Keep that Lightsaber in Its Hilt: Why Star Wars Kinect Lacked Appeal Among Adult Fans

As a Star Wars fan, I was looking forward to see if Star Wars Kinect would come close to satisfy the feeling of wielding a lightsaber. Unfortunately, the force was not strong with this game, and our hopes of being that much closer to battling Sith Lords have been put on hold. In terms of the story, assisting our iconic robots C-3PO and R2-D2 along with refreshing memories of the Clone Wars is pretty awesome. Podracing is also a big plus, and a core highlight of the entire game even among adults.

As for the graphics and presentation, certain backdrops and color combinations are indeed easy on the eyes. However, the characters often appear rather pixilated, and their animations could have benefited from greater refinement. We have witnessed great graphics in older Kinect games such as Dance Central (2010), which presented a chromatic platform of excellent animation and detail. With that said, one would safely assume that two years later, greater effort would have been sufficient for an anticipated game such as Star Wars Kinect especially since a bulk of fandom lies among adults who have long since admired the Star Wars saga since the 70s.

Sadly, graphics are not the only point of concern. The required motion to control lightsabers are more complex than it should be. The lightsabers need to be swung by utilizing your right hand while controlling the Force with your left. A mismatch of synchronization between the two as as well as kinect’s failure to recognize your swing can also often result in irritating and illogical deaths. So while you may be enjoying swinging your lightsaber, the game’s failure only triggers gradual dissatisfaction and eventual disinterest.

The final point of attention is the insulting Galactic Dance Off that is intertwined within the gameplay. While this sequence permits gamers to earn more points and stars to unlock additional songs, it is a major abuse to the Star Wars title and fans worldwide. The sight of Han Solo swinging his hips in the carbonite chamber that was used to trap him along with synchronized stormtroopers singing “Its great to be in the Empire today” to the “Y.M.C.A” tune is in a word, disturbing. I thought I was playing a game affiliated to Star Wars, not Dance Dance Revolution.

While the game does address familiar faces and a memorable plot, the overwhelming lack of detail, control and bizarre dance addition only does justice in limiting adult appeal. Younglings will certainly find greater enjoyment from this game as they learn how to wield a lightsaber and break it down Star Wars style. As for longtime fans who have been eager to achieve their Jedi dreams, Yoda has some advice:

“Wait a little longer, you must.”

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