The Never Ending Disappointment of Star Wars Battlefront

Eight months ago we finally received a new Star Wars Battlefront game. The anticipation was just about as intense as I have seen when it comes to new video games.

I can remember other big video game releases in which it seemed like everyone was beyond excited for its eventual arrival.

Unfortunately, when the game dropped the enthusiasm would inevitably follow as over time more of us began to realize how disappointing the gameplay was.

As it has been mentioned a million times Battlefront is a carbon copy of Battlefield.

The lives of the characters are expendable, there’s no real strategy to playing and luck seems to be more valuable than skill.

What’s even more maddening is I believe Battlefield games are 10x better than Battlefront!

The fact that the environment is in play as in some buildings and other materials are capable of being leveled is fantastic.

In the world of Star Wars Battlefront, you shoot a powerful rocket launcher at small crates and nothing happens besides a small little black mark.

In Battlefield you get the fantastic option of customizing your weapon’s add-ons to increase its power. In Battlefront whatcha got is what ya got…

Not to mention the fact that Battlefront was released with four maps!

To be fair, the expansion packs have been very entertaining and interesting to say the least but you know what? You had to dish out some serious dough for that! Not cool!

Just look at this graphic as this version of Battlefront is compared with the old one…

How ridiculous and offensive is that? The obnoxiousness is endless!

Maybe one of my biggest gripes with Battlefront is the fact that there are so many useless game modes.

The way I see it, if it’s not supremacy, sabotage, occasional walker assault and once in a blue moon fighter squadron, it’s not worth playing.

It’s also pretty clear that the original blueprints for Battlefront as in games one and two that were released in ’05 and ’06 were consulted for about 10 minutes…

What irks me too is the changing of the way bases are captured.

In the old days of Battlefront, the game would start and you could immediately go after your opponent’s main base. Not only was it more difficult and took longer to convert to one of your own but if you did complete the task of taking the base, you would have a serious advantage.

This game gives you one option: one base at a time…

Awful. God awful.

The creativity, the strategy and the free-flowing play all went out the window.

This version of Star Wars Battlefront has about only one advantage on the old ones and that’s graphics and sounds.

There’s no denying the stunning aesthetics of this game. The colors are vibrant, the explosions are epic and the sounds throughout the game are very impressive.

But besides that, I honestly can’t think of much more they got right.

Okay maybe the additions of new hero and villain characters such as Dengar, Nien Nunb, Greedo and Lando are awesome, I won’t deny that.

But man, DICE really dropped the ball on this one.

As the DLC continues to be released, I find myself constantly thinking “will they just change the game to the old one already?”

I know I’m slightly ranting here but I also find it mind-numbing that the old school classic look of the scoring bar was taken out completely.

It was so simple yet so effective and perfect. The system now with just bases and time is played out.

I also think some of the Hutt contracts are useless and too difficult to get.

The quest you must endure to unlock some of these items are painstakingly annoying!

I just want to unlock new guns and use them in the heat of battle, not randomly throw smoke grenades or kill an enemy as I’m standing in this specific area or something.

It takes away from the overall idea of you’re playing the video game for fun and not a contest to win.

What separated the new and the old Battlefront games in my eyes however is the fact that one had a form of a story mode or a player vs computer ability as the newer one had an extremely repetitive and boring survival mode.

The recently added game mode of skirmish is severely lacking. It seems that even when DICE goes to fix its problems they still can’t get things right.

For example, I played skirmish walker assault last night and you know what happened? I got the hero icon right away and played as Nien Nunb…I ended up surviving the entire game and going 189 and 0…

You might say that sounds fun and maybe it was at first but you know what? It was pathetically boring.

I guess what I’m trying to say is Battlefront I and II were 10/10 games for me and so many others. This new Battlefront, even with the updates is so weak and seems to stay on the same level of disappointing.

It’s way too one dimensional as it’s lacking so much material that was there over 10 years ago!

They could have simply taken the old game, upgraded the graphics and added some characters and boom! All would be good.

Another crazy mishap that Battlefront boasts is the restrictions of having original trilogy-based characters only…

Now I understand that supposedly DICE was not granted permission to use Episode VII characters but what happened to the prequel heroes and villains!?

It’s well documented that many Star Wars fans took exception to Episodes I-III (which is crazy in itself) but the characters in those movies are epic and deserve to be everywhere.

From Darth Maul and General Grievous to Plo Koon and Mace Windu, it’s painful to not see them in this game.

Just spoof up the graphics and let the awesomeness commence!

As for now, I guess we’ll just have to settle for what we’ve got: a mediocre moneymaker that has the title of “Star Wars” on it.

I’ve always been an eternal optimist but in this case it’s pretty difficult.

Here’s to better games in the future! Please!

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

What To Expect In The New Rogue One Trailer

With the Star Wars Celebration taking place in London this week, we will get another look at Rogue One.

This Friday on ABC a one hour special titled  “Secrets of the Force Awakens” will air and at some point in that broadcast we will get a look at the next Rogue One trailer.

But what will we see?

Besides the storyline of Resistance efforts to steal the Empire’s plans for the Death Star, there’s very little known on what exactly we can expect.

The first trailer gave us some epic shots of awesomeness and some new characters, but besides that we’re still very much in the dark.

Before I continue I want to first say that Disney is the absolute best at keeping movie details under wraps until the films are released.

For instance, with The Force Awakens we all had no clue what was going to happen.

I would expect the same with RO.

Before you start to think of what will be seen in the next trailer, it’s important to see the parallels with TFA.

The second TFA trailer was released last in April 2015 during the Star Wars celebration in California.

As you can see, the trailer had almost nothing of substance.

Normally I would suggest the same thing will occur with RO’s next trailer but you know what? I don’t think that’s the case.

