This guide is a "campaign" I made utilizing all of the large & small scale offline modes to re-create the feel of the classic 2005 SWBFII campaign "Rise of the Empire", which used just the normal multiplayer maps with modified objectives. In this case, all that is used here is the provided sliders and parameters that DICE put in for the different modes, as well as player self-limiters and story context to try to create as an immersive experience as possible. *Note: This guide assumes you're running vanilla SWBFII with no offline-enhancing mods enabled, and that you have watched all the live-action movies. SPOILER WARNING! Introduction History Part 1: Rise of the Empire For those of you who remember, the original Pandemic Star Wars: Battlefront II from 2005 had it's own campaign called "The Rise of the Empire". But it was not a campaign of what we traditionally would think of. Instead of utilizing unique maps, characters, and assets exclusive to that campaign mode, "Rise of the Empire" was simply a series of scenarios on the present multiplayer maps with modified objectives, with the occasional unique character/object models (e.g. The Queen of Naboo on the first Imperial mission, or the Oil Refinery structure on the Clone Wars Kashyyyk mission) and cross-era faction fights, particularly in the Republic-Empire transitional missions (e.g. Empire vs Separatists space & ground battle at Mustafar). Part 2: EAfront 2017 released What I was really looking forward to with EAfront II was more single-player content compared to 2015. And by that, I mean multiplayer modes straight up ported 1:1 to offline against bots like the original Battlefronts. Instead what we got was...disappointing to say the least. Instead of being able to play Heroes vs Villains and the Assault modes offline against bots, what we got instead was essentially offline Blast and Survival 2.0 on the tiny, confined parts of only six or so launch maps. The AI was only slightly modified versions from the actual campaign, which to their credit, utilize different star cards and abilities, but can only use the base troopers. No enemy reinforcements, no enemy heroes, no vehicles or starfighters to speak of. It essentially was a little sandbox shooting gallery to learn the basics and test the heroes and reinforcements on. Which was the goal I suppose, so I guess it did serve its purpose. And DICE did continually improve and add content to it. Even adding Starfighter versions of Team Battle and Onslaught. But overall it just simply too barebones to replace what the OG Battlefronts offered. Part 3: The Cooperation Update When I first heard the DICE were looking to implement a classic BFII Conquest-style Instant Action mode, I was ecstatic. Fast forward to September 2019 and the Cooperation Update dropped. This introduced the titular Co-Op mode as way to level heroes and troopers without having to worry about pesky humans outsmarting you or hogging all the heroes you want to level. Instead you and three other teammates and a squad of AI square off against another team completely made of AI. And these AI were much more improved than the AI found in Arcade. Smarter, deadlier, and capable of using reinforcements, heroes, and eventually vehicles. They were magnificent. But the real prize was the release of Instant Action. Finally, a large scale offline mode that used almost all aspects of the online multiplayer modes. So far only released on all current Clone Wars maps including the newly released Felucia. But I knew it would eventually expand to all eras and all planets. Part 4: The Present And expand it did. DICE would add in the Sequels, then the OT, eventually culminating in the Battle of Scarif Update with the surprise addition of all the Co-Op maps to Instant Action, re-dubbed simply as Missions, which effectively added nine more locations to Instant Action that didn't have a Supremacy version, either for being too small (e.g. Kessel) or too linear (e.g. Endor). The only planets missing now are Crait, Bespin, and the space maps. And don't get me wrong, Instant Action is still not perfect. The exclusion of the aforementioned maps, lack of dedicated HvV and Starfighter modes, and lack of customization on par with Arcade, and even a scoreboard and a pause button, always makes me feel we were this close to perfection. But oh well, it's still better than what I expected. The Scope After all that has been added to the offline modes, our final tally is thus: 2 Major Offline modes: Instant Action and Arcade 4* Arcade modes: Team Battle; Onslaught; Starfighter Team Battle; Starfighter Onslaught 23 maps for Arcade: 17 ground; 6 space 3 Instant Action modes: Supremacy; Missions - Attack; Missions - Defend 22 maps for Instant Action: 13 Supremacy (1 exclusive map); 21 Missions (9 exclusive maps) Final Tally: 7 game modes; 45 separate maps*There is actually a fifth mode in Arcade called Duel. However it is a console-exclusive 1v1 split-screen VS mode that replaces Onslaught, thus it will not be used in this campaign After Scarif dropped and the news of no more content updates, I took note of this tally. My goal is to use as many of these locations as I can and try to connect them in an immersive, coherent narrative that expands through all three eras in chronological order. Story-wise, I will be using more of the OG 2004 Battlefront's perspective: A more general retelling of each conflict, in which you bounce around between factions, instead of focusing only on the Republic/Empire. In essence, I will be like DICE and these will all be "plausibly canon" battles that happen just like the main multiplayer modes, using all of the customization parameters that I can to increase immersion. If you really want to break it down, I guess you could say all I'm making is an overly-glorified, more connected narrative-wise version of the Battle Scenarios found in Arcade. Either way, I hope you like it. Formatting Before we get started, I would like to take this moment to present a few clarifications of terms, formatting, and general expectations when reading. Story The overall story will stretch across all live action Star Wars films, including Rogue One and Solo. It will begin with the Trade Federation Crises on Naboo as a prologue. From there, it will reach into the Clone Wars from the First Battle of Geonosis until shortly after Order 66. After that, a quick diversion to Kessel, then the greater Galactic Civil War up until some time after the New Republic forms. Then finally, the rise of the First Order and the Age of Resistance, with a final showdown at Ajan Kloss. When reading through this guide, I will first present a scenario to provide context for the narrative. I will try my best to keep it as "plausibly canon" as I can. Parameters Every offline gamemode has a varying amounts of custom parameters. These parameters are not only for immersion, but also to provide a tentative challenge for the player. As a general rule of thumb, I will not specify AI difficulty or BP Gain Rates. I leave that up to the player to decide as a way to customize difficulty like a normal campaign. Any other parameters I don't set is presumed to be set at default. Immersion Unfortunately, as many options as there are, I cannot control everything. For example, I can't create custom objectives, or control what exact reinforcements, heroes, or vehicles each faction's AI can use. And so, it will be largely up to player's own headcanon and imagination to determine how immersive this experience will be. To help with this, in addition to the list of parameters, I will also present a separate list of self-limiters on the player, such as what units and heroes are available for use, and on rare occasion, which specific weapons to use. The rest, as stated before, I will have to entrust to your own imagination. Template At each mission, after the scenario is presented, I will then pinpoint whether it is in Instant Action or Arcade; gamemode; map; then location if applicable; finally, the faction when applicable. I will then provide the list of parameters to set for each mission. Finally, some recommendations and self-limitations for the player to increase immersion. If possible, I will also add some additional author's note at the end of each mission. Repeat until the campaign is done. Prologue: The Naboo Crisis Mission 0: The Phantom Menace Scenario "Invasion! The Trade Federation sends their battle droids to take Theed and capture Queen Amidala. Wipe out the local "security forces" and storm the palace." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Naboo Location: Theed Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 8 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Only Darth Maul Reinforcements: Only Droideka Vehicles: Any Author's Note: Missions - Attack on Naboo is notoriously difficult even online. Doesn't help in that Missions is the least customized gamemode out of them all, with only three values to play with. 2/3 of them deal with your own team. I can only say yes or no to enemy vehicles, and your teammates won't use vehicles. So I either had to choose less immersion with Commando Droids and B2s running around, or having players consistently frustrated on the first level. I chose the lesser evil. And yes, I know, you are fighting clones. Just pretend they are armored security forces with random Jedi guardians helping them defend the city. