Info about STAR WARS™: Squadrons:

Official game description:
Master the art of starfighter combat in the authentic piloting experience STAR WARS™: Squadrons. Buckle up and feel the adrenaline of first-person, multiplayer space dogfights alongside your squadron. Pilots who enlist will step into the cockpits of starfighters from both the New Republic and Imperial fleets and fight in strategic 5v5 space battles. Modify your starfighter, and adjust the composition of your squadron to suit varying playstyles and crush the opposition. Pilots will triumph as a team and complete tactical objectives across known and never-before-seen battlefields, including the gas giant of Yavin Prime and the shattered moon of Galitan. Take control of starfighters such as the X-wing and TIE fighter. Customize loadouts and cosmetics. Divert power between weapons, shields, and engines while immersing yourself in the cockpit. In addition, players will have the option to play the entirety of the game in virtual reality (VR)!
**Live your STAR WARS pilot fantasy**
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The cockpit is your home. Use its dashboards to your advantage and — with just a thin hull of metal and glass between you and the perils of space — feel the intensity of combat from a first-person perspective. Take off in thrilling multiplayer modes and a unique single-player STAR WARS story. Immerse yourself in the pilot’s seat completely with the option to play the entirety of STAR WARS: Squadrons in VR.  
**STAR WARS™ single-player story** — Learn what it means to be a pilot after the events of Return of the Jedi. Seen from alternating perspectives between 2 factions, iconic and emerging leaders on both sides are battling for the galaxy. The New Republic fights for freedom. The Empire demands order. We need you to join the galaxy’s finest.  
**All wings report in** — Plan skirmishes with your squadron in the briefing room before taking off to the evolving battlefields across the galaxy. Compete in intense 5v5 multiplayer dogfights, or unite with your squadron to tip the scales in monumental fleet battles. Together, you’re the galaxy’s finest.  
**Master legendary starfighters** — Take control of different classes of starfighters from both the New Republic and Imperial fleets — including the agile A-wing and the devastating TIE bomber. Modify your ship, divert the power between its systems, and destroy your opponents in strategic space dogfights.  
**The mission is clear** — STAR WARS: Squadrons is a fully self-contained experience from day one, where you earn rewards through play. Climb the ranks and unlock new components like weapons, hulls, engines, shields, and cosmetic items in a clear path for progression that keeps gameplay fresh and engaging.

Release date: Oct 1, 2020

Categories: First-Person Perspective, Space Combat, Vehicle Customization, Multiplayer, Single-player Story, VR Gameplay, Shooter

