For many the Star Wars universe signifies the pinnacle infusion of fantasy and science fiction epic. Woven between a thread of monolithic archetypes and philosophical disciplines, its adventures have inspired legions of fans and sparked many heated discussions. One debate in particular has revolved around the true intended nature of the force, whether its substance is best critiqued from a methodical, scientific approach (blasted Midichlorians), or from a more archaic, religious perspective.

Regardless of which way the eternal winds of wonderment blow, its cyclical discussion can find some solace in the wise words of Obi Wan Kenobi ''everything is true, from a certain point of view.' Then again old Ben may have just been too omnipresent for his own good and foreseen the dilemma his spiritual leader, George Lucas, was going to face in the distant future' far, far away.

The Star Wars Jedi Knight series, which originated from the PC instant hit Star Wars Dark Forces, also explored the intricacies of the force and its symbiotic relationship between its brethren, the Jedi. As glorious as the Jedi's kindred to the force is, it is this same ancient power that can yield an unspeakable and intoxicating darkness. This power-to-corrupt notion became the final highlight of the original Jedi Knight game, as its anti-hero, Kyle Katarn, fell from grace and was nearly killed in the wake of the destruction. Favorably its successor, Star Wars Jedi Knight 2: Jedi Outcast (JK2), begins in the aftermath of Katarn's spiritual dissemination. Recovering with his 'sponsor' and romantic flame Jan Ores in tow, Katarn is satisfied to live out the remainder of his days hauling cargo around the infinite regions of space. However, while our rehabilitating force junkie is resolute to remain detached from the Jedi order -and giant raving glow sticks- he and his partner are soon to be propelled into an evil conspiracy involving cybernetically enhanced Dark Jedi, and a plot to take over the galaxy.

The plot of JK2 may not be new or terribly exciting, however its does deliver with much satisfaction and well met intensity. In typical FPS/TPS fashion players will explore several well known locations from the Star Was universe, including Nar Shaddaa, the Jedi academy, and even Bespin (Cloud City) that features a climactic encounter with the dreaded carbon freezing chamber. While these locations are great and fun to explore they do retain an isolated corridor feel that, over time, has failed to induce any sense of life or luster. Add to this repetitious key collecting and switch flipping exercises, and things start to feel a little too rudimentary. As gameplay expectations mature these particular characteristics do not bode well all these years later.

Even though JK2 has a moderately static feel, it still retains a strong degree of excitement and pace. This is largely due to the gameplay's emphasis on combat, which is showcased through its combination of ranged weapons, force powers, and light saber techniques. The large assortment of ranged combat weapons, such as blaster pistols, Wookiee Bowcasters and other destructive firearms, really emphasize its true FPS heritage. However, the major strengths and attraction of JK2 do not lie in a heavy arsenal of assault weapons, or its themed locations. Rather the major appeal of JK2 is defined by its engaging execution of real-time light saber combat and complementary use of force powers. Statures of greatness do not even begin to flourish until the much anticipated attainment of the Jedi's light saber in grand Excalibur like fashion. Gamers will develop three varied styles of light saber combat, ranging from quick staccato strikes to the more traditional, Return of the Jedi, lunging thrusts and electrically charged titanic clashes. Light saber combat is conducted in a well crafted TPS style that is amazingly fluid and enjoyable to witness 'no tricky camera issues or clipping. Furthermore, light saber combat was found to be more enthralling than the games lengthy, non-negotiable, FPS component.

No doubt the early absence of a light saber can be contributed to the game's story; however its absence is, much like Knights of the Old Republic (XBW: 95%), painfully noticeable and once acquired supersedes the use of any other weapon. The addition of 11 force powers (easily accessible via the controller's D pad), including Jedi mind trick, force lightning, force grip, force speed, and many more, greatly add to the strategic element when fighting hordes of Dark Jedi and Storm Troopers. There was nothing more gratifying than using force grip on an unsuspecting Storm Trooper; lifting it high-up into the heavens, before casting it down into an endless chasm. Furthermore, combating the Dark Jedi (and 'boss' encounters) will take more than blind luck, as the degree of difficulty will range from typical AI depleted cannon-fodder to elemental evil incarnate.

JK2 utilizes the very noticeable Quake 3 Team Arena engine and while it is exceedingly dated it does produce beautifully flared and fiery lighting effects, quality shading/reflections, and model textures. Specific highlights for this reviewer included the lovingly rendered Storm Trooper that looked like it had been literally plucked right out of the movie. One can only adore these little guys with their porcelain white armor and raggedy-doll flailing. Light saber effects are very inspiring to watch, also. As they spark and crackle against darkened backgrounds you really feel a true sense of power and nobility. JK2's environments are however a little monochromatic, with a collection of dull grays contrasted against vibrant reds and blues. The colour palate yells 'authentically' true, but it is noticeably flat and repetitive -even during cut-scenes. With the exception of JK2's successor, Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy (XBW: 82%), the Quake 3 engine really has been utilized to its utmost courageous limits.

While grandiose set pieces and milestone special effects became the hallmark of the Star Wars movies, it was also its vivacious orchestral scores and audio intricacies that helped Star Wars soar beyond the next frontier in science-fiction motion picture. As with the film, so to are the Star Wars games famous for brandishing the same detail with its aural delights. With the inclusion of authentic weapons fire, operatic themed events, quality voice acting from characters (including the voice of Billy Dee Williams as Lando Calrisean), JK2 simply resonates with authentic ambiance and charm.

In addition to JK2 having a fantastic single player campaign it also includes a pleasing addition of bonus material. Once players have completed the single player game they will also unlock the very satisfying PC demo that was never actually released with the retail version. The demo itself is a well contained stand alone chapter that allows players to tap into a selection of force powers, weapons, and light saber abilities. It really does showcase the major attractions of JK2 and rewards players with a very exciting showdown.

JK2 also boast a strong multiplayer component with competitive Jedi arena battles. With a variety of six multiplayer games (including capture the flag, Jedi Master, and a variation of free-for-all matches), skilled Jedi will be able to go toe-to-toe with a friend in split-screen mode, or against a customised list of big, bad, bots. Unfortunately, JK2 and its Jedi arena counterpart do not tap into the 'awesome power' of xbox Live. No doubt brawling with other like minded masters of the force across the eons of virtual space would have made for an exciting experience. Alas, this is one desire JK2 will not fulfill, but luckily for us Jedi Knight 3: Jedi Academy will more than make up for it.