Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II

Copyright: KBkids.com

If you are ready for the most exciting, white knuckle Star Wars game on the market, you are ready for Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II. This game will keep you glued to your computer seat to the end. Be forewarned that this game is rated Teen 13+. This is due to the animated violence. This one has a high body count. The opening scene includes a beheading, although you don't actually see anything. If you don't like violent games, pass this one up right now.

If you can handle the 'shoot 'em up' attitude here, this is one of the best first person shooter games on the market. Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II was presented with "Game of the Year" by PC Gamer, Computer Gaming World and PC Games. This program is the long awaited sequel to Jedi Knight: Dark Forces. The latest game includes Lightsaber action (missing in the first program,) as well as network play with up to eight opponents. The Lightsabre is the standard weapon of the Jedi and was sorely missed in the original game. Although violent, this program is not as graphically disgusting as some programs for more mature audiences.

The story line revolves around the adventures of Kyle Katarn. After successfully infiltrating the Empire in the last episode, he now faces his most difficult opponent, himself. Is Kyle going to go to the Dark Side and have infinite power, or train to become a Jedi for the Light Side? If he trains for the Light Side, he will meet some of his most challenging opponents yet. Seven Dark Jedi are searching for the lost Jedi burial ground which contains untold power. Jerec, the leader of the Dark Jedi unleashes six of his most powerful assistants to capture Kyle. Kyle's father had valuable information about the burial site, and was killed by the Dark Jedi....throw in a little revenge here. The plot is developed through the use of spectacular motion picture clips throughout the game. These cut scenes are very well done, and add an element of suspense to the game.

Three difficulty levels, allow beginning and advanced gamers access to the program. As you progress from level to level, you will be awarded experience points which will move you closer to the Dark Side, or to the Light Side of the Force. What do you do in the game? You mainly run around shooting people. Ten different weapons, including the new Lightsaber, allow you to battle various enemies. They will jump out at you from doorways, hide around corners, and even drop from the ceiling. Fortunately, you have full 360 degree action with this great 3D environment. Keep your eyes open! This one is very suspenseful. You are likely to hear many screams of frustration and yells of, "I didn't see him!" emanating from your computer room. Over twelve complex, maze-like levels will test your gaming ability. These levels are complex, but traditional (shoot everyone and then meet a final opponent before moving on.)

There is no doubt this is a violent game which many families will choose to not purchase. If you are not opposed to this type of game play this is a must buy. This will go down as a classic.

Bottom Line: A spectacular shooting game worthy of all awards and accolades it has been given.

Ratings: (based on KBkids.com's 4 star rating system)

Overall: 4

BrainGain: 1/2

FunFactor: 4

EasePlease: 3

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