You may think that virtual reality is the future of games. But Lenovo and Disney’s Star Wars: Jedi Challenges make a compelling case for augmented reality, instead.
Simply by downloading an app and strapping your phone into its headset, Jedi Challenges transforms whatever room you’re in into the most important battle zone in the galaxy. Through AR technology, players can enter lightsaber duels with the likes of Darth Maul, the Seventh Sister, and Kylo Ren, as well as test their Jedi reflexes on hordes of attacking battle droids.
Jedi Challenges uses a small sensor placed on the ground and another in the tip of a toy lightsaber — it’s just the handle, so you don’t have to worry about kids knocking things over. These, coupled with the AR headset, project the image of your enemies in the room ahead of you.
After playing through several boughts — and getting somewhat out of breath — Jedi Challenges just might be our favorite Star Wars game coming out this year. It incorporated gaming and physical activity in a unique way, and if even if you’re less coordinated than a Jedi, it’s still fun to play. For those with a little more combat experience, there are tougher battles to select. These can get pretty tricky, with multiple stages and attack patterns to memorize.
There’s also a less battle-heavy option for those who would prefer something relaxing: a version of Holochess, straight from the original trilogy. And just like in the films, it’s a nice, somewhat hilarious way to pass the time.
Star Wars: Jedi Challenges is available now at Lenovo.com and Best Buy. If you’re looking to get your favorite Star Wars fan something unique for the holidays this year — this is the gift you’re looking for.
