Highlights
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor improved upon its predecessor with new features like refined lightsaber stances and expansive Metroidvania levels, though it missed on opportunity.
The Star Wars Jedi series has hinted at a companion system, but it hasn't been fully integrated. However, adding a well-developed companion mechanic would greatly enhance the gameplay experience. Respawn could create an unforgettable and fulfilling companion system in the future Star Wars Jedi: Survivor sequel, allowing players to recruit and journey alongside enjoyable characters throughout the galaxy.
Star Wars Jedi: Survivor exceeded expectations in many aspects compared to its predecessor. While some argue that it didn't quite capture the same charm in terms of its storyline and character dynamics as Jedi: Fallen Order, the sequel introduced an array of new and enhanced elements, such as refined lightsaber stances, expanded Metroidvania levels, and rewarding collectibles. Despite these substantial improvements, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor still had its flaws, leaving ample room for further enhancements in a potential future installment.
As the likely second installment in a trilogy, it is only natural for Star Wars Jedi: Survivor to leave open possibilities for expansion and refinement. Alongside the anticipated additions of additional lightsaber styles, diverse enemy types, and a wider range of Force abilities in future Star Wars Jedi sequels, there is one element that has been teased since the beginning of the series but has yet to be fully developed: a comprehensive companion system.
A Star Wars Jedi Sequel Should Have a Fully-Fledged Companion System
In Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, players will have the opportunity to recruit crew members to join Cal Kestis and his team. This begins with the lovable droid BD-1 and culminates with the addition of Nightsister Merrin. Although these moments are scripted and players have no choice in the matter, it hints at the possibility of expanding the crew.
This idea is further explored in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. Early in the game, Cal Kestis reunites with Greez at Pyloon's Saloon, a rundown cantina. Upon entering for the first time, players are informed that they can meet and recruit various characters from across the galaxy to join Pyloon's Saloon. Each of these recruitable characters has their own unique personality and brings something special to the cantina, such as a captivating aquarium or a Holotactics table.
While the original tease of Jedi: Fallen Order was a natural evolution, it fell short of its full potential. The execution of meeting and bringing back Star Wars characters to base lacked in gameplay rewards and story progression. However, Respawn had a promising start and the concept of recruiting a diverse cast of characters is crucial to the Star Wars and Sci-Fi genre. This mechanic reinforces the core theme of found family in the Star Wars Jedi series.
A sequel to Star Wars Jedi: Survivor should further advance this mechanic by implementing a comprehensive companion system. Players should have the ability to travel across the galaxy, encounter interesting characters, and recruit them to join the crew on the Mantis. These companions should have a significant role in both the story and gameplay, supporting Cal Kestis in the field, similar to the assistance provided by Merrin on Jedha. While the Star Wars Jedi series may not be as extensive as games like Mass Effect or Starfield, there is potential for a fulfilling companion system. Respawn is only a few steps away from creating a truly memorable and rewarding mechanic, and should continue to pursue its development.
Star Wars Jedi Survivor is out now for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