With the TFA, things were different. We all knew the six Star Wars movies like the back of our hands.

We were searching and craving for any little snippet of picture time that showcased our favorite characters and vigorously searched far and wide for any plot twists.

That’s exactly why the trailers for the movie were so vanilla. They were released knowing that the public would eat up anything Star Wars related.

But as I said earlier with RO, there’s very little known information on what is to come.

That brings me to my next point. Because there’s a real lack of knowledge, I fully expect to see something mind blowing, something that we will be talking about for months to come.

What could that exactly be?Maybe more screen time for the man in the white cape?  What about a demonstration of sheer might from the Empire? Or maybe an appearance of Darth Vader!?

All of these possibilities would be pretty epic but the last one is what I’m hoping for.

But on the realistic side of things I’m not sure exactly if that would really happen.

Would it make sense for RO to show their biggest and most popular character in only the second trailer?

Honestly I’m not sure.

With TFA, probably the biggest takeaway was the deformed helmet of Darth Vader and the hearing of Luke’s voice.

Looking back that was pretty major considering Kylo Ren is Luke’s nephew and the second trailer clearly foreshadowed that pretty big nugget with Luke’s line of “The Force is strong in my family.”

It’s almost a sure bet we will see something similar in this trailer with RO considering that Disney is very high on symmetry.

But think about it. What else do you want to see in RO that has not been mentioned before.

I know what I would want and that’s an appearance of the Emperor.

It would definitely make sense. With the amount of resources the Empire sunk into the Death Star and the amount of importance it holds for them, you would expect the top man to be around right?

I do believe Palpatine will be in RO but my one concern is I’m not sure if he will be in the second trailer or even the third.

It might be showing your cards too early and when it comes to Star Wars, rookie mistakes like that are never made.

You ever see a trailer for a movie like a Marvel Comics superhero flick where it feels like it’s 35 minutes long and by the time it’s over you’re almost under the impression that you just saw all the good parts??

Yea well Star Wars doesn’t have that ridiculousness…

Star Wars decision makers do it right and something they are absolutely famous for is not revealing anything too important.

I do believe RO is a different animal because it is so new but I wouldn’t be that surprised if we do see something pretty spectacular in the trailer since I’m sure they’re wanting to build up the buzz.

In the end, what will we see?

Main characters of other previous films? Possibly.

Parts of intense fighting scenes? Probably.

Could their be some hints leading to something major? I fully expect it.

 

All I know is I’m excited for Friday.

RO will be fantastic and I just can’t wait to learn more.

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: #1

The 1st and top character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Anakin Skywalker!

Anakin Skywalker Overall = 99

For this case, I consider this version of Anakin Skywalker to be the man before he donned the suit. 

He is the chosen one, he is what the prophecy speaks of, he is the greatest.

From the very first time Anakin Skywalker was introduced to us, we knew he was beyond special.

With the highest midi-chlorian count ever recorded in a force-user, Skywalker had the necessary foundation to launch himself to supreme dominance of cataclysmic proportions.

With fluidity and poise matched with never ending potential, Anakin was a light that was brighter than any other.

Yet with all his prowess, he was constantly tormented with relentless demons.

At the center of perfect irony, Skywalker was forced to make difficult choices. Choices that he would always regret.

From leaving his mother behind on Tatooine to struggling with his connection to Padmé as well as his undying quest to prove himself, Anakin Skywalker’s life would continue the trend of ups and downs.

But with all his pain he continued to progress in his abilities.

Day after day, week after week, Anakin’s command of the Force paired with his athleticism was truly eye opening.

Unfortunately for Anakin because of his lacky of humility and eccentric personality, his progress was met with cautious apprehension amongst his peers.

Always looking to be appreciated and loved Anakin inevitably fell in with the wrong crowd.

Of course it’s easy for us to say, considering Palpatine came across as nothing but a genuinely sweet and caring elderly man, he would inevitably be the final nail in the coffin that would be Anakin Skywalker and the birth of Darth Vader.

Characteristics

• Athletic Ability (Strength, 100/100)- Perhaps only rivaled by his own son, no one could reach the heights of Anakin when it came to the feats that his body was capable of. Lean muscle absolutely pulsating with tremendous ability, strength, speed and power were all powerful tools that the young man was able to call upon. Even at such a young age he was keeping pace with legendary, grizzled Jedi veterans with little to no effort. The skill set of Anakin’s wasn’t unique, it was his age with his skill set that made him unique. It just goes to show, the talented Anakin Skywalker was one of a kind.
• Force Unleashed (Strength, 100/100)- Characters like Yoda or the Emperor might have had more discipline or knowledge of the Force but it’s those like Anakin who are the most unpredictable and deadly. You know how some people have different levels of how hard they are battling? As in they’re about to “go into an extra gear”? Well Skywalker had no ceilings or limitations. Even when he didn’t know exactly what he was doing, he could still call upon the Force and unleash hell on anything that stood in his path to what he desired. 
• Art of the lightsaber (Strength, 100/100)- As if the very weapon was an extension of himself, Anakin’s mastery of a lightsaber is the epitome of impressive. His dazzling performances on the battlefields of the Clone Wars made the bloody conflict look almost like a performance of a musical presentation. The flowing light of the weapon, the gracefulness mixed with violent hammering was a thing of beauty. Also, because he was so physically gifted, he could truly call upon any form and dominate. That’s pretty rare, but when you find out it’s Anakin Skywalker who owns that ability, it’s almost expected.   
• Gift of Influence (Strength, 98/100)- Skywalker had the ability that allowed everyone around him to rise to the occasion. In the thick of battle Anakin just made those around him better. Through his energy and constant heart, his allies would subconsciously put in the extra effort and turn the dynamic of the team around from an already force to be reckoned with to an unstoppable wave. That’s what the great ones do, they allow those around them to grow and make no mistake, Anakin is the greatest.
•  Emotional Ties (Weakness, 0/100)- As if it was a terminal illness, Anakin was the epitome of an emotional being. As I stated earlier, the losses of his mother, his embattled relationship between Padmé and the Jedi as well as his friendship with the Supreme Chancellor would eventually be his undoing. There was no escaping it. The moment young Skywalker, looking disheveled as ever, walked away from his mother on his home planet of Tatooine, a ticking time bomb initiated. His relentless search for love, belonging and appreciation would prove to be too much in the end as he would ultimately be consumed by his thirst for power and practically self destruct. 
• Youth and Ignorance (Weakness, 15/100)- To understand this weakness in Anakin’s character you have to look at him as a whole. He was a young teenager who was thrown into a position of real power and importance as he entered the Clone Wars. Never lacking confidence Anakin did his best and tried his hardest to always succeed. Of course someone as young as he was was bound to eventually fail. Now when this failure arrived, Anakin did not have the mental maturity to look at it as natural and inevitable. Instead he pushed himself to never fail, never lose and never be anything but the best. The effect this mindset had on Skywalker was devastating. Because Anakin knew and understood how exceptional he was, he was no stranger to insubordination. In fact, the young Jedi was often at odds with his superiors or just authority in general. Never able to appreciate his greatness as well as failing to follow simple orders, this was a recipe for disaster. 

