If you haven’t played Star Wars: Squadrons since its December 2020 release, get your astromech ready because now’s your chance.
And you don’t even have to pay for it.
For some time, the Epic Games Store has offered free games that players can add to their library on a weekly basis.
But the free games aren’t just from small studios, many are AAA titles from the industry’s top publishers.
Past freebies have included Grand Theft Auto 5, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and the Batman Arkham series.
Now, Epic is offering Electronic Arts’ dynamic Star Wars space shooter, Squadrons, at no charge until December 1.
Usually, the game retails for $39.99.
Epic Space Battles
The Star Wars: Squadrons story begins shortly after the destruction of Alderaan at the hands of one Death Star-wielding Darth Vader.
Captain Lindon Javes is leading Imperial forces in an effort to hunt refugees who escaped the exploding planet.
But during an incident at the Fostar Haven spaceport, Javes defects to the Rebel Alliance.
Four years later, after the Battle of Endor, Javes becomes Commander of the New Republic’s Temperance cruiser.
After Javes defection to the Republic, his former wingman Captain Terisa Kerrill becomes relentless in enacting revenge upon him.
Squadrons players will do Kerrill’s bidding and feel her wrath throughout the 14-mission campaign.
During the story, the player steps into the roles of New Republic and Imperial pilots, depending on the chapter.
The side-switching allows players to fly all available ships during the campaign, including X-Wings, Tie Fighters, and Y-Wings.
In addition to the campaign, Squadrons also features online multiplayer and solo battles against bots.
But as exciting as playing Squadrons on a monitor is, the game’s VR support is one of its most immersive features.
Squadrons in VR is Incredible
In 2022, playing Squadrons in VR is about as close as you can get to flying a real X-Wing.
Being able to look around and visually track your targets as they fly past is something pancake gaming really can’t duplicate.
Regarding controllers, Squadrons has all the bases covered, but which one you use may make a difference.
Star Wars: Squadrons has mouse, keyboard, and controller support, but you’ll want to use a good HOTAS or flight stick.
Using the proper flight controls will make a difference in gameplay and overall experience.
Flying and dogfighting will be easier and more natural with a HOTAS or flight stick, especially in VR.
If you miss grabbing Star Wars: Squadrons on Epic, don’t fret, it’ll probably be on sale in December for under $20 on Steam.