Aspyr, the studio behind the remasters of the classic Battlefront games among other Star Wars remasters, will soon be delivering a new take on Jedi Power Battles. After 25 years, this Jedi Power Battles remaster will bring the old favorite to modern systems, allowing today's gamers to appreciate an important piece of Star Wars gaming history.

The remaster of Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles was announced in October last year. Helmed by the prolific remaster masters at Apsyr, the title will bring in a few extra bells and whistles such as bonus characters and the ability to switch between Mace Windu's saber colors among other welcome improvements. To learn more about the upcoming title, Game Rant spoke with Aspyr director of product Chris Bashaar about the team's process.

Every Star Wars Episode 1 Jedi Power Battles Playable Character Revealed So Far
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Every Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles Playable Character Revealed So Far

Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles will soon be remastered for modern platforms by Aspyr and will debut with 13 new playable characters

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How Aspyr Is Bringing Back Jedi Power Battles After 25 Years

Additions To Jedi Power Battles

Q: Aspyr has quite the catalog of Star Wars remasters under its belt. Did development goals differ with Jedi Power Battles and, if so, how?

A: Our goal with Star Wars: Episode I: Jedi Power Battles was to preserve the challenging, action-packed experience fans remember while improving accessibility and quality-of-life features. Unlike some of our other projects, we focused on improving the controls and gameplay while staying true to the original Dreamcast version. A core rule at Aspyr is “additions not revisions,” so players will find modern and classic controls in our version. It’s exciting to get to play both versions and build two fully different strategies on how you can play.

Q: How much will players be able to customize their experience? Will this be limited to largely cosmetic features or can fans modify values like RNG and enemy AI?

A: Customization primarily focuses on cosmetic and gameplay features, such as toggling lightsaber colors, adjusting UI options, and switching between modern and classic controls. While values like RNG and AI are not modifiable, these updates ensure players can tailor their experience to their preferences. The biggest customization will be choosing from 13 new playable characters, some with new attack styles. We hope this makes a classic game feel fresh and exciting.

Q: Jedi Power Battles is a notoriously tough game. Is Aspyr adding any accessibility changes to address this?

A: Yes. We’ve introduced a modern control scheme to help address this. Additionally, the game now offers improved balance and refined mechanics, making it challenging but fairer for all players while respecting the difficulty that fans of the original love.

Q: How are the new members of the Jedi Power Battles’ roster being chosen?

A: The new roster members were selected to bring more diversity and variety to the gameplay while staying true to the Star Wars galaxy. We looked for characters that could offer unique playstyles and enrich the experience for new and returning players. The Tusken Raiders are a great example of this, as Staff Tusken Raider offers combat through his staff and the Rifle Tusken shoots his enemies. There are now many more ways to play than with only a lightsaber.

Q: How much wholly new material will the game contain?

A: The game includes 13 newly playable characters, updated visual and gameplay features like the lightsaber toggle, and refined mechanics. While the core experience remains faithful to the original, these additions enhance and expand the game for today’s audience.

Keeping Classic Material Alive

Jedi Power Battles Droideka

Q: Trailers have highlighted how players can switch between Mace Windu’s canon purple lightsaber and his original blue blade. How did Aspyr approach other instances of non-canon material in the game?

A: We focused on balancing authenticity with fan-favorite nostalgia. For example, while franchise elements like Mace Windu’s purple lightsaber were prioritized, we also retained elements from the original game to preserve its unique charm and appeal.

Q: Will Jedi Power Battles’ remaster take any cues from the original PlayStation release, or will it rely entirely on the Dreamcast version?

A: This release is based on the Dreamcast version, as it represents the most refined iteration of the original. However, we also incorporated select features that fans loved about the PS1 release, like preserving elements of its iconic UI.

Q: What’s the most important element of the remaster to Aspyr?

A: Staying true to the original game while making it accessible and enjoyable for new and returning players. We wanted to celebrate the legacy of Jedi Power Battles, by preserving the game while improving the experience.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add about the remaster for fans of a Galaxy Far, Far Away?

A: We’re incredibly excited for fans to rediscover Jedi Power Battles. This version of the game is a celebration of the original and the Star Wars community. We hope new and returning players enjoy exploring the galaxy through this classic adventure.