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair; summary: The game is generally perceived positively in terms of monetization, with explicit statements indicating no microtransactions or pay-to-win elements. However, some users express skepticism based on EA's history with other games, though this does not directly affect the current game's monetization.
- Proton/Linux: score 75; verdict: Barely Playable; summary: The game has significant compatibility issues with Linux due to the presence of kernel-level anti-cheat software, which is a major concern for Linux users. However, some users have reported success running the game on Linux using Proton, suggesting that while there are hurdles, it is not entirely unplayable on Linux.
- Steam Deck: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game faces significant issues related to the Easy Anti-Cheat software and EA app integration, which prevent it from launching or cause crashes. Users also report problems with small text, multiple crashes, and control issues, particularly with specific hardware. Despite these issues, the game is noted to work well on the Steam Deck platform.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Performance varies significantly across different hardware cohorts, with lower VRAM configurations struggling the most. Higher VRAM setups show a mix of positive and negative experiences.
  - Sample size: 26 (2% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 8 reports): The game runs well with minor issues reported.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (mixed, 7 reports): Some users report excellent performance while others experience significant issues like freezing and GPU overuse.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (negative, 5 reports): The game frequently crashes and has poor performance.
  - Caveats: 26 of 1237 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows that the community generally finds the game worth the price for the campaign alone, especially when on sale. Many users suggest waiting for a sale to purchase the game, indicating that the full price might not be considered fair by the community. The repeated mentions of the game being worth it on sale, particularly around the $5 to $10 range, suggest that this is a fair price range according to community sentiment.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: 10.0h
  - Session length: 5.0h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes direct mentions of playtime for the target game. One user mentions being 5 hours into the single-player Story Mode, indicating a session length or partial completion time. Another user states that the campaign can be finished in ten hours on Veteran difficulty, which provides a clear indication of the story completion time. Additionally, a user mentions 8.1 hours to complete the story mode, reinforcing the story completion metric. There is no strong evidence provided for game completion or endgame playtime, resulting in those fields being null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players generally find the game fun within the first few hours of gameplay, particularly enjoying the campaign mode. However, the multiplayer experience and steep learning curve can be significant friction points.
  - Stance: Fun immediately
  - Anchor: Initial hours of gameplay
  - Time to anchor: 2h 0m
  - Friction: Steep learning curve; Forced into boring support ship roles; Overwhelming multiplayer experience
  - Unlock drivers: Enjoying the campaign mode; Getting past the initial learning curve
  - Conditions: Playing the campaign; Enjoying the story; Playing solo
- Player Archetypes:
  - Story-First Explorer (sale)
    - Motivation: Immersive single-player experience and nostalgia.
    - Playstyle: Focused on campaign and story missions, often using VR for immersion.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: Star Wars fan; casual player
    - Reference games: Wing Commander; X-Wing; Tie Fighter
  - Competitive Dogfighter (deep sale)
    - Motivation: Competitive multiplayer and strategic gameplay.
    - Playstyle: Focused on multiplayer modes, particularly dogfighting and Fleet Battles.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: deep sale
    - Labels: competitive player; multiplayer enthusiast
    - Reference games: Ace Combat; Battlefront
  - VR Pilot Enthusiast (sale)
    - Motivation: Immersive VR experience and piloting Star Wars ships.
    - Playstyle: Focused on VR gameplay, often troubleshooting technical issues.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: VR enthusiast; Star Wars fan
    - Reference games: Elite Dangerous; Everspace


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Stunning graphics and visuals (weight 0.28): The game is widely praised for its gorgeous graphics, visual fidelity, and stunning visuals. Players appreciate the detailed and realistic graphics, which are adjustable and remain impressive despite the game's age.
- Exceptional VR experience (weight 0.26): The game offers an amazing VR experience with high immersion. Players appreciate the great optimization and engaging gameplay in VR, making it a standout feature.
- Engaging and fun gameplay (weight 0.25): Players find the gameplay to be very fun and engaging. The game mechanics are enjoyable, and both the campaign and multiplayer modes provide exciting experiences.
- Enjoyable and intriguing story (weight 0.21): The story mode is praised for being enjoyable, fun, and intriguing. Players find the storyline interesting and satisfying, with a decent narrative that keeps them engaged.
- Authentic Star Wars experience (weight 0.17): The game provides an authentic Star Wars experience, with detailed ships and immersive gameplay. It is considered one of the best Star Wars flight games and a must-play for fans.
- Classic X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter feel (weight 0.16): The game successfully resurrects the spirit of the classic X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter games. It fulfills the fantasy of flying iconic Star Wars ships and offers a modern take on the classic space battles.
- Realistic and detailed cockpits (weight 0.13): The cockpits in the game are highly realistic and detailed, with impressive fidelity. Players appreciate the detailed instruments and the overall realism of the cockpit experience.
- Fun single-player campaign (weight 0.11): The single-player campaign is enjoyable and relaxing, with a good atmosphere and storyline. Players find it to be a fun and engaging experience.
- Great with flight stick (weight 0.11): The game works well with a flight stick, offering excellent joystick support. Players find the experience enhanced when using a flight stick.
- Detailed and authentic ships (weight 0.09): The ships in the game are highly detailed and authentic, with accurate sounds and appearances that enhance the overall experience.
- Immersive battles and controls (weight 0.08): The game features immersive battles and a control system that enhances the experience. Players enjoy the immersive space battles and the fun interactions with AI.
- Playing as both sides (weight 0.07): The game offers the unique experience of playing as both the Rebels and the Imperials. This interesting take on the story adds depth to the gameplay.
- Tactical flight simulator (weight 0.05): The game is praised as a tight, tactical, and deeply immersive flight simulator with nuanced Star Wars cockpit battles.
- Great for Star Wars fans (weight 0.05): The game is considered a great and immersive experience for Star Wars fans, offering an authentic and enjoyable Star Wars atmosphere.
- Tense and satisfying dogfights (weight 0.05): The dogfights in the game are tense, satisfying, and immersive, providing a distinct and enjoyable combat experience.
- Unique X-Wing VR experience (weight 0.05): Flying an X-Wing in VR is described as an unmatched experience, adding a unique and immersive element to the game.
- Variety of ships (weight 0.05): The game features a good variety of ships to fly, adding to the diversity and enjoyment of missions.
- Good sound design (weight 0.05): The game features authentic and great sound design, enhancing the overall immersion and experience.
- Immersive HOTAS experience (weight 0.05): Playing with a HOTAS setup feels immersive and enhances the overall gaming experience.
- Nostalgic Wing Commander vibes (weight 0.05): The story and campaign have a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic Wing Commander games, appealing to fans of the genre.
- Good voice acting (weight 0.05): The voice acting in the game is praised for being good, along with facial animations that add to the overall quality.
- Suitable for all ages (weight 0.05): The game is considered suitable for teens, adults, and even children, making it a versatile and family-friendly experience.

