Video games have become the most promising reason to stay invested in the galaxy far, far away, especially as enthusiasm for new Star Wars movies and TV shows wanes. Since the franchise's debut in 1977, video games have been intertwined with its legacy, starting with 1982's The Empire Strikes Back tie-in on the Atari 2600 and the arcade game a year later. Over the decades, fans have enjoyed action games, flight sims, strategy titles, and more. Now, in 2026, Star Wars as a franchise is at a crossroads.
A Dimming Screen Presence
Enthusiasm for new Star Wars movies has never felt lower. The Mandalorian And Grogu is tracking lower than Solo: A Star Wars Story in early box office projections. On television, after the brilliance of Andor, the prospect of The Mandalorian season four or Ahsoka season two feels like a continuation of uninspired storytelling that eroded fan excitement. Personally, many fans have checked out since Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Gaming to the Rescue
Prequel nostalgia has been resurrected by the thrumming engines of Sebulba's pod racer in Star Wars: Galactic Racer. This game combines the best elements of The Phantom Menace with the polished gameplay of Burnout 3: Takedown. Developed by Fuse Games, a studio founded by former Criterion leads, the brief trailers already showcase electrifying engine sounds and first-person canyon weaving in modern graphical glory. It has single-handedly reignited interest in Star Wars.
At a time when Nintendo and Sony are neglecting futuristic racers like F-Zero and Wipeout, Galactic Racer fills a void. Additionally, the turn-based tactics title Star Wars Zero Company, releasing later this year, promises to satisfy XCOM fans. A spiritual successor to Knights of the Old Republic from the director of Mass Effect is also in development, along with a sequel to Star Wars Jedi: Survivor from Respawn Entertainment.
Other Projects on the Horizon
- Star Wars: Eclipse from Quantic Dream
- Knights of the Old Republic Remake (long-delayed)
- A Cal Kestis spin-off on Disney+
While some projects like Eclipse and the KOTOR remake are less certain, the overall gaming lineup holds more creative promise than the cinematic arm. Star Wars is not alone: Hogwarts Legacy revitalized Harry Potter, and Marvel Games has generated more goodwill than the MCU through Spider-Man 2, Midnight Suns, Marvel Rivals, and Marvel Cosmic Invasion.
The Future of the Franchise
The lack of appetite for Star Wars' Hollywood future—unless Ryan Gosling's Starfighter in 2027 changes things—could see games playing a larger role. With titles like Galactic Racer and Zero Company, video games are proving to be the true driving force of the franchise in 2026.
