The popular Star Wars games, Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) and its sequel, are now available for free download on mobile devices, thanks to Epic Games. This incredible offer, which spans global Android users, is set to last until March 20, 2025, allowing fans to experience some of the best Star Wars RPGs ever made without spending a cent.
This free offering is particularly noteworthy as KOTOR and KOTOR II transformed the gaming experience for Star Wars enthusiasts when they were initially released. KOTOR, first available back in 2003, has maintained its status as one of the highest-rated Star Wars games, achieving notable acclaim with a Metacritic score of 94. The sequel, KOTOR II: The Sith Lords, developed by Obsidian Entertainment, also received favorable reviews, holding its own with 86 on Metacritic. These games allowed players to immerse themselves in original narratives set thousands of years before the Star Wars films, exploring various character paths and deeply woven plots.
While Android users can comfortably download these titles from the Epic Games Store, iOS users may encounter some hurdles. Currently, the Epic Games Store is accessible on iOS devices exclusively within the European Union. Anyone attempting to claim the games from outside this region—like users based in the U.S.—will face compatibility issues.
Reportedly, downloading KOTOR games through the Epic Games Store involves acknowledging several warnings, particularly for those using Android devices. For example, the store installation could prompt users with messages about potentially harmful files—a byproduct of the new distribution channels Epic strived to establish. Such warnings could deter casual gamers unfamiliar with the process.
Epic's push for more accessible gaming aligns with its overall mission to provide gamers with quality titles for free, just as it has done on the PC platform. "While EU regulations have facilitated access to the Epic Games Store, the battle against mobile store restrictions continues to pose challenges, especially for U.S. iPhone users where the starting obstacles remain significant," said one observer.
This initiative follows Epic's extensive legal battles and lobbying to launch its competitive app store on mobile devices which started last August, eventually marking the return of popular games like Fortnite and Rocket League Sideswipe. When discussing the latest offer, Epic Games invites users to experience the expansive lore of the Star Wars universe, bringing forth classic narratives and engaging gameplay with modern enhancements.
Despite the limited availability of certain platforms and the notion of ‘hurdles’ invented by the download process, gamers' excitement surrounding the KOTOR games remains palpable. On various forums, players share their enthusiasm about the chance to revisit their favorite Star Wars characters and storylines. One user on Reddit expressed their joy, stating, "Damn, that's amazing! I love the first game, but never bought the sequel, thanks for sharing it!" Another echoed those sentiments: "Awesome! Some of my favorite gaming experiences!"
Although numerous high-quality mobile games populate the Epic Games Store, the allure of KOTOR games stands unmatched. They are widely regarded not only as exceptional entries within the Star Wars video game collection but also as genre-defining RPGs. They paved the way for later successes from developer BioWare, contributing significantly to the development of monumental franchises like Mass Effect.
Yet, it is important to note these titles are not without their quirks. While the KOTOR games have increased levels of accessibility, they are fundamentally single-player titles requiring internet verification for play. Although players can download the games, they must remain connected online to enjoy the full experience. This requirement can be somewhat paradoxical as it indicates the need for verification, even for what is primarily offline content.
Epic Games’ KOTOR promotion not only emphasizes nostalgia but also highlights the evolution of mobile gaming and how platforms strive to retain user engagement. With the transition of many classic games to mobile platforms, Epic Games actively seeks to introduce veteran players to the mobile world and attract new audiences.
So, where does this leave potential fans? If you own either an Android device or happen to be visiting Europe with your iOS, don’t miss out on this rare opportunity. Given the acclaim these titles have earned, getting them for free could be one of the best gaming decisions you make this year.