Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (Xbox 360, PS3)

Storyline

As the game begins, players take control of Vader on the planet Kashyyk, a.k.a. the Wookie planet, as he attempts to seek out and destroy a Jedi Separatist given refuge by the Wookie population. Before going further, it should be stressed that the game's focus is on evil verses good instead of the other way around. While the events that take place in this first sequence of the game may seem foreign and even cruel to some players, those whose secret desires include killing Chewbacca will feel right at home as the Wookie slaughter commences in full force.

After making short work of the big fuzz balls, Vader's Jedi mark emerges from his hideout and a battle sequence begins, allowing players to test out the various force-inspired attacks offered in the game. When the skirmish comes to a close, Vader encounters the young son of the defeated Jedi who displays an impressive presence of the force. Bewildered at this child's abilities, Darth recruits the young boy who will later serve as his secret apprentice, dubbed Starkiller.

Once the story advances to the game's "present day" setting, Starkiller becomes the playable character. While in possession of a number of different force powers, the apprentice's abilities are far outmatched by those displayed by Vader in the opening sequence. However, this serves as a starting point for the apprentice as he enhances his force power and gains new abilities while embarking on missions given to him by Lord Vader, each of which will aid in ridding the empire of the remaining members of the Jedi order. While acting in secret, Starkiller is seen as a foreign aggressor, hence the rebel resistance throughout each mission. The story in The Force Unleashed is engaging to say the least. Coupled with the terrific voice acing Lucas Arts' games are renowned for, this new branch of the Star Wars saga is indeed one fans should check out.