Few Star Wars characters have achieved the same level of popularity in video games as Starkiller. As Darth Vader’s secret apprentice, Galen Marek first appeared in 2008 and soon became a beloved fan character. But what game did Starkiller first appear in? As you may guess, this is The Force Unleashed, although the character can be found in other games. Here we will provide information on the major games where Starkiller has appeared, including mainline games, crossover appearances, and spinoffs. Additionally, we will tell you whether Starkiller is available in newer games such as Battlefront II and whether he might make his return in the future. It should be noted that Starkiller is a Star Wars Legends character and is not part of the current canon.
What Game Is Starkiller From?
The simple answer is Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. Released in 2008, the action-adventure game introduced Galen Marek, the stolen son of Kento Marek, into the world. Developed by LucasArts, the game was a blockbuster hit during that time, becoming one of the best-selling Star Wars games of its era. The game connected elements of the prequel and original trilogies by exploring the early years of the Galactic Empire. The game succeeded through its revolutionary use of Force mechanics and the story it provided. The player took control of Starkiller as he used his incredible Force powers to fight off his enemies.
The games featuring Starkiller include his main titles as well as several spin-offs and crossover appearances. These include:
- The Force Unleashed (the main protagonist);
- The Force Unleashed II (returns as a main protagonist in the clone storyline);
- Soulcalibur IV (appears as a guest character);
- Star Wars Pinball (features a table based on The Force Unleashed).
It should be noted that there were also other versions of The Force Unleashed, including PSP, DS, and Wii games that offered unique gameplay. The games featuring Starkiller as the main character are the Force Unleashed games. Nonetheless, his guest appearance in Soulcalibur and other spin-offs made him known beyond his original franchise.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (2008)
Starkiller was first seen in The Force Unleashed. This game begins with Darth Vader discovering Galen Marek as a child on Kashyyyk after killing his father, Kento Marek. This story revolves around the training of this secret apprentice of Vader as he goes about his mission of eliminating the surviving Jedi throughout the galaxy. In the game, the player controls Starkiller through many missions, and he has to fight many popular characters such as Shaak Ti, Rahm Kota, and Kazdan Paratus. It was the use of the Force that defined this game. Players could use the Force to manipulate objects, including the famous sequence involving a Star Destroyer, as well as use Force lightning and other abilities.
The narrative is still one of the best parts of the game. Starkiller’s evolution from an obedient killing machine to an enlightened hero appealed to many players. His connection with Juno Eclipse and eventual sacrifice added an emotional dimension to the events unfolding throughout the game. The sequel to this popular game was created, marking the appearance of Starkiller in the gaming history of the Star Wars universe. The voice acting, especially Sam Witwer’s performance, helped to make the character more believable. The Force Unleashed became one of the best-selling Star Wars games of its era, reflecting its strong popularity.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II
The sequel continued Starkiller's story but introduced a major twist. In The Force Unleashed II, players found out that the main character was actually a clone who had been created by Darth Vader following the death of the first one. The clone had Starkiller's memories and powers and fought an internal battle trying to figure out his own identity in the game. These changes were not welcomed by all players, but they added another layer to the story. The game featured a better combat system and dynamics of the environment. For instance, the protagonist used two lightsabers in this game.
The game concluded with a cliffhanger, thus opening up the possibility for the creation of the third chapter in the trilogy, which never happened. A third game was reportedly planned but never released, leaving the clone’s fate uncertain. However, The Force Unleashed II still plays an important role in the series due to its examination of issues of identity and memory in the Star Wars world. It also saw the improvement of the combat system, enabling transitions between Force abilities and lightsaber use.
Handheld Versions and Alternate Editions
However, the portable versions of The Force Unleashed had their own unique features and gameplay. The games for PSP, Nintendo DS, and Wii were distinguished by special missions and levels. With them, gamers could experience the story of Starkiller in the form of portable games. In particular, the PSP version had its exclusive elements that include additional missions and characters. The Nintendo DS game made use of a stylus in order to perform Force powers, thus providing another gameplay experience.
The Force Unleashed was also available in mobile versions, although they had simpler game mechanics. These versions provided the opportunity for gamers to play as Starkiller on mobile devices such as phones and tablets. Although not as complicated as the console versions, they helped introduce this character to a broader audience. All of them were a part of the reasons why Starkiller became popular on various gaming consoles. Some of them offered unique storylines that were not included in the console versions.
Starkiller Outside The Force Unleashed
Starkiller appeared as a guest character in the fighting video game called Soulcalibur IV that was created by Namco. His inclusion gave players the chance to use Starkiller's Force abilities and lightsaber skills in a fighting-game setting. Starkiller used his reverse-grip lightsaber and incorporated Force abilities in his combos. Star Wars Pinball was one more video game where players could see The Force Unleashed theme in one of its tables. It included the characters, locations, and soundtracks from the game. Although Starkiller was not a playable character in the traditional sense, he appeared as part of the themed content.
There have been other promotional games that have featured Starkiller. There were also some mobile adaptations that have expanded on the story of the character. Although they might be small, they helped keep the character alive between large releases. One such instance was when Starkiller was in Soulcalibur IV, which is especially important as it is the first time that Starkiller appeared in a non-Star Wars game. This allowed him to show his fighting abilities.
Is Starkiller in Battlefront 2?
There has been a common question about the presence of Starkiller in Battlefront 2. It turns out that he does not exist there. He has never officially been featured in Star Wars Battlefront II, as well as any of its DLCs. Despite the numerous appeals from the fans, EA and DICE never implemented this character in their game. His absence is partly explained by his Legends status, as Battlefront II focuses primarily on characters and stories from the current canon. Yet, there are fan-made mods for PC Battlefront 2, which implement Starkiller into it.