Intangibles

• Rage (Strength/Weakness, 95/100)- Even though Anakin belonged to the Jedi, he always belonged more to his own ideals than anything else. Emotion or more specifically anger and hatred is something that is obviously frowned upon within the Order. But with Anakin, when pushed past his limits he would fully give in to his feelings and emotions and he would emerge as a fire-spitting, hate engulfed man hellbent on destroying anything in his way. We saw it when his mother was discovered and dies in his arms, we saw it when he returns to the temple after Order 66 initiates and we see it during his fateful bout with his longtime friend and former Master, Kenobi. The thing is, when Anakin would go into his rage mode, he lost touch with his Jedi side and almost became a rogue symbol of the Force itself. Although it gave him great power and extended his already amazing abilities tenfold, the overconfidence it instilled in him as well as the distorting of his reality might have turned this attribute into a weakness rather than a strength.

Final Word

At long last, the Sith Pacify Power Rankings are complete! To be honest, from the very beginning I had Anakin Skywalker locked in to the number 1 spot. Although I toyed with the idea of having Luke, Yoda and the Emperor at the top, Anakin was the final victor. I look at Anakin Skywalker and see two parts. I see someone who was so immensely powerful. Someone who could have gone on to be a Grand Master of the Jedi Order and not only have gone on to do great things for the Jedi but create a real sense of inclusiveness within the Galaxy. I could see him opening up relations between Force-users and everyday people. Skywalker could have bridged the gap between curious and fear-filled citizens to younglings and Jedi Masters. This would have been tremendous and could very possibly have guaranteed the public’s support for the Jedi and thus making them an all-time stalwart in society. The second part that I see when I look at Anakin is shameful disappointment. He was the most gifted Force-user ever, he was the most athletically inclined Force-user and he was incredibly intelligent! However, with all those abilities, he achieved very little. His record in battle was fantastic and he was of course known as this guy who was one of the best but raw. Yet, so little of his achievements were actually recognized mostly due to the fact that he was in his early 20’s when he left the Jedi Order. With Anakin you get the ultimate tale of irony. Someone who craved attention, who wanted to be loved and respected and when he finally gets what he’s always wanted, he cracks. If there’s one short line you should think of when Anakin Skywalker’s legacy is at hand it’s this: “Oh what could have been.”

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: #2

The 2nd character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Luke Skywalker!

Luke Skywalker Overall = 99

Unbeknownst to the world, a human on the deserted landscapes of the Tatooine wastelands grew a boy who would change the Galaxy forever.

From farmhand to the most powerful person alive, the legend of Luke Skywalker is as illustrious as it is unlikely.

Originally thought to be a nobody, young Luke took a leap of faith and soon discovered his true identity. He was a Jedi like his father before him.

The sheer talent that surged through Skywalker’s veins was just begging to be released, yearning for an opportunity.

At the Battle of Yavin, he received that chance…

As a young and inexperienced pilot, he faced off against the Death Star with so much on the line.

The result of failure meant the vaunted Rebellion, the very force that he looked up to so dearly would be completely exterminated.

It was kill or be killed and he was up against the biggest mechanical monstrosity that eyes had ever seen.

A gargantuan task  for anyone, the young boy obliterated the battle station and saved the day.

In doing so he took that next step. A step into the shadow of his father’s brilliance. A place he would have never known existed unless his very own father had not told him himself.

As the years followed, he continuously notched more and more unfathomable victories underneath his belt.

Establishing himself as an elite military general, completing his training as a Jedi and then eventually defeating the egomaniacal tyrant of the land in the Emperor.

Throughout his time in the spotlight, one thing Luke continued to resemble was a pillar of the finest light.

Definitively turning away from the beckoning calls of the Dark Side, silencing the infamous Emperor’s attempts to convert the Jedi to a Sith, he remained true to himself and true to everything he stood for.

Skywalker represented everything that was right about existence. A symbol of untouchable purity that could never be tainted.

To his very core, Luke Skywalker was a Jedi, he was one of the good guys, he was the very meaning of hope.

In a time of eternal darkness, Luke was a rallying call.

As the oppressive regime of the Empire continued to mangle the innocence, Luke became someone for people to believe in.

He became someone who people could follow into the depths of hell and as long as they stayed close to his side, avoid the scorching of devilish fire and brimstone.

The best of the very best are like magnets, they attract those around them.

Luke wasn’t just a magnet, he was the very essence that made the magnet, he was the truth.