Common complaints:
- Multiplayer mode is dead (weight 0.37): The multiplayer aspect of the game is largely inactive, with players struggling to find matches or connect with friends due to a lack of support and a dwindling player base.
- Lack of developer support (weight 0.25): The game is perceived as abandoned by the developers and EA, with no updates or support, leading to a lack of content and unresolved issues.
- Poor control scheme (weight 0.21): Players report that the controls are difficult to use and poorly optimized for both keyboard/mouse and controller, making the game frustrating to play.
- VR functionality issues (weight 0.2): The game has significant problems with VR support, including crashes, lack of controller support, and poor optimization leading to a subpar VR experience.
- Game launch problems (weight 0.19): Many users experience issues with launching the game, including crashes on startup and problems with the game launcher.
- Short and weak story mode (weight 0.16): The single-player campaign is criticized for being short and lacking depth, with a poorly written and unengaging storyline.
- EA login issues (weight 0.13): Players encounter significant problems with EA's login system, including issues with 2FA and account connectivity, which prevent gameplay.
- Game not worth the price (weight 0.09): Many players feel that the game does not offer enough value for its price, even when on sale, due to its various issues and lack of content.
- Easy Anti-Cheat problems (weight 0.08): The Easy Anti-Cheat system is reported to be broken and causes issues that make the game unplayable for some users.
- Frequent game crashes (weight 0.08): Players experience frequent crashes during gameplay, which disrupts the overall experience.
- Error 4270 prevents multiplayer (weight 0.06): A specific error code (4270) prevents players from inviting friends or forming squads, hindering the multiplayer experience.
- Game is buggy (weight 0.06): Players report various bugs and glitches that affect gameplay, contributing to an overall broken experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Immersive space combat mechanics (weight 0.22): The game features a detailed and immersive space combat system that balances accessible arcade controls with simulation nuances. Players enjoy the depth and realism of space dogfighting and combat mechanics.
- VR and controller support (weight 0.2): The game offers extensive VR support and is compatible with various controllers, including flight sticks. This enhances the immersive experience, especially in VR engagements.
- Complex control schemes (weight 0.1): The game offers complex control mechanics, including keyboard controls and HOTAS input support, which can be challenging but rewarding for players seeking a realistic experience.
- Diverse ship types and missions (weight 0.09): The game includes a variety of ships for both Imperial and Resistance factions, each with unique characteristics. Missions involve different objectives like destroying opponents and damaging cruisers.
- Story and campaign modes (weight 0.08): Players appreciate the story-driven gameplay and single-player campaign modes. These modes provide a rich narrative experience within the Star Wars universe.
- Multiplayer modes (weight 0.07): The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes, with multiplayer battles and matchmaking systems that allow for competitive and cooperative gameplay.
- Customization options (weight 0.05): Players can customize their characters, controls, and ships, providing a personalized gaming experience tailored to individual preferences.
- Power management system (weight 0.05): A unique power management mechanic allows players to allocate power between engines, blasters, and shields, adding a layer of strategy to combat.
- Fleet battles and AI (weight 0.05): The game includes fleet battles against AI, offering large-scale combat scenarios that test players' strategic and tactical skills.
- Varied gameplay modes (weight 0.05): The game offers a variety of distinct gameplay modes, providing diverse experiences and keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.
- Inspired by classic games (weight 0.05): The game draws inspiration from classic titles like Ace Combat and the X-Wing series, appealing to fans of those games with similar mechanics and design.

