May 4th, known as Star Wars Day, has become a worldwide phenomenon. May the fourth be with you day, as an ode to the phrase may the force be with you, sees fans from across the galaxy come together to celebrate one of the most cherished film franchises in history. The creative word play has a political origin. In 1979, Britain’s Conservative Party ran a newspaper ad congratulating Margaret Thatcher on becoming the Prime Minister. The ad was, “May the Fourth be with you, Maggie”. The phrase has become adopted by Star Wars fans worldwide as an official day to celebrate all things Star Wars.
Video Games That Capture the Star Wars Spirit
“Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic”
“Knights of the Old Republic,” or “KOTOR” as it’s called, is considered by many to be one of the best “Star Wars” games ever made. “KOTOR” takes place thousands of years before the films, meaning all-new characters and events. In a turn-based combat system, you will battle to become a Jedi on fantastically designed planets. You can pick a side for the force — light or dark and visit old locations with gorgeous graphics. “KOTOR” has a great story, a moral choice system, and excellent character development. It captures the philosophical heart of the “Star Wars” universe and is worth playing.
“Starburst”
“Starburst” is one of the popular online slots with a space theme and excellent graphics and gameplay. Launched by NetEnt in 2012, this space-themed slot consists of dazzling, colorful jewels with a cosmic background. The “Starburst” slot game has expanding wilds that give players the potential to win with respins. The game’s bright colors and starry background remind us of the colors that have made the “Star Wars” space battles famous.
“No Man’s Sky”
It’s not a “Star Wars” game, but it might be the closest thing to exploring a galaxy far away. “No Man’s Sky” has countless planets with unique flora, fauna, and environments. Move to different worlds, engage in space battles, trade, and establish ownership of planets. The intentional design choices give this game’s far-off planetary systems something of a “Star Wars” sense of adventure, with not-so-subtle hints of the original “Star Wars” trip to the Death Star.
“Mass Effect Trilogy”
BioWare’s space opera trilogy has many of the same themes as “Star Wars,” from the various alien species to the good vs. evil struggle. As Commander Shepard, you navigate interspecies politics, form relationships with your crew, and ultimately decide the galaxy’s fate. The game’s action, dialogue, and moral choices are similar to “Star Wars,” but its universe is different.
“Elite Dangerous”
For those who dream of piloting the Millennium Falcon, “Elite Dangerous” offers the most realistic space flight simulator. Set in a 1:1 scale recreation of our Milky Way galaxy, players can engage in various professions from trading to bounty hunting while navigating the politics of competing factions. The game’s emphasis on realistic space flight mechanics and the vastness of space creates an immersive experience perfect for aspiring space pilots.
“Outer Wilds”
This critically acclaimed indie game captures the sense of discovery and wonder that “Star Wars” instills in its audience. Players explore a miniature solar system caught in a 22-minute time loop, unraveling ancient mysteries and discovering the fate of a vanished alien civilization. The game’s emphasis on exploration, its unique approach to storytelling, and its poignant meditation on time and mortality create an unforgettable experience that, like “Star Wars,” transcends its science fiction trappings.
“Destiny 2”
Bungie’s shared-world shooter combines science fiction with mystical elements in a way reminiscent of the Force. Players, as Guardians empowered by the mysterious Light, defend humanity’s last city against various alien threats. The game’s blend of first-person shooting, role-playing elements, and ongoing narrative feels distinctly space opera, with grand conflicts between light and darkness that would feel at home in the “Star Wars” universe.
Board Games With Galactic Scope
“Star Wars: Rebellion”
This strategy board game directly recreates the galactic civil war between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire. One player controls the numerically superior but scattered Rebel forces, while the other commands the Empire’s overwhelming military might. The asymmetric gameplay perfectly captures the David versus Goliath narrative of the original trilogy, making it a favorite for “Star Wars” fans on May 4th.
“Twilight Imperium”
Often described as an epic space opera in board game form, “Twilight Imperium” involves up to six players competing to become the new rulers of the known galaxy. With complex politics, resource management, technological advancement, and inevitable conflicts, a single game can create narratives worthy of a “Star Wars” film. Its grand scope and intricate gameplay make it perfect for dedicated gaming groups looking to spend “Star Wars” Day engaged in galactic conquest.
“Cosmic Encounter”
This classic board game of alien conquest has influenced game design since its original release in 1977, the same year “Star Wars” debuted. Players take on the roles of different alien species with unique powers, forming and breaking alliances as they attempt to establish colonies on each other’s home worlds. Its emphasis on negotiation, betrayal, and the distinct abilities of different species creates memorable gaming moments that capture the diversity of the “Star Wars” galaxy.
May the Fourth Activities Beyond Gaming
While interactive games provide excellent ways to celebrate “Star Wars” Day, fans engage in numerous other activities to mark the occasion. “Star Wars”-themed cooking has become increasingly popular, with cookbooks offering recipes for blue milk, Wookiee cookies, and other foods from the films. Costume enthusiasts spend months perfecting their Jedi robes or Mandalorian armor for May 4th events and charity appearances.
Libraries and academic institutions often use the day to promote literacy, featuring “Star Wars” reading lists and activities. The scientific community sometimes leverages the popularity of “Star Wars” to discuss real-world space exploration and physics concepts, making complex topics more accessible through their connection to the beloved franchise.
Continuing the Celebration
“Star Wars” Day celebrations often extend beyond May 4th to “Revenge of the Fifth” on May 5th — a pun on “Revenge of the Sith” that focuses on the dark side characters and storylines. This extended celebration demonstrates how thoroughly “Star Wars” has permeated popular culture and how eager fans are to find new ways to express their appreciation for the galaxy far, far away.