Retro Game Timewarp

In this installment, we will travel back in time to the early 90s, and two of the arguably best Star Wars themed games ever released. Each offer the ability of players to enter the cockpits of the famous space fighters features in all three of the original motion pictures. The first of these was X-Wing.

X-Wing puts the player into the shoes of a young Rebel Alliance pilot, from which a natural progression of rank commences through a linear mission campaign. Included was the venerable John Williams music from the movies, along with a sense of excitement that was unparalleled. Some of the missions were very difficult, and took many tries (and various approaches) to complete. The overall storyline was a progression, beginning prior to the events of the first Star Wars film, and culminating in the famous Death Star trench run at the climax. Graphics were excellent, given the time period we are talking about here.

The second game, TIE Fighter, followed a couple years later, and has the player switching sides and becoming a pilot for the Imperial Navy. Beginning as a relatively unknown pilot that is just starting out and rising through the ranks (even becoming the "Emperor's Hand,) if one so chooses. The missions range from simple policing a star system to full-on fleet engagements with the Rebels, and even fights against rogue Imperial forces. The graphics were much improved over X-Wing, as were the music and sound effects, which now were digital, rather than synthesized by the sound card.

Both of these games were incredible, and deserve a well-earned place in PC gaming history. It almost makes me want to find my old copies and break out my joystick again!