Star Wars: Episode I - Racer
OpenCritic
Fair
IGDB
OpenCritic Score
Score Distribution
"Star Wars Episode I: Racer offers an improved take on the Nintendo 64 classic that still feels fun to play now, even if it is a little flawed in places. The exciting track design and frantic nature of the pod racing itself makes for some really hectic and enjoyable showdowns, whilst the improved frame rate ensures the game feels super smooth to play. Of course, it isn’t perfect and some sketchy textures, inconsistent (and often too easy) difficulty, and distorted audio problems do hinder the experience a fair bit. They’re not problematic enough to make Star Wars Episode I: Racer feel like a bad game, but they’re still obvious issues that can be hard to ignore in places. Still, it’s clear that Star Wars Episode I: Racer has managed to stand the test of time and it’s easy to recommend this remastered release for both returning gamers and those who never got the chance to race in one of the iconic pod racers back in 1999."
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About Star Wars: Episode I - Racer
LucasArts released this racing title in 1999, bringing the high-stakes pod races from The Phantom Menace to life on consoles. Aspyr Media handled a modern port that lands on PC, Switch, PS4, and Xbox One alongside the original Nintendo 64 version. You pilot Anakin Skywalker or one of twenty other drivers through dangerous tracks at simulated speeds reaching 600 miles per hour. The game features over 21 courses spread across eight distinct planets, letting you dodge methane lakes, meteor showers, and Tusken Raiders while racing. It offers both single-player campaigns and local split-screen multiplayer sessions for anyone who wants to test their piloting skills against friends on the same screen.
Gameplay
You grip a pod racer that hovers just four feet off the ground as you navigate tight turns and long straightaways. The core loop involves managing speed while avoiding obstacles like walls, spikes, and enemy ships trying to ram you. Each track demands precise handling since the vehicles accelerate rapidly and lack traditional braking systems in many sections. You can race alone through a career mode or jump into split-screen with a friend for immediate local competition. The controls feel responsive enough to navigate hairpin turns without feeling overly floaty. Motion controls appear in some versions, though players note these add little to the actual driving physics. Most sessions last between five and ten minutes per race depending on track length and difficulty settings.
What Players Think
PlayPile members have logged over 120 hours of gameplay across various platforms with an average session time hovering around eight minutes. OpenCritic lists a score of 68 out of 100, while IGDB records a 72.2 rating based on 202 reviews. About 60.71% of critics recommend this title, reflecting mixed feelings about the remaster quality. Some users praise it as one of the best Star Wars games available, citing the 85 score from 33bits for its faithful adaptation. NintendoWorldReport gave it an 80, noting the port is straightforward but criticizing motion controls for failing to impress. Community mood remains largely nostalgic, with players appreciating the classic tracks and split-screen options despite the age of the source material.
PlayPile's Take
This game works well if you want a quick racing fix without complex mechanics or long story commitments. The price varies by platform but usually stays under twenty dollars for digital versions. You get over 21 tracks to master plus local multiplayer support, though achievement tracking is minimal on newer systems. Critics found the remaster lacks major improvements beyond basic porting, so expect a straightforward experience rather than a modern overhaul. It suits fans who enjoyed the original 1999 release or those seeking a simple arcade racer with Star Wars skinning. Avoid it if you need deep progression systems or online matchmaking since the focus remains firmly on local races and single-player circuits.
Game Modes
Single player, Multiplayer, Split screen
IGDB Rating
72.2
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