Performance notes:
- Game launch issues (weight 0.24): Many players report that the game fails to launch or crashes immediately upon startup. This includes problems with the game not opening at all or crashing right after launch.
- Optimization and performance (weight 0.17): The game is reported to be well-optimized by some players, running smoothly on various hardware configurations. However, others report performance issues, including lag and frame rate drops.
- VR mode problems (weight 0.17): Several users experience issues with the game in VR mode, including crashes, long loading times, and general instability. Some users also report that VR mode does not work properly or at all.
- Various workarounds (weight 0.14): Players have tried various workarounds to get the game to work, including changing permissions, performing clean boots, verifying files, and other technical fixes.
- Freezing and technical issues (weight 0.13): Players encounter freezing issues during gameplay, particularly during combat, and other technical issues such as animation problems.
- Frequent crashes (weight 0.13): The game crashes frequently for many players, including during specific missions, cinematics, and tutorials. Some users report continuous crashing to desktop.
- Connection and server issues (weight 0.09): Players report difficulty connecting to EA servers and experiencing connection problems, including issues with logging in or connecting their Steam accounts.
- Easy Anti-Cheat problems (weight 0.08): Issues with the Easy Anti-Cheat program prevent the game from launching past the Easy Anti-Cheat window or cause the game to quit during the EULA process.
- Black screens and graphical bugs (weight 0.07): Players report encountering black screens and various graphical bugs, including shadow bugs and zoomed-in views.
- Controller issues (weight 0.06): There are reports of controllers not being recognized or experiencing connectivity issues, including problems with specific controller models.
- Hardware-specific issues (weight 0.06): The game has specific issues with certain hardware configurations, including problems with high-end hardware, RTX4090, and lightweight devices.
- General bugs and glitches (weight 0.06): The game is described as buggy and under-polished, with countless glitches and technical issues reported by players.
- High CPU core count bug (weight 0.05): The game does not launch properly on systems with high CPU core counts, requiring workarounds such as activating specific CPU cores.
- Long loading times (weight 0.05): Players report long and horrendous loading times, which can be exacerbated by the EA Launcher.
- Reinstallation issues (weight 0.05): Some players have had to reinstall the game or the EA games app to resolve issues, indicating potential problems with the installation process.
- Steam Deck compatibility (weight 0.05): The game has mixed compatibility with the Steam Deck, with some players reporting it works well while others experience issues.
- Graphical quality (weight 0.05): Opinions on the game's graphical quality vary, with some players praising its beauty and realism while others find it lacking or poorly optimized.
- Multiplayer bugs (weight 0.04): Multiplayer functionality is reported as broken or buggy, affecting the overall gameplay experience.
- Audio issues (weight 0.03): Some players experience occasional audio issues on startup, including hitching audio.
- Interface and overlay issues (weight 0.03): There are reports of issues with the EA interface and Steam overlay, affecting the overall user experience.
- System language and compatibility (weight 0.03): Some players experience system language issues and compatibility problems after updating their systems.
- Invite system broken (weight 0.02): The invite system for multiplayer is reported as broken, affecting the ability to play with friends.

