LEGO® STAR WARS™: The Force Awakens

The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with some praising the introduction of new mechanics like cover-based shooting and multi-builds, which add depth and variety to the traditional LEGO formula. However, many players have criticized the controls as awkward, the gameplay as repetitive and lacking challenge, and the presence of bugs that disrupt the experience. Overall, while the game offers enjoyable moments and improved graphics, it struggles with execution and can feel tedious at times.

The graphics in this game have received widespread praise, with many reviewers noting significant improvements over previous LEGO titles, showcasing stunning visuals and detailed animations that enhance the overall experience. While some players feel that the high-quality graphics detract from the classic LEGO aesthetic, the majority agree that the visuals are impressive and contribute to a more immersive gameplay experience. Overall, the game is considered to have some of the best graphics seen in a LEGO game to date, making it a standout in the series.

The humor in the game is a blend of classic LEGO charm and new voice-acted dialogue, resulting in a mix of funny moments and some that fall flat. While many players appreciate the lighthearted, family-friendly jokes and visual gags, others feel that the humor can be overly childish or forced, detracting from the overall experience. Overall, the game maintains the signature LEGO humor that fans expect, though opinions vary on its execution and effectiveness.

The game is plagued by numerous stability issues, including frequent crashes, glitches, and bugs that significantly hinder gameplay. Many players report having to restart levels due to characters getting stuck or mission objectives failing to trigger, leading to a frustrating experience. While some users have encountered fewer issues, the overall consensus is that the game's stability is severely lacking, making it difficult to enjoy fully.

The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some praising the great soundtrack and its ability to enhance the gameplay experience, while others criticize the lack of volume control and instances of muffled sound quality. Players appreciate the iconic Star Wars music but note that it can become repetitive and overpowering, making it difficult to hear dialogue. Overall, while the music is generally well-received, technical issues and volume management detract from the experience for some users.

Overall, the game's replayability is a mixed bag; while some players find it infinitely replayable and packed with new mechanics and collectibles, others criticize the low replay value of certain levels and uncreative challenges. Many users appreciate the vast array of playable characters and the fun of revisiting the game, but some feel that the inclusion of DLC achievements in the base game detracts from the overall experience. Ultimately, it seems that fans of the franchise may find enough content to warrant multiple playthroughs, while others may feel less inclined to return.

The game's optimization has received mixed reviews, with many players praising its smooth performance on various systems, particularly low-spec PCs, and noting a lack of major issues like lag or crashes. However, some users reported stuttering, frame drops, and performance problems on higher-end hardware, suggesting that while the game is generally well-optimized, there are inconsistencies that may affect the experience for certain players. Overall, it appears that optimization can vary significantly depending on the hardware and settings used.

The reviews highlight that the grinding aspect of the game is overwhelmingly tedious and frustrating, with many players noting the excessive filler content and long, repetitive levels. While some appreciate the accessibility of missions through the galactic map, the overall experience is marred by bugs and a lack of engaging gameplay, making completion feel laborious rather than enjoyable. Collectibles and side quests are often described as tedious, contributing to a sense of grind that detracts from the fun typically associated with LEGO games.

Players have praised the game for its emotional depth, highlighting a heartwarming story and well-developed characters that evoke strong feelings, including tears. The voice acting has been particularly noted for its impact, enhancing the overall emotional experience, although some fans feel it lacks the wholesomeness of previous entries in the series. Overall, the game is seen as a return to form for the developers, delivering a mix of emotional highs and engaging gameplay.

The monetization aspect of the game has been criticized as a blatant cash grab by Disney, with many users feeling that it overlooks key elements and leads to frustrating gameplay experiences. Despite these concerns, some players still find enjoyment in the core LEGO gameplay and features like multi-builds, though they acknowledge that the monetization strategy detracts from the overall experience.

The reviews highlight strong character design as a standout feature, with multiple mentions of its quality and effectiveness in enhancing the overall experience. However, there is no specific feedback on character development in terms of narrative or growth.

The atmosphere of the game is criticized for lacking depth, primarily due to repetitive background music and a less immersive experience compared to previous titles like "The Complete Saga." While the addition of voice acting is appreciated, it does not significantly enhance the overall atmosphere. Players may find enjoyment in the gameplay, but the ambiance feels flat without varied audio elements.