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan haven't arrived yet. Mission 0.5: Struggle for the Palace Hanger Scenario "The Queen has escaped, but not for long, as she has returned with Jedi support. The Jedi lead Naboo pilots to the Palace Hangar. Unfortunately as the group make it to the hanger, they are intercepted by a dark warrior of old. As the Jedi distract the Sith apprentice, the pilots must clear the hangar of droids before they can get to their fighters up into space and destroy the control ship." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Team Battle Planet: Naboo Location: Palace Hanger Faction: "Naboo Security"ParameterValueTroops Available100Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size10Play AsTroopers OnlyAbility RechargeNo AbilitiesPlayer HealthDefaultAI HealthWeakAI ClassesAnyMinimapRadar Immersion Self-Limiters: Classes: Assault and Officer Only Weapons: CR-2 for Assault and S-5 for Officer only Author's Note: Since you are role-playing as Naboo security. I thought it appropriate that you should only use Naboo security weapons. This is probably the only mission in which I specifically ask the player to limit what weapons they use as I find it otherwise a bit too restricting. Using era appropriate weapons for the base classes, I leave up to you. But in this particular scenario, I'm making an exception. Conclusion: Prologue "With the shut down of the battle droids and the arrest of Trade Federation Viceroy Nute Gunray, peace returned to Naboo. Naboo's Senator, Sheev Palpatine has won the Supreme Chancellorship due to the sympathy provided from the crises. However, this tenuous peace will not last, as Naboo was only the latest example of civil unrest among the Galactic Republic worlds. And the consequences of Naboo will ripple throughout the next 10 years...." Prologue Author's Note: These two missions are what I would equate to the Geonosis tutorial level from "Rise of the Empire". Sort of separate from the main campaign, but still connected narrative-wise. Phantom Menace Naboo provided the perfect planet to showcase both Instant Action and Arcade at the same location to start off. It helps that Naboo is one of few of the planets in the game to have more than one location made. The Clone Wars: A Galaxy Divided Mission 1: Attack of the Clones Scenario "The Jedi have come with a surprise army. Count Dooku has ordered a retreat of all Separatist forces. Hold off this army of cloned soldiers to give the core ships time to evacuate Geonosis." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Geonosis Location: Trippa Hive Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles On Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Only Count Dooku Reinforcements: No Commando Droid Vehicles: Any Author's Note: Oh? Thought you would be playing as the clones in the premier battle of the Clone Wars? Think again. While the general trend of these missions is that you will be playing the canonical victors of these battles, and while yes the Republic technically won the First Battle of Geonosis, the Separatists managed to retreat and spread among the rest of the galaxy to cause havoc. To quote Master Yoda himself: 引用自 Yoda："Victory!? Victory, you say? Master Obi-Wan, not victory. The shroud of the Dark Side has fallen. Begun, the Clone War has." While Missions - Attack levels are typically difficult and long depending on parameters and map. Missions - Defend levels are actually pretty easy no matter the parameters. For the first phase, the AI bots tend to not pick heroes until about a minute left and seldom use reinforcements on the first phase. Thus for most defense missions, it's easy to shut out the attackers by bouncing between command posts as the AI shift their focus. The notable exceptions are maps where the AI can use tanks on the first phase (e.g. Felucia and Hoth). Thus, expect this gamemode to be seldom seen. Mission 2: Relief for Ryloth Scenario "The Separatists have blockaded Ryloth and the Twi'lek people are starving. An advanced strike task-force has been sent to relieve the planet with supplies. Sweep through the enemy's fighter screen to punch a hole for the supply ships to get through." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Team Battle Planet: Ryloth Faction: Galactic RepublicParameterValueStarfighters Available150Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size10Play AsStarfighters OnlyAbility RechargeFast Immersion Self-Limiters: N/A Authors Note: And now we have our first space mission and also the first (and probably only) mission with no work needed on part of the player to up immersion. I tried to fit all of the space maps where I can. Unfortunately, Arcade is the best we're gonna get in terms of offline space combat. There's no Starfighter Assault offline, so no large-scale space battles. It's a shame Ryloth never got a ground map, too. Would have been a cool environment to fight on. Mission 3: Felucian Incursion Scenario "Felucia is a key contested planet in the Perlemian Trade Route. The Republic is challenging our current control of the planet. Repel them." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Felucia Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 8 Enemy Vehicles On Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: None Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: AAT only Author's Note: Another easy defense mission. Though, to be fair, the first battle of Felucia was a rather easy win for the Separatists, so it makes sense. Though do note, that this is the mission of firsts for self-limiters in Instant Action. Firstly, no heroes* (or rather villains) to play as. Secondly, the first Instant Action mission to have all reinforcements available; the BX Commandos were introduced at Rishi Moon which was before Felucia. Finally it's the first mission with vehicles that doesn't have all vehicles available; I don't remember seeing STAPS on Felucia, so that's my excuse. *I was toying with the idea of Bossk being playable. I mean he is a bounty hunter, maybe the CIS hired him to hunt some clones there, iunno. Secondly, Felucia is also the planet where Ashoka got captured by Trandoshans, so I would pretend that Bossk is just a random Trandoshan hunter, but then I remembered, that's not until a later incursion into Felucia which will not be in this campaign. And so I ultimately decided against it. I have two whole eras to work with him, he'll show up soon enough. Mission 4: Geonosian Revolt Scenario "The Separatists were routed in the opening battle of the war, but the Geonosian natives are resourceful and stubborn. A high-output droid factory still remains functional and is causing problems for the Republic. Taking this pipeline junction is crucial to the Jedi General's plan for destroying the factory, retaking the planet, and finally subduing the populace." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Geonosis Location: Pipeline Junction West Faction: Galactic RepublicParameterValueRound LengthLongEnemy AI Count32Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count1Enemy Reinforcement Count20Friendly Reinforcement Count20Enemy Vehicle Count2Friendly Vehicle Count2 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Anakin and Obi-Wan Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Any Author's Note: Finally, the moment that I, and I'm sure many of you, have been waiting for: the first large-scale battle as the clones. This is also the first Supremacy mission in the campaign, so I decided to make it special with almost all sliders maxed out, plus a bonus two Jedi to play with (another first achieved). The Second Battle of Geonosis was a rather tough slog for the Republic, so the round length is set to "Long". Enjoy the pure chaos in what is the biggest mission so far. The Clone Wars: Brothers In Arms Mission 5: The Murky Waves of Kamino Scenario "The Separatists have once again dared an assault on Kamino. However, while attention was focused on the fleet battle above, the real threat lied below. Scatter the clone forces and make way for the second wave." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Kamino Location: Cloning Facility Faction: SeparatistsParameterValueRound LengthShortEnemy AI Count32Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count2Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count10Friendly Reinforcement Count15Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Villians: General Grievous Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: Here we have the first Instant Action planet with no vehicles to speak of; trooper only warfare here...plus a couple sabers....or rather, four. Won't be on as a grand scale as Geonosis, but should be still exciting since the round length is shorter, considering that Kamino's ground battle was a surprise attack. Since Obi-Wan and Anakin are present at this battle, I also set enemy heroes to 2. The extra reinforcements should help balance that a bit. Mission 6: Thunder Over Kamino Scenario "While the the underwater surprise caught the Republic off-guard, they quickly diverted two Venators to provide air support for the clones. Keep the Republic air forces occupied to allow the droid forces on the ground a chance to strike at the facility." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Team Battle Planet: Kamino Location: Research Outpost Faction: SeparatistsParameterValueStarfighters Available250Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size10Play AsStarfighters OnlyAbility RechargeDefault Immersion Self-Limiters: N/A Author's Note: The second Clone Wars starfighter map has made an appearance. A very unique one in that it takes place in high atmosphere, rather than space. Not much changed from Ryloth, it's just longer and less ability spam. Yeah, DICE didn't give as many options for Starfighter Arcade compared to normal Arcade, which was one of the reasons to even play Arcade over Instant Action. Oh well, better than nothing. Mission 7: Kamino's Last Stand Scenario "With air support unavailable, Separatist forces have begun infiltrating the cloning facilities. We are all that's left. This is the Republic's last stand; defend the DNA chambers at all costs." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Kamino Location: Cloning Facility Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: Obi-Wan and Anakin Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: The final mission of the Kamino arc. Not much to say except good luck, have fun. The Clone Wars: Fall of the Old Republic Mission 8: Revenge of the Sith Scenario "A daring raid on the Republic's capital has resulted in the capture of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine. Infiltrate the Invisible Hand to sabotage the ship to aid Jedi Generals Kenobi and Skywalker's rescue mission." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Geonosis Location: Separatist Dreadnought Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 9 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: None Reinforcements: Arc Trooper and Clone Commando Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: Finally, we've reached the Episode III territory. Things are about to get juicy. Since this is an advanced infiltration mission, only special forces clones are allowed. And yes, I know technically the Dreadnought is set over Geonosis. Just pretend it's the Invisible Hand over Coruscant. And that's right, this is the first mission with no heroes for the player. Good luck. Mission 9: Droid Attack on the Wookies Scenario "The CIS has sprung a massive invasion of the important world of Kashyyyk. Advance through the Republic reinforcements and take the Venator stationed there before it can take off." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Kashyyyk Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 9 Enemy Vehicles On Immersion Self Limiters: Villains: Bossk and General Grievous Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Any Author's Note: 引用自 Ki-Adi-Mundi："What about the droid attack on the Wookies?" Ahhh, Kashyyyk. The last big hurrah for the Separatists. This mission will really capture that feeling, as it is also the last mission where you will play as the Seppies. Enjoy it while you can. While GG wasn't really at Kashyyyk, he was alive during this point in the battle. And since we're not getting an Utapau map, this is the closest we'll get. And as for Bossk? Well, what Trando would pass up the opportunity to hunt some Wookies? He probably lowered his standard fee for the CIS just for the chance. And trust me, you're gonna need him for this one. Mission 10: Turning Tides on Kashyyyk Scenario "The droids have breached the Venator and are making their way to the reactor. Thankfully, Master Yoda has arrived to aid his Wookie allies. Repel the droids off the ship and make this into a winnable battle." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Kamino Location: Republic Attack Cruiser Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: Chewbacca and Yoda Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Finally, the Wookie Warrior is playable. Thus, funny enough, this is actually the true first mission where all of the Republic's reinforcements are playable. The Wookie Warrior is disabled for the player on Geonosis, Kamino, and the Separatist Dreadnought as a bonus Enforcer after the Clone Commando has replaced him as the default Enforcer, since people moaned about immersion. Just like the Dreadnought, just pretend you're still on Kashyyyk. Mission 11: Ambush in the Wroshyr Tree Scenario "With the arrival of Grandmaster Yoda, the Republic has managed to turn the battle around. Stationing his command center high in the wroshyr trees, he has been ambushed by droids. Yoda, with the aid of his good friend, Chewbacca must now clear the treetops of clankers." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Onslaught Planet: Kashyyyk Faction: Galactic RepublicParameterValueStart Time3 MinutesEliminations Required100Play AsHeroes OnlyOnslaught IntesityMediumElimination Bonus3 SecondsLast StandOnAbility RechargeDefaultPlayer HealthDefaultEnemy HealthDefaultEnemy ClassesAnyMinimapRadar Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Chewbacca and Yoda Only Author's Note: Finally we have are first Onslaught mission. With Last Stand on, be sure not to dash off the ledges. This particular Arcade map, while technically in the same location on the planet, it's very unique in that it is unreachable in any of the big modes, far above in the worshyr tree. So I thought it would be alright to add an extra Arcade mission set there. Mission 12: Order 66 Scenario "The battle is going in the Republic's favor, however, Clone Commander CC-1004 "Gree" is given a mysterious command by Chancellor Palpatine. Confused by the betrayal of their friend, Chewbacca and Tarfful hide Master Yoda and tend to the battle at hand for the moment to drive off the more immediate threat." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Kashyyyk Faction: Galactic RepublicParameterValueRound LengthMediumEnemy AI Count32Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count20Friendly Reinforcement Count20Enemy Vehicle Count2Friendly Vehicle Count2 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Chewbacca Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Any Author's Note: 引用自 Chancellor Palpatine： "Execute Order 66." We finally wrap up the 4-part Kashyyyk arc with a Supremacy mission. I wanted to really send the Clone Wars off with a bang, so I pulled out all the stops for Kashyyyk as the climatic battle. As for Chewbacca, I'd like to think that after witnessing the assassination attempt on Master Yoda, Chewbacca and Tarfful ordered the Wookies to continue working with the clones to drive off the more immediate threat of the CIS. However, after the shutdown order on all droid forces, the clones betrayed the Wookies. But they were prepared thanks to Tarfful's foresight and retreated to the wroshyr trees to commence guerilla warfare well into the Imperial Era. The Clone Wars: Rise of the Empire Mission 13: A New Order Scenario "Order 66 has been given, and the traitorous Jedi have been eliminated. However, the Separatist threat still looms. With Aayla Secura's death, Commander Bly has taken full control of the 327th Star Corps. By his command, continue the campaign on Felucia, wipe out the droids, and help bring order and peace to the galaxy." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Felucia Faction: Galactic "Republic"ParameterValueRound LengthMediumEnemy AI Count24Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count15Friendly Reinforcement Count20Enemy Vehicle Count1Friendly Vehicle Count2 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: None Reinforcements: No Wookie Warrior Vehicles: Any Author's Note: These next two missions are part of the falling action of the Clone Wars. Reminiscent of the old "Rise of the Empire" campaign of the classic Battlefront II with the Republic transitioned into the Empire in between Episodes III and IV. Fun Fact: Felucia on Supremacy is the only Instant Action map where you can play as a vehicle in the Artillery category. In this case, the AT-TE with nerfed health from it's Galactic Assault counterpart, which is on Geonosis as the objective to be escorted by the clones to the final phase. A LAAT/c gunship will carry it into battle when roughly 30 seconds have passed, after which, you can just jump in and go to town. It really makes me wish that DICE had managed to put the other Artillery vehicles into Instant Action in some way. At the very least, put the AT-TE in Geonosis's Supremacy map. Mission 14: Insurrection on Theed Scenario "Only mere weeks after the end of the Clone Wars, the queen and her Separatist sympathizers on Naboo have found some old remote-controlled battle droids from the Naboo Crisis, and are taking over Theed in a desperate attempt to challenge our new Empire. The stationed detachment of the 501st has been dispatched to quell the uprising on the Emperors own homeworld." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Naboo Location: Theed Faction: Galactic EmpireParameterValueRound LengthShortEnemy AI Count16Friendly AI Count24Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count8Friendly Reinforcement Count12Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count2 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: None Reinforcements: No Wookie Warrior Vehicles: BARC Speeders and AT-RTs Only Author's Note: The last mission of the Clone Wars era. This will be a nice, short, easy, breather mission to wind down after the chaos of Kashyyyk, and prepare the player for the Galactic Civil War era. I always liked the idea that when the Empire was formed, clones weren't immediately replaced with stormtroopers, and instead were slowly and realistically phased out over time by letting the clones remain active on the more important Imperial stations and planets, like, for instance, the Emperor's own homeworld of Naboo. I also decided to take the opposite route of the first Felucia mission and got rid of the tanks and allowed the lighter vehicles. Personally, I always thought this map was too small for tanks, as they could only really maneuver in the central lane. You can't really attack any point directly, which is, ironically, balanced in a live setting, but offline against bots, feels too restricting and boring. Galactic Civil War: Birth of the Rebellion Mission 15: Slave Revolt on Kessel Scenario "Due to the actions of a certain smuggler and his crew, the coaxium mine slaves on Kessel have risen up against their masters. An Imperial Star Destroyer en route to Kessel encountered the smugglers, but lost them in the maelstrom. More important matters needed immediate attention than just some renegade. Reinforce the Pykes to quell this revolt and return the mines to full operation." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Kessel Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 6 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Darth Maul Only Reinforcements: Rocket Trooper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: And we finally begin the Imperial Era. Kessel is in a weird spot as, narrative-wise, it is disconnected from the rest of the OT planets as it was only featured in a largely stand-alone film. so there is this awkward time-gap between then and Scarif. So it only serve as a low challenge transition mission, similar two the last two of the Clone Wars. While Darth Maul never really aligned with the Empire or Separatists throughout his appearances, he is the leader of the Shadow Collective, of which the Pyke Syndicate is a part of. Therefore, I would imagine he would order the Pykes to accept Imperial help, if only to get his operation back underway on Kessel. Maybe he would come down himself to ensure the uprising is put down. Mission 16: Rogue One Scenario "Call-sign "Rogue One" has managed to make landfall on Scarif right under the Empire's nose. As Cassian Andor and his team infiltrate the facility to steal the Death Star plans, the rest of the group will provide a distraction by attacking multiple beach facilities and spread the Imperial response. Advance on the citadel as far as you can." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Scarif Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 6 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: Princess Leia Only Reinforcements: Rocket Jumper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: *sigh* Seeing Scarif again makes me wish DICE had managed to port over Jyn Erso and Director Krennic from BF2015. I would definitely use them here. Oh well, Leia and Vader will just have to do as they were "present" at Scarif. Mission 17: Rebel Incursion on Scarif Scenario "A company of rebels have infiltrated the Imperial data archive on Scarif. A diversionary force is causing havoc on the beaches. And a rebel fleet has arrived to provide support. However, even though the rebels have gained headway, their numbers are thinning, and Director Krennic's reinforcements have arrived. Crush the rebels before they manage to breach the shield gate again." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Scarif Faction: Galactic EmpireParameterValueRound LengthShortEnemy AI Count24Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count8Friendly Reinforcement Count15Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Darth Vader Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: As stated in the scenario summary, Rogue One has managed to gain some tremendous foothold on the beaches. However, this victory does not last long, as the Imperial reinforcements have arrived, and Rogue One have very limited numbers, and despite a couple of U-Wings making it to the ground, it's barely enough to stave off the onslaught. Of course, none of these events ultimately matter, as the Death Star shortly arrives later and blows both sides up. Galactic Civil War: Unlikely Heroes Mission 18: A New Hope Scenario "It seems the rebels on Scarif managed to beam the Death Star plans to the fleet. Though Darth Vader managed to personally destroy the rebel capital ship, a physical copy of the plans have made it aboard a small Corellian frigate named the Tantive IV. Lord Vader has tracked it down and engaged it over the remote Outer Rim world of Tatooine. Princess Leia has been captured, but the plans are nowhere to be found. Lord Vader has deduced that the jettisoned escape pod has the plans and has sent a detachment of troops to the surface and capture the droids carrying it." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Tatooine Location: Mos Eisley Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Boba Fett and Bossk Only Reinforcements: Rocket Trooper Only Vehicles: None Author's Note: Boba Fett and Bossk are active on Tatooine during Mos Eisley. I wouldn't be surprised if the Empire put a bounty on the droids. It wouldn't be beyond belief that these two, along with other of Jabba's bounty hunters, like Greedo, are on the hunt for Han Solo and the droids. Also held off on the AT-ST use, as the force used to hunt down the droids on Tatooine really wasn't that big enough it warranted walkers. Bottom Line: The Empire underestimated their enemies per the usual. Mission 19: Prison Riot on the Death Star Scenario "After the destruction of Alderaan, the Death Star captured the freighter reported on Tatooine. However, the rebels managed to rescue Princess Leia and inspired a prison riot in the detention block. Subdue the prisoners and do not allow the rebels to escape." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Death Star II Faction: Galactic EmpireParameterValueRound LengthShortEnemy AI Count16Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count4Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count6Friendly Reinforcement Count20Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Villains: Darth Vader Only Reinforcements: No Rocket Jumper Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: A very quirky mission inspired by the one from the original Rise of the Empire in terms of premise. Due to poorly armed prisoners rioting in a station filled with stormtroopers, it's obviously going to be a curb stomp. But with four enemy heroes on the field and a short round length, it's going to a real "flash in the pan" type mission in a race to win before all four heroes can spawn and potentially turn the battle around. As for reinforcements, you'd notice that it's the opposite of Tatooine. The map is too cramped for Rocket Troopers to pragmatically work I feel. And considering all of the high-ranking imperials, including ISB director Yularen. I would imagine that ISB agents and Death Troopers would be more abundant than usual on the DS during this time. Fun Fact: Iden Versio was present at the destruction of Alderaan and was considering to be put in along with Vader, but remembered that Inferno Squad is not created until after the Battle of Yavin, so I decided against it. And finally, as with the capital ship mission in the Clone Wars, just pretend that this is the first Death Star. Mission 20: Imperial Vengeance on Yavin Scenario "The destruction of the Death Star has the Empire reeling. However, the immediate punishment is to begin. Having survived the battle, Darth Vader has returned with an Imperial fleet to enact a swift retribution on the rebels. Take over their base and capture and retrieve as many rebel leaders and intel as you can before the Alliance scatters." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Yavin 4 Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 0 Friendly Reinforcements 6 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Darth Vader Only Reinforcements: Rocket Trooper Only Vehicles: Any Author's Note: Again, inspired by the Rise of the Empire mission. I wouldn't put past the Empire to seek revenge for the Death Star. However, by the time Vader escaped and called for reinforcements, the Rebel Alliance has already largely scattered, knowing that Yavin is compromised. They were already probably in the process of evacuating when the DS was approaching. I was originally going to allow vehicles for the rebels, as they do have the Scavenged AT-RTs available, but the AI is glitched in that it either doesn't or cant use the AT-RT (This goes the same for the Republic). And there was no speeders available, so there was no point. Galactic Civil War: The Empire's Retribution Mission 21: The Empire Strikes Back Scenario "The relentless pursuit of the Rebel Alliance after the Battle of Yavin has driven them to the ice world of Hoth. However even that operation would be discovered by Imperial probe droids. The Empire has sent ground forces to disable the shield generator. Delay them as long as possible to allow for our transports to evacuate." