The original Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is widely regarded as one of, if not the, greatest Star Wars games ever created. However, there are certain aspects of the game that could use some updates in the upcoming remake. These updates have the potential to bring to the forefront certain elements of the story in Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic that were previously left as background details.
In the expansive Star Wars universe, the Jedi Code is frequently referenced by the characters. Depending on whom you ask, the Code is seen either as a set of guidelines for being a virtuous Jedi or as an inflexible set of rules. While the Code is briefly mentioned in the movies, it is fully revealed for the first time in the game. With the planned remake, there is an opportunity to emphasize the significance of the Code in a way that the original game was unable to accomplish.
How The Jedi Code Is Used In Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
In BioWare's Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, the story is a perfect blend of simplicity and complexity. Players take on the role of a force-sensitive soldier in the Old Republic, who eventually finds themselves at the Jedi Academy on Dantooine for training in the ways of the Force. It is during their time on Dantooine that fans of the Star Wars franchise are introduced to the complete Jedi Code.
In order to progress through the game, players must explore Dantooine and interact with non-player characters to uncover different fragments of the Jedi Code. To move forward, they must commit the entire code to memory and recite it to one of the Jedi Masters. As the game progresses, players will encounter the Sith Code as well, providing a contrast to the teachings of the Jedi. However, once players leave Dantooine, there is little emphasis on adhering to these codes. This is an aspect that the upcoming remake of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic has the potential to address and improve upon.
How The Remake of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic Can Put the Jedi Code to Better Use
The KOTOR remake has faced numerous challenges since its initial announcement, particularly in terms of production. Last year, there was a developer switch for the remake of Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, with one of the reasons being the intention to enhance its cinematic elements. If this is true, it is likely that the Jedi Code segments of the game would greatly benefit from this shift in focus.
In the original version, The Jedi Code does not play as significant a role in the main storyline as one might expect. While Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic boasts a plethora of captivating characters, the various Jedi characters encountered throughout the game do not heavily emphasize or enforce the Jedi Code. For instance, characters like Bastila, Jolee, and Juhani may chastise the player for their cruelty, but they do not explicitly reference the Jedi Code as a guiding principle. This is particularly peculiar considering the game's major plot twist involving the protagonist and the player character's pivotal role in rescuing Jolee from the clutches of the Dark Side. Addressing this inconsistency should be a key objective for the remake.
It is currently uncertain what changes will be beneficial for the remake. The CEO of Embracer Group has not provided any comments regarding the Knights of the Old Republic remake, leaving its occurrence uncertain. However, the original game emphasized the flaws within the Jedi Order and the arrogance of its members. It is important for the remake to maintain this aspect of the storyline, either by reinforcing it or presenting it in a more prominent manner. Highlighting these aspects would greatly enhance the overall remake. The development of the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic remake is currently underway.