Recommendations:
- Buy on sale for value (weight 0.24): Many reviewers suggest purchasing the game only when it is on sale to get the best value for money. This sentiment is echoed frequently, indicating that the game's worth is highly tied to its discounted price.
- Recommended for Star Wars fans (weight 0.12): The game is highly recommended for Star Wars fans, particularly for those who want to experience the single-player campaign. It is seen as an excellent choice for passionate fans of the franchise.
- VR headset enhances experience (weight 0.1): The game is best appreciated with a VR headset, as it significantly enhances the gaming experience. Reviewers recommend using VR for a more immersive experience, especially for those who enjoy space battles and serious flying.
- Mixed recommendations based on interest (weight 0.09): The game receives mixed recommendations based on specific interests, such as space combat, single-player features, and VR compatibility. Some reviewers recommend it for these niche interests while others do not.
- Not recommended without discounts (weight 0.07): Several reviewers advise against buying the game at full price, suggesting that it is only worth purchasing during significant sales or discounts.
- Technical issues and fixes (weight 0.05): Some reviewers mention technical issues and provide tips on how to fix them, such as disabling MFA/2-step verification on EA's website and changing default controller mappings.
- Negative sentiment due to issues (weight 0.04): There are strong negative sentiments due to launch issues and general dissatisfaction with the game. Some reviewers even suggest avoiding EA games altogether.
- Niche hardware recommendations (weight 0.03): Some reviewers suggest that the game is best played with specific hardware like a Steam Deck or recommend against certain platforms like Steam.
- Avoid for short campaign (weight 0.02): If you are looking for a game with a longer campaign, this might not be the best choice as it only offers an 8-10 hour campaign.

Other player notes:
- Linux compatibility issues (weight 0.02): Players have reported issues with the game's compatibility on Linux systems.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.29): Players are frustrated primarily due to technical issues, including the game not launching, crashing frequently, and VR-related problems. Additionally, there are significant concerns with controls, multiplayer functionality, and game-breaking bugs that hinder progress and overall gameplay experience.
- Disappointment (weight 0.2): Disappointment stems from the game's short and unengaging story mode, lack of character customization, and a dead multiplayer experience. Players also express dissatisfaction with the game's technical problems, poor storyline, and the feeling that the game did not meet their expectations or live up to the standards set by classic Star Wars games.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players enjoy the immersive VR experience, authentic Star Wars dogfighting, and the fun gameplay mechanics. The game is praised for its good controls, exciting shooting mechanics, and the overall enjoyable experience of piloting various starfighters.
- Excitement (weight 0.09): Excitement is generated by the immersive VR experience, realistic graphics, and the thrill of flying and fighting in different regions. Players are excited about the potential for VR and flight stick gameplay, as well as the intense combat and dedicated flight simulator experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.07): Players are satisfied with the game's high-quality graphics, sound, and immersive dogfights. The game is also praised for its good mechanics, strategic depth, and the rewarding learning curve, especially when using compatible gaming peripherals.
- Anger (weight 0.05): Anger is primarily caused by the game's frequent crashes, launch issues, and the perception that EA has abandoned the game. Players are also frustrated with the lack of support, problematic login systems, and the game's poor optimization for VR.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.04): Nostalgia is evoked by comparisons to classic games like X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter and Rogue Squadron. Players appreciate the connection to the Star Wars universe and the realization of childhood dreams of piloting iconic starfighters.
- Frustrated (weight 0.02): Players are frustrated due to technical issues such as game crashes, freezing, and audio problems. Additional frustrations include VR control issues, long loading times, and the effort required to get the game running smoothly.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Disappointment arises from the game's poor VR experience, unmet expectations, and the perception of the game being sold in a poor state with many issues. Players also express disappointment with the overall gameplay experience despite good graphics.
- Happy (weight 0.01): Players are happy with the enjoyable single-player campaign, immersive VR experience, and the overall graphics and gameplay. The game is found to be worth the price and provides a satisfying experience.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Excitement is generated by the realism and immersion of the game, the VR experience, and the sense of freedom in the game. Players are excited about the enjoyment of the game, especially for Star Wars fans.
- Nostalgic (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is evoked by the Star Wars universe and the starfighters, fulfilling childhood dreams of sitting in the cockpits of iconic starfighters. Players appreciate the connection to their childhood memories and the realization of long-held dreams.
- Sadness (weight 0.01): Sadness stems from the perception that the game's potential has not been realized, with servers being dead and EA stopping development. Players feel a sense of loss for what the game could have been.
- Surprise (weight 0): Players are surprised by the great VR mode in a game from five years ago and the immediate grip of the story. The game exceeds expectations in terms of VR experience and storytelling.
- Satisfied (weight 0): Satisfaction comes from the enjoyment of graphics and gameplay, as well as the overall story. Players are pleased with the game's performance and the immersive experience it provides.}