Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace

PC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Pentium 166 or higher, 32MB RAM or higher; 4X or faster CD-ROM drive, Direct3D-compatible; 3D hardware accelerator required. Joystick supported.

Amazon.com Review
A role-playing tie-in to the popular movie, The Phantom Menace allows players to save the planet Naboo by assuming four roles: Obi-wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn, Queen Amidala, and the Queen's bodyguard, Captain Panaka. The action alternates between problem-solving sequences and combat, with side quests thrown in to add some mystery.

The storyline is largely faithful to the 1999 movie, taking players from a Trade Federation battleship to beautifully rendered settings, such as the underwater city of Otoh Gunga and the desert world Tattooine, while introducing them to the film's major characters. Old and new fans of the Star Wars universe will be thrilled to have the chance--as Obi-wan and Qui-Gon--to fight with a light saber, complete with the familiar sound effects. It is often hard to avoid fights--there is little scope for sneaking your way out of trouble. However, the violence committed is often against robots and as a result is fairly bloodless.

The Phantom Menace is easy to learn, despite a clunky keyboard configuration, and enjoyable to play. Advanced gamers may find it too simple for their tastes. For Star Wars devotees and newer players, this game will provide hours of enjoyment. --Alyx Dellamonica

Amazon.com Product Description
Step into the epic saga from the Star Wars: Episode I story--and beyond--while taking on the roles of Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn, Queen Amidala, and Captain Panaka. Use the Force--and your wits--to overcome challenges at every turn as you plunge deeper into this story of a galaxy in crisis.

In Episode I, Luke Skywalker's father is just a hopeful 9-year-old boy named Anakin, who knows nothing of his eventual fate as a Dark Lord in years to come. In this earlier time, Obi-Wan Kenobi is a determined young Jedi. Qui-Gon Jinn is Obi-Wan's venerable Jedi master, trying to teach the Jedi way to his apprentice as their world begins to unravel in political turmoil. Episode I will take audiences through extraordinary realms and adventures, from the desert planet of Tatooine to the galactic capital world of Coruscant (with its Jedi Temple), the green world of Naboo, and beyond. Familiar Star Wars characters Yoda, R2-D2, C-3PO, and Jabba the Hutt are along for the ride.