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Hoth Faction: Rebel AllianceParameterValueRound LengthLongEnemy AI Count32Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count1Friendly Hero Count3Enemy Reinforcement Count20Friendly Reinforcement Count20Enemy Vehicle Count1Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: No Yoda or Lando Reinforcements: No Ewoks Vehicles: Any Author's Note: We have finally arrived to the biggest (I think) ground battle of the GCW: The Battle of Hoth. Obviously, the Rebel Alliance is still totally outmatched in the open, even after Yavin, but it was still the fiercest defense they put up against the Empire. While making this campaign, I was going to put the Yavin Supremacy map before the Empire attack mission like Hoth, but having two-parters that were essentially the same premise-wise back-to-back would be kind of boring. Knowing that Hoth was the longer battle made it win out over Yavin. Of all the OT planets. Hoth is probably the most tilted in favor towards the Empire. They already have better reinforcements, but this is also the only map in the game where only one side has vehicles, as the Empire has AT-STs. The rebels have nothing to really counter it. At least with the other vehicle maps they get the AT-RTs. Mission 22: The Rebellion Shattered Scenario "Despite their best efforts, General Veers successfully managed to destroy the shield generators at Echo Base and the rebels were forced to retreat. Lord Vader will be personally leading the attack from here. It's time to finally crush the Rebellion once and for all. Leave none alive." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Hoth Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 8 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: Darth Vader and Iden Versio Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Any Author's Note: The Rebel Alliance was at a disadvantage already at Hoth. But once the shield generator was destroyed, that's when things really started to fall apart. Thankfully, like Yavin, most of the core rebel commanders made it out thanks to the ion cannons. Fun Fact: Inferno Squad was active during Hoth. So I would bet they would have participated in some way. Maybe gather data or capture a high-level rebel officer while Vader chased after Luke and the gang. Mission 23: Shootout in the Clouds Scenario "Losing sight of the Millennium Falcon yet again, Darth Vader hires bounty hunters to find it. One such bounty hunter, Boba Fett, has tracked to Bespin's Cloud City. After turning over Han Solo to him, the city's administrator, Lando Calrissian, betrayed the Empire and ordered an evacuation of the city. Some of the city's residents took this as a call to revolt and are causing chaos. This has made Fett's escort of his quarry much more difficult. Thankfully, an Imperial rocket trooper squad has decided to help the beleaguered bounty hunter. Clear the palace of rioters and get back to Slave 1 in one piece." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Onslaught Planet: Bespin Faction: Galactic EmpireParameterValueStart Time1:30Eliminations Required150Play AsHeroes OnlyOnslaught IntesityLowElimination Bonus5 SecondsLast StandOffAbility RechargeFastPlayer HealthDefaultEnemy HealthWeakEnemy ClassesOfficer/Specialist OnlyMinimapOff Immersion Self-Limiters: Villians: Boba Fett Only Reinforcements: Rocket Trooper Only Author's Note: Here we have one of two planets not represented in Instant Action, Bespin. Was rather bummed not seeing it in at least Missions. Hell, I would argue that it would be big enough in Supremacy as well. At least this planet has a map that was designed with smaller modes in mind, unlike the other planet, which we will get to in due time. Also do note that in all Onslaught missions, there will always be at least two units in mind. This is to accommodate the console players who have co-op for Arcade. In this particular instance, I thought it would be fitting to have the second player be a Rocket Trooper to assist Fett, since Bespin is the best map to fool around with jetpacks. There is a reason after all that this was one of three maps used in Jetpack Cargo when it was still around. More details on the console versions in the closing notes. Galactic Civil War: Turning Point Mission 24: Return of the Jedi Scenario "The Rebel Alliance has regrouped and has made a bold attack on the second Death Star. Sometime during the battle, a rebel frigate crashed into the superstructure and troops have begun pouring out. Defend the station. Today, the Rebellion dies!" Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Death Star II Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villains: Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: I wanted to fit in Palpatine somewhere and the Battle of Endor would be the time to do it. That and this is the last Imperial ground mission, so it was now or never. Mission 25: Toppling the Empire Scenario "The destruction of the Death Star II was the turning point of the war. With the loss of the Imperial flagship Executor, Palpatine's influence on his forces, and a clear line of succession following the death of the Sith Lords, Imperial command collapsed and have begun evacuating Endor. However, stern holdouts on the ground are still a threat. Take out the research station that will be a thorn on the local Ewok tribes if left alone." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Endor Location: Research Station 9 Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 4 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles On Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: No Yoda Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Speeder Bikes Only Author's Note: This marks the first time that the hero slider is maxed out in a Missions level. This is the turning point of the war, so the heroes will go all out in stopping the Empire once and for all. Even Lando (and Luke after escaping the DS) would be assisting the ground forces once the fleet was no longer a threat. Even with all those heroes, though, Endor is probably the hardest attack mission second only to Naboo. Because the final point can be captured (thus, can be contested) on both floors of the station. So that means you have to clear both bottom and top level. And the top level can only be accessed by the attackers in a corridor right near spawn. So you constantly have to go all the way around every wave of AI to clear the upper floor. This usually leads to the longest stalemates which you can eventually lose. Mission 26: Endor's Aftermath Scenario "Though most of the Imperial Fleet has fled the system, there are still survivors hiding in the Death Star's debris field. Hunt them down." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Team Battle Planet: Endor Location: Death Star Debris Faction: Rebel AllianceParameterValueStarfighters Available75Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size4Play AsStarfighters OnlyAbility RechargeSlow Immersion Self-Limiters: N/A Author's Note: Thought it would be interesting to see the Empire outnumbered for once. Was also inspired by the Star Wars: Squadron's CG short while making this one. Mission 27: Operation: Cinder Scenario "The war has changed since Endor. The Rebel Alliance has reorganized themselves as the New Republic and are starting to gain the upper hand over the Empire. Per the late Emperor's last command, Operation: Cinder is to begin at once. As part of the operation, vital equipment is being loaded onto the star destroyer The Dauntless at the Imperial shipyard at Fondor. However, the New Republic has found them out and is launching an attack on the station. Inferno Squad's own Iden Versio and Gideon Hask have been tasked with defending the station and reminding this New "Republic" and the galaxy who is still in charge." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Team Battle Planet: Fondor Faction: Galactic EmpireParameterValueStarfighters Available200Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size10Play AsFree For AllAbility RechargeDefault Immersion Self-Limiters: Villains: Iden Versio's TIE/LN Fighter Starfighters: TIE Interceptor Only Author's Note: The first space mission to have Free For All, so no battlepoints required. And also the first one with Hero ships available. For every space map up until now, the hero ships aren't present for those battles, or wouldn't make sense for the situation. It also allowed me to have two "hero" ships for co-op since both Boba Fett and Darth Vader are dead by now. The idea here is that the Interceptor is supposed to be Hask to assist Iden. This is essentially a very watered down version of the 3rd mission of the real campaign. Galactic Civil War: The Republic Restored Mission 28: Imperial Remnants Scenario "The New Republic has risen as the new dominant power of the galaxy following the Empire's defeat at Jakku. However, splintered Imperial warlords have taken what territory that they can to openly defy the Galactic Concordance treaty. General Solo has detected an Imperial remnant terrorizing the Arkanis Sector of the Outer Rim Territories. Solo's team pinpointed the source of where these attacks are coming from on Tatooine. He and Chewbacca venture down in time to help the locals fend off an Imperial raid on Mos Eisley." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Tatooine Location: Mos Eisley Faction: New RepublicParameterValueRound LengthMediumEnemy AI Count24Friendly AI Count24Enemy Hero Count2Friendly Hero Count1Enemy Reinforcement Count10Friendly Reinforcement Count10Enemy Vehicle Count1Friendly Vehicle Count1 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Han Solo and Chewbacca Only Reinforcements: Rocket Jumper Only Vehicles: Any Author's Note: This mission is to portray that while the New Republic is the strongest power in the galaxy post-Jakku, they still have a long way to go before they gain full control of the territory that the Empire left behind. Nevermind the fact that many power-hungry Imperial officers and moffs tried to keep what power they had following the the splintering of the Empire. So now the New Republic has to not only clean up crime, but also the various petty former Imperial tyrants spread among the galaxy. The two villains were supposed to be bounty hunters and outlaws hired by the moff to reinforce his numbers. Mission 29: The Liberation of Tatooine Scenario "Following tip-offs from the locals and discovering trails, the New Republic task-force determined the attack originated from the abandoned palace of Jabba the Hutt. Knowing the layout of the abode of his former boss all too well, Solo leads his forces to storm the palace and take out the moff to drive the Imperial Remnant out of Tatooine one and for all." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Tatooine Location: Jabba's Palace Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: Han Solo and Chewbacca Reinforcements: Rocket Jumper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: I like the idea that after Jabba's death, his palace was fought over by numerous crime lords on Tatooine. Eventually a powerful Imperial governor or officer, fleeing from the growing power of the New Republic, would take over and establish authority in order to hide out. Providing a stable source of income for more scrupulous bounty hunters and outlaws, some of whom may have worked for Jabba. Mission 30: A New Jedi Order Scenario "It's been several decades since the Jedi Order fell. Most people these days don't know anything about them aside from Imperial fear-monger propaganda. Therefore it falls upon Luke Skywalker to rediscover the origins of the Jedi and rebuild the Order. Returning to the old temples of Yavin 4, Skywalker comes across an Imperial excavation outpost that seems uninformed of the peace treaty. Luke and his crew must drive the Imperials off the moon by retaking the former rebel base and salvage any remaining Jedi artifacts stored within." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Yavin 4 Faction: New RepublicParameterValueRound LengthMediumEnemy AI Count16Friendly AI Count16Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count0Enemy Reinforcement Count4Friendly Reinforcement Count4Enemy Vehicle Count1Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Luke Skywalker Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: Any Author's Note: The final mission of the OT era, I thought it would be nice to have a low intensity Supremacy map finish it off, not unlike the Clone Wars sections. I like the idea that Luke sort of backs off a bit from military life and searches for Jedi knowledge and artifacts, like how we see him in the real campaign. If I remember, the temples on Yavin 4, were actually were temples of the ancient, Old Republic Jedi Order, thus, they would be a valuable source of knowledge for Luke. However, I would also like to believe that following the Battle of Yavin, the Empire would leave behind a research team to guard the former rebel base in case the Alliance tries to return, and to scour the temples for intel as well as ancient Jedi artifacts for the Emperor to hide/destroy. Finally, it would also be plausible that instead of a power-hungry governor or radical, lost-cause type Imperials, some forces simply just didn't know about the end of hostilities, and simply carried out their last known orders. Yavin is fairly out there and remote from the rest of the galaxy, so the news of the Empire falling probably didn't reach such a remote and relatively unimportant outpost. Anywho, get ready for the finale as we finally start off the Sequel era next. Endgame: Threats of the Unknown Regions Mission 31: The Force Awakens Scenario "Thirty years have passed since the Battle of Jakku and the fall of the Empire. But new threats arise as ghosts of the past whisper through the shipwreck covered sand dunes. A radical military junta calling itself the First Order has started building power in the Unknown Regions. The New Republic has since largely demilitarized, allowing the First Order to run rampant. An expedition force of First Order troops led by the mysterious dark-side Force warrior Kylo Ren has been sent to the surface of the war-torn deserts and are scouring the Graveyard of Giants in search of a droid that carries information that Ren has deemed important. Clear out the wreckage of scavengers." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Jakku Location: The Graveyard Faction: First OrderParameterValueRound LengthShortEnemy AI Count18Friendly AI Count24Enemy Hero Count0Friendly Hero Count1Enemy Reinforcement Count4Friendly Reinforcement Count6Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Villains: Kylo Ren and Captain Phasma Only Reinforcements: First Order Flametrooper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: Bucking the trend a bit and starting off the era with a Supremacy mission. On Jakku, you're just fighting scavengers scouring the remains of an old Imperial star destroyer, so don't expect much of a challenge here. Mission 32: Chaos at Maz's Castle Scenario "The First Order has lost the droid after it was picked up by a lowly scavenger by the name of Rey and traitor stormtrooper FN-2187, who teamed up with legendary duo, Han Solo and Chewbacca to the smugglers outpost of Maz's Castle. Captain Phasma leads the ground forces while Kylo Ren goes off to find Rey to capture her. Unfortunately for the First Order, before the heroes could be executed, they received reinforcements from the Resistance. A paramilitary force funded by former New Republic senator, and Solo's wife, Leia Organa. Drive off the First Order off of Takodana." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Takodana Location: Maz's Castle Faction: ResistanceParameterValueRound LengthMediumEnemy AI Count32Friendly AI Count32Enemy Hero Count2Friendly Hero Count2Enemy Reinforcement Count12Friendly Reinforcement Count12Enemy Vehicle Count0Friendly Vehicle Count0 Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: No Rey Reinforcements: Rocket Jumper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: Rey at this point has rejected Anakin's lightsaber nor has she truly awakened her Force ability and thus will not be available. Fun Fact: The ST is the only era with only three Supremacy maps instead of five like the other two eras. We also just used two, so only one left. I'll let you guess which. Mission 33: Avenging the New Republic Scenario "In a stunning display of terror, the First Order has destroyed the New Republic senate, crippling the government. The powerful blast was traced back to the ancient Jedi holy planet of Ilum, which has been converted by the First Order into a terrible planet killer that dwarfs the Death Stars. The demoralized Resistance sets a desperate attack on Starkiller Base. While mainly an aerial battle, a small ground force is attacking the base directly. Wipe these annoying flies off the face of the landing pad so we can finally finish off the Resistance with the destruction of D'Qar." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Defend Planet: Starkiller Base Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 2 Friendly Reinforcements 6 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: No Palpatine Reinforcements: No Sith Trooper Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: This will be the last Missions - Defend level in the campaign. I wanted at least one in this era, so the First Order winning this ground battle early on, but losing Starkiller Base later in the day was all I could really think of. The other Missions maps I felt were more suitable for attacking than defending. Endgame: The Galaxy's Darkest Hour Mission 34: The Last Jedi Scenario "Starkiller Base has been destroyed. And so, the First Order will try to destroy the Resistance base with more conventional means. A star dreadnought has been sent to bombard the station in orbit. General Organa has called for all troops to evacuate to the Resistance flagship Raddus. To buy time for the evacuation, ace pilots Poe Dameron callsign "Black Leader" and "Blue Leader" Tallie Lintra take to space as they fall upon an advanced scouting squadron. Take them out before they can report back to the dreadnought. Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Onslaught Planet: D'Qar Faction: ResistanceParameterValueStart Time3:00Eliminations Required25Play AsHero Ships OnlyElimination Bonus1 SecondLast StandOnAbility RechargeDefault Immersion Self-Limiters: Hero Ships: Poe Dameron's T-70 X-Wing and Tallie Lintra's RZ-2 A-Wing Only Author's Note: And so we finally get to the final gamemode yet used: Starfighter Onslaught. And like Starfighter Team Battle, lacks several customization options compared to its ground-based counterpart. I was originally going to make it 10:00 for 100 kills. But unfortunately, I just found out, Starfighter Onslaught is bugged in that enemy starfighters go off out of bounds and never respawn. This essentially makes the game unwinnable as the enemy's numbers dwindle to zero. So unfortunately, I had to revise it 25 kills in 3:00. Which should be able to be done before it gets to that point. Thankfully, this is the only Starfighter Onslaught mission, which means the next (and final) space map will be Starfighter Team Battle. Mission 35: The Raddus Under Siege Scenario "The evacuation of D'Qar has succeeded thanks to the actions of Poe Dameron on disabling the dreadnought's main cannons. However, the First Order has managed to track the Resistance fleet through hyperspace and has laid an ambush. Kylo Ren leads a strike on the command bridge on the Raddus which decimated Resistance High Command, including gravely injuring General Organa. With the senator out of commission, Vice Admiral Amilyn Holdo has taken command and ordered the fleet to continue to limp through space towards an unknown planet. As the Resistance figure out on what to do, the First Order has sent in a strike team to infiltrate the Raddus and finish what Kylo Ren has failed to do." