[PS5] Review of Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles

Aspyr Media has revamped Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles, bringing this classic action game to PlayStation 5 with a fresh look and improved gameplay. Originally debuting in 2000 for the first PlayStation console, the game also saw releases on the Dreamcast and Nintendo’s Game Boy Advance. Now, with its 2025 release, Jedi Power Battles gets a definitive version, enhanced with additional characters, upgraded graphics, and modern control options. This game is firmly rooted in the storyline of Episode 1 of the Star Wars saga, so your enjoyment might hinge on your feelings about that particular movie and the prequel trilogy it belongs to.

A long prelude sets the stage in a universe far, far away, where the Galactic Republic is marred by unrest. Trade routes to remote star systems are contested, leading the Trade Federation to blockade the small planet of Naboo with a fleet of deadly battleships. Amidst political debates, the Supreme Chancellor discreetly enlists the help of the Jedi Knights, who step in to restore peace and aid Naboo.

You can dive into the game as iconic characters like Obi-Wan Kenobi, Qui-Gon Jinn, Mace Windu, Adi Gallia, and Plo Koon, with 13 additional characters you can unlock. These include the likes of Darth Maul, Queen Amidala, and even Jar Jar Binks, along with several others.

Set against the plot of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace, Jedi Power Battles takes players through 10 main stages and a series of mini-games, including levels such as Trade Federation Battleship, Swamps of Naboo, and City of Theed, among others. Each level promises its own set of challenges and opportunities for exploration.

As you start your journey, you’ll maneuver your character using either the left analog stick or D-Pad. Jumping, including double-jumping, is mapped to X, while blocking is tied to L1. You can lock onto targets with R1, and initiate attacks using Triangle, Square, and Circle. To unleash force powers, you’ll press L2 combined with X, Circle, or Triangle, depending on the ability. Items are used by pressing L2 and Square together.

Achievement hunters will find a robust trophy list, comprising 26 Bronze, 13 Silver, and 3 Gold trophies. Objectives range from deflecting blaster shots and defeating enemies, to falling to your doom, besting a protocol droid, and collecting various lightsaber power-ups. To earn the Platinum trophy, you’ll need to complete each level, tackle the game on Jedi difficulty, and become proficient in achieving scores across all stages, among other tasks.

Star Wars Episode 1: Jedi Power Battles offers both nostalgia and novelty, as its arcade roots shine through despite the aging signs from its original PlayStation days. It’s available as a Cross-Buy title for $19.99, granting access to both PS4 and PS5 versions, each with a unique set of trophies. Don’t forget to explore the Concept Art section within the Options menu for 42 intriguing development images.

Before you take the leap into this Star Wars adventure, consider this review’s insights which stem from a PlayStation 5 copy graciously provided by Aspyr.