Characteristics

• Pure of Heart (Strength, 100/100)- Throughout Star Wars, you would be hard-pressed to find anyone at all who had better character than Luke. Always trying to do the right thing, never cutting corners and always following things through, Luke was a living and breathing example of how things should be done. But why is this relevant? It’s important because through his inner purity and never-dying chivalry, Luke’s connection to the Force remained uncapped. The ability to reach deeper and climb level after level was always available. There was no limit to his potential and at the very root of it was his way of life. 
• Power (Strength, 100/100)- There is a reason why someone as powerful as the Emperor was so hellbent on recruiting Luke to his side. Absolutely teeming with limitless strength, Luke became a desirable target for good and bad intentions. Only one person alive had ever seen such ability, but that’s for another time…Skywalker was a man in rarefied air. Through his connection with the Force, with his unstoppable physical capabilities and his exuberant youth, Luke Skwyalker was the complete package.
• Level of Diversity (Strength, 95/100)- Luke was so skilled that anything he did, he was the best. From using the Force to piloting, Skywalker was the very pinnacle of diversification. It’s worth noting that it took Luke a while to get adjusted to using a lightsaber. In that time that he was unsure of the weapon, he crafted his marksmanship and all-around skill with a blaster. Now I know Force-users have the upper hand when it comes to reflexes and ability in situations like these but something has to be said for someone who started using a lightsaber so late in life and who then masters the weapon of the Jedi. It takes talent to be the best at something but when you get someone who is at the top in multiple categories? Now that’s just special.
• Art of the Lightsaber (Strength, 97/100)- As I just said, Luke was a complete artist with the Jedi weapon. The whirling and dazzling beam of the weapon quickly became second-nature to Luke as he adapted surprisingly quick and became deadly. It was through intense sessions and his laborious work ethic that he was able to truly master the weapon and turn himself into one of the top swordsmen the Galaxy has seen.
• Soft Spot (Weakness, 61/100)- Physically, Luke is flawless. Spiritually, it took him some time to get used to the Force but he figured it out and he now allows its waves of embrace to flow over him. But now emotionally and mentally, Luke has some issues. Whether it was the loss of Ben Kenobi that caused Luke to throw caution to the wind, the obsession of trying to bring his father back to the light that nearly cost him his life or his attempts to remake a Jedi Order that went painfully wrong as his nephew went berserk and demolished all that Luke fought so hard to build. Luke no doubt has some emotional attachments that he has had repeated trouble with. In Episode VIII, I hope he’s more careful or else…

Intangibles

• Bloodline (Strength, 100/100)- At the very heart of the most Force sensitive family, Luke Skywalker is the very essence of the Skywalker family tree. With his father being so powerful and in-tune with the Force, it’s no wonder Luke is so dynamically dominant. The way this normally works is anyone who has Skywalker DNA even if it’s the tiniest smidgen they’re strong. But to be the very heart and soul of the entire line? Well, it just doesn’t get any better!

Final Word

As I first began to pencil in characters where I believed they belonged in my idea of a Force-user power rankings structure, Luke was a no-brainer. He was placed in the top three almost immediately. Although I wasn’t sure however if he should be the top man or the number three guy. After giving it some thought, I realized that Luke is who people think of when someone says “Star Wars”. He is the very definition of a hero, the light that shines the brightest and the one who makes everything fit together. He is one of the most strongest and potent Force-users ever as well as the one who has the most defined and meaningful legacies. When I look at Luke, the characteristic that impresses me the most is his ability to handle pressure. He seems to never be rattled and always be under wraps with what he wants to do with himself. His discipline is so unique for someone who has as much ability as he does. In the end, Luke Skywalker’s work ethic and beliefs of justice as well as his family’s genes granted him a deep connection within the Force which allowed him to possess untapped power. He is undoubtedly one of the greats, that’s why he is the number two Force-user on my power rankings.

-Sith Pacify out

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: #3

The 3rd character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Darth Sidious!

Darth Sidious Overall = 98

The very epitome of the Dark Side, Darth Sidious is just that.

The perfect mixture of absolute evil and ruthless efficiency, with a side of infinite brilliance is who the Dark Lord is.

There is no being ever…EVER, who has the mental wherewithal as well as the pristine work ethic combined with the sheer desire to be great as Darth Sidious.

The conniving Sidious was destined for greatness from day one.

As a child of a nobleman on Naboo, Sheev Palpatine grew up in a life of luxury.

Palpatine would eventually cross paths with the legendary Darth Plagueis who would take the young Sidious on as his own apprentice.

Fed up with the restraints that was his family, Palpatine brutally murdered his parents as well as his siblings.

You see, Sidious had an intense hunger. A shockingly potent blood thirst that would only end with his death, Sidious would wreak havoc on the Galaxy until the very end.

Darth Nihilus might have been donned the Lord of Hunger but I’d argue that the Dark Lord Darth Sidious would have been a more fitting choice.

When it comes to what you want in a Dark Side acolyte, Darth Sidious is everything and more.

He truly had it all from skill and talent, to decisive action and overwhelming ability.

One might argue…what didn’t he have?