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Takodana Location: MC85 Star Cruiser Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 2 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Villians: No Palpatine Reinforcements: First Order Flametrooper Only Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: Think of this as the equivalent of the Separatist Dreadnought mission for the First Order. A small raiding team take part in taking down a large capital flagship but are just not in focus for the story. Mission 36: Hope Found in Crait's Crystal Caves Scenario "The First Order is on the brink of victory. Vice Admiral Holdo sacrificed herself with the Raddus to stop the First Order from destroying the lifeboats carrying the remaining Resistance fighters. The lifeboats landed on the planet of Crait, a salt-covered desert which houses an abandoned Rebel outpost and quickly set up a last stand defense against the First Order. The First Order quickly descended on the base and easily pushed back the Resistance. All hope seemed lost, but then, Jedi Master Luke Skywalker, after years of hiding, came out to confront the assault force alone, buying the Resistance time to escape into the crystal caves. Rey, fresh from Jedi training, with Luke, opened up a path in caves. However, while most of the First Order force was distracted by Luke, one of Kylo Ren's less obedient commanders sent in a strike team to finish off the Resistance. It's up to Rey to stop the troopers from reporting the state of the Resistance back to their commander." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Onslaught Planet: Crait Faction: ResistanceParameterValueStart Time10:00Eliminations Required200Play AsHeroes OnlyOnslaught IntesityMediumElimination Bonus1 SecondLast StandOnAbility RechargeDefaultPlayer HealthDoubleEnemy HealthDefaultEnemy ClassesAssault/Heavy OnlyMinimapOff Immersion Self-Limiters: Heroes: Rey and BB-8 Only Author's Note: We finally come to the last ground-based Arcade mission. Prepare for quite the fight. Crait is also the only other planet (besides Bespin) to not have any representation at all in Instant Action. And I must say, it's rather disappointing, because as a planet, it's a very unique environment for the Sequel era. On top of that, while Bespin can be forgiven since it is a small map (of which in its entirety is used in Arcade), and the OT has more maps than any era anyway in IA, the Sequels are largely lacking in content, and Crait is the only large-scale map not in IA. I could easily see it being, at the very least, a Missions map on the scale of Kashyyyk. If that were the case, I would certainly use it here instead of Arcade. Endgame: Galactic Resistance Mission 37: The Rise of Skywalker Scenario "A year has passed since the Battle of Crait. The Resistance has managed to grow back to more of its original size. However, the First Order is still a threat. Even worse, it appears that Emperor Palpatine has survived Endor and has been secretly controlling Supreme Leader Snoke and the First Order all this time. Discovering this, Rey finds a Sith Wayfinder to locate the ancient Sith world of Exegol. There she discovers Palpatine and the Final Order, a massive fleet of star destroyers, each capable of destroying planets. Thankfully, Rey tracked her path and sent it to Resistance command, who, in turn, sent their fleet to stop the fleet before they can take off. On their approach to Exegol, they come across a Resurgent-class star destroyer on rendezvous with the Final Order. Here, the opening of the Battle of Exegol begins." Parameters Game: Arcade Mode: Starfighter Team Battle Planet: Exegol Faction: Final OrderParameterValueStarfighters Available500Player Team Size10Enemy Team Size10Play AsDefaultAbility RechargeDefault Immersion Self-Limiters: Villain Ships: Kylo Ren's Tie Silencer Only Author's Note: At last, we have reached the final arc of the campaign. Prepare for quite the finale. No tricks, just a straight up drawn out space battle. Technically, this map is simply "Unknown Regions", and yes, technically, the planet in the background is not Exegol. But the darkness and red splotches of this mysterious planet reminds me of Exegol, so now it is my headcanon that it is Exegol. At least the closest thing we'll get anyway. Considering that this will be the last space mission, as well as the last Arcade mission overall, I decided to bend the rules a bit and allow Kylo Ren for use. Even though his Tie Silencer is destroyed at this point and he doesn't participate in the sky battle. On top of that, in terms of narrative, he's not really with the Final Order at this point. He at the very least is "present" at the battle. Good enough for me. Mission 38: Destroying the Command Ship Scenario "As the battle rages, the Resistance targets the command relay that would trigger the release of the Final Order fleet upon the galaxy. Realizing this, the Final Order transfers the launch codes to a single command ship. Identifying which one, Finn leads a daring strike force to disable the ship and stop the Final Order." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Jakku Location: Resurgent-class Star Destroyer Parameter Value Friendly Heroes 1 Friendly Reinforcements 4 Enemy Vehicles Off Immersion Self Limiters: Heroes: Finn and BB-8 Only Reinforcements: Any Vehicles: N/A Author's Note: No Rey as she's busy fighting Palpatine on the ground. And Chewbacca was flying. Overall, the Battle of Exegol is supposed to be the finale of this campaign. But I still have two more bonus missions both of which take place on the last planet yet used: Ajan Kloss. Mission 39: The Wrath of the Final Order Scenario "While the main action of the fate of the galaxy is taking place on Exegol. The Resistance base on Ajan Kloss is therefore largely unguarded. Looking for an edge, Palpatine sent a diversionary force to Ajan Kloss to take out the Resistance leadership." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Missions - Attack Planet: Ajan Kloss Parameter Value Friendly Heroes MAX Friendly Reinforcements MAX Enemy Vehicles On Immersion Self Limiters: N/A Author's Note: Of all the planets from Rise of Skywalker, DICE, in their infinite wisdom, chose Ajan Kloss, the only planet in the movie where no conflict takes place. The First/Final Order never show up there. So narrative/immersion-wise, it's very weird to try to fit in, so a diversionary force to the planet running concurrently with the Battle of Exegol was the best I could come up with. You may notice the parameters are set to MAX. Well since this is the last Missions level and the last one as the bad guy faction. I decided to bend the rules a bit and went all out. Enjoy. That only leaves one last mission to complete. Prepare yourself. Mission 40: Final Showdown on Ajan Kloss Scenario "With Palpatine's final defeat at the hands of Rey and a redeemed Ben Solo, the galaxy's inhabitants rose up against the First Order. Freedom was finally returning to the galaxy. But before the heroes could celebrate, a distress call was sent from Ajan Kloss, as the Final Order's diversionary force has succeeded in laying siege to Resistance command. However, unlike Crait, the call was answered, and help has arrived. Take the fight to the surface and defeat the Final Order and bring peace to the galaxy once and for all. May the Force be with you." Parameters Game: Instant Action Mode: Supremacy Planet: Ajan Kloss Faction: The GalaxyParameterValueRound LengthLongEnemy AI CountMAXFriendly AI CountMAXEnemy Hero CountMAXFriendly Hero CountMAXEnemy Reinforcement CountMAXFriendly Reinforcement CountMAXEnemy Vehicle CountMAXFriendly Vehicle CountMAX Immersion Self-Limiters: N/A Author's Note: And here it is: The Grand Finale! A last, desperate attack from the Final Order trying to take the Resistance down with them. However, people from all over the galaxy have come to help them finish off the Final Order and bring peace to the galaxy once more. Just like the previous level, I'm going all out with all sliders set to max, no restrictions for the player, and just all out chaos. I guess that's one ironically good thing about Ajan Kloss: Since nothing really happened on the planet. It makes for a perfect blank canvas to do whatever. And while I don't like Ajan Kloss narrative/immersion-wise, however, as far as aesthetic and gameplay goes, it's actually my favorite Sequel Trilogy map. A beautiful jungle planet that's got to be the biggest Supremacy-focused map in the game. Fun Fact: Ajan Kloss is the only map in Instant Action for the Sequel Era that has vehicles on it. In fact, DICE even made a repainted "Scavenged" Imperial AT-ST for the Resistance to counter the First Order's AT-ST, which also makes it the only map to see AT-ST vs AT-ST action. Now if only they would do the same for the Rebel Alliance, like a "Scavenged" AAT or TX-130 or something..... Anyway, the only other times you see vehicles for the ST is on the Galactic Assault maps for Starkiller Base (first phase, only speeders) and Crait (first two phases, plus starfighters). Stats For Nerds The following is a break down of stats and other interesting patterns I found when making this campaign. If for no other reason than to satisfy my organizational OCD brain. Enjoy. Overview Stat Value Total Levels 42 