically change the future for those in the Outer Rim. The official website also offers a downloadable fan kit with wallpapers, banners, and avatars.
May The Force Be With Gamers
From pixelated beginnings on the Atari 2600 to today’s breathtaking virtual reality setup, Star Wars games have crossed all possible boundaries of digital gaming. However, stepping into this universe requires more than passion (which is priceless); it requires the right gear (which can be pretty expensive): powerful VR headsets, HOTAS controllers, and even lightsaber emulators.
The initial setup requires careful consideration and some legwork, not only for finding the right hardware, but also the most cost-effective one. Diehard fans will agree that the investment pays off, resulting in an unparalleled journey through a galaxy far, far away. Still, one of the longest-living and most popular franchises in pop culture is brewing more novelties, such as Star Wars: Eclipse, making the player the protagonist of a complex plot where diplomacy and space pew-pew are equally important.