Characteristics

• Supreme Darkness (Strength, 99/100)- With his ability to control absolutely everything in the Galaxy through sheer wit and mental jousting, authoritative dominance within the Force and the understanding of life itself, Sidious reigned supreme. He is the complete package when you break it down. With his way of having a say in every single factor in a confrontation, a meeting or just everyday life, his use of Dark Side is at the very precipice within the Force.
• “Vision” (Strength, 99/100)- The Sith Lord that so famously mocked Luke for his lack of vision as he tortured him to his “inevitable” death was blessed with the most capable and dynamic farshight throughout the history of Force-users. Even Yoda’s talent to look into the ever-changing future clouded up as a result of Sidious’ doing. It’s ironic that the Emperor saw visions of Vader bringing Luke before him and yet it ultimately would be his downfall…what a pity. Still, his powerful usage of the skill brought him to his lofty spot on top of the Galaxy.
• He Who is the Force (Strength, 99/100)- Darth Sidious wasn’t just a high and mighty Force-user, he was the Force-user. At the time of his death, he had practically mastered every facet of his repertoire within the Force. This included his devastating and go-to ability of his Force lightning. With an enormous amount of power and drive behind the crackling electric energy, the unrelenting barrage of blueish light was a certain death sentence. As stated above, he would use his Force lightning not only as an attack but even as a disciplinary measure. His total and utter control over this debilitating tactic is just one example of many on how dominant and deserving the Dark Lord is of being the top ranked Sith.
•  Intelligence (Strength, 99/100)- Look, this is as clear and blatant as I can be…Darth Sidious, the Emperor, Sheev Palpatine whatever you want to call him, is the most intelligent, sharpest individual and most understanding and witty being throughout Star Wars. The level of his reach permeated every single corner of the Galaxy. With his dark shadow of influence spread throughout, the fun part was all that remained for Sidious as he enjoyed the knowledge of practically everything. I guess that’s what you get when you learn under Plagueis…
• Overconfidence (Weakness), 90/100)- You might ask why would a trait designated as a weakness be rated so high? Well the very notion of Palpatine’s confidence is what got him to his position of power in the first place! It only failed him in the end…As Luke stated to the Emperor’s face, his overconfidence was most definitely his weakness but you know what? That’s about the man’s ONLY weakness!

Intangibles

• The Dark in the Light (Strength, 95/100)- From the guttural sounds to the harsh behavior, you can take one look at Sidious’ actions and behavior and immediately suspect the man to be a demon directly spawned from hell. Yet his intense combination of power, mind and position remained the physical calling card of Palpatine. To completely achieve a victory in a plot that ran throughout the very heart of the entire capital of the Republic is completely remarkable. He really was one of a kind.

Final Word

When you think of corruption, who comes to mind? What about total control over everything and everyone? And when you think of someone as a supernatural force? Yea that’s Sidious in a nutshell. His level of success throughout his time alive was miraculous, it was inspiring heck it was completely unheard of! The one individual who has very strikingly similar characteristics and qualities with Sidious is the one that is referred to as the Sith Emperor…Lord Vitiate, Lord Valkorian, whatever you want to call him, he and Palpatine’s roots run on similar paths. Of course the main difference between the two would have to be the longevity of the Sith Emperor’s and the lack there of with Sidious. Vitiate’s reign lasted thousands of years as to Sidious’ mere 23. In the end, you would have to believe that that would be Palpatine’s ultimate regret..the lack of immortality, a gift he greatly desired….

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: #4

The 4th character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Yoda!

Yoda Overall = 98

As the last Grand Master of the Jedi Order, the legend of Yoda is as illustrious as the Jedi itself.

Small in stature and ancient in age, the Jedi Master’s place in the Force is at the very top.

In every single category one could judge a Force-user on, Master Yoda is elite.

Besides his prowess in the Force, his emotional and spiritual representation is unparalleled.

His devotion to living beings, his understanding of life itself and his dedication to all that is righteous is what this little green creature is.

As he sat atop the Jedi Council during the final days of its existence, Yoda knew the shroud of evil had grown so strong and so powerful that its consumption of the Order was eminent.

As the plot of the Sith unraveled and it was clear who Darth Sidious was, Yoda carried out his duty and attempted to right the wrong and defeat the Sith Lord.

Of course we know he ultimately failed in the battle for the ages but does that hurt his legacy? His place among the all-time Force-users?

Not in the slightest.

Characteristics

• “The Force is my ally” (Strength, 99/100)- Leader of the vaunted Jedi and a being of more than 800 years old, Yoda has seen and been through it all. With age comes experience and this little green individual has it all. With a complete and totally mastered arsenal, Yoda is a walking reminder of how epic and dynamic the Force really is. Not only is his combat use of the Force profound but his far sight and ability to sift through the ever turning future is what makes Yoda elite. Beings like the Emperor might have more offensive weapons than Yoda but it’s his defense that separates him from the pack…
• Pillar of Defense (Strength, 99/100)- Undoubtedly the best, Yoda’s strongest side of combat was his legendary defense. He might not have the most powerful Force weaponry, but he does have the most comprehensive and complete defensive talent out of anyone in Star Wars history. Yoda’s maneuvering and searching for the upper hand in warfare was severely unnerving for his opponents. Count Dooku and even Darth Sidious learned the hard way that the small in stature Jedi’s defense is impenetrable. 
•  Maestro Extraordinaire (Strength, 95/100)- What did Yoda refer to himself as most? One of the most powerful beings in the Galaxy? The most respected individual in all of Coruscant? None of the above. Yoda was a teacher and he thought of himself as one. Even though he was the most powerful being throughout the universe, Yoda’s pride and joy was in his teaching. His love for his younglings, his intense passion for his students and his admiration for his Padawans is what defines Master Yoda. Unlike the Sith who think inward, the Jedi and Yoda more specifically, is at the absolute pinnacle of humility. 
• I Choose Hope (Strength, 97/100)- As Ben Kenobi became one of the biggest influences for Luke to follow his destiny and become a Jedi, it’s Yoda who doesn’t receive enough credit for his part. After the Galaxy fell to the control of the Empire, Yoda could have just left existence and gone into hiding as Satele Shan once did. But no, the Grand Master of the Jedi knew he would still play an invaluable part in the timeline of the Force and descended in secrecy to the jungle/forest planet of Dagobah. Of course, young Skywalker would eventually find his way there and it would be Yoda who would provide the necessary training in order to take the next step in his path to a Jedi Master.
• Overlooked (Weakness, 40/100)- With the Clone Wars raging on and more information on the mysterious Sith Lord Darth Sidious being discovered by the day, it was Yoda who failed to register the legitimate  threat of the Sith. Of course all Jedi failed in this regard but as the Grand Master and leader of the Jedi, Yoda was most responsible. Of course it’s unfortunate for Yoda. Someone with such a pristine reputation and  level of understanding, to fall to Sidious and the Sith, that will forever plague Yoda’s legacy.

