Aspyr’s Latest Nintendo Switch Remaster for Star Wars Fans
We were surprised when Aspyr announced that the classic 2000 PlayStation game Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles is getting a remaster for the Switch. The game is now available for pre-order on the eShop.
In a new pre-order trailer, fans can get a glimpse of the Star Wars arcade brawler along with its new features. This includes all unlockables being available from the beginning, 13 new playable characters (including some fan favorites like Weequay), and classic cheat codes from later versions of the game.
The game is scheduled to release on the Switch on the 23rd of January. Pre-orders are currently open on the North American eShop for $17.99, with a 10% discount for early purchases. It’s expected to be available on other regional eShops soon.
Here are some key features of the game and a few screenshots:
- Jump into Side-Scrolling Arcade Action in the Star Wars Galaxy: Play as Mace Windu, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Plo Koon, Adi Gallia, and Qui-Gon Jinn against classic enemies in iconic locations from STAR WARS: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.
- All Secret Characters Unlocked & More to Discover: Access all secret characters and levels right from the start, including Darth Maul, Captain Panaka, Queen Amidala, and more. There are also 13 new playable characters to unlock after your first playthrough.
- Play with a Friend in Classic Couch Co-op: Enjoy two-player couch co-op throughout the full 10-level campaign and bonus mini-games.
- New Features & Modes for Modern Platforms: Choose between classic or modern controls, customize your lightsaber colors, utilize classic cheat codes like Big Head Mode, explore VS and training modes from later releases, and uncover more surprises in this 25th-anniversary celebration of STAR WARS Episode I: Jedi Power Battles.
While this remaster may seem like another typical Aspyr Star Wars project, if the gameplay is engaging, it could provide a fun experience for Lightsaber enthusiasts. However, we are still holding out hope for a Rogue Squadron II remaster in the future.
After Aspyr’s previous Star Wars remaster of Bounty Hunter, which felt quite dated in 2024, we’re hoping that Jedi Power Battles will offer a more modernized experience without losing its nostalgic charm.