Before Disney rewrote Star Wars history, there was Kyle Katarn—a character who felt like the galaxy's answer to Chuck Norris. Introduced in 1995's Dark Forces, Katarn was a tough-as-nails mercenary with a moral compass that pointed toward the light, even when he flirted with the dark side. He stole the Death Star plans, wielded a lightsaber, and became a legend in the Expanded Universe. For many fans, he remains the definitive Star Wars hero, and his games are still celebrated today.
Katarn's journey is a rich one, spanning multiple titles that showcase his evolution from a gun-toting rebel to a Jedi Knight. His story even echoes in newer characters like Finn and Cassian Andor, but for those who grew up with him, there's no substitute. Here's our definitive ranking of every Kyle Katarn game, from the weakest to the absolute best.
5. Star Wars Jedi Knight: Mysteries of the Sith (1998)
This expansion pack is a mixed bag, but it's essential for understanding Katarn's arc. For most of the game, you play as Mara Jade, the Emperor's former hand, who becomes Kyle's apprentice. The story sees Kyle fall to the dark side, and it's up to Mara to save him. The atmosphere is great, and the gameplay is fun, but the level design can be frustratingly confusing, and the difficulty spikes are brutal. Still, for completionists, it's a must-play.
4. Star Wars: Dark Forces (1995)
The original game that started it all is a classic, but it hasn't aged gracefully. As a Doom clone, it was revolutionary for its time, but today's gamers might find the maze-like levels and dated mechanics tough to navigate. That said, it's where Katarn made his mark, taking on Boba Fett and even punching a dragon to death. The story of the Dark Troopers is intriguing, and the game is begging for a full remake. For now, it's a piece of history that's more admirable than playable.
3. Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy (2003)
In this sequel, Kyle takes a backseat as a mentor to a new protagonist, Jaden Korr. The game offers some of the best lightsaber combat in the series, and the customization options are fantastic. You can choose your fighting style, build your character, and tackle missions in any order, giving it huge replay value. The story is fun and campy, but it lacks the emotional depth of Katarn's own struggles. Still, it's a blast from start to finish.
2. Star Wars Jedi Knight: Dark Forces II (1997)
This sequel improves on the original in every way. The live-action cutscenes are cheesy but charming, and the game introduces a morality system that determines whether you fall to the dark side or stay in the light. It was groundbreaking for its time, and it's still a joy to play. The story follows Kyle as he hunts for the Valley of the Jedi, and it's a thrilling ride that sets the stage for his greatest adventure.
1. Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast (2002)
The pinnacle of Kyle Katarn's saga, Jedi Outcast is a masterpiece. It picks up with Kyle having renounced the Force, but he's drawn back in when a new threat emerges. The game features some of the best lightsaber combat ever, and the story is deeply personal, exploring Kyle's guilt, anger, and redemption. It's a perfect blend of action, storytelling, and Star Wars magic. If you only play one Katarn game, make it this one.
Kyle Katarn may not be canon anymore, but his legacy lives on in these games. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, these titles offer a unique slice of Star Wars history that's worth exploring. And who knows? Maybe Disney will bring him back someday. Until then, we'll keep replaying his adventures.