Intangibles 

• Level of Calm (Strength, 98/100)- In the height of the Clone Wars with intergalactic devastation throughout, with the wave of the Dark Side ever approaching and finally with the fall of practically all of his comrades, Yoda remained in a state of calm. As he assessed the situation, he fully knew that his emotions would do nothing but muddy the predicament. As the very best of the Order, you would expect no less and Yoda most certainly delivered. Unlike many other leading members of the Jedi who either showed a great deal of grief in the trying times of Order 66 or just in the thick of battle within the Clone Wars, Yoda remained relatively calm. Of course I’m obligated to point out that Yoda felt such immense pressure and weight on his conscience as more and more Jedi were lost every day but for the most part his attitude towards it all was what separated him from his peers as he was able to embrace diversity.

Final Word

Yoda is just one of those characters that deserves to be at the very top. Although he is fourth in my rankings, Yoda will forever be a mainstay as “one of the best”. With Yoda, there’s just so much to assess. His competence in the Force is at any individual’s peak, his level of understanding within the universe is top notch and all the intangibles that makes someone great are there as well. What’s there not to like about him? Of course he lost to Sidious in what would have been a Galaxy-saving victory but does that tarnish his reputation? Absolutely not. What’s fascinating is Yoda was extremely advanced in age at the time of their battle. What would have happened if Yoda was five or six hundred years younger!? Could the Jedi have emerged victorious? Of course we can only speculate but i’d tend to think the tides could have been swayed to the other side. The Light side.

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: #6

The 6th character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Obi-Wan Kenobi!

Obi-Wan Kenobi Overall = 96

With the intense dedication and the unfathomable sacrifices made in the name of the Jedi, it’s no surprise that the great Obi-Wan Kenobi is where he is in the Power Rankings.

As the only member of the Jedi Council besides Yoda to survive Order 66, Kenobi is at the very top when it comes to importance, power and legacy.

It is true that he wasn’t blessed with any extraordinary gifts or abilities yet he still excelled.

With the most prolific work ethic in the Jedi Order, Kenobi earned every bit of what was given to him.

His resume is as impressive as it is lengthy.

Racking up high-profile kills in General Grievous, Darth Maul*, Anakin Skywalker* and others as well as being the Jedi Council’s go-to man for important missions, Kenobi really was in a class of his own.

The ultimate tribute to Obi-Wan however is not his dynamic accolades or his slaying of Sith Lords and traitors but his incredible consistency and unwavering loyalty to the Jedi Code.

A true leader on and off the battlefield, he never hesitated to question morality no matter who was in charge.

These are just a few more well deserved labels for a Jedi Master who the Galaxy can never thank enough.

Characteristics

• Model of Consistency (Strength, 98/100)- As I said before, the level of consistency Kenobi routinely displayed is probably his most important trait. Never faltering, always fighting to the bitter end and putting in the work in between, the Jedi Master seldom complained and when he did, it was about his wild and rambunctious Padawan. In being the Jedi Council’s top man for missions imperative to succeed, his level of consistency is what attracted his peers in granting him their trust.
• “He will do what he must” (Strength, 97/100)-Probably the most even keel Jedi, except when Anakin flies, his calm state of mind allowed him to get things done without the entanglement of emotions. Absolutely gifted in this ability and most definitely the best in this regard save Master Yoda, Kenobi knew what needed to get done and almost always saw it through to the end. The most telling example is his sacrifice to the Skywalker lineage in staying remotely close to young Luke Skywalker and only approaching him when the time was right. You talk about patience and devotion, look no further than Kenobi.
• Leadership (Strength, 95/100)- In the Clone Wars like most members of the Jedi Council, Obi-Wan Kenobi was a General on the battlefield. What’s most fascinating however is his ridiculous record of success in battles he commandeered. With his “lead by example” attitude, his subordinates had no problem following the Jedi Master into bloody conflicts. Not only could he dominate a battle on an advisory level but his choices in designating leaders was elite as well! It was with General Kenobi did the famous Commander Cody serve under. Obi-Wan saw the ability in Cody himself and personally picked the clone to command his troops!
• Cerebral (Strength, 96/100)- Kenobi had the gift of patience. With his patient and think first react second attitude, he was able to gain the upper hand in practically any bout he participated in. The mental capabilities of the Jedi Master were outstanding. He was a surgeon out there as he dissected situations with his mind, playing out certain scenarios and weighing his odds of this and that against each other. He would only dive into a battle when he knew the appropriate way on how he should go about the mission. The ability to think and breakdown a target’s strengths and weaknesses did the man well throughout his life.
• Teaching Ability (Strength/Weakness, 90/100)- In the end as we know, Kenobi fails his longtime friend and former Padawan Anakin. Always being so critical, Anakin and Obi-Wan had tremendous tension between the two even though they were so close. Although Kenobi wasn’t completely responsible, in being a  Master he failed to diffuse it. However, as he failed with Anakin, when it came to Luke he succeeded. Rededicating himself to the Force as well as addressing his methods of teaching, Obi-Wan did some major soul searching during his time in exile on Tatooine. In the end, it yielded tremendous results as Luke would go on to avenge the Jedi and play a major role in defeating the Emperor. So I guess you could say Obi-Wan Kenobi was 1 for 2 when it came to teaching!