The problem usually originates from these mods, with certain people misunderstanding that Starkiller has been officially released in the game. All Starkiller elements within the game are made by fans of the game. It’s important to understand this point because of players who want to have the official experience. It's clear from the mods that the Star Wars gaming community really loves this character.
Is Starkiller in Jedi: Survivor?
Starkiller is not a character featured in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor or its prequel, Jedi: Fallen Order. Both games instead focus on Cal Kestis, a Force-sensitive survivor of the Jedi Order. Despite having some things in common as survivors of Order 66 who are also Jedi, the two characters come from different continuities; Starkiller is a Legends character, whereas Cal Kestis is an official canonical one. Some comparisons have even been made between the two characters by fans due to their similar characteristics.
It is not surprising that Starkiller is not in the Jedi series of games considering his Legends status. There have even been rumors about the inclusion of the character in upcoming Jedi games, yet they were not confirmed. Unless Starkiller is officially reintroduced into canon, there is no confirmed connection between him and the Jedi games. Meanwhile, the Jedi series has been successful on its own terms, giving birth to such a lovable character as Cal Kestis.
Why Hasn't Starkiller Appeared in Modern Canon Games?
The reason for Starkiller's exclusion from modern canon games is based on the Lucasfilm continuity reset that took place in 2014. The continuity reset categorized all Expanded Universe material as Legends. Thus, The Force Unleashed and its sequel are included in the Legends timeline. His Legends status means that he is not currently part of the continuity used by modern canon games, although Lucasfilm could theoretically reintroduce him in a new form. In addition, there is another problem that has to be solved. Starkiller's power is much higher than that of most canon Force users. His famous Star Destroyer sequence is often cited as an example of his extraordinary Force abilities, although the exact circumstances and presentation of the feat have been debated. Including such a powerful character in the canon game can disappoint the audience.
Fans' interest in Starkiller is high, but there are no indications that Lucasfilm is going to bring back the character. The company prefers to create new characters and new plots in the canon timeline. Being a Legends character, Starkiller will likely stay away from the official games of the future. The company needed the continuity reset to provide more possibilities for storytellers who wanted to create stories regardless of years of Expanded Universe materials.
Could Starkiller Return to Future Star Wars Games?
There is always a chance that Starkiller might return in the future. A remake or remaster of The Force Unleashed could be one way to reintegrate him into the world of gaming. In this case, he would get back his reputation while being adjusted to the gameplay of the modern age. This solution would allow him to remain a part of Legends, but still make fans happy with his comeback. A canon introduction of the character would also be possible, although some modifications would be required. His story should be changed to fit into the current timeline. His abilities might also need to be adjusted to fit the balance and storytelling of the current canon. Some change to his identity or origin might be needed too.
The popularity of the games from the Jedi series shows how much gamers like the idea of Force-sensitive protagonists. It means that it would be possible to develop a game featuring Starkiller. However, Lucasfilm has to give its approval, and there has been no news about it yet. The trend of remastering old games can be a good thing for Starkiller. A new version of The Force Unleashed with better graphics and gameplay could attract considerable interest from longtime fans.
Why Starkiller Remains One of Gaming's Most Popular Star Wars Characters
Starkiller's fame is due to a number of reasons. His powerful Force abilities gave players a strong sense of power and freedom. The famous Star Destroyer sequence became one of the game's most memorable moments. The storyline of his redemption from a Sith assassin into a hero of the Rebels had an emotional touch. All those details created a memorable character. His connection to Darth Vader provided him with a strong backstory. The dynamics between master and apprentice brought up issues of manipulation and freedom. His refusal to serve the dark side made a complete and powerful storyline.
His gameplay in The Force Unleashed also played a significant role in making him popular. The new mechanics of the Force set the bar for future Star Wars games. The player could use powerful Force moves and take control over the game field. The interaction with the character helped players feel connected to him. Even many years after the last appearance of Starkiller, he is still loved by fans. His impact can be felt even in future Star Wars games where similar mechanics are used.
Final Verdict
Starkiller's history as a video game character began with The Force Unleashed in 2008 and continued through its sequel and various handheld releases. He has not appeared officially in Battlefront II or the Jedi games, although fans have occasionally speculated about his return. In fact, fans have been making some awesome mods that have featured him in these games. Starkiller's absence from the modern-day canon games is a direct result of Lucasfilm's continuity revision in 2014, where his storyline became part of the Legends lore. His influence on Star Wars gaming cannot, however, be disputed. His powerful Force abilities, redemption story, and connection to Darth Vader helped create an experience that is still remembered fondly by many gamers.
FAQs
What game does Starkiller come from?
Starkiller first appeared in the video game Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, which was first published in 2008. His character also features in the sequel game Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II.
Is Starkiller in Battlefront 2?
No, Starkiller has never been included in the video game Star Wars Battlefront II. Nevertheless, Starkiller has been added to the video game using mods on PC platforms.
Is Starkiller in Jedi: Survivor?
No. Starkiller does not make an appearance in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor or its prequel, Jedi: Fallen Order. Both games instead focus on Cal Kestis.
Is Starkiller playable in games other than The Force Unleashed?
Yes. Starkiller is a guest character in Soulcalibur IV and also appears in Star Wars Pinball's The Force Unleashed-themed content. In addition, there are handheld/mobile versions of The Force Unleashed.
Could Starkiller appear in upcoming Star Wars games?
This is unclear. There may be remakes or reimaginings of The Force Unleashed, but nothing official has been announced.