Game Modes Used 7/8* Planets Used 24/24 Locations Used 31/32** Heroes Used 11/11 Villains Used 11/11 Hero Ships Used 2/7 Villain Ships Used 2/5 Vehicles Used 15/22*** Reinforcements Used 20/20 *The 8th gamemode is Duel, which is exclusive to the console versions in Arcade VS, and thus is not used. **The only location not used in this campaign is Endor: Ewok Village. It is exclusive to the online mode Ewok Hunt, thus cannot be physically used. ***Almost all the unused vehicles are in the Artillery class, which, aside from the AT-TE, is exclusive to the online modes, thus, cannot be used. Same goes for T-47 Airspeeder and V-4X-D Ski Speeder, which are exclusive to Galactic Assault Hoth and Crait, respectively, thus also can't be used. But as far as Instant Action is considered, I have put in each vehicle at least once within the campaign. Game Modes Instant Action Stat Value Percentage Total Instant Action Campaign Usage 32/42 Levels 76% Total Supremacy Campaign Usage 13/42 Levels 31% Total Missions Campaign Usage 19/42 Levels 45% Total Missions - Attack Campaign Usage 12/42 Levels 29% Total Missions - Defend Campaign Usage 7/42 Levels 17% Total Instant Action Usage 22/22 Maps 100% Total Supremacy Usage 13/13 Maps 100% Total Missions Overall Usage 19/21 Maps 90% Total Missions - Attack Usage 12/19 Maps 63% Total Missions - Defend Usage 7/19 Maps 37% Arcade Stat Value Percentage Total Arcade Campaign Usage 10/42 Levels 24% Total Team Battle Campaign Usage 1/42 Levels 2% Total Onslaught Campaign Usage 3/42 Levels 7% Total Starfighter Team Battle Campaign Usage 5/42 Levels 12% Total Starfighter Onslaught Campaign Usage 1/42 Levels 2% Total Arcade Usage 10/23 Maps 22% Total Ground Arcade Usage 4/17 Maps 24% Total Team Battle Usage 1/17 Maps 6% Total Onslaught Usage 3/17 Maps 18% Total Space Arcade Usage 6/6 Maps 100% Total Starfighter Team Battle Usage 5/6 Maps 83% Total Starfighter Onslaught Usage 5/6 Maps 17% Eras & Factions Eras Stat Value Percentage Total Clone Wars Levels 16/42* 38% Total Galactic Civil War Levels 16/42 38% Total Endgame** Levels 10/42 24% Most Used Era Clone Wars***/Galactic Civil War Least Used Era Endgame** Factions Stat Value Value 2 Percentage Most Used Faction Galactic Empire**** 10/42 Levels 24% Least Used Faction Naboo Security/Trade Federation/The Galaxy***** 1/42 2% Stat Value Percentage Clone Wars* LS/DS****** Faction Balance 10 - 6 63/37% Galactic Civil War LS/DS Faction Balance 7 - 9 44/56% Endgame LS/DS Faction Balance 5 - 5 50/50% *Includes the Prologue **The main conflict in the Sequel Era is oft referred to as the First Order-Resistance War. Considering that's a big mouthful, I'm just calling it the Endgame. ***As stated, I'm including the Prologue levels for the CW. So if you include those, the CW is tied with GCW 16 to 16, if not the GCW wins out. ****I'm including the last Clone Wars level as a Galactic Empire mission. *****You only play these factions once each on the first two Prologue missions and the finale, respectively, after that, the Final Order is next with two missions, then, the First Order and New Republic with three missions each. ******Light Side Factions: Naboo Security, Galactic Republic, Galactic Empire (for the last CW mission, technically), Rebel Alliance, New Republic, Resistance, and The Galaxy. Dark Side Factions: Trade Federation, Separatists, Galactic Empire, First Order, and Final Order. Heroes and Villains Stat Value Value 2 Percentage Most Used Hero Chewbacca* 9/42 Levels 21% Least Used Hero Lando 1/42 Levels 2% Most Used Villain Darth Vader 5/42 Levels 12% Least Used Villain Count Dooku/General Grievous/Iden Versio 1/42 Levels 2% *Cross Era Heroes/Villains: Chewbacca PT/OT/ST, Yoda PT/OT, Darth Maul PT/OT, Bossk PT/OT, Emperor Palpatine OT/ST Concluding Thoughts and Statements ON CONSOLES: I've built this guide to accommodate both PC and console players in mind. There isn't many differences between the two, though they do exist. As mentioned before, the consoles have exclusive Arcade modes to include splitscreen play. So you can play co-op with a buddy against the bots an all four modes, including the Battle Scenarios in solo play, though you'll have to unlock them again. Because of this, I have included a least two units to choose from for both players to play on every Arcade level. And of course there is the Vs. Mode which each player can lead their AI squads in Team Battle and Starfighter Team Battle. And then there's Duel, which is just a pure 1v1 between the players, which replaces the Onslaught modes. Considering the nature of this mode, and that it was exclusive to consoles, I didn't use it. The only ways I could justify using it would be 1v1 hero duels, like Luke v Vader on Bespin, but it would be pointless as the whole point of this campaign is to fight the AI. Then, there is Instant Action. Due to performance issues, there is no splitscreen for Instant Action. And also because of said issues, the max amount of AI for Supremacy is lowered from 32v32 to 14v14. However, none of the Supremacy levels in the campaign go below 16v16 for AI count. Therefore, every Supremacy level will be played with the AI count sliders maxed. However, the Friendly/Enemy Reinforcements sliders can go still go to 20....which is beyond max. On top of that, it's rather non-immersive with every bot playing heavy units, therefore, the universal max reinforcements for consoles will be 8. Which also means almost every Supremacy level will be set to that number for both sides, the exceptions being Missions 19 (Death Star II), 29 (Yavin 4), 31 (Jakku), and 40 (Ajan Kloss). ON MODS: As mentioned in the disclaimer in the guide header. This was not built with any particular offline mods in mind. This is meant for vanilla BF2. However, if there are any mods that will improve immersion, like something that disables the AI to use certain reinforcements and heroes, or force them to use certain trooper skins, for example then I highly encourage using them. ON DIFFICULTY: As mentioned before, the only settings I left explicitly up to the player was AI Difficulty and the Instant Action-exclusive setting 'Battle Point Gain Rate'. This was to give a sense of customized difficulty like a normal campaign. Now you can be as consistent or inconsistent as you like, however, one suggestion I would make is have the eras progressively harder. Have the Clone Wars be on Rookie AI and High BP Gain Rate, Galactic Civil War at Default for both values, and the Endgame be at Expert AI and Low BP Gain Rate. ON CLONE WARS: Probably my most favorite era as far as Battlefront goes. It's the only era where both sides feel equal in terms of strength. This is emphasized by the background battles seen on Geonosis, Kashyyyk, and Felucia. Additionally, every planet minus Kamino has vehicles of equal strength for both sides on each of those planets. On top of that, all of the planets have very unique environments compared to the other eras. All in all, a very solid era to start off the campaign. ON GALACTIC CIVIL WAR: This era is where it gets interesting, as the prevalence of asymmetrical warfare makes for very dynamic scenarios which vary as you bounce between the Rebels and Empire. Though generally, the Empire levels will be easier as they have superior reinforcements and the AT-ST. I usually offset this with the Rebels having more heroes on the field. ON ENDGAME: This era infamously has the least amount of content in not just Instant Action, but in the game in general. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Assuming that you play this campaign with a progressive difficulty as suggested, this is the perfect size for a hard finale. Same goes for the complete lack of vehicles save for the Rise of Skywalker map, Ajan Kloss, which I have fittingly put at the finale. And so, for most of this era, you'll be entirely relying on proper reinforcement and hero use, instead of imbalanced vehicles dominating. So, what normally would be a disappointing prospect, I used to fit the theme of this era as a finale. Ironic. ON THIS GUIDE OVERALL: This took me quite a while to make, but once I got past the Clone Wars, I had a formula going and everything started to fall in place. Overall, I would say I'm happy with this campaign. And I really hope you enjoyed it as well. Credits EA - For screwing up Battlefront II so bad, that the universal backlash against lootboxes opened everyone's eyes to the ever present issue within AAA gaming business practices, and tightened Disney's noose around you and forced you to actually make good Star Wars games. Disney - For setting EA straight. DICE - For sticking through all the mudslinging, coming to your senses, and providing this game the tune up and content it should have had on launch, particularly the dedication to Instant Action and the advanced AI, and not just leaving us with the barebones Arcade for offline content. #soloplayersmatter Ben Walke AKA F8rge - For being an awesome Community Manager. Pandemic - For creating the original masterpieces that were the old Star Wars Battlefront games. In particular, the campaign for the original BFII that gave me the inspiration to make this whole thing. You - For not only playing along, but also making it through reading this whole wall of text. DISCLAIMER: In speaking of credits, to anyone reading this, I, as the author of this guide, give my full blanket permission for you to share this guide to whatever related social media site, forum, Reddit etc. I only ask that you give credit to where it's due. Thank you.