Intangibles

• Rise to the Occasion (Strength, 99/100)- Even though he was not blessed with overwhelmingly dominate abilities, Obi-Wan Kenobi was gifted in another way. He had a knack for delivering in the clutch when it was needed most. I want you to think about this…Anakin Skywalker warped with the Dark Side of the Force was a gargantuan task for Kenobi to combat. If the battle was fought on paper, Skywalker would have been disastrously victorious 100 times out of 100. But of course the results of the battle were incredibly different. Kenobi bested his former apprentice, his former compatriot and his best friend. But how you say? With the Force, of course. Possessing legendary concentration, he never let his mind wander from where it was required to be if he was to win. A true wizard with the light, Obi-Wan Kenobi has shown the versatile ability to submerse himself within it and become one with the Force therefore making no task too big.

Final Word

When grading a legend like Obi-Wan Kenobi, it’s actually a puzzling experience. Here’s a guy who was great at everything or above average at all Jedi capabilities. Great but not excellent. His skills were practically, well, normal! Kenobi is the perfect story of what happens when you work hard and dedicate yourself to your craft. In sports there’s a saying, “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” That’s spot on Obi-Wan, perfectly summed up. The reality of it all is Obi-Wan Kenobi was born to be a Jedi Master. He was born to carry out his duty and represent the Republic while pledging himself for his beloved Jedi Order. He was unique as he was precise. He didn’t have blind loyalty, he questioned everything given to him and made sure it was the right choice for humanity and not himself. His intelligence and preparation was off the charts as it translated to just about anything he willed it to. He was never judgmental of Anakin, in fact he knew about his attachments with Padmé as he turned a blind eye and let Anakin to his own business. He was certainly overbearing in other circumstances but for the most part, he was truly a great friend. I rated Kenobi the sixth overall Force-user in all of Star Wars but honestly, he truly has the ability to be number one. His willingness to follow orders, to question shady directives and to rise to the occasion and always deliver is what sets him apart. Obi-Wan Kenobi, is a legend and a true Jedi Knight.

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings: 18

The 18th character for the Official Sith Pacify Power Rankings is…Rey!

Rey Overall = 85*

With her origins and whereabouts shrouded in mystery, Rey is an anomaly.

From the very start we knew she was extraordinary.

Her sheer will and desire to survive. For her family as she says.

That determination and courage is the stuff of heroic figures.

Although we don’t know who she really is, one thing is clear.

Rey is something special and an unknown entity within the everflowing waves of the Force.

Characteristics

• Locked-In (Strength, 97/100)- When she is battened down and all hell is breaking loose around her, there’s no panic in Rey. Her uncanny ability to make things happen seems to never fail her. Whether she’s facing off against a crimson bladed foe or she’s under attack by physically superior goons, nothing fazes her. The more I think about it, when Rey is in that mindstate I see Luke’s clutch ability, Anakin’s superior in every way combat skill and Obi-Wan’s masterful execution. When Luke had no formal training as an X wing pilot yet he still fires off  a proton torpedo into a finite space to destroy the mechanical monstrosity of the Death Star, that is very reminiscent of Rey’s traits. Make no mistake about it, this one is special.
• Attitude (Strength, 85/100)- Rey has an uncanny knack of surviving even in the most damning of circumstances. If you look up the definition of the word perseverance, you should see her picture. What’s most incredible about her arduous journey through the deserts of Jakku is the fact that she seems to always keep the fires of hope alive. She has the makings of a surefire legend.
• Likability (Strength, 84/100)- Everyone likes Rey. The reason why I gave her an 84 rather than a 100 is because in terms of combat, likability doesn’t do much. But what it does do is this: when someone is on your side and really wants to do right by you, they’ll do anything. That’s how I see Rey’s companions. Think of Finn. He just met Rey yet is willing to risk everything to get her back in one piece. Now I’m sure there’s a romantic connection there but regardless, her personality makes people do extraordinary things for an extraordinary individual.
• Experience (Weakness, 78/100)- Just like many young Jedi, her lack of experience is undeniably an issue. But why then would I give her a number as high as 78!? Well I’ll tell you. The simple fact of the matter is we don’t know who Rey is. If she is Luke’s daughter and Anakin’s granddaughter, her experience mean’s virtually nothing. Those are arguably two of the best all-around Force-users the Galaxy has ever seen. When you’re part of that family, the past history of engagement means next to nothing. But if she’s Obi-Wan Kenobi’s granddaughter than maybe it does as Kenobi was famously known for having to prepare excruciatingly for any extreme conflict or situation. Only time will tell.
• Sadness (Weakness, 62/100)- There’s a distinct need for belonging with Rey. Because she was “deserted” by her family, Rey has since struggled to find someone or some people to fill that void. In Han Solo, she absolutely had that sense of belonging restored. But unfortunately when he was cut down, so was a part of Rey. She wears her emotions on her sleeve and that can be most dangerous…

Intangibles

• Bloodline (Strength, 96/100)- If Rey truly is connected to Luke and Anakin, her veins run rich with the most powerful concentration of midichlorians possible. With that being said, if she is related to Kenobi, well her ceiling is almost just as high. Either way you can’t go wrong. Legends are legends no matter how you twist it.
• Potential* (Strength, 97/100)- As I did with Ezra Bridger at 21st on the Sith Pacify Power Rankings, Rey has the potential to not only be stronger than Ezra but be one of the most dominant, powerful forces the Galaxy has seen. When she is submersed in the Force, there’s nothing that can stop her. A mix of Luke, Anakin and Obi-Wan is pretty darn potent right!?

Final Word

There’s so much mystery that is Rey. We have barely scratched the surface on who she really is. Could she really be the offspring of the offspring of the chosen one!? Could she be Leia’s daughter!? Or what about being related to the great Obi-Wan Kenobi? It seems that the conspiracy theories with Rey’s family are endless. Regardless, we know one thing for sure. Rey is a masterful beast when she takes control of her powers and delves into the Force. I think the best is yet to come with Rey and I look forward to watching how her story plays out.

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Solo Family Rift

Exactly two months ago tonight The Force Awakens was released in theaters everywhere.

After the curtains were raised and the smoke cleared, a powerful emptiness could be felt.

Ben Solo who of course is Kylo Ren, plunged his unstable lightsaber into the chest of every Star Wars fan’s beloved hero Han Solo.

Thus cementing himself as a bona fide villain.

Of course everybody and anybody who considers themselves even remotely familiar with the Galaxy far far away saga knows this outcome…

But there’s more.

As we try to make sense of everything, I think there’s a more than reasonable chance that a looming deficit in the Skywalker/Solo family will be filled.

When Han was killed, much more was lost than a smuggler who just happened to be the husband of the General with the Resistance.

With Han, the Galaxy lost a sliver of hope; an individual who was instrumental in many distant clashes with the defeated Empire.

Someone who was as much responsible in the sacking of the first Death Star as Luke was.

But as we gather our thoughts and try and carry on, something jumps out.

With Han now out of the picture, the puzzle is left with Kylo Ren and Leia as a remaining piece is missing.

So I ask you this. Is Rey that piece?

It’s clear that Han took a liking to her almost immediately and that the chemistry was blatantly there.

What about when Rey seemingly sees Leia for the first time?

Think there’s something there too?

Sure looked that way…

Lastly, what about the combative and emotional Kylo Ren?

It seemed that Ren was caught off guard immediately after “a girl” was said to be with the The First Order’s escaped trooper (Finn).

Even more so, it almost was as if Kylo Ren knew exactly who this girl was after she awoke in the interrogation cell.

There is definitely a noticeable look in his eyes when he had Rey all to himself.

Almost as if, he knows who she is and is eager to speak with her…

It’s my opinion that Rey is Han and Leia’s daughter and that Kylo Ren is indeed her older brother.

The evidence for her to be the daughter of Luke is overwhelming as well and that very easily could be the case.

But there’s a rivalry brewing between Rey and Kylo Ren.

To me, for them to be cousins is not strong enough of a foundation.

I think that Rey is the missing piece in the equation that is the Skywalker/Solo family tree.

I think she is the key to Intergalactic progress whether that be enslaving every being and turning to the Dark Side or freeing the aforementioned Galaxy of its shackles once and for all.

I guess we’ll just have to wait to know for sure…

-Sith Pacify out

 

 

The Puzzling Prospect of Star Wars Video Games

In the past couple years when it comes to video games, Star Wars fans have suffered tremendously.

When Disney purchased Star Wars on October 30, 2012, many people thought this would be a new era for video game titles as the shelves were sparse with Star Wars material at the time.

Well, it is now more than three years later and the shelves are practically barren.

When Disney took over Lucasfilm, they were also the new owners of the video game making division of the company, LucasArts.

But on May 6, 2013 Disney dealt the final blow to LucasArts video game creating days as they announced Electronic Arts would now develop Star Wars based games.

So, where did it all go wrong?

Well honestly, there’s enough blame to go around.

In the years leading up to Disney’s major purchase, LucasArts had a number of titles that were in various stages of production.

One of these titles was Star Wars 1313.

Star Wars 1313 was a cancelled action-adventure-based project that was centered on a bounty hunter/mercenary based game.

The game was to be a new direction of Star Wars games as it had little to no emphasis on Jedi/Force action.

What sucks most about this game being cancelled is the actual gameplay.

If you just watch that trailer of the gameplay, you’d completely understand how much this hurts Star Wars fans.

I mean, this game looks epically awesome and the fact that we most likely will never see it is just…painful.

Another video game title that was cancelled before completion was an abstract game called Rebel Warrior.

This game is something very similar to what I’ve been desperately wanting from Star Wars for a very long time.

The game is based in the early days of the Empire where you play as a Wookie who bashes Imperial Stormtrooper’s heads in with all the fury a Wookie carries within.

As the creature’s homeworld of Kashyyyk is under a heavy assault and blockade, these hairy beasts wreak havoc in a much darker, intended for a more mature audience game.

Once again, sadly we’ll never see this game come to fruition.

The next game that was cancelled is by far the most crushing of the three…

The game focused around fan-favorite Darth Maul and how our favorite double-bladed lightsaber combatant traversed the Galaxy.

The game’s direction was meant to shine light on the previously unknown tales of Maul’s journeys up to the Battle of Geonosis.

Designed by RedFly Studios, this game was another unfortunate cancellation that we will never forget.

As time goes on, it seems eerily strange that a once prominent and bountiful Star Wars genre of video games is oddly missing from today’s world.

Of course there are games like Star Wars Battlefront, Star Wars Knights of the Fallen Empire and Star Wars Galaxy of Heroes but the old titles that boasted diversity, ingenuity and story mode-based adventures are gone.

They’re a thing of the past now.

It’s strangely reminiscent of Ben Kenobi telling Luke in A New Hope of the Jedi saying “For over a thousand generations the Jedi knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic…before the dark times. Before, the Empire.”

Tragically, those “dark times” are now.

Isn’t it ironic that in an age with immense and superior technology, we’re still waiting for a Star Wars game as good as those from the early 2000’s?

All we can do is hope and pray.

I wish I could influence EA somehow to just create a dozen unique and different Star Wars games.

Alas, I do not have that power.

But figuratively, I would say there has to be some optimism in this.

You have to figure that sooner than later, EA will get it together and realize the vast amount of money available in this recently untouched market and exploit it.

For now, we must wait.

-Sith Pacify out